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Android/ iOS Developer

Demand for mobile phone apps has never been higher but the skilled developers that can design them are in major short supply. Mobile developers write programmes using various computer programming languages such as the Objective C, C++ or Java.

A mobile app developer chooses either Google's Android or Apple's iOS mobile platforms to use, then learns the programming languages for that platform. Currently, there are five major mobile platforms, each with its own core language(s) and development procedures but this in a state of constant change to keep up with the pace of new technology.

If you are interested in a career involving app development, visit Qualifax (www.qualifax.ie) to search for relevant courses at all levels and entry points.

Some alternative job titles for this role

  • Software Developer
  • Mobile App Developer
  • Software Engineer
  • Application Developer
  • Java Developer

What the job involves

  • Requires fluency in programming languages such as Java, Objective-C and C++
  • Code, test and debug apps
  • Know the development environment of Android and iOS operating systems
  • Develop procedures to support mobile performance 
  • Keep up to date with the terminology, concepts, and best practices for coding mobile apps
  • Use existing web applications for apps
  • Work closely with other departments to constantly develop app performance and design

How your career can develop

As smartphones and tablets change the way people communicate, shop, and access news and entertainment, the mobile device market is growing at incredible speeds. It provides huge opportunities for career development for skilled, experienced, creative and forward-thinking app developers.

Why it matters?

The newly formed Dublin based company Drop, which involves a baking app and smart weighing scales for your iPad, is transforming even the most amateur baker into a pro, with worldwide sales of up to €1 million to date. 

Skills

  • A passion for modern technology
  • Strong ability in computer languages and coding
  • A flair for design
  • Strong organisational skills
  • Maths skills
  • Keeping up to date with developments and trends in the tech and modern media
  • The ability to learn quickly
  • The ability to interpret and follow technical plans
  • A creative approach to problem-solving
  • Strong communication skills

Typical employers

  • Android and iOS app development companies
  • Software companies
  • Self-employment is possible with experience
  • The retail sector
  • Health
  • Travel and tourism
  • Entertainment industry
  • Financial services

Typical salary

  • Graduate/Starting      €30,000
  • Senior/Potential        €80,000+ for experienced developers

Typical qualifications

The job is open to several degree course graduates. These include:

  • Computer science/engineering
  • Software engineering
  • Information systems
  • Mathematics
  • Business/management
  • Physical/mathematical/applied science

Alternative routes to a bachelor’s degree in this area may apply to students that have a PLC qualification in a related course or general computing/IT certification or diploma. For further details on eligibility requirements for third level entry following a PLC qualification, students should visit the CAO course search at Careersportal.ie. 

Further information