Android/iOS developer

Demand for mobile app developers across the Android and iOS platforms has never been stronger as the industry tries to keep up with surging demand.

Alternative job titles for this role

Software developer
Mobile app developer
Software engineer, mobile apps
Application developer
Java developer

Introduction

Demand for mobile, cross-platform apps has never been higher while the skilled developers that can design them have never been in such short supply. Mobile developers write programmes using the Objective C, C++, C# or Java programming languages. A mobile app developer chooses the operating system or mobile platform they will develop for, such as Google's Android or Apple's iOS, then learns the programming languages and software development environment for that platform. Currently, there are five major mobile platforms, each with its own core language(s) and development environment but this in a state of constant change to keep up with the pace of new technology.

What the job involves

Requires fluency in programming languages such as Java, Objective-C and C++
Code, test, debug, monitor and document changes for apps
Know the development environment of Android and iOS operating systems
Develop application programming interfaces (APIs) to support mobile functionality
Keep constantly up to date with the terminology, concepts, and best practices for coding mobile apps
Use and adapt existing web applications for apps
Work closely with other departments to constantly innovate app functionality and design

How your career can develop

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

Why app development matters

Dublin start-up Drop used an Enterprise Ireland grant to get its recipe App off the ground, which has amassed more than €1 million in sales worldwide to date.

Skills

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

Typical employers