How To Hire A Python Developer
What Python Developers Do And Use Python For
Python is one of the most beloved programming languages among the developers' community. Created in 1991 as a general-purpose, open-source scripting language, it has been providing high demand for Python developers because of its efficiency, readability, and syntax simplicity. One of the most valuable features of Python, apart from its bazillion additional packages, is its huge standard library. It considerably diminishes the coder’s overload, simultaneously allowing to obtain the most value of the nature of the language and its additional tools.
Python programming language has one of the widest developers communities. Titan companies — such as Pinterest, YouTube, SurveyMonkey, and Instagram, among others — as well as many startups, keep on developing projects with Python use it for their components, thus leveling up the demand of coders year after year. Some companies still turn to Python for hire because it:
- Allows developers to create scalable applications, even the most complex ones;
- Provides extensive library support, open-source tools, and frameworks;
- Is focused on code readability;
- Provides support for a great variety of systems and platforms;
- Is perfect for creating quick prototypes and testing.
Forbes reports that the demand for Python developers has risen by 456 percent in the domain of research and analysis. No wonder, as Python flexibility makes it useful in many industries, such as web development, general and application-specific scripting, game development, system automation and administration, security testing, finance and trading, and computer graphics, among others.
Source: JetBrains
Python programming language would bring the most value in many areas. The application areas that are ideally positioned for Python development include data science projects, AI software, blockchain projects, information security, cross-platform software, Natural Language Processing (NLP) applications, web app development, prototyping projects, and DevOps, to name a few. So if your project includes one or more of these areas, you will need to hire a Python programmer.
How Does Python Programming Work: Frameworks and Tools
Due to Python's popularity and extensive usage, there are now multiple tools and frameworks available to facilitate and significantly accelerate the development process. Python developer required skills include the comprehension and efficiency of use of Python frameworks and tools in projects.
They cover many functionalities and needs that significantly facilitate and improve their users’ performances, transforming these abilities into one of the most valuable Python skills.
Thus, being one of the principal scripting languages, many frameworks simplify and speed up the development process using Python. In fact, Python frameworks are classified into three types: full-stack framework, micro-framework, and asynchronous framework. The kind of framework for your project should be singled out and take into consideration the project requirements and the developer’s professional preferences. Among the best and most used Python web frameworks are the following:
1. Django
Django framework is considered one of the best Python frameworks as it provides quick development of complex code. It provides countless features as well as libraries that help get the most value by providing reusable components. The advantages of Django include a powerful URL system, an object-oriented programming database, an innate authentication system, and an automatic admin interface that together allow customization, among others innumerable benefits.
2. CherryPy
For many years, CherryPy was the Python coders’ favorite framework as it has shown extreme stability and rapidness. Besides, it offers a powerful configuration system, built-in tools for authentication, sessions, encoding, static content, innate testing support, profiling, and coverage, and is easy to run simultaneously in various HTTP servers. The advantages go far beyond this as CherryPy can do anything a web framework is capable of.
3. Grok
Grok is an open-source Python framework based on two major foundations: convention over configuration and DRY (Don't Repeat Yourself). Its key features include a powerful object database for storage, innate security, essential assets for custom web development, such as building clocks, for instance. Plus, it diminishes the unpredictability of development. Grok provides plenty of independent libraries according to the specifics of development needs.
4. Pyramid
Pyramid framework is the favorite among the most experienced Python developers. In fact, Pyramid is used by giant companies such as SurveyMonkey, Dropbox, and Mozilla. Its main characteristics involve flexible authentication, built-in support, testing and data documentation, and HTML structure validation. Besides, it runs well with small and complex applications.
5. Bottle
The Bottle was originally created to develop web APIs. However, it turned into a first-rate small-scale Python framework. It allows developers to work closer to the hardware and includes functionalities such as directing, templating, and utilities. Its main features include dynamic URL-routes for mapping, speed optimizations for testing and performance, a built-in template engine, and backing. It also allows easy access to HTTP-related metadata, such as file uploads and cookies, among others.
Nonetheless, suitable Python frameworks are used depending on the area of your project. For example, for your next large web development project, it would be recommended to find a Python senior developer with experience in working with Flask, Django, Tornado Python frameworks, and the most famous frameworks and libraries for data science — Nampy, Pandas, and Matplotlip.
Just like the frameworks, other Python tools are specifically designed for performing tasks for certain purposes. As mentioned before, the Python programming language is perfectly suitable for computer science, software development, data analysis, and machine learning. Thus, professionals in those areas are fond of using specific
Python tools to simplify and improve their performances. Here are some prominent examples of such:
Data science tools
- Scikit-learn
Scikit-learn is an open-source Python tool specifically created for data science and machine learning, particularly in data mining and data analysis. It is admired for its speed while working with datasets. The key features of Scikit-learn are regression, classification, clustering, model selection, and preprocessing. - Theano
Theano is a library that offers you to evaluate, optimize, and define multi-dimensional arrays. Its key features include integration with NumPy, speed and stability optimizations, extensive testing of the unit, and transparent use of GPU, to name a few. - SciPy
SciPy is an open-source Python library, mostly applied in mathematics, science, and engineering. This tool suits several manipulations on computers and generates visualized results. - Keras
Keras is an open-source library, mostly used for machine learning and deep learning, which helps you perform neural networks easily. Being based on Python, it perfectly works with neural network frameworks, such as Theano or TensorFlow. - PyTorch
PyTorch is an open-source Python framework designed by Facebook's AI Research Lab based on the Torch library. It is used for applications related to computer vision and natural language processing. Tensor computing with strong acceleration via GPU and deep natural networks built on automatic differentiation systems are two major characteristics of PyTorch.
Automation testing tools
- TestComplete
TestComplete is a Python tool for automation testing that allows its users to perform web, desktop, and mobile apart from keyword-driven testing. One of its greatest differentiating features is its GUI object recognition ability, which can update and detect UI objects, thus facilitating maintaining test scripts. - Selenium
Selenium is considered one of the best Python development tools. It's an open-source automation framework for web applications that allows writing scripts in other programming languages, such as Java, PHP, or Perl, among others, and test from any browser.
Web scraping tools
- Urllib
Urllib is a Python package used for collecting and opening URLs. It offers various functionalities to work with URLs. - Beautiful Soup
Beautiful Soup is a Python library that allows users to extract data from HTML and XML files. It gets integrated with a parser in order to navigate, search, and modify parse trees. - LXML
LXML is a Python tool specifically designed for C libraries. It is one of Python developers’ most beloved libraries for processing HTML and XML. Its main asset is that it combines XML characteristics and speed with the simplicity of a native Python API.
Python Hiring Guide: Step By Step
To find a Python engineer with an adequate skill set for the niche of your business is not an easy task. Although it is a tedious and time-consuming procedure, it is crucial if you want your project to succeed. Using reliable sources, and the correct recruiting techniques and tactics will help you find a suitable Python developer skill set.
As a matter of fact, one of the safest and most profitable ways to hire Python developers is by outsourcing services.
However, here are some steps you should take into consideration if you need Python programmers for your project.
1.Create an attractive job description
Obviously, to start looking for Python developers, you have to create a job description. However, make sure it is as appealing as possible. It has to accurately state and emphasize all the requirements and responsibilities to avoid any possible misunderstandings. To do so, you have to specify in detail who is your perfect candidate and what skill set they may possess to meet your company’s needs. Usually, employers who look for Python web developers include a:
- basic knowledge of other programming languages, such as HTML, JavaScript, CSS, and more;
- deep knowledge of the Python frameworks, tools, and libraries, such as Django, Flask, Bottle, etc.;
- comprehension and exploration of the Python potential of machine learning;
- knowledge of the server-side templating languages, such as Jinja, Kid, or Mako;
- familiarity with object-oriented programming (OOP);
- ability to work with Object Relational Mapper (ORM) libraries;
- ability to work with other team members as well as independently;
- good English communication skills.
The skills you will include in your job description will vary according to what skill set your business needs. Nonetheless, make sure to clearly specify and explain what you are looking for to quickly draw ideal candidates.
2. Where to Find Python Developers For Hire?
There are multiple places, according to what you are looking for, where you can successfully find your devoted candidate. Choosing the perfect recruiting website is essential for your business to triumph.
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Traditional job portals
If you are in a rush, the traditional job portals may help you find a Python developer who meets your requirements. These platforms include LinkedIn Jobs, Indeed, Glassdoor, or CareerBuilder.
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Freelance marketplaces
Many Python freelance developers are looking for projects like yours. If you plan to hire freelance Python developers, you should try websites like Upwork or Fiverr. Although, the most famous sites for Python coders search are Lemon.io, Gun.io, and Python.org Jobs, among others.
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Remote-first forums
There are many platforms where you can look for candidates that will work remotely for your business. These include websites such as Angel.co, Remotive, or WWR, which are quite popular among Python developers.
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Python outsourcing companies
This is the fastest and most cost-effective way to hire a Python developer to support your team. Companies already have what you are looking for and are waiting for you to hire their best candidates. It is worth mentioning that East European countries, like Ukraine, Poland, or Belarus, to name a few, are the favorite countries to outsource developing tasks.
3. Ask Candidate the Right Python Developer Interview Questions
Challenging the candidate with questions, apart from an accurate study of their CV, will bring you clarity on whether the developer really possesses the suitable Python programming requirements and experience. Obviously, full-stack Python developer interview questions for candidates will differ from questions for a junior or mid-level professional. Moreover, asking the right questions will define the thinking process of the candidate and their approach to solving problems.
Here are some Python developer interview questions you should not omit when conducting an interview:
3.1. Check for a technical background
Asking such questions is a good way to start the interview. You may ask about the candidate’s previous work experience, including their responsibilities for each position. Here, you may expect to gather information on the following topics:
- Basic programming knowledge
- Python knowledge and skills
- Project experience
Candidates should be able to discuss their technical background and work, which will bring clarity on their Python proficiency. It is recommended to ask to show examples of past or current projects. Additionally, your senior Python interview questions must require information about the experience of the usage and comprehension of Python frameworks and tools.
3.2. Ask about completed certifications and courses
The Python scripting language offers a wide range of possibilities for growth. Thus, becoming a certified Python developer brings a lot of career opportunities and benefits. Asking about certifications and courses may validate the professional’s Python skills and formalize their knowledge of the language. Additionally, your senior Python interview questions should not only require information about the usage and comprehension of Python frameworks and tools but also have completed certifications and courses.
3.3. Don’t forget about soft skills
Before onboarding new specialists into the workflow, it is crucial to check their soft skills too. This will clarify how the candidate will interact with other team members and communicate their needs or ideas. Pay attention to the attitude of the potential employee to identify how they will respond in stressful situations, as well as their ability and openness to learning new skills along the way. Besides, it may be in your best interest to use recruiting tools that help you identify soft skills. Such tests will provide you with problem-solving skills and communication skills results, among others.
Python Programmers Hourly Rates and Salaries: How Much Do Python Programmers Make?
The demand for devoted Python developers is high for both startups and well-established businesses. Titan companies such as Google, Quora, Facebook, Instagram, Spotify, Dropbox, or Netflix, for instance, are using Python for their components. According to Stack Overflow, it is the second most loved programming language among developers; although it is the third most popular language among GitHub contributors. Obviously, Python usage possibilities are versatile, which keeps creating room for coders, thus leading to the following question: How much do python programmers make? Here is some research data on Python developers’ hourly rates and salaries.
Python Freelancers
Python freelancers usually work simultaneously for several companies as contract laborers rather than permanent employees. This variant works best for small and short-term projects as you do not commit in the long term with a freelancer. As Python freelancers work independently and possess time flexibility, they have the potential to make quite a bit of money.
According to CodeMentor’s report, the average income of a freelance Python developer ranges from $60 to $100, depending on their experience.
Local Full-Time Python Developers
Hiring local Python full-time developers is beneficial when you need a Python programmer for a long-term commitment. It may take more time to find a dedicated Python programmer as you are limited in terms of location, however, you may find a specialist who will take the time to completely understand your company’s processes to the core and will participate in all the projects. There are numerous talented developers who possess the required skills and are willing to work as full-time employees.
Python developer average salary in the United States
Many factors influence the average salary of Python developers in the United States. These criteria include the level of experience, location, additional mastered skills, and much more. The numbers taken from different sources may vary.
Before anything, it is worth mentioning that the average salary of developers, including Python coders, depends on the U.S. states and cities. Thus, developers located in larger cities will earn more in comparison to those based in smaller cities or towns. According to Indeed’s data on developers’ average salary, the highest paying cities in the United States are:
According to Glassdoor, the average Python coder salary in the United States equals $76k per year.
However, PayScale reports that the average salary of a Python developer in the United States is $79k per year.
Meanwhile, Indeed reports the highest average salary of a Python developer in the United States, namely $110k per year.
Differences in rates based on experience
Entry-level or Junior Python developers are those with 2 to 3 years of experience, apart from their education. In most cases, they will be asked to write a basic code. The entry-level Python developer salary in the United States is estimated as follows:
● Glassdoor: $64k, ranging from $45k to $90k.
● Indeed: $85k.
Senior-level Python developers have more than 3 years of experience. Generally, they work without supervision and are likely to train entry-level developers. The Senior Python developer salary in the United States is estimated as follows:
● Glassdoor: $91k, ranging from $68k to $128k.
● Indeed: $110k.
Full-time Remote Developers
Eastern Europe is one of the most competitive locations for outsourcing Python developers, as Python is considered one of the most popular scripting languages among coders. In fact, Python is among the top 5 most demanding programming languages in Ukraine, which leads to high proficiency in Python among Ukrainian developers.
Ukraine has become a popular country to outsource Python developers due to their professionalism, brilliant development skills, and outstanding English communication skills. Looking for any type of Python developer in Ukraine is the perfect choice for those who would like to extend their team for a project, save money, or just get rid of the tedious recruitment process.
Let’s compare the average salary in Ukraine to those we have already revealed for the United States.
According to dou.ua, the largest developer community in Ukraine, the average salary of a Python programmer in Ukraine is $4,000 per month, ranging from $3,500 to $4,500, making it approximately $48k per year. Contrary to the United States hiring market, this is the net salary of Ukrainian developers.
Djinni’s research data proves that the Python developers hiring market is thriving. Below, you can see how many offers a candidate received with a particular salary. Each column shows the number of opportunities; in other words, it is the demand level indicator. The higher the column, the more role the specialists are offered. According to this data, specialists with $2k salaries have the highest demand.
Now that we have the full scope of rates and salaries of Python for hire specialists in the United States and Ukraine, it would be fair to conclude that hiring a Python developer depends on how much money you are willing to invest.
What Are the Benefits of Hiring Python Developers From Ukraine?
The IT industry is flourishing in Ukraine, and according to the dou.com research data, it has grown by 27% in 2017. Through the years, Ukrainian developers have gained an outstanding reputation as qualified and highly skilled specialists worldwide. Stack Overflow reports that there are more than 166,000 developers in Ukraine. Thus, thanks to competent technical education, the number is growing year after year.
- Ukrainian developers possess a high command of English proficiency. As a matter of fact, 34% of developers can communicate in English at an upper-intermediate level. Many Ukrainian developers work with international businesses based in the United States or European countries, for example, which transformed the knowledge of English from an advantage into a must.
- Hiring teams of Python developers from Ukraine offers flexibility. For instance, there is no need to pay any financial compensation if you decide to stop working with the developer. You can always start and finish with your Ukrainian developing team any time you need, without any financial or employment law risks. Moreover, if you decide to hire a developer through offshore companies, you do not have to learn the local employment procedures.
- Ukrainian employment taxes are much lower than in countries like the UK, the Netherlands, or Germany, which means that if you decide to hire a developer from Ukraine, you will only have to pay a 5% tax on the salary and $160 per year for social security.
- Ukraine is known for its outstanding technical education. More than 36k students per year graduate in IT-related fields. Leading Ukrainian universities and companies create conferences and courses to support this trend and proceed with the knowledge exchange between engineers.
Conclusion
It would be fair to conclude that outsourcing Python development to Ukraine or elsewhere is one of the most beneficial ways to hire offshore Python developers. By doing so, you will get to work with specialists who can deliver the skills your business requires and complete your projects meeting the deadlines. Besides, it offers you the opportunity to extend your in-house team with a dedicated professional who will provide quality offshore Python application development supporting your team. Or, through offshore Python development companies, you can hire a whole team of dedicated Python developers who will take care of your project. Your business will benefit from the full potential of the extensive expertise of coders with a higher cost-efficiency.
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