Mobile App Developer
Job Description:A Mobile App Developer is a software professional who designs, develops, tests, and maintains mobile applications for smartphones and tablets.
Job Category:What you will do:
Typically you could:
- Design: Mobile App Developers create the app’s user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design. This includes designing the layout, navigation, and visual elements of the app to ensure it is user-friendly and visually appealing.
- Development: Developers write the code that makes the app functional.
- Testing: Developers conduct extensive testing to identify and fix bugs, ensure the app works as intended, and meets quality standards.
- Platform-Specific Development: Mobile App Developers often specialize in either iOS or Android development due to the platform-specific nature of these operating systems. They may need to adapt the app’s codebase and design for each platform.
- Integration: Developers integrate various features and services into the app, such as payment gateways, social media sharing, geolocation services, and databases.
- Security: Ensuring the security of user data and app functionality is crucial. Developers implement encryption, authentication, and authorisation mechanisms to protect sensitive information.
- Performance Optimisation: Developers optimise the app’s performance, including minimising load times, reducing memory usage, and improving responsiveness.
- Maintenance and Updates: After the app is launched, Mobile App Developers continue to monitor its performance, fix any bugs or issues that arise, and release updates with new features or improvements.
Skills:
You’ll need:
- coding knowledge
- maths knowledge
- the ability to operate a computer or handheld device
As well as:
- complex problem solving skills
- to pay attention to detail
- the ability to communicate effectively
- creative skills
- be open to learning new things (adaptability skills)
- good time management skills
Entry Requirements:
To become a mobile app developer, specific qualifications are not typically required. However, certain subjects and skills can be valuable in preparing for this career by providing a strong foundation in relevant areas. Here are some subjects that can be beneficial:
- Mathematics: Mathematics is essential for mobile app development. It helps you understand programming logic, algorithms, and problem-solving, which are fundamental in coding.
- Computer Science or Information Technology: If your school offers courses in computer science or information technology, taking these can provide you with a basic understanding of programming concepts and computer systems.
- Science: A basic understanding of science concepts, particularly physics and chemistry, can be helpful in understanding how hardware components and sensors work in mobile devices.
- Design and Technology: Courses related to design and technology can help you develop practical skills in working with tools, understanding user interface (UI) design principles, and creating user-friendly apps.
- English: Effective communication skills, including reading and writing, are important for documenting code, understanding and following technical documentation, and communicating with team members and clients.
- Business Studies: A basic understanding of business principles can be beneficial if you plan to work as a freelance developer or start your own app development business.
Post School
Further Education
Many mobile app developers pursue higher education by enrolling in computer science, software engineering, or related degree programs at the university level. A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field can provide you with in-depth knowledge and skills in software development.
Self-Study
You can start learning programming languages and app development through online courses, tutorials, and resources. Popular programming languages for mobile app development include Java, Kotlin (for Android), Swift, and Objective-C (for iOS).
Coding Bootcamps
Coding bootcamps offer intensive, short-term programs that teach practical coding skills. Some bootcamps specialise in mobile app development and can provide focused training.
Internships and Entry-Level Jobs
Seek internships or entry-level positions in software development or app development to gain real-world experience and learn from experienced developers.
Certifications
Some organisations and platforms offer certifications in mobile app development technologies. Earning these certifications can demonstrate your expertise to potential employers.
Career Tips
Remember that mobile app development is a rapidly evolving field, so staying updated with the latest trends, tools, and platforms is essential. Building a strong portfolio of apps and continually improving your coding skills will help you stand out in this competitive industry.
Working Hours and Environment:
Typically you could work 42 to 44 hours a week, occasionally including evenings.
You could work in an office.
Career Path & Progression:
Depending on your career goals and the organisation you work for, you may have opportunities for further advancement, such as becoming a principal developer, technical director, or CTO (Chief Technology Officer).