Everything you need to know about hiring Java developers on OfferZen

When scaling your team, finding the right Java developer can be challenging, especially at higher seniority levels. A poor hiring decision can lead to setbacks, low-quality code, and wasted time. Here we unpack everything they want from their next job.

What skills does a Java developer need?

Java is the fifth most widely used programming language in South Africa. That means there are plenty of great Java developers available for your team. _Here are the core skills to look out for when looking for top Java developers:

• Strong understanding of the Java programming language and its ecosystem.
• Object-oriented programming, data structures and algorithms.
• Popular Java web frameworks such as Spring Boot, Hibernate, and JSF.
• Java development tools such as Eclipse, IntelliJ IDEA, and Apache Maven.
• Relational databases, including MySQL and PostgreSQL.
• Knowledge of version control, using Git and Bitbucket.
• Familiarity with Agile development methodologies.
• The Java SE (Standard Edition) platform.
• Developing and deploying applications in a cloud-based environment like AWS, Azure, or GCP.

Java developers on OfferZen typically have at least 4-6 years of experience, and 44% of them are at the senior level.

Java developers’ level of experience on OfferZen

What does it cost to hire a Java developer?

We gathered data from 1097 Java developers to better understand what they can expect to earn over the course of their careers.

Average Java developer salary by level of experience

Key salary trends and insights:

• The highest salary increases for Java developers occur in the early stages of their career.
• Senior Java developers with 10+ years of experience can still command salary increases above 40% due to high demand for Java skills at this experience level.
• Java developers experienced with the Spring framework earn higher average salaries than Java developers without, especially at the entry-level and junior level.

What else should you consider when looking at what it costs to hire Java developers?

Salary is just one part of a standout compensation package. A great set of benefits can make a world of difference when it comes to landing top Java developers.

Let's first take a closer look at the industries that Java developers commonly find themselves working in. The data shows that South African Java developers tend to work for companies based in FinTech, Consulting or SaaS development. Other common industries for Java developers include Data and Analytics, Web development and Cloud Tech.

Industries where Java developers commonly work

The FinTech, Consulting, and SaaS sectors typically have larger tech and enterprise companies, so it’s normal for developers to receive generous benefits packages.

So what benefits are common for developers working in these sectors?

1. Bonuses (with around half of developers receiving them at their current jobs)
2. Medical aid contributions
3. Retirement or pension contributions

Developers are also likely to get education budgets to support their career development, as well as allowances for things like home internet expenses.

The three most common monetary benefits for Java developers in these industries

When you’re looking at potential Java developers for your team, it also helps to consider other factors they consider when evaluating an offer. This way you know what to highlight in your interviews so you don’t lose the best people in the process.

What do Java developers look for from their next role?

While a great compensation package can give you an edge when it comes to hiring Java developers, your non-monetary benefits also play a key part in getting the best people on your team.

When weighing up an offer, here are the top three things Java developers in South Africa prioritise:

• Growth opportunities
• Remote work options
• Language frameworks

This means during the interview process you need to show potential team members the career growth opportunities you provide. At the same time, if you’re not offering remote work you run the risk of losing out on top Java developers.

Factors Java developers consider when assessing a role