Hire the Top 3% of Freelance Mobile App Developers

Mobile App Developers: A Business Essential With Skyrocketing Demand

The global mobile app market is projected to exceed $567 billion by 2030, underscoring its explosive growth and influence. Industry giants like Apple, Alphabet, and Microsoft—leaders with substantial mobile investments—continue to dominate the ranks of the world’s most profitable companies. Meanwhile, businesses of all sizes increasingly depend on skilled developers to swiftly launch new applications, enhance features, and ensure seamless maintenance of existing services.

Choosing a qualified specialist in the current market is challenging. More businesses are adopting mobile-first strategies, but since 2015, there has been an ongoing shortage of app engineers, making recruitment harder for those trying to hire a mobile app developer. In addition to this competition, verifying an applicant’s skillset can be difficult, especially if the hiring manager or recruiter is not a subject matter expert.

In addition to answering the question, “What does an app developer do?” this hiring guide examines crucial attributes to look for in iOS, Android, or cross-platform app development, offers helpful pointers for crafting compelling job descriptions, and even includes sample interview questions. This article explores how to hire app builders who are a good fit for your team and will help your product succeed.

What Attributes Distinguish Quality Mobile Application Developers From Others?

The success of a mobile app project often hinges on the quality of the software developers behind it, as they play a critical role in bringing your idea to life through technical expertise and innovative solutions. When evaluating top candidates, it’s essential to consider a wide range of qualifications, including general technical abilities, soft skills, and platform-specific expertise, such as proficiency in Android or iOS programming languages and cross-platform development frameworks.

General App Developer Skills: Technical Abilities and Soft Skills

First, all mobile application developers must have technical abilities and soft skills since they work across the entire software development stack, including the back- and front-end, and must collaborate with many other teams.

The required technical abilities depend on an app’s platform and coding languages. However, there are a few standard proficiencies you should look for in all candidates: An understanding of back-end programming, UI/UX design and implementation, and app architecture is crucial for any mobile app developer. They should be strongly versed in at least one mobile development language or framework (i.e., Java, Kotlin, Swift, Objective-C, JavaScript, React Native, Flutter, or Xamarin).

If targeting multiple device types is one of your main project requirements, candidates familiar with responsive app design—those prepared to implement an app across various screen sizes and devices, including phones, tablets, and even televisions—may best meet your goals.

Soft skills must complement technical abilities because mobile application developers work with many partners, including quality assurance engineers, designers, product managers, and other development teams. At smaller companies or during times of transition, an app developer may have to wear different hats, sometimes leading a product’s design, roadmap, and testing. Look for candidates who can articulate technical concepts, facilitate smoother collaboration with stakeholders, align project goals with business requirements, and ensure the final product resonates with its target audience.

Languages for Android Developers: Java and Kotlin

When hiring Android engineers, you may choose between various programming backgrounds. Many are familiar with Java, while others know Kotlin. Often, developers will have experience with both languages.

Java is a general-purpose language released in 1996. Java suits complex applications with big codebases because of its durability, adaptability, and platform independence. Veteran Android developers with many years in the field have likely worked as Java developers; Java experts may have a few extra years of experience compared to Kotlin developers and may be better versed in general or back-end concepts.

However, many Java experts are also staying up to date with Google’s preferred language for apps: Kotlin, an Android-specific language released in 2016. Kotlin is developer-friendly, making writing code easier and more effective. If you are creating an Android app from scratch, you should likely hire experienced developers of Kotlin.

Both languages have distinct merits and are used in a wide range of ways. Moreover, they are fully compatible (programmers can use Kotlin and Java in the same project), and you may want candidates skilled in both.

Languages for iOS Developers: Swift and Objective-C

Similar to Android development, iOS development may involve Swift or Objective-C programmers. While some engineers may only know one language or the other, many high-quality iOS developers know both (in particular, many Objective-C developers have learned Swift). It is also possible to use Objective-C and Swift in the same project, as they are fully compatible.

Objective-C, an object-oriented language available since the 1980s, has been the default language for iOS development since the first iPhone SDK release in 2008. Though Apple released Swift in 2014 to replace Objective-C, Objective-C is still relevant: Objective-C developers are a good fit in cases where you need to support old OS versions, legacy applications, large or old codebases, or C/C++ library integration.

Swift is a quick, secure, and continually expanding language intended to speed up and simplify the creation of iOS apps. Look for skilled Swift developers if your project’s priorities include improving performance, development speed, app memory, or project scalability.

Frameworks for Cross-platform Development: React Native, .NET MAUI, and Flutter

Cross-platform applications are mobile apps designed to run on multiple operating systems, such as iOS and Android. They offer a cost-effective way to streamline app development across different mobile platforms. Developers use specialized frameworks to write a single codebase that can be deployed across various platforms, making this approach efficient and lowering the cost of development.

If different platform versions of your application have few differences and can share code, hiring cross-platform developers can have various upsides, including:

• Reduced development time.
• Development cost savings and fewer expended resources.
• Easier app maintenance and code reusability.

However, cross-platform solutions are only ideal for some projects. Native apps are often the better choice when hardware-specific features or complex graphics are required, as cross-platform development approaches can sometimes compromise performance and diminish the user experience. Additionally, some developers prefer to focus their expertise exclusively on either iOS or Android.

If you determine that a cross-platform professional is the right fit for your project, they should be proficient in one of three widely used frameworks:

• React Native: Released in 2015 by Meta, React Native can emulate native design patterns and is commonly used by many startups and large companies.
• .NET MAUI: .NET MAUI is a robust framework that enables developers to create native applications for Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows using a single codebase, making it ideal for cross-platform projects. It leverages the rich ecosystem of .NET, providing developers with powerful tools, libraries, and APIs, which ensures high performance and native look and feel across all platforms. It is the spiritual successor of Xamarin.
• Flutter: A newer framework released by Google in 2017, Flutter can build platform-friendly designs quickly and is catching on among talented developers due to its many advantages.

The decision among .NET MAUI, Flutter, and React should be guided by your project’s specific priorities, such as performance requirements, native design fidelity, and the strength of community support.

How Can You Identify the Ideal App Developer for You?

When assembling an app developer team, it’s essential to consider a combination of skills tailored to your project’s unique needs. A strong team brings together a range of skills, from technical expertise in specific mobile platforms to creative problem-solving capabilities that result in custom solutions. Staying ahead of industry trends is also vital, as it ensures your app remains competitive and relevant in a rapidly evolving market. By implementing a thorough screening process, you can identify candidates with the right combinations of skills, providing a cost-effective way to build an app that aligns with your technical requirements and business goals. Whether working on low-cost projects or high-scale enterprise solutions, a well-rounded team can collaborate effectively with stakeholders, including the sales team, to deliver a product that drives success.

It is vital to consider your unique use case and the experience level required when searching for a mobile app developer for hire. For instance, if you have an e-commerce app idea, your engineer should have experience creating apps with solid security features, integrating payment systems, and optimizing for in-app purchases. If you are building a social media app, you’ll want a developer who has experience with complicated social features like messaging, commenting, and liking.

The first step is to specify your problem statement and the resulting skills gap to fill—this is crucial to communicating your project requirements to applicants. Consider the scope, price, and schedule of your project, as well as the technical expertise required or any specific technology constraints. Do you need a dedicated mobile developer, or would you be better suited with a generalist software developer? You should also consider the level of expertise required to accomplish your goals, especially if you are tackling a complex project.

Considering Mobile App Schedules, Timelines and Costs

The length of a project can vary significantly depending on the size and complexity of the app, the functionality required, and the platform used. A more complicated application with specialized features and integrations may take months or even years to complete, significantly impacting the cost of development compared to a simple app with basic capabilities.

A project’s timeline can also influence whether you hire a contractor, freelancer, dedicated developer, or full-time engineer, as well as the hourly rates you can expect to pay. Factors such as your budget, schedule, development costs, project specifications, and personal preferences will shape this decision, particularly if you’re collaborating with a software development company or hiring independent developers. Regardless of the approach, it is critical to thoroughly evaluate applicants, verify their qualifications, and establish clear expectations from the outset.

Understanding development costs is essential for effective budget planning. The average cost of building an app depends on its complexity, features, and whether it requires additional development phases such as updates or scaling. Working with an outsourcing partner can be a cost-effective way to access top-tier expertise and streamline the development process. Whether your project involves building a native app or utilizing cross-platform app development, maintaining clear communication with your app development team is vital to managing expenses efficiently and ensuring project success.

Identifying the Level of Expertise

Some engineers have been around since the first iPhone was launched, while others are just beginning their journey in the field, highlighting the importance of effectively discerning their level of expertise.

• Junior developers or entry-level developers often have fewer than two years of experience and require further training and direction to advance their careers. These entry-level developers can generally complete well-defined tasks with clear solutions but may struggle with more open-ended problems.
• Mid-level developers typically have two to five years of hands-on experience. They can handle more complex jobs independently, including translating business requirements into technical solutions and aligning them with industry trends. At this point in their careers, developers typically have enough knowledge to make informed decisions but may still need guidance from senior colleagues on questions of architecture and scalability.
• Senior developers typically have over five years of experience in their field, a deep understanding of app development best practices, and the ability to effectively manage a team of mobile app programmers. Their extensive hands-on experience ensures they can confidently meet a wide range of business needs.

Multiple factors come into play when deciding the level of expertise your app requires, including project budget, development cost, size, and deadlines. A junior developer may be a good fit if you are working on a small project or have a limited budget, but for more complex projects where minimizing development time is critical, hiring a senior developer may be the better choice. Experienced engineers can best ensure the entire project is finished on time and meets high-quality industry standards. A highly talented tech lead who can help with project management throughout the development process over time may be worth investing in if you are building a long-term app development team.

Working with Freelance Developers Through Hiring Platforms

Remote developers are an increasingly popular choice for businesses seeking to expand their talent pool beyond local boundaries. This is especially true within the freelancing industry, where businesses can hire developers for app projects that require flexibility and a wealth of experience to meet diverse needs.

Before selecting a hiring platform for mobile app development, thoroughly assess your project’s specific needs, including the required technical expertise, budget constraints, and timelines. Once these requirements are clarified, evaluate the reputation of potential hiring platforms. Seek platforms with proven track records, successful candidate placements, and positive client testimonials to ensure reliability and quality.

A competitor gap analysis can further enhance this process. Toptal stands out by offering a comprehensive solution through rigorous vetting processes, ensuring that clients receive exceptional services from highly qualified developers. Our developers undergo multiple assessments covering technical skills, coding expertise, problem-solving abilities, and communication skills so that only the most qualified candidates join our network. This comprehensive vetting approach ensures access to top-tier remote developers and sets the stage for informed hiring decisions.

Remember, when hiring for a mobile app development project, identifying key qualities in candidates is critical to success. Look for combinations of skills that align with your project’s goals, such as solid design skills paired with technical expertise in a specific mobile platform like iOS development. The ability to deliver custom solutions while maintaining seamless communication across teams ensures your app meets both user expectations and business objectives.

How to Write an App Developer Job Description for Your Project

A well-written job description will attract and filter the best mobile app developers for your role. It should include:

• The necessary qualifications, including education, training, experience level, and any desirable credentials. Effective communication and familiarity with the agile development methodology can be crucial, as these skills promote collaboration and good project management.
• Any distinctive features of the business or project that would be attractive to potential applicants.
• The duties and expectations that will come with this role. Specify the hourly rates and whether it is an in-house or a freelance app developer position.
• If the role allows remote developers, specifying the time zone compatibility will also be beneficial, ensuring your team can work in real time without significant delays.

Mobile app developer postings may take different forms depending on whether you are searching for an Android, iOS, or cross-platform developer, or building a dedicated team. Though you should tailor requirements to the app’s platform, any mobile developer should have extensive experience with back-end systems, app architecture, user interfaces (UIs), and programming languages.

You may use a general job description template or a specialized Android or iOS template to iterate on and refine your ideal posting.

What Are the Most Important App Developer Interview Questions?

Asking the correct questions and carefully assessing a candidate’s answers will help you determine their technical skills and cultural fit. Mobile development covers a wide range of areas of expertise, and you must carefully approach the interview process to hire candidates based on your use case.

You may start your interview with some general mobile app interview questions to ensure that a candidate understands core concepts such as mobile data use, design approaches (e.g., localization and internationalization), and common pitfalls. However, you should tailor your interview based on your custom considerations, such as app architecture, whether or not you also plan to target web delivery, and your desired app platform (iOS, Android, or cross-platform).

Architecture is an integral part of any mobile app development service. Unless candidates are interviewing for a junior role, they should be familiar with common mobile architectures, such as clean architecture, Model-View-View Model (MVVM), and functional and reactive programming.

What is the MVVM design pattern, and when would you use it?

Regardless of whether they are creating an Android or iOS app, developers should be familiar with the MVVM pattern. MVVM separates application layers (e.g., separating views from business logic), resulting in code that is easier to maintain, test, and reuse. The MVVM design pattern is a suitable architecture for many small or medium applications.

What are the advantages of native apps over hybrid apps?

Many businesses target app delivery across mobile and computer devices. When this is the case, it may be unclear whether a native or hybrid app offers the best approach, and you might want a developer to advise you on your overall app development strategy. Most candidates should be familiar with the differences between native and hybrid apps, and capable of discussing the pros and cons of each app type. The main benefits of native apps are better performance, more reliable access to device hardware, and greater security. The candidate should be able to explain how native apps can provide a seamless user experience by taking advantage of platform-specific features and delivering faster load times. On the other hand, an applicant might recommend building a hybrid app when working with a small team or needing to prioritize development speed.

What is Android data binding?

If you already know that you will focus on a native app for a specific platform (Android or iOS) or use a certain hybrid or cross-platform framework, you should focus your questions on your technology of choice. For example, when hiring for Android, you might ask about data binding because it can be challenging to debug and execute correctly. A skilled developer will be familiar with the Android Data Binding Library, a package that enables programmers to connect UI elements in layouts to data sources in the architecture of their apps. With data binding, developers can reduce boilerplate code, increase performance, and simplify UI code maintenance. However, since data binding adds logic to UI files, it can make debugging and testing tricky, and not all developers support this approach. Candidates should be able to describe the core functionalities, advantages, and drawbacks of data binding and how to use it in an Android app.

Companies searching for iOS or Android developers may find these resources useful:

• 20 Essential Android Interview Questions and Answers
• 14 Essential iOS Interview Questions and Answers

If you are targeting cross-platform or hybrid apps, ask questions specific to the frameworks you are working with. For example, a business building a cross-platform application with React Native may choose questions from a React Native interview questions guide.

Why Do Companies Hire App Developers?

App development for simple or complex projects requires a strategic approach to ensure success while managing challenges effectively. Establishing a solid foundation with a thorough screening process is a cost-effective way to identify developers with the expertise needed. Equally important is fostering effective communication between your team and developers, ensuring clarity, alignment with project goals, and seamless execution from start to finish.

Bringing an app idea to life often requires more than creativity; it demands the right technical expertise and careful planning to avoid the hidden costs that can derail a project. When you hire a developer to make an app, it’s crucial to ensure they have the skills to transform your concept into a polished, functional product while staying within budget. A thoughtful hiring and project management approach can help minimize unforeseen expenses and ensure your app meets user expectations and business objectives.

The app development process spans a wide range of platforms, skills, and business needs. Experienced app developers design, create, and maintain mobile applications to meet Android, iOS, and cross-platform needs. They use various tools and technologies, collaborate across disciplines (e.g., design, quality assurance, and product), and optimize development time by efficiently translating a project’s requirements and goals into tangible product features.

After an app’s launch, a mobile developer offers ongoing support, such as coding app updates and integrating the newest hardware and operating systems. They can also advise on app store optimization and troubleshooting to ensure people find and use the app.

Modern businesses depend heavily on mobile apps, and a well-designed app can give a company a considerable competitive advantage by delivering exceptional services that meet user expectations. With the aid of an app developer, your company can grow income, better engage clients, and connect more effectively with its target audience.

We have discussed a variety of subjects regarding the entire process of hiring mobile app developers, from relevant technical proficiencies to crafting a job description to interview questions. By following the strategies outlined in this guide, you can confidently navigate the hiring process and secure top-tier app development talent. Whether your goal is to launch a groundbreaking new app or enhance an existing one, finding the right developer will ensure your vision translates into a successful, user-friendly product that drives growth and engagement.

The technical content presented in this article was reviewed by Mukhammad Ali Toshboev.