Looking for a back end developer? hackajob has a wealth of talent and information to help you make the right hire.
With any website, the public might only ever catch a glimpse of what’s going on behind the curtain but if the technology behind it all goes down, everything falls apart and they’ll certainly notice then. That’s why back end developers are so vital. They are the invisible architects laying and maintaining the foundations of your site, server, and databases. Without them, there are no bones to put the meat on and there’s no engine to put the gas in.
As web development continues to stand out as one of the most in-demand skills in the digital world, there is no shortage of back end developers ready and willing to offer their services. However, with such a vast reservoir of talent, how do you ensure you're bringing the right minds on board and hiring a back end developer whose talents, experience and rates align with your needs?
Unsung Heroes: What are Back end Developers?
Every click or swipe a user makes on a website might feel perfectly organic to them but for every action, there’s a deceptively complex algorithm working away behind the scenes making that action happen. This is all thanks to back end developers.
The primary job of a back end developer is to ensure that every piece of data (be it a user profile, a transaction, or any other interactive element) connects flawlessly between the server and the browser. This involves everything from database management and server setup and management, to ensuring the scalability and security of the entire system. They will be responsible for building or contributing to existing code, as well as code testing and optimisation.
As is the case with most roles, the expertise of a back end developer will represent not only how much experience they have but how much they will charge. For example, if you’re a smaller business or startup with a relatively uncomplicated infrastructure, a junior developer with only a few years of experience might be a better fit.
They should be able to construct and maintain a database and solve most common problems and construct, however, they might work a little slower and lack some of the more specific skills you’d find in a senior back end developer.
Desirable Skills for Back end Developers
At a bare minimum, back end developers must be proficient in at least one programming language such as Java or Python. They should also be familiar with server-side languages so they can develop applications that function seamlessly with your site’s server and database, and front end technologies like HTML/CSS, which will allow them to bridge the gap cohesively between client and server-side.
Beyond these technologies, a competent back end developer should ideally exhibit proficiency in:
- Database technologies such as MySQL, MongoDB, Oracle, and others which facilitate data retrieval, storage, and modification to serve users.
- Managing servers, including Microsoft IIS, Linux, Apache, and more, for system development and deployment.
- Implementing Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) such as AJAX, SOAP, and JSON to exchange data across mobile devices, websites, and other interconnected platforms.
How do I Hire a Back end Developer?
Before hitting the job market, you need to consider whether to go in-house or freelance, with the latter becoming a more common choice for smaller businesses, particularly in the wake of the pandemic and the rise in remote working.
Going for a freelancer and paying by the hour or by the day is the more affordable option, particularly if you outsource the work to a back end developer working out of a country with a lower average income.
In-house back end developers are often brought on for more intensive projects and larger companies, while many choose to outsource their work through an offshore development company and effectively get the best of both worlds.
Salary Ranges for Hiring Back end Developers
Money talks and while passion and the allure of a challenging role can attract top talent, a competitive salary is often the deal breaker. A back end developer’s salary will, of course, vary depending on factors like location, the complexity of the role, and experience.
For reference, as of 2023, the basic salary for a backend developer based in New York was around $150,000 whereas the average salary nationwide (in the US) was around $78000 - $155,000, depending on seniority.
Outline the Tech Stack
Each back end developer has their toolkit—languages and frameworks they excel in. Whether it's Python, Ruby or Node.js, be transparent about your requirements so you draw the right applicants and don’t end up wasting your time and theirs.
This transparency can also be pivotal in setting expectations and streamlining the onboarding process.
Consider the Benefits Package
Modern professionals don't just work for a payslip at the end of the month. They want a company culture that suits their lifestyle, professional growth opportunities, and a comfortable work environment.
Crafting an enticing benefits package could set you apart from other prospective employers and help you catch and retain the very best talent.
Time Frames: How Long Does the Hiring Process Take?
Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is a top tech team. Typically, hiring a back end developer could take anywhere from a few weeks to several months but the timeline depends on several factors, including the intricacies of the role, your vetting process, and the current dynamics of the job market.
However, there's good news for those looking beyond just backend roles.
Can I Hire Back end Developers Faster?
hackajob's unique reverse job marketplace puts the power back in the hands of the employer and streamlines the hiring process for those in the tech industry. Due to the platform's unique matching algorithm and vast talent pool, you could find, hire, and onboard developers at a much faster pace than by using traditional methods.
Where Can I Hire Back end Developers?
Imagine a platform that understands the intricacies of tech hiring and is so much more than just a CV aggregator. With hackajob, you receive:
Precision Matching: Rather than sifting through thousands of CVs looking for the one that fits the bill, you’ll receive a shortlist of candidates tailored specifically to your needs.
Direct Communications: Say goodbye to intermediaries. Engage in direct, meaningful conversations with potential hires.
Skill-based AI Vetting: Trust in a process that prioritises skill and competence over keywords. We use a combination of AI and human curation to assess the past projects or coding skills of our users and match them directly with you.
Actionable Insights: With smart analytics at your fingertips, refine your hiring strategies for better outcomes continually.
Speak to one of our team to find out how you can hire back end developers faster and for less money.
Expert Insights on Back end Hiring
Cristian Minea, a seasoned professional in the tech talent space with years of experience at hackajob, sheds light on the nuances of back end hiring:
“When I look for a potential back end hire, I’m looking for a blend of technical acumen and adaptability. Backend developers must not only be proficient with the current tech stack but also demonstrate a keenness to learn and adapt. Their role often intertwines with other departments, so communication and collaboration skills are just as essential.”
Back end developers are the conductors at the heart of the digital orchestra, ensuring each note is perfect and everyone is playing at the same speed. When it comes to hiring one, platforms like hackajob stand ready to guide, streamline, and elevate the process and connect you to the best talent.