Python’s status as one of the world’s most widely used programming languages is well known. Some experts rank it to be at par with JavaScript in terms of simplicity, flexibility, and popularity. Its syntax is so straightforward and easy to read, custom-built software packages written in Python are the most shared in top online repositories. From app development to Google using the language for crawling webpages — Python is everywhere and it’s an exciting time to be a Python Developer.

Python is used in top apps such as Instagram (1 billion+ users), Dropbox (600 Million+ users), Reddit (430 million+ users), Facebook, Uber, etc. In GitHub, Python is the second-most popular language and this popularity is evident in the job market. What can you do with Python expertise? The opportunities are limitless.

Python developers’ salary in 2020

  • According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a Python Developer is $ 76,526 per year.
  • Entry-Level Python Developer Jobs in the US can earn developers $79,378 per year.
  • Quality Assurance Engineers who are responsible for testing Python Software earn an average of $80,727 per year.
  • Even a Junior Python Developer (entry-level web developer with a specialty in Python) earns $78,680/year).
  • The average Python developer salary is $119,271 per year. This amount has seen a 14% increase in the last four years.

Plus, Python developers can join freelance portals which are currently making room for ample opportunities. Developers, offshore or onshore can get hired quickly and be a part of virtual or real teams once they complete required certifications and fulfill qualifications. So, how to become a Python developer?

Skills Required to Get Hired as A Python Developer — How to Become a Developer

Since Python is one of the simplest languages, entry-level candidates can learn fast and upgrade themselves easily. It would be good to know that the top recruiters look for Python developers who are in-tune with the most demanding technologies and specialties.

How long does it take to learn Python? A focused student can learn it in eight weeks. Of course, it’s impossible to know every single Python framework, but knowing the main ones is fast and — obviously — vital. Math skills and the ability to design software that can easily perform large-scale computations always help.

What should a Python developer know? Overall, the key skills you need can be graded in terms of importance:

I. Most Important – Core Python, Python frameworks, and Python libraries

Core Python

A clear understanding of Core Python will ultimately be the deciding factor in a developer’s ability to finish projects. Thankfully, it is not hard to master this general-purpose programming language that’s considered very “developer-friendly”. To know core Python, the developer must be familiar with each module. Knowing the distinctions between Python 2 and 3, for instance, is very important. However, these distinctions are not a very problematic thing to learn. What’s most important is to have a clear understanding of Python’s data structures and the fundamental concepts. The ‘must know’ list of core Python concepts includes iterators, generators, exception handling, realizing the inner-workings of sets or dicts, basic file handling concepts, OOPs concepts, variables, and data types.

Python Frameworks

Knowledge of Python frameworks is an absolute must for anyone who wants to get involved in app development. These frameworks automate the application of most-used solutions, allowing Python developers to avoid the hassle of dealing with routine elements. However, it’s impossible for a Python developer to be well-versed in all frameworks. At first, it’s best to focus on learning the most popular frameworks such as Sanic, Flask, CherryPy, TurboGears, Pyramid, and Django.

Python Libraries

A Python developer who has a mastery over the most used Python libraries will be more efficient in his role, executing tasks and projects way quicker. Study the libraries after assessing the scope of the task. Above all, Python is a programming language that has a large supporter base. You can find many resources if you search at the right online repositories.

II. Very Important – Front-End Knowledge, MySQL, ORM Libraries

Basic Front-End Knowledge (JavaScript, HTML, CSS) [For Web Projects]

Python developers working in development teams will have to cooperate with front-end developers.

Without basic front-end knowledge, Python developers usually cannot understand the client-side of projects. Knowing basic project details such as how the application looks, whether the front-end is easy to use for clients, possible front-end limitations, etc. is very important for a Python Developer.

Of course, when you take up positions in top-quality software houses, you’ll have team leads, dedicated project managers, and other professionals supervising the workflow and sharing their experience. But if your goal is to be a valuable member of the team, some understanding of front-end operations always helps.

MySQL [for Data Science]

Although a clear understanding of Core Python is the most important thing, knowledge of SQL plays a decisive factor, especially for people looking for jobs in data science.

Most of the leading tech companies (Amazon, Google, etc.) use SQL to query data and analyze the performances of specific frameworks.

SQL is a trusted field and its use is ubiquitous in tech. Every project involves the use of either SQL or SQL derivative.

Fortunately, many developers start their path in Data Science from learning SQL and then moving to Python, so we believe this should not be an issue for a Python developer who only starts their career.

By the way, SQL is the most mentioned skill) in recruitment ads.

Knowledge of ORM libraries

Knowledge of ORM Libraries (Object Relational Mapper) is vital for developers looking to master the database creation process. Familiarity with ORM Libraries will make it much easier and faster to make database schema changes. Overall, it’s a skill that looks good on any Python Developer’s CV.

III. Important Skills – Version Control and Soft Skills

Version Control

Life can be difficult for a Python Developer who can’t keep track of all the changes he makes to a file. Given this, version control systems enable software developers to make changes to source code as required. Git is the most popular system developed by Linus Torvalds in 2005. Aspiring developers can go through the Git tutorial to learn about version control tools and the basics of Git including terminologies, installation fundamentals, and more.

Soft skills

Last but not least, all future Python Developers must obtain soft skills that help them become efficient team players and vital members of the organization. Skills such as emotional intelligence, cooperation skills, proactive mindset, ability to use feedback, adaptability, work ethic, and listening skills are all very important. These are the basic skills that are required for any kind of software developer.

What Roles Can A Python Developer Apply For?

As per the Developer Survey by Stack Overflow, the most in-demand technology of 2018-2019 was Python. The numerous job roles and openings are still on the market despite the global pandemic. Some of the most common ones include:

Programming Developer

The ‘Python developer’ job title is the most obvious one for all aspirants. In this role, you can expect to create and optimize data algorithms, resolve data analytics issues, apply data protection programs, and most importantly write efficient code. The final goal for every Python developer is to take part in creating unique valuable products for their employer company.

The average Python developer salary is $112,880 per year.

(here and in the following examples we use information about the US market)

Python Web Developer

Python web developers manage the server-related aspects of a project. A clear understanding of HTML, CSS, and other web frameworks that are necessary for web development is essential. Applicants must have the aptitude to compose nuanced Python scripts using Python Libraries.

The average salary of a Python web developer makes up $119,271 per year.

Data Analyst

Data analysts need to be experts in Mathematics, Statistics, Data Management, and effortlessly use Python Libraries (e.g., Matplotlib) to manipulate data for specific tasks.

The average salary of a data analyst is $75,051per year.

Data Scientist

Multiple companies are in the market for data scientists who can use Python libraries to assess massive datasets. The skills a data scientist must possess include data evaluation, data manipulation, Machine Learning, etc. Overall these jobs are intended for experts who can comprehensively help to develop companies by carefully using company data.

The average salary of a data scientist makes up $121,606 per year.

AI Engineer

Aspiring AI engineers have to master algorithms such as angle drop and regression examination. They also have to build expectation models and help the machines carry out very specific tasks.

The average salary of an AI engineer is $102,033 per year.

Simulated Intelligence Engineer

Similar to AI engineers, Simulated Intelligence Engineers need to be masters of basic Data Science and Modeling concepts.

Some job roles also require an understanding of Deep Learning algorithms and Neural Network Programming.

A Simulated Intelligence Engineer makes a product capable of thinking and introspection using techniques such as Natural Language Preparing. Another name for this role is Business Intelligence Developer.

Automation Testing Engineer

Automation engineers classify, develop, and implement automation scripts. They have to constantly create testing frameworks for automation purposes.

The average salary of an automation testing engineer $89,721 per year.

Quality Assurance Engineer

Quality Assurance Engineers create software test plans, execute automation scripts, track software bugs, and supervise debugging processes.

The average salary of a QA engineer is $62,503 per year.

Where Can You Find Python Developer Jobs?

According to recent studies, the digital workforce needs over a million recruits by 2023. So, job opportunities are there, applicants just need to look in the right places. Some useful tactics include:

1. Specialized job websites

Checking the top websites for Python job listings on websites such as[ Glassdoor](https://www.glassdoor.com/Explore/top-python-developer-companies_IO.4,20.htm). Other top websites include:

You can find job openings and internship opportunities on any one of these websites on a regular basis. Note the list of companies you’d prefer to work for and check their posts on a day to day basis.

2. Freelance Portals

You can search for Python developer jobs on various freelance portals. This can be a great tactic for those who are only starting their career — acquiring their first work experience by doing freelance projects.

Begin exploring these portals to get a rough estimate of salaries, job requirements, etc. If you can multitask and manage profiles on multiple freelance platforms, you can access the finest jobs and work remotely at your own will.

3. Job Boards

Check for regular listings on platforms such as GitHub Jobs, Angel.co, Product Hunt, etc.

4. Event Communities

Events, where Python developers meet, are the best places to network and find out about market opportunities. Some of the must-visit Python community events include:

Indulge in networking at these events to link up with fellow Python developers and meet with potential recruiters. Taking part in hackathons is also a great way of exploring new technologies. You can use these events to network and learn skills that can be useful for your project. Check out Hackathon.io for the latest updates on Python hackathons.

5. Becoming a Member of Online Developer Communities

Websites that boost Python developer communities like Reddit or GitHub are also places where recruiters post job openings. Sometimes hiring managers (tech people) are checking out posts made by skilled Python developers. If your code sample pleases a potential employer, you can get hired on the spot!

How to Land a Job as a Python Developer

Creating a Flawless CV

Now that you know where to find the best Python developer jobs, it’s time to start drafting your official resume. Make sure your CV:

  • Highlights your best qualities.
  • Has a standard chronological format. This format is easily readable and consists of different sections that you can appropriately title and expand. Choose a professional resume template that has the correct font requirements (11–12pt is perfectly readable).
  • Is in the correct format that the employers asked for in the posting.
  • Has a well-defined header, resume summary, and your contact details.
  • Has a separate experience section explaining your professional experience (focus on listing achievements, not processes).
  • Has a separate section for education details and one for details about your professional skills as a Python developer.

You can add additional details such as extra-curricular activities (e.g., a hackathon win), interests, etc. Keep the information structured and to the point, no matter where you’re uploading it to — a corporate website or one of the freelance hiring platforms.

Soft Skills Assessment

Be it a video call or a face to face meetings, most first meetings in the tech industry involve the interviewer getting a sense of the candidate as a person, cooperative skills, communication skills, and basic problem-solving skills. Let your CV do your bidding. Answer as you’re asked and demonstrate qualities such as reliability or flexibility in dealing with different aspects of Python programming. What should a Python developer know before entering a soft skill assessment? To stay ahead of fellow applicants, use this remote developer interview tool, and answer the most asked questions in these interviews.

Hard Skills Verification

The conventional hard skills verification process consists of:

Office-Based Test Assignments

Applicants get a small task that they need to fulfill in real-time. These office tests act as platforms where candidates can demonstrate problem-solving skills, time management, and adaptability skills. Follow this test assignment guide to know what you can expect from the test assignment.

Today, in the world suffering from the global pandemic, you'll probably get your test assignment online, which must relieve you of some on-site pressure. If you think you wouldn't feel comfortable during an on-site interview, now is a great time to start searching for a job.

Hackathons

Again, probably irrelevant nowadays but big corporations testing plenty of applicants sometimes host hackathons (used mostly while interviewing for entry-level Python developer jobs) so that quick performance evaluation can be made in a short time. The top performers get hired. This method is perfect for testing specific skills such as database expertise.

Online coding tools

Nowadays, most companies use online coding interview tools. These tools are typically used to test remote applicants for Python developer jobs. The candidate’s tech stack, on-field skills, professional experience, etc. can all be tested on these coding assessment platforms. The most commonly used test platforms include:

Start your research on these platforms long before you start applying for developer jobs. Learn about the most common coding errors you need to avoid in order to land the top jobs.

How to Get Extra Points in Your Competition for a Python Developer Job

Unfortunately, there are no secret ways of getting ‘free extra points’ in your journey as a Python developer. The only secrets are passion and practice. Practice coding, share what you’ve learned with other Python programmers on online communities, build an online presence with a blog, and share your knowledge. One of the best things about becoming a Python developer is the online community of helpful pros who are always ready to interact and share knowledge. Use these platforms to find access to small projects. Work on them (even if it’s for free) to hone your skills. Use websites such as https://repl.it/ where you can quickly test your code. The website is usable on web browsers and mobile phones. It’s the perfect place to practice and you don’t even have to download an IDE or a compiler.

Here you can find a sample of a task you could get in an interview as a Python developer. You may also search for other samples on the web.

Are you ready to write code in a language that is ever-growing both in terms of user base and capabilities? Enhance your development environment and start practicing this ‘lingua franca’ of coding. As far as career opportunities are concerned, they’re limitless! Good luck!

Author

Galina Divakova

Galina is Head of Marketing at YouTeam, a Y Combinator-backed marketplace for hiring remote software developers.

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