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How to Write a Software Developer Job Description

Posted on March 2023

Software Developer Job Description

Software developers, or computer programmers, research, design, test, and install software systems that meet industry-specific needs and requirements to streamline business processes.

They are the creative minds behind your companyโ€™s effective and efficient computer software system, and they play an important part in providing your organization with a better IT service.

The most effective way of hiring and attracting top industry talent is by writing and advertising an engaging software developer job description. A job description is an essential part of the job application process to help you determine whether potential candidates are suitable for the role and suitable for your particular business.

Main responsibilities

As an employer, you should always mention the main responsibilities that the successful candidate would be expected to fulfill and carry out in the role.

Software developers' main responsibilities may include reviewing current systems, presenting ideas for software improvement, maintaining systems once launched, preparing training manuals for users, troubleshooting system issues, working closely with analysts, writing program codes, and testing the product before going live.

The contracted hours that you will require the successful candidate to work each day and week should also be clearly mentioned. If evening and weekend work is required, this should also be stated.

The main responsibilities of a software developer will vary depending on the organization and industry needs and requirements. Clearly stating what your company expects from potential candidates helps streamline the recruitment process and determine which candidates may be best suited to your business.

Responsibility examples:

  • Designing and developing software applications based on customer requirements.

  • Writing and troubleshooting code in various languages, such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and Python.

  • Testing and debugging code.

  • Integrating software components and third-party programs.

  • Documenting application development and user instructions.

  • Creating and maintaining technical documentation.

  • Working with other developers and engineers to create innovative solutions.

  • Collaborating with project managers and other stakeholders to create and implement software solutions.

  • Attending conferences and training sessions to stay informed of industry trends and advancements in software development.

  • Updating existing applications to ensure they remain secure and efficient.

Skill and qualifications

Mentioning the skills and qualifications that your vacant software developer position requires will also help to refine candidate selection. Knowledge of programming and software development may seem obvious, but you may require a more specific and experienced skill set from the successful applicant.

Strong communication skills, great teamworking skills, expertise in current computer hardware and software, experience with web-based and traditional programs, analytical and commercial experience, organizational skills, and brand alignment are just some of the key skills you look for in a software developer.

Depending on the level of expertise you require for the role, you can request candidates apply only if they obtain relevant degrees or work experience.

Soft Skills Examples:

  • Communication Skills: Being able to communicate effectively with team members, clients, and stakeholders.

  • Problem Solving: Being able to identify problems, analyze them, and generate solutions.

  • Collaboration: Working as part of a team to achieve a common goal.

  • Adaptability: Being able to quickly adjust to changing requirements and environments.

  • Time Management: Being able to prioritize tasks, manage workloads, and meet deadlines.

  • Technical Knowledge: Knowing the fundamentals of computer science, software development, and programming.

  • Creativity: Having the ability to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions.

  • Leadership: Being able to guide and motivate a team to reach their goals.

Qualification Examples:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science or Engineering (or equivalent work experience)

  • Experience with Vert.x, Reactive, Docker, and Kubernetes

  • Experience with AWS, Azure, or GCP

  • Proficiency in Core Java programming language

  • Proficiency building RESTful interfaces using Java (REST/JSON)

  • Basic SQL experience

  • Financial services domain experience preferred

How to write a job description

When writing a job description, always mention the job title and job summary. This information should attract, engage, and appeal to your desired candidate.

Always outline the core responsibilities and daily duties of the position and what you as an employer expect from employees. In addition, you should introduce your company and your company culture to show why a candidate should want to work for your organization. Highlighting your business also helps the candidate determine if they share mutual synergy, helping to attract the best candidate for the position.

Including a job location and details of work hours and environment will optimize your job search results and applications as candidates will only apply if they are happy to comply.

List the hard and soft skills required by your company to fulfill the vacant role. However, be mindful that too many niche requirements could dissuade potential candidates.

Finally, mentioning a salary range and work benefits helps you stand out among other employers and attract best-fit applicants.

How to hire the best candidate

To hire the best candidate for your software developer position, get in touch with Selby Jennings today. As a specialist talent partner, Selby Jennings has access to industry-leading talent. Our talent consultants are experts in identifying the right candidates for niche positions.

To find the talent you need, submit your open vacancy or request a call back using the form below to elevate your recruitment process.

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