How to hire a junior application developer

How to hire a junior application developer, step by step

Here's a step-by-step junior application developer hiring guide:

• Step 1: Identify your hiring needs
• Step 2: Create an ideal candidate profile
• Step 3: Make a budget
• Step 4: Write a junior application developer job description
• Step 5: Post your job
• Step 6: Interview candidates
• Step 7: Send a job offer and onboard your new junior application developer
• Step 8: Go through the hiring process checklist

What does a junior application developer do?

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1. Identify your hiring needs

   Before you start hiring a junior application developer, identify what type of worker you actually need. Certain positions might call for a full-time employee, while others can be done by a part-time worker or contractor.

   Determine employee vs contractor status

   Is the person you're thinking of hiring a US citizen or green card holder?

   Yes

   No

   Hiring the perfect junior application developer also involves considering the ideal background you'd like them to have. Depending on what industry or field they have experience in, they'll bring different skills to the job. It's also important to consider what levels of seniority and education the job requires and what kind of salary such a candidate would likely demand.

   This list shows salaries for various types of junior application developers.

   Type of Junior Application Developer	Description	Hourly rate
   Junior Application Developer	Web developers design and create websites. They are responsible for the look of the site... Show more	$28-45
   Lead Web Developer	A lead web developer is in charge of spearheading the development of web applications and systems. In a company setting, their responsibilities include managing a team of developers, identifying and understanding project requirements, heading the planning and execution stages, setting objectives and timelines, establishing guidelines, delegating tasks, and providing technical support and guidance to staff... Show more	$40-67
   Developer	Developers are usually system or application developers in a company who work on specific projects related to networks or applications from conception to implementation. They attend planning sessions to ensure that the program is feasible... Show more	$36-62

   Show more

2. Create an ideal candidate profile

   Common skills:

   • Java
   • JavaScript
   • HTML
   • CSS
   • Html Css
   • JQuery
   • XML
   • MVC
   • UI
   • C Net
   • Microsoft SQL Server
   • Web Application
   • PHP
   • Debugging

   Check all skills

   Responsibilities:

   • Manage connectivity using JDBC for querying/inserting & data management including triggers and store procedures.
   • Assist in website design using HTML and CSS code.
   • Work onapplications using ASP.Net MVC, and MVVM design patterns.
   • Maintain e-Commerce content on FirstCard website using HTML.
   • Work on Eclipse3.1 IDE in developing and debugging the application.
   • Plan, test, and implement various web-base applications using JavaScript.

   More junior application developer duties

3. Make a budget

   Including a salary range in the junior application developer job description is a good way to get more applicants. A junior application developer salary can be affected by several factors, such as the location of the job, the level of experience, education, certifications, and the employer's prestige.

   For example, the average salary for a junior application developer in Oklahoma may be lower than in California, and an entry-level engineer typically earns less than a senior-level junior application developer. Additionally, a junior application developer with lots of experience in the field may command a higher salary as a result.

   Average junior application developer salary

   $75,554yearly

   $36.32 hourly rate

   ---

   Entry-level junior application developer salary

   $60,000 yearly salary

   Updated December 15, 2025

   Average junior application developer salary by state

   Rank	State	Avg. salary	Hourly rate
   1	Texas	$85,539	$41
   2	Virginia	$84,396	$41
   3	Connecticut	$80,942	$39
   4	District of Columbia	$77,296	$37
   5	Colorado	$76,174	$37
   6	Pennsylvania	$74,905	$36
   7	Massachusetts	$74,747	$36
   8	Ohio	$74,067	$36
   9	Illinois	$74,052	$36
   10	West Virginia	$73,521	$35
   11	North Dakota	$72,543	$35
   12	New York	$72,199	$35
   13	Georgia	$70,049	$34
   14	Kansas	$69,079	$33
   15	Florida	$68,523	$33
   16	Maryland	$67,649	$33

   Average junior application developer salary by company

   Company

   Rank	Company	Average salary	Hourly rate	Job openings
   1	Dotdash	$92,847	$44.64
   2	Holland & Knight	$92,318	$44.38	6
   3	Southwest Business Corporation	$87,675	$42.15	3
   4	TEKsystems	$86,677	$41.67	22
   5	Fairway Independent Mortgage	$85,275	$41.00	1
   6	Capital One	$84,584	$40.67
   7	Lidl US	$83,483	$40.14
   8	SPI Inc	$82,740	$39.78
   9	Sagarsoft	$81,762	$39.31
   10	Morningstar	$81,761	$39.31	2
   11	Waste Connections	$81,415	$39.14	1
   12	System One	$80,154	$38.54	76
   13	HM Design	$79,817	$38.37
   14	Sentric	$79,743	$38.34
   15	TC Energy Group	$79,479	$38.21
   16	Applied Insight	$79,476	$38.21
   17	COMMUNITY BANCORP INC	$79,432	$38.19
   18	Protech Associates	$79,411	$38.18
   19	BEM Systems	$78,847	$37.91
   20	KBR	$78,567	$37.77	26

4. Writing a junior application developer job description

   A junior application developer job description should include a summary of the role, required skills, and a list of responsibilities. It's also good to include a salary range and the first name of the hiring manager. To help get you started, here's an example of a junior application developer job description:

   Junior application developer job description example

   Dedicated to quality, innovation, engagement, integrity and inclusion, Information Technology/Enterprise Application Services (IT/EAS) maintains the highest standards in providing a wide range of software solutions to units throughout the University. IT/EAS maintains software systems that support the University's core business as well as develops custom applications in partnership with DU departments to enhance services to our community. Our services range from consultation to implementation to continuous support of software solutions. Services include:
   Software implementation, support, and development Secure access to institutional information Database development and administration Data interfaces Document Management Workflow solutions Business Process analysis and improvements Consultation with DU departments on software development or purchase Data Warehouse administration, reporting and data mining Business Intelligence, Advanced Analytics, and Dashboards IT/EAS ensures the current and future software applications are efficient and effective, maintains an appropriate balance between leading-edge activities and core business processes, and provides appropriate information access and data security.
   IT/EAS is responsible for all aspects of the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system, Database Management, Data Warehouse administration, Information Analytics (BI), Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems, Learning Management System (LMS), Document Management, and Workflow.
   
   Position Summary
   
   With supervision, the Junior Application/Database Developer typically performs the duties of a database developer, application developer, ERP developer, and business intelligence (BI) analyst/developer. This position is responsible for the development and implementation of software solutions that fill specific institutional needs, support for all software applications including the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP - Banner) system, and all other tasks necessary to meet the technology needs of the University. This position reports to the Manager, Software Development, and participates in team projects related to software development and support.
   
   Essential Functions
   
   With supervision perform the following duties:
   Develop Oracle database objects and structures for data storage, retrieval, and reporting according to project specifications Develop back-end database interfaces to web and third-party applications Develop and enhance front-end applications using web technologies Develop appropriate long-term, flexible, and scalable solutions for ERP and other software applications to solve customer needs. Follow IT/EAS guidelines and standards for software design, coding, and testing, including implementation of new processes in both test and production environments Develop enterprise-wide data analysis and BI reporting solutions Manage complete project lifecycle. Actively participate in departmental and project design meetings. Effectively communicate project status with direct supervisor and functional project owner. Meet the desired due date for all assigned projects Provide ERP and other application tier-2 production support. Perform enhancements and ongoing maintenance of software applications. Research transactional issues. Respond to production down issues immediately Develop detailed documentation and application guides for use by clients. Also, develop metadata documentation and provide useful comments within the software code to assist with future changes or modifications. Document design decisions, adhering to existing process guidelines Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
   Knowledge of programming languages, database/development tools, and application development. Experience with SQL, Oracle PL/SQL, programming languages (eg: Java), and/or reporting software Knowledge of Cognos, Javascript, Java, and/or Groovy on Grails (preferred) Knowledge of interactive web technologies (HTML, CSS) and a good understanding of JQuery, AngularJS, Mobile, and responsive design (preferred) Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business correspondence, policies, and technical procedures. Ability to write reports and business correspondence. Ability to communicate effectively in various situations Ability to utilize general mathematical concepts. Ability to apply concepts and analyze relevant data Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret instructions furnished in written, oral, and diagram form. Ability to prioritize and organize high volume of work. Ability to take a sliver of a problem statement and ultimately design a solution Attention to detail is critical Required Qualifications
   Bachelor's Degree Entry level to 2 years' application development experience or coursework specific to software development. Knowledge of relational database systems. Preferred Qualifications
   Degree in computer science, computer information systems, business, or related field. Knowledge of one or more technologies below: Java SQL PL/SQL Reporting software (eg: Cognos, Tableau). Working Environment:
   
   Standard office environment
   Unexpected interruptions occur often and stress level is moderate to high
   Noise level is quiet to moderate
   
   Physical Activities:
   
   Ability to sit in front of a computer for an extended period of time
   Occasionally required to move about the office/campus with the capability of transporting objects up to 20 lbs.
   
   Work Schedule
   Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Evenings and weekends as required.
   
   Application Deadline
   For best consideration, please submit your application materials by 4:00 p.m. (MST) September 11, 2022.
   
   Special Instructions
   Candidates must apply online through jobs.du.edu to be considered. Only applications submitted online will be accepted.
   
   Salary Grade Number:
   The salary grade for the position is 11.
   
   Salary Range:
   The salary range for this position is $65,000 - $75,000.
   
   The University of Denver has provided a compensation range that represents its good faith estimate of what the University may pay for the position at the time of posting. The University may ultimately pay more or less than the posted compensation range. The salary offered to the selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal salary equity considerations, and available market information, but not based on a candidate's sex or any other protected status.
   
   Benefits:
   The University of Denver offers excellent benefits, including medical, dental, retirement, paid time off, tuition benefit and ECO pass. The University of Denver is a private institution that empowers students who want to make a difference. Learn more about the University of Denver.
   
   Please include the following documents with your application:
   1. Resume
   2. Cover Letter
   
   The University of Denver is an equal opportunity employer. The University of Denver prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, age (40 years and over in the employment context), religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, marital status, veterans status, and any other class of individuals protected from discrimination under federal, state, or local law, regulation, or ordinance in any of the university's educational programs and activities, and in the employment (including application for employment) and admissions (including application for admission) context, as required by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, as amended in 2008; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973; Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; the Age Discrimination Act of 1975; the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967; and any other federal, state, and local laws, regulations, or ordinances that prohibit discrimination, harassment, and/or retaliation. For the university's complete Non-Discrimination Statement, please see non-discrimination-statement.
   
   All offers of employment are contingent upon satisfactory completion of a criminal history background check.
   
   Advertised: August 10, 2022
   Applications close:

   Copy this example

   

5. Post your job

   There are a few common ways to find junior application developers for your business:

   • Promoting internally or recruiting from your existing workforce.
   • Ask for referrals from friends, family members, and current employees.
   • Attend job fairs at local colleges to meet candidates with the right educational background.
   • Use social media platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter to recruit passive job-seekers.

   Post your job online:

   • Post your junior application developer job on Zippia to find and recruit junior application developer candidates who meet your exact specifications.
   • Use field-specific websites such as dribbble, authentic jobs, working not working, coroflot.
   • Post a job on free websites.

6. Interview candidates

   Recruiting junior application developers requires you to bring your A-game to the interview process. The first interview should introduce the company and the role to the candidate as much as they present their background experience and reasons for applying for the job. During later interviews, you can go into more detail about the technical details of the job and ask behavioral questions to gauge how they'd fit into your current company culture.

   It's also good to ask about candidates' unique skills and talents to see if they match your ideal candidate profile. If you think a candidate is good enough for the next step, you can move on to the technical interview.

   If your interviews with junior application developer applicants aren't enough to make a decision, you should also consider including a test project. These are often the best, most straightforward, and least bias-prone ways of determining who will likely succeed in the role. If you don't know how to design an appropriate test, you can ask someone else on the team to create it or take a look at these websites to get a few ideas:

   • TestDome
   • CodeSignal
   • Testlify
   • BarRaiser
   • Coderbyte

   The right interview questions can help you assess a candidate's hard skills, behavioral intelligence, and soft skills.

7. Send a job offer and onboard your new junior application developer

   Once you have selected a candidate for the junior application developer position, it is time to create an offer letter. In addition to salary, the offer letter should include details about benefits and perks that are available to the employee. Ensuring your offer is competitive is vital, as qualified candidates may be considering other job opportunities. The candidate may wish to negotiate the terms of the offer, and it is important to be open to discussion and reach a mutually beneficial agreement. After the offer has been accepted, it is a good idea to formalize the agreement with a contract.

   You should also follow up with applicants who don't get the job with an email letting them know that you've filled the position.

   To prepare for the new employee's start date, you can create an onboarding schedule and complete any necessary paperwork, such as employee action forms and onboarding documents like I-9 forms, benefits enrollment, and federal and state tax forms. Human Resources should also ensure that a new employee file is created.

8. Go through the hiring process checklist

   • Determine employee type (full-time, part-time, contractor, etc.)
   • Submit a job requisition form to the HR department
   • Define job responsibilities and requirements
   • Establish budget and timeline
   • Determine hiring decision makers for the role
   • Write job description
   • Post job on job boards, company website, etc.
   • Promote the job internally
   • Process applications through applicant tracking system
   • Review resumes and cover letters
   • Shortlist candidates for screening
   • Hold phone/virtual interview screening with first round of candidates
   • Conduct in-person interviews with top candidates from first round
   • Score candidates based on weighted criteria (e.g., experience, education, background, cultural fit, skill set, etc.)
   • Conduct background checks on top candidates
   • Check references of top candidates
   • Consult with HR and hiring decision makers on job offer specifics
   • Extend offer to top candidate(s)
   • Receive formal job offer acceptance and signed employment contract
   • Inform other candidates that the position has been filled
   • Set and communicate onboarding schedule to new hire(s)
   • Complete new hire paperwork (i9, benefits enrollment, tax forms, etc.)

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