Getting a job

Backend development is booming. In 2021, the role topped HackerEarth’s list of most in-demand roles to fill in a survey answered by HR managers and engineering managers. There are far more job openings than computer science graduates who could step into those roles.

This imbalance between supply and demand presents a unique opportunity for those interested in pursuing a career in this field – and you don’t necessarily need a diploma to get a job. Bootcamp graduates or even self-taught developers can find themselves employed in the field.

To secure a job as a Backend Developer, you’ll need proficiency in programming, experience with databases, and a solid understanding of API development. Additionally, a keen awareness of security is beneficial, as Backend Developers often deal with sensitive data.

The salary of a Backend Developer varies significantly based on the developer's level of experience, geographical location, and proficiency in specific technologies. As such, it is difficult to provide a definitive figure for a Backend Developer's salary.

According to data from Glassdoor, the average salary for a Backend Developer in the United States is approximately $100,000 per year. This figure provides a general indication of the earning potential in this field. Compare that to average salaries like those of Frontend Developers ($85,000 annually) or Data Analysts ($70,000 annually) and you’ll see how popular Backend Developers are.

In Europe, Backend Developers are typically paid lower – closer to $60k to $80k annually – but that’s still a very good salary.

For someone seeking a backend job, degrees and certifications can prove that you've got what it takes. They are basically a piece of paper where a trusted authority has said, “Hey, this person can really do what they say they can.”

These certifications don't need to come from universities. Certifications from recognized institutions or platforms, such as Oracle Certified Professional or Java SE Programmer, can also provide a competitive edge in the job market. Even ones from less-recognized sources can help to back up your skills.

Of course, some companies value practical experience and demonstrated skills over formal education. But given the lack of qualified candidates, certificates can do a lot of good.

For people without extensive degrees, portfolio projects can serve as a useful tool to demonstrate skills to potential employers. These projects provide tangible evidence of your ability to apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios, even without a job or degree.

A well-structured portfolio of projects should ideally showcase your proficiency in programming languages such as Python, Java, or Ruby. Portfolio projects often include examples of database management, server scripting, and API integration. These can be presented either as live example systems, or as repositories on public platforms like Github, that let other people view the code you’ve written.

A good portfolio project is creating a library: that's a collection of reusable code that others can use to build their own systems. These types of projects allow you to demonstrate the utility of the code that you write when other developers use the library you have written in their own projects. This is often demonstrated through the number of downloads of a project, or stars that a project receives on Github, which demonstrate people’s interest.

While technical skills are non-negotiable, networking can also be a useful skill when seeking a job in this industry.

Networking can be anything from attending industry events to joining online communities or just connecting with professionals on LinkedIn. These activities can help you stay informed about the latest industry trends, learn from experienced professionals, and discover job opportunities that may not be publicly advertised. Did you know that according to CNBC, over 70% of jobs are never publicly listed?

Even if they don’t land you a job, cultivating these relationships is still valuable. Other developers can provide support throughout your career, including professional advice and mentorship.

Because so many employers are flooded with low-quality applications, many use automation to scan resumes for keywords. This is why it's important to tailor your resume to match the job posting. For instance, if the job description mentions cloud deployment, ensure your proficiency in this area is clearly highlighted on your resume.

As well as this, if you have established a connection with the company or recruiter through your networking efforts, don't hesitate to leverage these relationships. A personal recommendation or introduction can boost your odds of getting the interview. And don't forget to submit that portfolio with examples of previous work.

In other words: first, you say you can do the thing. Second, someone else says you can do the thing. Finally, you show that you can do the thing.

As with any interview, it's important to review common interview questions and practice your responses. This can help you to make a better first impression, because you’ll be less likely to fumble or get nervous.

Interviews for Backend Developer positions may also involve coding challenges or problem-solving tasks. These tests assess your ability to apply your technical knowledge in a practical scenario. Luckily, many platforms compile these questions, so it’s not hard to practice a sample of these tasks before attending the actual interview.

Ultimately, if you've put the time and effort in, employers will usually be able to see that you have what it takes. And remember – by choosing to take this pathway, that time and effort has already started. Now, it's time to take a coding course, or try your hand at a project. The wider world of backend development awaits.