What Does a Java Developer Do?
A Java developer designs, implements, and maintains software applications using the Java programming language. This role is foundational in building server-side systems, enterprise platforms, mobile apps, and web-based tools that prioritize performance, security, and scalability. Java developers often use frameworks such as Spring Boot or Hibernate and work with relational databases to create APIs, automate processes, and manage data transactions.
These professionals work closely with cross-functional teams, including front-end developers, QA engineers, and product owners, to deliver full-featured applications. Java developers are responsible for writing clean, testable code, debugging complex issues, and deploying services that support high-traffic or mission-critical systems. Their work helps businesses stay agile, reliable, and compliant in fast-paced environments.
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Java Developer Core Responsibilities
- Develop and maintain scalable applications using Java and related frameworks
- Design and implement APIs, microservices, and back-end logic
- Write unit, integration, and performance tests to ensure code quality
- Collaborate with front-end developers and DevOps engineers to deploy full systems
- Optimize application performance, scalability, and memory management
- Conduct code reviews and contribute to architectural decisions
- Document software processes, standards, and technical specs
- Stay current on Java updates and best practices
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Strong proficiency in Java (Java 8 or higher)
- Experience with Spring Boot, Hibernate, or other Java frameworks
- Familiarity with RESTful API design and consumption
- Knowledge of SQL and relational databases (e.g., MySQL, PostgreSQL, Oracle)
- Proficiency with version control tools (e.g., Git)
- Experience with automated testing (JUnit, Mockito)
Soft skills
- Logical problem-solving and attention to detail
- Strong communication in technical and cross-functional teams
- Adaptability to new tools and architectures
- Ability to work independently and in agile environments
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field
Certifications
- None required
- Preferred:
- Oracle Certified Professional: Java SE Programmer
- Spring Professional Certification
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with containerization tools (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes)
- Familiarity with CI/CD tools such as Jenkins, GitLab CI, or CircleCI
- Knowledge of cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, or GCP)
- Exposure to Kafka, RabbitMQ, or other message brokers
- Understanding of secure coding practices or regulatory compliance (e.g., HIPAA, PCI)
National Average Salary
Java developer salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for a Java Developer is:
$110,563
Sample Job Description Templates for Java Developers
Back-End Java Developer
Position Overview
We are seeking a Back-End Java Developer to build and maintain the server-side logic and infrastructure that power modern applications. This role is responsible for developing APIs, managing database interactions, and optimizing performance behind the scenes to ensure a smooth user experience across platforms.
Responsibilities
- Develop scalable back-end components using Java and frameworks such as Spring Boot or Hibernate
- Design and implement RESTful APIs and data services
- Integrate with relational databases and write optimized queries
- Perform code reviews, testing, and debugging of server-side logic
- Ensure application performance, reliability, and security
- Collaborate with front-end teams and product stakeholders
- Write clean, maintainable code with proper documentation
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency in Java 8+ and Spring Boot
- Strong understanding of RESTful API architecture
- Experience with relational databases (MySQL, PostgreSQL, Oracle)
- Familiarity with build tools (Maven, Gradle) and Git
Soft skills
- Logical, systems-oriented thinking
- Good communicator in cross-functional development environments
- Independent problem solver with a focus on scalability
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field
Certifications
- None required
- Oracle Java Certification preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with Docker or Kubernetes
- Familiarity with API security practices (OAuth, JWT)
Full-Stack Java Developer
Position Overview
We are hiring a Full-Stack Java Developer to work across both front-end and back-end components of enterprise web applications. This role requires fluency in Java server-side development and modern JavaScript frameworks, providing end-to-end delivery of scalable software systems.
Responsibilities
- Design and implement features across the stack using Java, Spring Boot, and front-end tools
- Build and consume RESTful APIs
- Develop responsive user interfaces using JavaScript, HTML, and CSS
- Connect applications to databases and external services
- Troubleshoot full-stack issues and optimize system performance
- Participate in agile ceremonies and code reviews
- Collaborate with designers, DevOps, and QA teams
Requirements
Hard skills
- Strong skills in Java, Spring Boot, and modern front-end frameworks (e.g., React, Angular)
- Working knowledge of database design and CRUD operations
- Experience with Git and CI/CD pipelines
Soft skills
- Flexibility across tech stacks and languages
- Collaborative mindset and clear communication
- Ability to prioritize tasks in fast-paced environments
Education
- Bachelor’s degree required
Certifications
- None required
Preferred Qualifications
- Familiarity with TypeScript or front-end testing frameworks
- Experience with AWS or other cloud platforms
Spring Boot Java Developer
Position Overview
We are looking for a Spring Boot Java Developer to build microservices and enterprise-grade applications using the Spring ecosystem. This role focuses on creating modular, testable, and production-ready services with attention to performance and scalability.
Responsibilities
- Develop RESTful APIs and business logic using Spring Boot
- Leverage Spring features such as Spring Data, Spring Security, and Spring Cloud
- Optimize application configuration and dependency management
- Integrate with databases and external systems
- Implement authentication and authorization protocols
- Participate in sprint planning and continuous integration workflows
- Maintain thorough documentation and reusable code libraries
Requirements
Hard skills
- Expertise in Spring Boot and related Spring modules
- Strong Java programming and object-oriented design skills
- Knowledge of JPA/Hibernate and API security practices
- Experience with build automation and testing tools (JUnit, Mockito)
Soft skills
- Organized, methodical coding style
- Strong debugging and configuration skills
- Collaborative problem-solver
Education
- Bachelor’s degree required
Certifications
- None required
- Spring Professional Certification preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience developing and deploying microservices architecture
- Familiarity with service discovery and load balancing (e.g., Eureka, Ribbon)
Enterprise Java Developer
Position Overview
We are seeking an Enterprise Java Developer to support large-scale, mission-critical systems in sectors such as finance, healthcare, or logistics. This role focuses on high-performance, secure, and compliant application development within enterprise architecture frameworks.
Responsibilities
- Develop and maintain enterprise-grade applications using Java EE or Spring
- Collaborate with architects and senior engineers to implement scalable solutions
- Ensure adherence to security, compliance, and performance standards
- Write, optimize, and manage database interactions
- Integrate with internal and external enterprise systems and APIs
- Participate in architectural reviews and technical documentation
- Lead or mentor junior developers within project teams
Requirements
Hard skills
- Advanced Java experience in enterprise environments
- Familiarity with Java EE, Spring, or Jakarta EE
- Knowledge of integration patterns, middleware, and service-oriented architecture (SOA)
- Experience with enterprise databases and messaging systems (e.g., JMS, Kafka)
Soft skills
- Strategic thinker with long-term planning ability
- Comfort working in complex regulatory environments
- Ability to mentor and influence technical teams
Education
- Bachelor’s degree required; master’s preferred for large enterprise environments
Certifications
- Oracle Certified Professional or equivalent preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- Background in financial services, healthcare, or government software systems
- Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines, ITIL processes, and infrastructure-as-code
API Integration Java Developer
Position Overview
We are hiring an API Integration Java Developer to design and maintain systems that exchange data across applications, services, and external partners. This role focuses on building secure, efficient, and scalable APIs using Java and modern integration techniques.
Responsibilities
- Build and maintain REST and SOAP APIs using Java and Spring Boot
- Write middleware logic for API routing, transformation, and orchestration
- Document endpoints and integration flows for internal and external use
- Implement authentication and data validation protocols
- Test and monitor integrations for latency, reliability, and data accuracy
- Work with partner teams to troubleshoot API connectivity issues
- Ensure compliance with internal data standards and security policies
Requirements
Hard skills
- Strong Java and Spring Boot development skills
- Proficiency in RESTful API design, Swagger/OpenAPI, and JSON/XML handling
- Experience with API security (OAuth2, JWT, rate limiting)
- Familiarity with integration tools such as Postman or MuleSoft
Soft skills
- Process-oriented with strong documentation habits
- Clear communicator with technical and non-technical audiences
- Analytical approach to integration performance and error handling
Education
- Bachelor’s degree required
Certifications
- None required
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience integrating with third-party systems like Salesforce, SAP, or payment processors
- Familiarity with Kafka, RabbitMQ, or other messaging queues