Java was developed with the decentralized nature of the internet in mind, making it adaptable to various platforms.
Having been introduced in 1995, Java has emerged as a widely utilized programming language across the globe. According to the Popularity of Programming Languages Index, it is expected to rank as the second most used language in 2022.
Due to its simplicity, security, versatility, and scalability, it is utilized in designing a diverse range of applications.
- Software for the internet
- Software based on server infrastructure
- Software developed for Android
- Applications of “Big data” and “analytics”
- Supercomputers are extensively used in scientific research.
- Software developed for marketplaces
- A desktop graphical user interface
As Java is widely used, there is a plethora of programmers who specialize in it. The task at hand is to identify the most dependable and knowledgeable experts.
This article highlights the technical and business competencies that you should look for while recruiting a new Java developer.
Technological Proficiencies
System Development and Design
The process of defining how various elements of a system collaborate to achieve a specific objective is known as system design and architecture.
This is a challenging proficiency because there is no universal approach to mastering it; rather, there are countless possible methods for achieving an optimum system design.
In this case, it is true that “experience is the best teacher,” as the saying goes.
Job seekers must exhibit a thorough understanding of fundamental concepts such as scalability, failover, fault tolerance, and the structure of distributed systems, client-server, peer-to-peer, and microservices. Additionally, practical experience is critical.
Object-Oriented Coding Elements
When writing code using object-oriented programming (OOP), objects or data take priority over functions or logic.
Objects contain data, which simplifies solving intricate problems, enables the reuse of objects across applications, and aids in debugging code and ensuring security.
Your Java developer should have a strong grasp of the object-oriented programming principles of abstraction, encapsulation, polymorphism, and inheritance.
Relational and Non-Relational Databases
Non-relational databases present a flexible data storage solution that is less structured than relational databases and can handle both structured and semi-structured data. This method allows for more adaptability than the standard row and column format.
Relational and non-relational databases each have their own distinct advantages and disadvantages, so the decision of which to use will be based on the specifics of the project. Java is adaptable and has a wide range of use cases, making it possible to use either kind of database based on the requirements.
To be a proficient Java developer, one must possess extensive knowledge of both relational and object-relational databases, as well as familiarity with the most prevalent database systems in each category (relational databases include MySQL, Microsoft SQL Server, PostgreSQL, Oracle, etc.; non-relational databases include NoSQL, MongoDB, Cassandra, Redis, DynamoDB, neo4j, etc.)
Spring Framework Construction
Applicants must possess significant experience and expertise in utilising Spring, the leading application development platform for corporate Java, to be a competitive candidate.
To enable the development of dependable Java software, Spring furnishes a collection of pre-existing configuration and programming templates.
An ideal candidate should possess a strong foundation in Java application development and a grasp of the basic concepts of the Spring framework.
Framework Interfaces
Java is a back-end language, so a developer who understands the front-end (or “front-end”) as well can produce an exceptionally valuable product.
A Java developer with front-end development experience will likely be familiar with popular front-end frameworks like React (a JavaScript toolkit for creating UI components for any application) and Angular (a JavaScript framework for building advanced enterprise-grade applications).
Proficiency in both Java and JavaScript is beneficial when seeking to employ a multifaceted full-stack developer.
Kotlin Proficiency
Kotlin was devised as a free and open-source substitute for Java that can be utilised on any operating system.
Since Kotlin is compatible with the Java environment, developers can make use of their favourite Java Virtual Machine (JVM) frameworks and libraries. Due to its enhanced security and simplicity in Android programming, Kotlin is frequently preferred.
Kotlin can serve as a substitute for Java, a means of improving existing Java projects, or a language that coexists with Java in the same program.
If your Java developer will be accountable for Android project deployment, their proficiency in Kotlin will be advantageous. You can find such a suitable Java developer through Works.
Application Containers
The process of bundling Java software and all of its prerequisites into a single “container” is referred to as “containerization.”
Because of its portability, it can be scaled effortlessly across many servers with minimal expenses, providing exceptional efficiency, resilience, and availability.
The perfect candidate should have technical expertise in fields such as automation, immutable infrastructure, monitoring, and observability. Moreover, they should be capable of creating lightweight and secure container images.
The perfect candidate should have comprehensive understanding and experience with container technologies such as Docker, as well as container orchestration tools including Kubernetes, Docker Swarm, Rancher, Mesosphere, and Openshift. Additionally, familiarity with cloud-native tools such as AWS Elastic Container Service/Amazon Elastic Container Service (ECS/AKS) or Microsoft Azure Container Service would be an added advantage.
Automation Tools for Software Development and Operations
A senior developer heading a team’s workflow should be well-versed in DevOps to promote a collaborative approach and implement best practices.
The perfect candidate should have significant proficiency in popular automation, configuration, integration, and deployment technologies, such as Jenkins, Puppet, and Ansible.
Hardware and Software Required for Developing Java Applications
Build tools aim to achieve automated application development starting from source code, as discussed in the recommended article.
Such tools are vital for fundamental DevOps processes like Continuous Integration (CI) and Continuous Delivery (CD). They automate tedious tasks, handle dependencies and guarantee meticulous execution of commands.
The impending software developer should have exceptional proficiency in Apache Maven – a popular build tool for Java applications. Furthermore, familiarity with Jenkins, Gradle, SBT, and TeamCity would be advantageous.
Assembly Line Process
Automated unit tests ensure that the smallest components of an application (known as a “unit”) perform their intended function.
This accelerates bug identification, elucidates the role of every unit and generates “live documentation” outlining the function of each unit. This documentation helps future developers comprehend the code and make modifications with ease.
As a skilled Java developer, you will undoubtedly devise unit tests for your code.
The perfect candidate for this role should have expertise in using popular Java testing frameworks like JUnit, JBehave, Mockito, Selenium and TestNG. This will aid developers in verifying the correctness of their code.
Essential Competencies for Business
Being technically skilled alone is not adequate in today’s developer landscape. It is crucial for them to assimilate seamlessly into the organization and cooperate effectively with their peers. This is where an understanding of business principles can be immensely beneficial.
Innovative Problem Solving
Developing a Java system can be a challenging undertaking that demands ingenuity, problem-solving abilities and creative thinking. It requires a high level of skill to build a successful Java application, as discussed in this article about getting developers started with IoT.
Proficiency in the Latest Technological Advancements
Remaining informed about the constantly evolving Java ecosystem is crucial for becoming a successful developer. With new libraries, frameworks and best practices regularly emerging, keeping track of industry advancements is paramount.
Time Management Strategies
Effective time management is crucial for teams in order to avoid any individual’s fixation with minor concerns and neglect of significant tasks, which could impede the group’s progress.
Paying Attention to Specifics
The intricacy and meticulousness required in development work demands a thorough approach. Would you be able to develop and test a complex Java application successfully if you did not pay adequate attention to detail?
Final Thoughts
The best Java developers have a blend of creative and analytical thinking and possess a vast array of technical skills, including system design, software tools and testing.
Browse our pool of rigorously screened and interviewed engineers from across the globe to discover exceptional Java programmers.
Ready to start searching for skilled Java engineers? Check out our talent pool.
