What do an island, coffee, and a programming language have in common?
One word – Java!
Every Java developer likes a steaming cup of Java in the morning… Or some other secret liquid that comes in a blue mug with red steam. You’re welcome to guess what it is…
(Did you know that “Java” used to be a slang word for coffee because of the name of an Indonesian island?)
As much as I would like to talk about coffee now, we need to get down to serious business – Java developer jobs!
But we can have coffee later.
The Java programming language is used for software and application development for a plethora of platforms today. Its use is and value is immeasurable, to say the least.
Why?
These stats might give you an answer to your question.
We can have a hot freshly brewed cup of coffee prepared.
Let’s start by making something absolutely clear:
What is Java?
In order to fully understand the grasp of the position, we first have to know about the program itself. Quit daydreaming about Java the Indonesian Island and let’s discuss one of the most popular programming languages.
Java is a programming language and a computing platform created by Sun Microsystems in 1995 and is based on the syntax of C and C++. It is known for its computing speed writing software, applications, and computer games. It is a concurrent, object-orientated, class-based programming language. It is highly valued due to its inherent linguistic-design.
But the name James Gosling gets tossed around a lot when mentioning Java and even a junior Java developer should know who he is…
Who is James Gosling?
No article about Jave should be complete without at least mentioning James Gosling. He is a computer scientist and is best known for being the father of the Java programming language. James invented Java in 1991 and it’s interesting to note that the original purpose was to be a compiler and virtual machine.
Without him, none of the things that we are about to mention would be possible.
So enough with the history lesson and let’s get cracking.
First thing we are going to talk about is…
What is a Java Developer?
As any Java developer job description will show you, as a Java developer you will be responsible for programming and developing applications and software.
A Java developer is a specialized type of programmer who also collaborates with web developers and software engineers. The point is to integrate Java into business applications, websites, and software.
Developers are involved through the whole process of development of a product. They also need to identify and analyze occurring issues and find an effective solution. Java developers also deal with documenting user’s requirements, analyzing data, and providing quality assurance testing.
Generally speaking, Java developers do have a lot of responsibilities on their plate.
Let’s discuss them in detail:
What are the roles and responsibilities of Java Developer?
Even though the responsibilities of a Java developer may vary depending on the company and the specific position, some are still universal.
Program Architecture
Java developers are key figures for completing stakeholders’ projects. Skilled developers are capable of implementing their vision precisely. Thus, program architecture is a key process for Java developers.
Development
The development process includes writing the code of the program until its completion. This process is usually done in sections of code, called features. This allows testing or adding any chances if necessary until the process is completed to the fullest. The
Gather Requirements
Java jobs also include gathering information. This may include close collaboration with the Project Manager, the stakeholders, or a senior developer. Together they can prioritize tasks and determine the overall scope of work and the needed course of action.
Testing
Upon completing each feature, the Java developer needs to test every one of them. It’s his or her responsibility to ensure that everything works the way it should.
Deployment
The deployment phase includes transferring code in a live environment. In order for that to be done, it needs to be fully functional. Changes will be made in the testing environment which may require reverting and redeployment.
You should understand that java developer jobs in USA for freshers come with different responsibilities. However, it’s fair to say that there isn’t such a great difference in the work itself.
But there are different types of Java-related jobs.
Most people are confused by the title of a Programmer and a Developer.
Let’s explain:
What’s the Differences Between a Java Developer and a Java Programmer?
A very smart person once said that job titles don’t matter, the roles and responsibilities are what’s important.
(Sounds like something Gandalf would say, don’t you think?)
If you think about it, that does make sense.
Nevertheless, people still want to differentiate between a developer and a programmer.
Java developer jobs deal with app development. However, in some situations, developers need to take part in software development. They are expected to improve the overall products by researching alternative ways and technologies.
On the other hand, a Java programmer mainly writes computer programs.
But in general terms, both positions can mean the same. In most situations, the responsibilities overlap.
To clear things a bit further, we have to talk about the different types of Java developers:
Types of Java Developers
If you Google “java developer jobs near me” there are certain things that you might need to consider. Java-related jobs are on the rise. Different types of jobs come with different benefits, levels of complexity of work, requirements, and salaries.
Let’s get to know the general differences, so we don’t get confused.
Here is a rundown of some basic Java developer types:
Entry-Level Java Developer
Description: Entry-level Java developer jobs often are workers that have just finished their studies. They’re mostly taking those types of jobs for experience and to learn the details.
Requirements: Besides basic knowledge of Java, an entry-level employee is also expected to show a strong passion to learn and improve. Also, they need motivation and discipline in order to advance from the position. People learn most of the entry-level Java developer skills on the spot.
Responsibilities: A beginner will have limited responsibilities. Some include implementing Java in your daily tasks, making necessary adjustments to apps, testing software for bugs, and analyzing specific requirements.
Career Path: A beginner Java developer still does not have a lot of options in front of them. However, more and more opportunities will open up to them as they become more experienced.
Average Salary: Don’t expect a huge salary as a beginner Java developer. The average pay is around $66,000 a year.
Junior Java Developer Jobs
Description: A Junior level Java developer differs from the entry-level one in terms of knowledge and experience. They possess a greater understanding of Java and this is the largest group type as it overlaps with the beginner and advanced developers.
Requirements: Work experience is what most employers value for this position. However, one also needs an analytical mindset, proficient planning, and organizational skills, and knowing how databases work.
Responsibilities: Being able to develop various documentation, working with Java infrastructures, and managing software and app design development.
Career Path: The only difference between the entry and junior career paths is that the latter comes with more options.
Average Salary: Junior Java developer salary revolves around $75,700 a year.
Senior Level Java Developer
Description: Senior Java developers encompass the smallest group of Java employees. They are the most experienced and have a thorough understanding and knowledge of the programming language.
Requirements: The requirements for a senior developer are quite significant. You have to know Java inside and out and know how to use its many tools. Since you will be mainly working on advanced tasks, expert knowledge and vast experience are a must.
Responsibilities: The position of a Senior Java Developer comes with many responsibilities. First and foremost there are certain individual tasks. These advanced tasks will require you to work closely with a team of people. Managing your own team also means organizing them and mentoring certain employees.
Career Path: The career path of a senior is full of opportunities. They have the option of choosing their own projects based on personal preference. Additionally, they can choose almost any company to work for.
Average Salary: It is not a surprise that under the Senior Java Developer job description stands a figure of $106,500 as an average salary.
With a better understanding of different types of positions, we can now talk about some general skills and characteristics.
Java Developer Skills and Characteristics
Since the main job of Java developers is to build applications and websites that have dynamic elements, certain programming skills are going to be needed. Even when looking for entry-level java jobs one needs to have specific skills and knowledge about Java.
You should also be familiar with the following:
J2EE: This is a Java-centric tool that allows users to build, develop, and deploy enterprise applications for the web. It uses Java as its core language. It will allow you to create enterprise applications that can be accessed through the web. That helps improve the productivity of a company.
Oracle: Oracle is an object-relational database management system that enables companies to manage and store data on a large network. It’ll be good to be acquainted with such systems even for remote java developer jobs.
C++: This programming language offers object-orientated and generic programming features. It is mostly used for the development of desktop applications, video games, servers, entertainment software, and more.
C#: This is an object-orientated programming language that consist of C and C++. It is usually used with HTML-based web services. Its main goal is to improve productivity when developing Web applications with features like garage collection, type-safety, versioning, and scalability.
Spring: Spring is an open-source application framework that uses Java as a platform. It can easily be used by any Java application. It has recently gotten a lot of attention on the Java community. Entry-level Java jobs workers who are getting into the business should get acquainted with it.
But how does one acquire these skills?
Surely there is school or an institute that can teach you all of this and grant you a diploma for your effort.
Well:
Java Developer Education & Qualifications
In order to work as a Java Developer, a person generally needs to be tech-savvy and have immense knowledge about Java and programming.
However, employers usually prefer their candidates having at least a Bachelor’s degree. A master’s degree may be found in a lead Java developer job description requirements. A degree in computer engineering, information systems, mathematics or any type of related field is preferable. But a degree in computer science is your best and safest bet because it comes with Java programming related coursework.
But education and a piece of paper don’t mean anything if you lack the experience. Experience might soon outweigh the need for formal education.
Employees often look at candidates that have experience with:
Java-based web services
SQL
ORM
Relational databases
Test-drive development
There is something more that you can add to your resume and that is certification. This is even good for remote Java jobs. Pursuing a voluntary certificate is a great way to get ahead of others and Oracles offers associate and even professional level certification that you can acquire to get ahead.
Thus you can acquire a JSE 7, which now also comes with a master level. EE certifications are offered in professional, expert, and master level. One can also acquire an expert level EE6 certification in web services development, web component development, JavaBeans development or Java Persistence AP.
So with all of this and a good attitude, you will be more than ready to attend interviews for Java-related jobs.
However, there’s one burning question you’re probably asking yourself right this second.
What is the salary?
Let’s talk money…
Java Developer Jobs: Salary
The Bureau of Labor Statistics has already predicted a 30% rise of software development jobs by 2020. The average pay for all developers is around $90,530 a year. However, if we only count Java developers, we get a figure of $96,000 as an average salary per year.
Not a bad job to have at all!
But there are different factors that influence the amount a person can earn as a Java developer. Junior-level developers earn around $61,000 on average, while Senior and J2EE developers can go all the way up to $112,000 a year.
Java jobs salary in the UK can go as low as £32,000 and go all the way up to £60,000.
Glassdoor proposes an average salary of $84,241, the lowest being $61,000 and the highest $124,000.
On the other hand, Indeed state the average salary is even higher – at $104,286 a year in the US, with a $5,000 potential bonus.
Let’s look under another rock now, shall we?
Reasons to Become a Java Developer
And if money is not a good enough reason to become a Java developer, here are some more arguments…
Is it worth learning Java in 2019?
Many people contemplate this question and are not really sure if Java is a good career path for them. Being that there are so many job opportunities these days it really is difficult to decide.
But if you are still in two minds, here are some valid reasons for you to start learning Java:
Java is the Most Popular Programming Language
With nine million developers using Java spread across seven billion devices, it suffices to say that Java is one of the most popular programming languages in the world. Even though it was released some 20 years ago, it has been at the very top of the TIOBE index for the last decade.
Java Development is Collaborative
Even junior Java developer remote workers need to collaborate with other people in order to fulfill their duties. Java developers often work closely with Web Developers, Web Designers, and Software Engineers. Collaboration helps you gain other transferable skills which will, in turn, enhance your career.
Java is used in Real-World Applications
Java is actually used in many different business sectors in today’s world. Besides being used on some popular websites like eBay, Facebook and Amazon, Java has found its new application in healthcare and financial services.
So if you understood the benefits of choosing Java as your future career, time to look at some potential places where you can thrive:
Java Developer Jobs USA
Let’s face it, the US is your best and safest bet to start a career as a Java developer. Firms like Google, ITL and even Harvard University are looking for people proficient in Java. So it makes sense that starting your career in the good ol’ United States is a great idea.
Being employed remotely by a US-based company will allow you to expand your career. Let’s see what some places in the US to get a Java related job are:
Chicago
Based on information from Glassdoor, there are a total of 66,000 job openings related to Java development within the US. Companies like Verizon, Salesforce, and NTT Data are some of the top employers who are looking to hire Java developers.
Junior-level candidates are very much appreciated and there are a lot of positions open if you have the required skills. Glassdoor also states that at this moment there are more than 2.200 Java jobs in Chicago available.
Texas
Probably one of the best places to search for a job related to Java in the US is Texas. Employers like Verizon and Webcreek are searching for talented individuals that can fill up these roles. And you can find them all over the state – Houston, Dalas, Irving, etc.
Currently, there are more than 6,000 Java jobs in Texas based on the info gathered from Glassdoor.
Seattle
ZipRecruiter states that ss far as Java developers positions in the US go, there are 169,000 currently offered on the platform, with an average salary of $105,741.
It is interesting to note that the number of Java developer jobs in Seattle on this platform are increasing. The pay is also really good, with the average being $114,777.
Florida
Florida is not just the place where people go to retire or get a tan. It is also a favorable place to get a job in Java development. Java developer jobs in Florida are on the rise, with almost half, or more exactly 2,100 being located in the Southeastern most state of the USA.
New York City
You can’t go talking about jobs in the US without mentioning New York city. As Indeed is able to provide, there are 1,200 Java jobs in NYC offered at this time. Great news is that 1,000 of them are full-time job offers but there are contract, part-time and even internships available. You simply can’t skip the Big Apple if you want to get into Java development.
In Conclusion
Yes, Java is an Indonesian island located between Sumatra and Bali.
And yes, it is the reason why Java is also the term used for coffee due to the rising popularity of Javanese coffee which gained momentum in the 19th century and reached its pinnacle in the 20th. (We can make that our fun fact of the day!)
But more importantly, Java is one of the most widely used programming languages in the world. Knowing it opens many doors for you. Not just Java developer jobs but also many other opportunities that might avert your career path elsewhere.
If reading this article makes you have a craving for coffee, put the kettle on, make a fresh pot and start researching more about how to become a Java developer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Java developer do?
A Java developer is responsible for programming and developing applications and software using Java. The process involves gathering requirements, development, testing, and deployment.
What are the skills required for Java Developer?
There are certain skills that even required for Java developer contract jobs. Some of the more basic ones include object-orientated programming, knowing design patterns, having being familiar with abstract classes and serialization, navigating the interface successfully.
How do I become a Java developer?
A Bachelor’s degree in computer science (or in a similar field) is a great advantage), although it’s not necessary for every position. However, without specific knowledge of Java, you are not going to get anywhere. So it helps being certified and learning more about the language. Finally, gaining as much experience as possible will help you in getting one of the Java full stack developer jobs.
Which Java technology is in demand?
There are many skills that one needs to have in order to become a Java developer. Thus there isn’t a definitive answer to this question as new technologies keep popping up. Quite recently, Oracle, which redefined Java in its initial days, gave up this Enterprise stack to Eclipse.
Certain technical skills that would be good to acquire is knowledge about JSP and servlets, Web frameworks, web technologies like HTML, CSS, JavaScript and JQuery.
How quickly can I learn Java?
Leaning Java is not something you can do quickly. Depending on the position you are shooting for it, might take years to reach the levels necessary for some Java developer jobs. But lower-level positions require basic knowledge of Java programming language. Generally speaking, Java is very vast and it is impossible to learn everything there is about it in a short time period.
It requires time and dedication.
Happy Java, everyone!
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