What Does an Application Developer Do?

An application developer is responsible for designing, creating, deploying, and updating software applications, specifically for mobile or web platforms. This role is essential in today’s digital landscape, where technology continues to evolve rapidly.

If you're considering a career in application development, it is important to understand what this field entails, including the average salary expectations, necessary skills, and educational requirements. This information can help you prepare for a successful career in this exciting and dynamic industry.

[Featured Image] An application developer is at a computer showing his project to a co-worker.

An application developer plays a crucial role in creating software applications tailored for both web and mobile devices. According to Statista, the global revenue generated from the mobile app market is projected to reach $673 billion by 2027, a significant increase from $404 billion in 2022. This explosive growth indicates a thriving industry that continues to expand, offering numerous opportunities for skilled application developers. These professionals are responsible for the entire lifecycle of app development, from the initial planning and design phases to the ongoing management and updates of the applications we rely on daily.

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As an application developer, you have the flexibility to choose various work environments. You could work as an independent contractor, take on freelance projects, or be part of a larger team developing a major software release. This variety allows you to align your work preferences with your career aspirations. If you are intrigued by the prospect of working in application development, continue reading to discover the essential information and steps necessary to pursue this rewarding career path.

What is an application developer?

An application developer is primarily focused on the design and creation of computer applications, which can include both mobile and web apps. Developers often specialize in specific areas of development, offering them the flexibility to choose the employment type that best suits their interests and skills. You might work independently, be employed directly by a company, or be part of an agency that creates applications for various clients. Application developers are found across many industries, including technology research, nonprofit organizations, health care, and mobile phone production companies. This diversity in industry representation underscores the importance and demand for application developers in today's job market.

What does an application developer do?

In the field of application development, there are several areas of focus to consider, each with its unique challenges and specialties. Developers may choose to specialize in desktop applications, which are programs designed to run on standalone devices without the need for an internet connection. Alternatively, they may work on web applications, which are hosted on websites and require an internet connection for user access. Native mobile applications are also a popular focus, as they are specifically designed to run on smartphones and tablets. Developers may also engage in creating HTML5 applications, which are responsive and designed for cross-platform functionality, or hybrid applications, which combine elements of both native and web apps. Your specific responsibilities as an application developer will largely depend on your team's size, the skills of your colleagues, and your area of specialization.

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Application developer tasks and responsibilities

As an application developer, you will be responsible for a range of tasks that are crucial to the development process. These include designing programs that meet client specifications or user needs, as well as creating prototypes to visualize the application concept. You will also design workflows that enhance user experience and write the actual code that forms the basis of computer applications. Ensuring compatibility across various platforms is another essential task, as is troubleshooting issues and problem-solving when challenges arise. Additionally, you will conduct testing and analyze user feedback to refine the application, optimize it for security, and adhere to best practices in software development. Effective communication with clients and team members is vital to ensure that everyone is aligned and informed throughout the development process.

What skills do you need to be an app developer?

To thrive as an application developer, you will need to cultivate a range of technical skills that demonstrate your proficiency in the practical aspects of the role. This includes mastering various programming languages and understanding operating systems to develop apps suitable for different platforms. A solid grasp of data structures, database management principles, version control, and familiarity with a variety of development platforms and frameworks is essential. If your interest lies in the design and planning phases of development, honing skills in design thinking and user experience will be crucial. For those focusing on back-end development, knowledge of server architecture, security measures, and scalability is imperative to ensure robust application performance.

Programming languages

The choice of programming languages to learn as an application developer should align with the specific role you intend to fulfill within a development team. For instance, a front-end developer, who focuses on the client or user interface, should be proficient in languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Conversely, a back-end developer, responsible for the underlying infrastructure of the website, must be familiar with languages like C#, PHP, and Python. A full-stack developer, who possesses skills in both front-end and back-end development, benefits from having a well-rounded knowledge base that covers both areas. Familiarity with multiple programming languages enhances your versatility and employability in the competitive job market.

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Potential programming languages that application developers may consider learning include: HTML, JavaScript, CSS, Java, C#, C++, PHP, Objective C, and Python. Each of these languages serves specific purposes and is used in various aspects of application development. Additionally, application developers have access to a wide array of tools designed to assist in app design and construction. These tools encompass programming languages, application development platforms, various development tools, frameworks, and coding libraries. The specific tools you utilize will depend on the nature of your projects, your area of focus within development, and the frameworks and tools that are relevant to your work.

Application developer salary and job outlook

As reported by Glassdoor, the average total salary for an application developer in the United States is approximately $129,049 per year. This figure includes a base salary of $103,119, along with an additional $25,930 in supplemental pay as of November 2024. The financial prospects for application developers are promising, reflecting the high demand for skilled professionals in this field. Furthermore, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates an 18 percent growth in job openings for all software developers, including application developers, from 2023 to 2033. This percentage translates to approximately 140,100 projected job openings each year throughout this decade, indicating robust employment opportunities within the industry.

Application developer career path

A typical entry-level role for an application developer is that of a junior developer, where you will be responsible for performing basic tasks as part of a team of developers. This initial position provides an opportunity to gain valuable experience and build foundational skills. After accumulating sufficient experience, you may progress into a more advanced application developer position, where you will take on greater responsibilities and potentially lead projects. Over time, with continued professional development and expertise, you can advance to a senior developer role, where you may mentor junior developers and guide them in their career growth.

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Education and training

To become an application developer, a bachelor’s degree is often required, although it is not the only pathway into this profession. According to Zippia, around 71 percent of application developers hold a bachelor’s degree, while 18 percent possess a master’s degree, and 7 percent have an associate degree. Common academic majors for aspiring application developers include computer science, computer engineering, electrical engineering, and information technology. These educational backgrounds provide a solid foundation in the technical skills needed for a successful career in application development.

Get started today

If you are ready to take the next steps toward a career in application development, consider enrolling in a Coursera course to gain the necessary skills. The Developing Applications With Google Cloud Specialization, offered by Google Cloud, provides an in-depth learning experience that covers essential skills such as debugging, cloud storage, cloud computing, Google App Engine, and application programming interfaces (APIs). Completing this specialization will earn you a shareable certificate that can enhance your resume, CV, or LinkedIn profile, making you a more competitive candidate in the job market.

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