By: Jacob Maslow

There are plenty of languages out there, competing for their place in the programming world and beyond. Still, one name continues to be widely used: Python. With its easily understandable syntax, extensive libraries, and numerous applications, Python is among the more popular languages among developers and companies today.

The rise in popularity is supported by data. Statista’s developer survey found that Python is one of the commonly used languages worldwide, utilized by almost 55% of respondents in 2024. Here’s your guide to recruiting Python talent that goes beyond just writing code.

1. Strong Grasp of Core Python

This might seem obvious — but is often overlooked. Fundamentals are crucial and should always be kept in mind. Consciousness of fundamentals is essential, as they are the foundation for everything else.

Before any frameworks or fancy libraries, your candidates should have their fundamental skills clear. We’re talking about data types, loops, conditions, functions, and classes.

Are they capable of writing clean, readable, and performant code? Can they explain list comprehensions or decorators without resorting to a Google search? “Don’t let a good resume fool you, a good resume does not necessarily equal good Python,” one hiring manager told us. “Interview the fundamentals. Every time.”

When companies decide to hire a developer, they need to ensure it is about more than just coding skills. We would like the ideal candidate to be familiar with frameworks such as Django or Flask, have previous API experience, and show an ability to write clean, maintainable code. Firms looking to hire python developer for growth over the long haul also value problem-solving abilities, knowledge of version control systems, and collaboration-oriented mindsets.

2. Knowledge about Object-Oriented Programming

Python is a multi-paradigm language — there is not one, and only one, way of doing things, but object-oriented programming remains commonly used in many systems.
Candidates should be capable of writing modular and reusable code using classes and inheritance. Object-oriented programming is more than just syntax — it involves thinking in systems and abstractions.
“Inquire about real-world projects. How did they build the app? What alternatives did they consider?”

3. Skills in Web Development

If you’re hiring for backend development, the Python developer may need to be comfortable creating APIs and processing HTTP requests.

They don’t have to be Django or Flask evangelists — but they should have experience with at least one major Python web framework.

Bonus points if they’ve worked with RESTful APIs, GraphQL, or deployed to AWS, Heroku, or another cloud platform.

4. Data Handling & Libraries

No matter if you are building a SaaS tool or crunching analytics, Python developers often need to be data wranglers.

 A strong candidate should be able to manipulate data with libraries like Pandas and NumPy. If they’re doing data science or analytics, they should be familiar with Jupyter notebooks, Matplotlib, and Scikit-learn.

In short? They should be comfortable working with data.

5. Experience with Databases

Your Python programmer will not exist in a vacuum; they will have to interface with storage. Are they familiar with PostgreSQL or MySQL? Have they worked with ORMs such as SQLAlchemy, or Django’s built-in ORM? What about NoSQL options such as MongoDB?
Ask how they’ve optimized queries or handled database migrations. Their responses will help you gauge the depth of their backend experience.

6. Version Control with Git

Nowadays it’s generally expected to use version control in a development workflow. The Python developer you hire should be Git-fluent: branching, committing, merging, rebasing, and resolving conflicts with confidence.

You’re bringing on a team member, not a lone wolf. So learn how they’ve worked within Git-driven environments, particularly within cross-functional teams.

7. Testing and Debugging Skills

Bugs are inevitable. But knowing how to track them down and remediate them efficiently is a valuable skill.

An experienced developer likely won’t leave it to QA to find issues. They’ll create unit tests using PyTest or unittest, write quality logging, and incorporate error handling into their code.

Ask: “What’s the most challenging bug you’ve worked through?” Their narrative will tell you a lot more than a resume ever could.

8. Soft Skills

Technical skills alone are not enough. Soft skills can help differentiate a good hire from a great one.

Are they able to communicate complicated code to a layperson stakeholder? Do they ask thoughtful questions, or do they wait passively for instructions?

Most Python developers become the gel that binds data, design, and delivery. You’re looking for someone who is as comfortable in a Slack channel as they are in a code editor.

9. Personal or Open Source Projects

A GitHub repo can tell you more about a candidate than any CV ever could. Engineers who write open source, hack, or do side-projects tend to be self-driven and passionate about their craft.

They aren’t just coding to work — they’re coding because they enjoy it.

10. Industry Fit/Context Awareness

Python is employed for many tasks across numerous industries, and each industry has its quirks and standards.

Is your product fintech? Healthcare SaaS? EdTech?

This can allow a domain-knowledgeable candidate to “hit the ground running.” Failing that, look for adaptability and the ability to learn quickly.

How to Hire and Keep Skilled Python Developers

Attracting and retaining talented Python developers requires effort. Some effective strategies include:

• Write a clear job description listing duties, desired skills, and what the role offers your team.
• Use job-relevant skills assessments: don’t rely solely on resumes; include coding challenges or skills tests specific to the job.
• Monitor compensation and benefits: stay aware of current market rates and offer competitive packages.
• Cultivate a collaborative, innovative work environment that keeps developers engaged and motivated.
• Support professional growth: provide opportunities for training, conferences, and resources to help developers stay current.

Summary

Hiring a Python developer involves more than checking off skills. It’s about finding someone who can think critically, build intelligently, and grow with your team.

Programmers have always been in demand. It’s not just about the tech; it’s about using that tech to create value for users, teams, and businesses.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional hiring advice. The skills and recommendations shared reflect general industry perspectives and may not apply to all situations. Employers should conduct their own assessments and consult relevant experts when making hiring decisions.