Android remains dominant in the global mobile app development market. Statista’s study published in 2023 shows that Android OS shares over 70% of the market. On Google Play Store, nearly 2.5 million apps were available for download as of June 2022.
The growing need to create and manage these Android apps explain why Android developers are in-demand. This article presents some important due diligence to do if you want to hire Android app developers for your next project.
Skills to Check When Hiring Android App Developers
- Knowledge of programming language
Programming languages are the foundations for Android app development. Even with the emergence of no-code tools and platforms, a solid understanding of languages like Java and Kotlin remains essential for crafting customized, efficient, and feature-rich Android apps that cater to users’ unique needs.
An Android developer should have proficiency in either Java, Kotlin, or preferably both languages. Although more than half of Android developers use Kotlin and many big companies like hiring Kotlin developers to make Android apps, having a solid command of both languages enhances versatility and the ability to work across a broader range of projects and codebases.
In particular, knowledge of Kotlin and Java should revolve around syntax and basics, algorithm structure and frameworks, multithreading and concurrency, functional programming, and generics. Also, a vast understanding of Android Studio is a necessary prerequisite.
- Proficiency in APIs
API integrations are multi-faceted. So, if you’re evaluating Android app developers, go beyond checking if they can integrate third-party APIs into an app. Are they adept at managing and formatting data from APIs to ensure smooth information flow? Equally significant is checking if they can implement secure authentication methods and manage API errors for an optimal user experience. Other competencies to check are
- REST principles
- Asynchronous programming
- showcases their capability to structure APIs efficiently and maintain app responsiveness. Optimization skills
- Caching mechanisms, testing, and versioning
- Real-time communication APIs
- Hands-on experience with databases
An Android developer might choose to offload database tasks, yet it remains vital that they have basic knowledge of SQL basics and the use of Firebase. A strong candidate should demonstrate a hands-on experience in the structure of relational databases, such as the concepts of tables, columns, and rows. Moreover, their competence should extend to crafting effective SQL queries.
In addition to query creation, a developer should also be capable of executing data manipulation tasks, such as inserting and updating rows and deleting data. These skills collectively show a developer’s ability to work with databases on their own or with support from another person from the
- Understanding of business processes and SDLC
Technical proficiency is not enough. When assessing Android app developers, check if they understand your business processes and can integrate them into the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC). An Android developer is like a chef who must understand the ingredients and the cooking process before creating a dish. In software engineering, developers must understand business processes and align their coding efforts with the project’s objectives and software cycle.
Where To Find Android Developers
Online Coding Communities: Websites like LeetCode, HackerRank, and Codeforces have active communities of developers where you can post job listings and get
IT Staffing Agencies: Consider using IT-focused recruitment agencies specializing in connecting employers with skilled developers.
Freelance Marketplace: Android developers abound on freelancing platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr.
Networking Events: Attend tech conferences, meetups, and workshops to meet potential Android developers in person.
Job Boards and Websites: Platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor have job postings tailored to Android developers.
The Step-By-Step Plan To Hire Android App Developers
Step 1 – Prepare a technical description of your project
You should identify the specific technical responsibilities and skill set required to succeed. In addition to the technical skills mentioned earlier, you can find a detailed job overview here.
Step 2 – Choose the most suitable model
Decide on the hiring model that best fits your needs. This could be hiring an in-house developer, contracting through an agency, or engaging a freelance developer. Each model offers distinct advantages based on project scope, timelines, and required expertise.
Step 3 – Conduct technical interviews and test
Technical interviews and tests reveal the candidate’s practical proficiency beyond their resume or portfolio. Here, you can examine their problem-solving skills, coding capabilities, and alignment with your project’s goals.
Step 4 – Finalise the agreement and sign the contract
Discussing compensation, project timelines, and deliverables should be a collaborative process. Pay attention to the significance of signing NDAs and discuss security considerations. Do you like using your work as a portfolio while maintaining anonymity? Talk about all of this before you sign on the dotted line. With a mutually agreed contract, both parties clearly understand expectations and responsibilities.
Summary
Your projects’ success largely depends on who is getting the job done. So, how you hire an Android developer matters and influences. Don’t underestimate the significance of a well-thought-out hiring approach.
