What Does A Java Developer Do? And How To Become One

Updated 27 June 2023

Java developers primarily use Java programming language to build software, framework and applications. Because it is a platform-independent language, Java promises a higher loading speed, making it a preferred language for many companies. If you want to become a Java developer, it may be helpful to understand what the job role entails, as it can help you make an informed career decision. In this article, we answer “What does a Java developer do?”, explore the benefits of becoming one, understand the salary they earn and skills required, along with the steps to become a successful Java developer.

What does a Java developer do?

A Java developer is responsible for developing frameworks and applications. They are responsible for many duties throughout the development lifecycle of an application. Some day-to-day responsibilities of these professionals are:

design, implement and maintain Java application processes
work with quality assurance specialists, software engineers and other project stakeholders to understand the client's requirement
diagnose, troubleshoot and test applications and software
perform software evaluation and analysis
write well-structured and testable codes for developing software and application
ensure application design complies with the client's requirement and specification
manage Java and Java EE application development
ensure timely release of software components
transform client's requirements into workable Java applications
participate in code reviews
deploy a functional code in the live environment
prepare end-user documentation and reporting

Why become a Java developer?

There are many reasons for choosing this role as a career. Some of these are:

Widely used programming language: It is a widely accepted programming language for creating software frameworks and applications. With Java skills, you can get hired in many roles across different sectors.
Dynamic work: Apart from coding frameworks, a Java developer designs interfaces and tests dynamic applications.
Widely accepted in real-world applications: Many popular websites use Java. Also, different industries ranging from financial services to healthcare use Java applications.

Average salary of a Java developer

The average salary of a Java developer is ₹6,67,019 per year. Their exact salary depends upon the employer, experience, location and skills. Some cities pay a higher salary than others. For instance, the average salary of a Java developer in Bengaluru is ₹8,17,132 per year and average salary in Gurgaon is ₹7,33,650 per year.

Skills of a Java developer

A Java developer requires both technical and soft skills to excel in their workplace. Some skills to master for a rewarding career are:

Technical skills

Proficiency in these technical skills can help in accelerating your career growth:

Object-oriented programming (OOP): Java developers widely use the OOPs concept to combine data and functions to ensure the safety and stability of a code they develop. Having proficiency in major OOPs concepts like polymorphism, inheritance, encapsulation and abstraction is beneficial for this job role.
Java build tools: A Java developer works with various tools when completing software development tasks. Some widely used Java build tools are Apache, Nexus and Gradle.
Java testing tools: A part of a Java developer's workday involves testing software or applications they create to identify potential defects and evaluate the performance of the software. Having proficiency and hands-on experience in using Java testing tools is essential for this job role.
Java web frameworks: Developers use Java web frameworks like Springs and Grails for developing web applications. These frameworks act as pre-written code that works like a Java developer's template, which they can reuse to create applications.
Java EE components: Developing server-side applications using Enterprise Edition (EE) components is essential for this job role. These components help in creating simplified architecture and frameworks and ensure scalability to meet demand variation.

Soft skills

Some soft skills required by a Java developer are:

Communication skills: Java developers work with other software developers and engineers and they require excellent communication skills to interact with each other. Also, these professionals require excellent writing skills because they develop manual and documentations during various stages of the software development lifecycle.
Time management: Every Java developer works under strict deadlines to complete every phase of the SDLC. As most projects are under stringent deadlines, these professionals require time management skills to ensure adherence to project deadlines.
Work ethics: Some development projects may take longer than expected and employers prefer candidates who are punctual, hardworking and can complete work despite difficulties. These are personality traits that are important for this profession.
Teamwork: As an SDLC comprises several phases, you may work with different professionals in the business and IT departments. Working as a part of a team is imperative to becoming successful as a Java developer.
Inquisitiveness: With new technologies and tools making way almost every day, this role requires someone open to learning new skills and upgrading their existing skills. It is essential to invest in continuous learning.
Willingness to accept criticism: Being able to handle constructive criticism is essential for becoming a successful Java developer. Often, clients may change their software requirements and it may require some rework. This requires the ability to accept constructive criticism.

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How to become a Java developer

Follow these steps to become a Java developer:

1. Complete your 10+2

The first step towards becoming a Java developer is completing your 10+2 or higher secondary in science. Having mathematics, physics and chemistry as compulsory subjects is essential for becoming a Java developer. You can even choose computer science as an optional elective subject because it gives you an edge over others to write algorithms and computer codes.

2. Pursue your bachelor's

A bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology or a related field can help you enter the field of software development. You can pursue a Bachelor of Computer Application (BCA) or Bachelor of Technology (BTech) or Bachelor of Engineering (BE) degree for a rewarding and fulfilling career. A BCA is a three-year course and BE/BTech is a four-year course. Candidates who clear various engineering entrance examinations are eligible to gain admission to BTech/BE courses. For gaining admission to BCA, you require completing your 10+2.

3. Consider an internship

An internship in a software development company can help you gain hands-on experience. You can pursue an internship during or after your graduation degree. Often, internships can result in full-time employment. Apart from providing relevant work experience, internships boost your CV and give you access to a professional network. Some software development companies offer paid internships, while others may offer unpaid internships.

4. Further your education

To increase your job prospects and earn a higher salary, consider completing your post-graduation. Based on your undergraduate degree, you can pursue a Master of Computer Application (MCA) or Master of Technology (MTech) or Master of Engineering (ME). Most senior roles as a Java developer require a post-graduation degree. You can complete your post-graduation after earning some years of experience or enrol in it soon after completing your undergraduate degree.

5. Join Java development programs

The fastest way to gain and implement Java skills is by participating in a project. Consider practising on different open-source Java projects available online. Apart from enhancing your skill, these programs can help you get hired for a suitable job role. You can show these open-source projects as your portfolio during your interview process. This helps an employer understand your expertise and skills with Java.

6. Develop a portfolio

For entry-level Java developers, developing a portfolio is a great way to show your passion for the field. You can use any Java development program's project and impress the potential employer. You can even include your contribution made during internship and graduation. Often, candidates include code experiments in their portfolios. Also, as a Java developer, you may use a code repository to reuse the codes you created. Once you save your work on such platforms, you can share a link for your employers to check.

7. Create a CV

To provide potential employers with information about their skill set and professional accomplishments, focus on creating a detailed and interesting CV. In your CV, mention your relevant skills, experience, educational background and anything that sets you apart from others. Also, focus on tailoring your resume based on the job requirement and include keywords from the job description to make your resume applicant tracking system (ATS) compliant.

Please note that none of the companies mentioned in this article are affiliated with Indeed.

Salary figures reflect data listed on Indeed Salaries at time of writing. Salaries may vary depending on the hiring organisation and a candidate's experience, academic background and location.

What Does A Java Developer Do? And How To Become One