A survey of more than 850 technology-focussed hiring managers carried out last year by an American IT employment website found that recruiters cited Java developer jobs as the toughest positions to fill, after mobile, .NET and software developer roles.
In fact, employers said these vacancies were up to three times more frequently cited than other skill sets in the jobs marketplace, reported the research.
Also on the list of the top 10 hardest to find skill sets were:
- Security
- SAP
- Web development
- SharePoint
- Network engineering
When asked to express a preference for the level of experience required, recruiters were likeliest to choose for between two and five years’ experience, meaning the most sought after roles in tech are graduate IT jobs or opportunities for second-jobbers.
There are a couple of reasons for this strong competition for the best people, including the fact that all companies are chasing the same pool of talent, while cuts to training budgets in the downturn have meant that opportunities for internal talent development aren’t as widespread as they may once have been.
Indeed, there has been a trend for shifting responsibility for staff training to the employee, especially given the fact that recruiters say they anticipate that most tech professionals will stay with their employer no more than three years, a turnover which makes extensive investment in training and development tough.
Speaking the Java lingo
To make the most of these openings and become a Java developer, you’ll need to make your knowledge of this programming language as good as it can be. There are various ways of doing that, including:
- Web-based tutorials – there are plenty of these, from beginner to advanced level
- Textbooks – an easier way of learning the language than you may have realised
- University or college courses – these may be an especially good option if you prefer group learning with an instructor to teaching yourself.
Start your own Java project
Develop your Java skills with a specific project – it can be anything you like. Put the theory you have learnt so far into practice so that you increase your knowledge of the development language and make the best use of the IDE.
A project will give you practical experience of developing your own code, debugging, and following best practice. Learning is one thing, but it’s only when you’ve had first-hand experience that you will develop your skills. Build applications or websites using Java and be prepared to discuss them articulately at interview stage.
Nailing that job
If you’re still relatively new to Java and without previous professional experience, set your sights on entry-level roles. You will still need to demonstrate your abilities, which is where your project comes in.
You may also want to consider getting certified. One certification you could start off with is the Sun Certified Java Associate (SCJA). This will stand entry-level Java developers in good stead and be of benefit when looking for work as a Java programmer.
Finally, to maximise your chances of bagging your dream Java developer job, upload your CV on Jobsite so employers can find you easily. You’ll also get personalised job email alerts in your inbox.
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