One of the world’s most used programming languages is Java. In this tech oriented world, learning this programming language and to become a Java developer is a wise decision. If you are someone who is looking for a progressive career in the tech industry, then becoming a java developer is a great idea.
The industry is in need of software developers and programmers who have certifications and can benefit the business through their skills. Learning Java as your programming language would guarantee you a job in the best companies.
Java
Table of Contents
Before we proceed towards how to become a Java developer, let’s first discuss what Java actually is. It is one of the many programming languages that is used by software developers for web development, mobile development and software development.
The programming language was first conceptualized by The Green Team, in the early 1990s. It has now become one of the top five programming languages in the world and is simple, portable, robust, secured, multithreaded, dynamic and easily interpreted.
Java is platform independent and gives a high performance which is why it is still preferred by programmers. Other programming languages have descended from Java. Their names are Scala, PHP, JavaScript and Python.
Today, there are four different editions of Java. They are:
Java Card
This edition is used for developing programs for devices that have small processing capabilities. For example, SIM cards and ATM cards.
Java Standard Edition
Java SE is used to develop programs for servers and desktops.
Java Micro Edition
This Java edition is used for developing programs for iOS and Android phones.
Java Platform Enterprise Edition
Also known as Java EE, is used to develop huge-scale applications.
Apart from these four editions, Java is an OOP language which means it groups design around objects as opposed to logic and functions.
Who is a Java Developer?
A java developer is also sometimes known as a Java engineer or a Java dev. They are a specialized IT professional who works with Java as their programming language. They are responsible for developing applications, software and websites using Java programming language.
Before you take the decision of becoming a Java programmer, you must consider a few things. One of them is that you would find the work life of a Java developer interesting. Most people take the Java course without any interest in software development and later find the work very boring.
The other thing is that you must have the right skills to become a Java developer as you will have to fulfill some roles and responsibilities which will require these skills. As a Java developer, you will need Java development abilities, code testing skills, SQL skills, Project management skills, Project Architecture skills, Vendor Liaison skills and Object-oriented Programming knowledge.
Mostly, you will learn all of these skills in the Java bootcamps. You only have to develop an interest in the field of software development and programming.
How to become a Java Developer? Here’re Some Easy Steps
If you have made up your mind to become a Java developer, all you need to do is follow these steps and become a successful Java developer:
Step 1: Learn the basics of Java
The initial step to becoming a Java developer is to learn everything about Java. You can do this by watching the Java tutorials, reading online books related to Java and browsing the internet.
Once you have learned everything that you could by yourself, you should look for online courses that teach you the basics of Java. There are amazing online boot camps focusing entirely on Java. These do not take too long to finish like a college degree but are as intensive as a full fledged course.
Choose a course that makes you learn the basics, teaches you how to create Graphical User Interfaces with Java, and Java Platform’s features and teaches you how to deploy applications by using Java Plug-in and Java Web Start.
Step 2: Enhance your Java Project Management Skills
Once you have enrolled in a course and learnt the basics of Java, you should focus on improving your project management skills as you are responsible for planning, building and designing projects. You can start with small-scale projects which are easier to manage.
You can get these projects by applying for internships or entry-level jobs which will help you have a lot of practical knowledge about how Java developer jobs are. Once you have enough experience and you have built confidence in your abilities, you can move to the next step.
Step 3: Join the Java Community to learn from Your Peers
Becoming a Java developer without joining a Java community is not worth it. A community will help you learn, grow and develop contacts. You can share your work, ideas and concepts with your peers and they will help you with constructive criticism which will help you become a better Java Developer.
Moreover, you will be able to network with so many professionals who could later help you provide job opportunities. Online bootcamps help you enter a community and build strong networks at the end of the course. You can also get constructive advice from your instructors and establish healthy relationships with them so that later they can help you with jobs as well.
Step 4: Practice your Java skills and Make a Portfolio
Once you have gained enough experience, practice your Java skills on your own work. You can make your own website and practice on it to become a master of this popular programming language.
You can add the work that you are practicing to your portfolio which will create a good impression on your employer when you apply for a job. Java is like math, the more you practice the better you get.
So, try to spend at least one hour daily practicing Java.
Step 5: Build a Resume and Apply for jobs as a Java Developer
Once all the above steps are performed, it is time for you to build your resume and apply for a job as a Java developer. Make sure you build an attractive resume that shows your experience and mentions your portfolio.
It should catch the eye of the employer so that he hires you right away and overlooks other candidates. Before you apply for jobs, make sure to research the market competitive salary that is being offered o a Jaa developer of your caliber. This will help you smartly negotiate with your employer when you get selected.
Step 6: Try to Continuously Improve your Java Skills
Last but not the least, even when you get a job as a Java developer, you should work on improving your Java skills. Try to be aware of the latest trends and changes in the tech industry and continuously work on improving. This will help you achieve a successful career as a java developer.
Conclusion
Java is one of the most popular programming languages among software developers and becoming a Java developer is a smart decision which will help you build a successful career now and grow in the future.
If you want to become a Java developer and do not know where to start, this article will help you find your way to becoming a successful Java developer in no time.
