In this modern era of technology where Android apps have taken over, finding a perfect Android app developer has also increased in difficulty. With the help of this guide you will be able to understand the things to keep in mind before hiring Android app developers. Before hiring an Android app developer make sure to research about the cost to hire Android app developers which will give you an insight of the current market and rates of Android app developers.
Now, let us first understand what Android app development is –
What is Android app development?
The process of developing and creating software applications that is specifically made for Android operating system, which are mainly used in mobile devices like smartphones and tablets is the simple definition of Android app development. The development process involves different stages which includes planning, designing, coding, testing and releasing the application to the Google Play store.
Android app development involves the use of various coding languages and the Android Development Kit (SDK) to build applications for mobile devices.
Programming languages
- Java a widely popular programming language is deemed as the primary language used in Android app development, as it synchronizes perfectly with Android APIs and even with the Android studio Environment.
- Another popular Android app development language is Kotlin, gained popularity because of it’s to the point syntax and enhanced functionalities making it a viable alternate to Java.
- Various other programming language like C++, C# and JavaScript are also widely used in Android app development.
Application Components
- Activities – Representing a single page with user interface for the entry point which is used for user interaction.
- Services – Data synchronization or music playback features are brought to life using background processes which runs even without user interaction in the background.
- Content provider – Data management between the shared contents between application, which in turn allows for easy data access and modifications.
- Broadcast receiver – Handling system-wide broadcast messages, which allows apps to respond to incoming messages or alarms.
Development Environment
- Android studio is the official Integrated Development Environment (IDE) for Android app development. Android studio provides users with various tools for code editing, debugging and even provides performance reports. Other key factors which is integrated in Android studio are an easy to use layout editor rich in features, coding templates, and an emulator which allows developers to run tests on how the applications will run on different types of devices.
- Different other tools like Gradle, Apache Maven, and Apache Ant help in managing project builds, dependencies, and version control which streamlines the whole development process.
Challenges in Android Development
- The entire Android ecosystem runs across various different kind of mobile devices with different screen sizes, different hardware, and even different operating system versions, which makes it a challenge for developers to ensure compatibility of the application across different platforms.
- User experience is one of the most important factor when it comes to Android app development process. Creating and maintaining a smooth and responsive user interface is crucial which involves managing background tasks perfectly to ensure it doesn’t block the main thread, which will in turn a streamline seamless experience for the users.
These are some main components related to Android app development. Now let us learn about the skills that are essential for an Android developer.
What are the skills essential for an Android app developer?
There are various essential skills which make an Android app developer and for you to keep in mind when hiring Android app developers –
Fundamentals of Android app development
At the very core of Android app development are the fundamental primary languages which are Java and Kotlin. A skilled Android app developer must be an expert on Java and Kotlin as they are the building blocks of Android app development.
Familiarity with Java is a must as it has been the primary language for android applications for years, they must also possess a robust understanding of the syntax, object-oriented principles, and libraries. Kotlin has also been popularized in the recent years for its modernized technicalities, enhanced safety features and is also deemed necessary for an Android app developer to have expertise on.
An android developer should be skilled in either or both languages for the development of high-level applications.
Understanding of Android SDK
Android Software Development Kit (SDK) is basically a large collection of libraries and Software development tools that are essential for Android app development. These tools are essential for streamlining the development process from developing to debugging.
It is essential for the Android app developers to be perfectly adapted with the Software Development Kit as SDK allows developers to utilize various different factors of the Android platform, like user interface components and other system services. It is vital for an Android developer to be skilled in Android Software development Kit as it is an important factor of the app development procedure.
UI/UX Design Principles
An app’s success is directly connected with User Interface (UI). An expert Android app developer must have a solid grasp in the principles of UI/UX. Most importantly the material design guidelines which is created by Google.
A definitive understanding of how to design layouts, creating a seamless user experience and managing user interface is a must have skill an Android app developer must possess. Extensive knowledge of development tools like Figma or Abode XD is also beneficial to the developer as it helps in enhancing UI/UX designs which in turn makes the user interface flawless and creates a seamless user experience.
UI navigation involves the interactions that allows the user to navigate across the various segments across the mobile application. UI navigation can be added through various ways like toolbars and tab bars. The tool bar or app bar can be utilized to add pop-menus, menu icons and navigation bar icons.
These icons help in making use of the navigation bar, which contains the menu items and also helps in performing actions within the same screen. UI navigation is an important factor when it comes to streamlining an app’s user experience and also helps in navigating within the app with ease. So, it is an important skill an Android app developer should possess.
Database management
Data storage is an important factor for each and every app, so a skilled Android app developer must be used to the many aspects of Database management. They must be adept in SQLite which is a lightweight database management tool which allows the app to store data locally.
Moreover, thorough understanding of Room Persistence Library can support the developers as it helps them to utilize the database management tools more efficiently and seamlessly which provides an abstract layer over SQLite.
Testing and Debugging
Testing and Debugging is one of the most important part of Android app development and an Android app developer must be skilled in it to ensure if an application is reliable or not.
Using various frameworks such as JUnit can be used to perform writing unit tests and UI testing tools such as Espresso helps in maintain the quality of the code. Debugging skill allows the developer to find and eliminate the problem easily in turn enhancing the User Experience.
These are some of the skill a skilled Android app developer must possess. Now, let’s understand why there is a demand for Android app developers.
Why are Android app developers in demand?
There are various factors that keep Android app developers in demand such as the widespread of Android mobile phones worldwide. The growth of Android means simultaneously there will be a growth of Android apps and to develop these apps you would require the assistance of Android app developers.
Some big companies such as Amazon, Flipkart are heavily investing in Android applications which increases the demand for these developers even more. Android now owns about 80% of the entire mobile industry which automatically means the demand for applications are sky-high.
The growth of Android applications in different sectors which includes education, business and entertainment which fuels the demand for Android app developers even more. The growth of Android app developers is exceptional and it is estimated that the job growth rate will increased by 21% till 2028.
The continuous growth of Android ecosystem also increased the demand of Android apps which will in turn increase the demand of Android app developers.
Now, let us discuss some tips on how to hire the best Android app developers –
Tips to hire the best Android app developers
There are many things to keep in mind when hiring Android app developers such as
Define your project requirements
Before starting your hiring process it is important to have a clear thorough plan of your project and make sure it meets your requirements. The goals of your app, should be outlined, your target audience should be clear and the key features should be clear.
A well-defined planned project makes it easier for you to portray your vision perfectly to potential candidates which ensures you hire the perfect android app developers with proper skills and experience that meets your needs.
Create a detailed job description
A well thought-out description is the best way to attract the right talent as “the first impression is the last impression”. Include niche skills or specifications you might need such as skill in Java, Kotlin or Android SDK. You should include frameworks expertise requirement like flutter or React Native. If necessary highlight the main responsibilities of the role and the types of projects your organization works on. This will help clear out unqualified candidates.
Evaluate technical skills
Android developers should be proficient in technical skills. Take assessments of the candidates to check their relevancy in programming languages and tools. A coding test will help you determine how they handle real-world problems or tasks they might encounter during the project development. Utilize HackerRank or Codility which can be used to take their tests. By evaluating their technical skills you can save precious time and resources in the hiring process.
Review portfolio’s and references
A developer’s portfolio can provide valuable information about their experience and capabilities in Android app development. Keep in mind to check what they have developed or have contributed in, pay special attention to the projects that may align with your current idea. Check their references from previous employers to gain insight on their work ethic, reliability and their ability to meet their job requirements.
Conduct Technical Interviews
An essential part of the hiring process should be technical interviews. Utilize the technical interviews to gain a deeper insight into the developer’s expertise and skill to solve problems in the real world. Question them about how they go into solving the problem to assess their problem solving skills too. You can even make hypothetical situation related to your app and question them how they would approach the situation. This technical interview will help you properly gauge their skills and creativity.
Communication skills
Communication plays a vital role in proper collaboration between team members. Make sure that the developer is able to properly relay their ideas and are able to understand the requirements of your project. During the interview process, pay proper attention to how they respond or listen to your questions. A developer with proper communication skills will be able to collaborate efficiently with your team and be able to address the issues that may arise along the development process.
Experience with UX/UI
User interface (UI) and User experience (UX) design is an integral part of a well-designed mobile application. Having proper understanding of the design principles and best practices is a sign of a skilled Android app developer. Look for developers who can create the best looking and user-friendly applications, look into their old works to get insights on their design skills.
Consider Cultural fit
Cultural fit is often neglected during the hiring process but it plays an important role in team dynamics and the success of the project. Evaluate how well they mix into the company’s culture and values. Team collaboration plays an important role in the development process which allows for better team work with each other which will further return in proper development of your application.
These are some things to keep in mind when hiring the perfect Android app developers. Now, let us understand the cost to hire Android app developers.
Cost to hire Android app developers
The table below provides insight on the cost to hire Android app developers –
Experience Level | Location | Hourly Rate (USD) | Monthly Rate (USD) | Employment Type |
Junior Developer | North America | $25 – $50 | $4,000 – $8,000 | Full-time / Contract |
Europe | $20 – $40 | $3,200 – $6,400 | ||
Asia | $10 – $25 | $1,600 – $4,000 | ||
Mid-Level Developer | North America | $50 – $100 | $8,000 – $16,000 | Full-time / Contract |
Europe | $40 – $80 | $6,400 – $12,800 | ||
Asia | $25 – $50 | $4,000 – $8,000 | ||
Senior Developer | North America | $100 – $200 | $16,000 – $32,000 | Full-time / Contract |
Europe | $80 – $150 | $12,800 – $24,000 | ||
Asia | $50 – $100 | $8,000 – $16,000 | ||
Freelance Developer | Global | $30 – $150 | Varies | Freelance |
Now, let us understand where to find the best Android app developers.
Where to find the best Android app developers?
The table provided below provides the insight on where to find the best Android app developers –
Platform/Method | Description | Advantages |
Job Boards | Websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, and Monster where you can post job listings | Wide reach, access to a large pool of candidates. |
Freelance Platforms | Sites like Upwork, Freelancer, and Toptal that connect freelancers with clients. | Flexibility, ability to hire for short-term projects. |
Tech-Specific Job Sites | Platforms like Stack Overflow Jobs and GitHub Jobs focused on tech talent. | Targeted audience, often attracts skilled developers. |
Professional networking site where you can search for and connect with developers. | Access to profiles, recommendations, and connections. | |
Recruitment Agencies | Firms that specialize in tech recruitment and can help find qualified candidates. | Expertise in sourcing candidates, saves time. |
Meetups and Conferences | Networking events and tech conferences where developers gather. | Direct interaction, opportunity to assess skills in person. |
Social Media | Platforms like Twitter and Facebook groups focused on tech and development. | Community engagement, can find developers through recommendations. |
Referrals | Asking for recommendations from your network or existing employees. | Trustworthy candidates, often leads to better cultural fit. |
Coding Bootcamps | Graduates from coding bootcamps often seek job opportunities. | Fresh talent, often trained in the latest technologies. |
Open Source Contributions | Platforms like GitHub where developers contribute to projects. | Assess real-world coding skills and collaboration. |
Local Universities | Partnering with universities to find interns or recent graduates. | Access to emerging talent, potential for long-term hires. |
eBizneeds: Home to the Best Android App Developers
eBizneeds is the home to the best Android app developers who hold expertise in Android app development and have excellent communication skills. Our developers ensure a hassle-free seamless experience all along the development procedure.
Along with eBizneeds kick start your dream Android app’s development process and transform it into reality. Our Android app developers are expert in all the fundamental languages related to Android app development and will make the development process of your app stress-free.
Conclusion
There are various factors related to hiring Android app developers such as their technical expertise, proficiency with fundamental of Android applications, UI/UX design principles, and efficiency in testing and debugging. Make sure to conduct various technical assessments, cultural fit tests as well as communication skills test during the hiring procedure to find the perfect Android app developer.
Carefully take all the factors related to hiring the perfect Android app developer for your Android app and enjoy a hassle-free development process.
FAQs
Android app development is the process of creating software applications specifically for the Android operating system, primarily used on mobile devices like smartphones and tablets.
When hiring an Android app developer, look for expertise in Java and Kotlin, familiarity with the Android SDK, and a solid understanding of UI/UX design principles.
The demand for Android app developers is driven by the widespread use of Android devices, which hold about 80% of the mobile market. As companies invest in Android applications across various sectors, the need for skilled developers continues to grow.
To evaluate candidates, define your project requirements clearly and create a detailed job description. Assess technical skills through coding tests, review portfolios, and conduct technical interviews to gauge problem-solving abilities
You can find top Android app developers through various platforms, including job boards like Indeed and Glassdoor, freelance sites like Upwork and Toptal, and tech-specific job sites like Stack Overflow Jobs.
Naveen Khanna is the CEO of eBizneeds, a company renowned for its bespoke web and mobile app development. By delivering high-end modern solutions all over the globe, Naveen takes pleasure in sharing his rich experiences and views on emerging technological trends. He has worked in many domains, from education, entertainment, banking, manufacturing, healthcare, and real estate, sharing rich experience in delivering innovative solutions.