A software development contractor is an employee hired on a contractual basis to write computer code and design software based on a company's specific needs. Software development contractors are essential to successfully developing and implementing new software for companies.
Finding reliable contractors with the proper skills to meet specific needs can be difficult. In this article, we will describe the responsibilities of a quality software development contractor, what qualifications you should consider, how software development contractors find work, and how to find the best one to meet your needs.
Responsibilities and Requirements of a Quality Software Development Contractor
There are many hiring options when looking for a software development contractor, but you want to ensure you hire someone who will consistently meet your specific needs and work hard to build the company's success. An excellent contractor will:
- Meet with clients before development to create a plan to meet the company's needs and ensure both parties are on the same page
- Develop software according to discussed specifications within the timeframe agreed upon
- Produce quality code that meets the company's needs today and considers future needs and growth
- Ability to add new features and services as needed throughout the software project
- Have the ability to produce code for many different platforms successfully
- Allow transparency throughout the product creation process
Delivering a quality product is essential, but a software development contractor must also be an excellent communicator. Companies must know when and why projects may fall behind to ensure client satisfaction.
Qualifications of Software Development Contractors
To earn the title of software development contractor, an individual must meet basic qualifications. Companies looking to hire one for their needs should consider the following qualifications:
- A Bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field.
- Experience software engineering through on-the-job training --- specific experience related to the project is recommended for more complicated or niche projects.
- Experience creating software within your specific niche.
- Experience utilizing various software development tools, including linkers, code editors, GUI designers, performance analysis tools, assemblers, and compilers.
- A complete understanding of the software product lifecycle, working with a development team, and demonstrating a history of being able to deliver results.
- Demonstrated ability to create agile dashboards to manage projects and communicate effectively throughout the product life cycle.
- Experience with effective software development platforms such as GitHub, Azure, ClickUp, Jira, Cloud 9, and Linx.
How Do Software Development Contractors Find Work?
If you are a software developer looking to find work, the easiest way to get in the door of companies seeking your expertise is by utilizing an agency.
If you choose not to use an agency, networking is essential. It's all about who you know and who they know. Consistently check job boards and contact companies via phone and email for potential opportunities.
You must ensure potential clients know you are a reliable freelance developer with specific skills and knowledge to benefit their company and be willing to negotiate contract work. Hearing back from most companies may take several weeks, so patience is vital.
How Do Companies Find Software Development Contractors for Their Needs?
Finding a responsible and talented software development contractor is a lot of work. Working with a hiring agency is a simple option to save you time. Agencies like Talentcrowd have extensive experience matching contractors with the right companies.
If a company does choose to go through this process without help, there are vital things to consider:
- Contractors are selected based on technology needs, location, and availability. Though someone may meet the qualifications perfectly, their schedule may need to align, as they are not a company's full-time employee.
- Create a job posting specifying the position will be a contract one, and go through your traditional hiring process (interviews, coding tests, etc.)
- If the company does not have a designated HR department, someone must be assigned to manage the logistics of a contracted employee continually. These include weekly time tracking, payments, and check-ins to ensure both sides' needs are met throughout the project and after completion.
Let Talentcrowd Connect You With Software Development Contractors That Will Help Your Business Succeed Today!
Talentcrowd matches companies with excellent Software Development Contractors to help their business succeed. When Talentcrowd is selecting a contractor, we consider the following:
- Education and previous work history to ensure they have the skills to perform the work needed.
- Technology needs and availability upfront to ensure a good fit.
- Logistics and timelines will be communicated adequately during the entire software lifecycle to ensure the needs are met on both sides until the completion of the project.
Talentcrowd offers a variety of services that include:
- UI/UX Design
- Back and Front End Development
- DevOps
- Quality Analysis Testing
- Mobile Development
Contact us today, and let us find you the best software development contractor that will meet your specific needs and help grow your business today!
