What does an Apache Struts developer do?
An Apache Struts developer builds and maintains Java web applications by implementing the framework’s Model-View-Controller architecture. This role focuses on configuring actions, interceptors, and results to manage how the application processes browser requests and renders responses. The developer writes Java code that connects server-side logic with view resources like JSP files using specific Struts tags. They also define the request flow in XML configuration files to ensure data moves correctly through the system.
- Implement Java action classes that handle user requests and execute business logic within the Struts framework. These classes serve as the controller component that receives input from the browser and determines the next step in the application workflow. The developer maps these actions to specific URLs in the configuration file so the framework knows which code to run for each request. This work ensures that user interactions trigger the correct server-side processes without breaking the application structure.
- Create or customize interceptor classes to apply cross-cutting concerns around action execution. Interceptors run before and after an action executes, allowing the developer to add features like authentication, logging, or validation without cluttering the main action code. The developer defines these interceptors in stacks within the struts.xml file and associates them with specific packages or actions. This approach keeps the core business logic clean while still enforcing necessary security and processing rules across the application.
- Configure result types and update JSP views to render responses based on action outcomes. The developer sets up mappings in the configuration file that direct the framework to display specific pages or data after an action completes. They use Struts tag libraries in JSP files to integrate server-side data with the HTML interface, ensuring dynamic content appears correctly for the user. This task involves writing precise XML definitions and front-end code that work together to present a functional and responsive user interface.
How to hire an Apache Struts developer on Upwork
Step 1: Post a job
Define your Java web application needs clearly to attract qualified candidates. Use the Job Post Generator powered by Uma™, Upwork's Mindful AI to draft a precise description in seconds. Describe your requirements in a few sentences and Uma constructs a tailored post for this role. You can write a new post, update a saved draft, or reuse an existing post.
- Specify experience with Apache Struts 2 actions and interceptors to handle request processing logic.
- List required skills in configuring struts.xml for interceptor stacks and result mappings.
- Request examples of JSP view integration using Struts tag libraries for server-side rendering.
Step 2: Evaluate candidates
Review portfolios for concrete evidence of MVC framework implementation and Java web development. Uma runs instant video interviews and builds shortlists with side-by-side comparisons to speed up your review process.
- Look for custom interceptor classes that apply cross-cutting concerns around action execution.
- Check for updated struts.xml files that define complex action mappings and result types.
- Verify use of Struts tags in JSP files to integrate server-side views with the framework.
Step 3: Interview your top choices
Discuss technical approaches to request flow design and framework configuration. Schedule and conduct interviews within Upwork Messages to receive an immediate transcript and summary after each session.
- Ask how they structure the browser request flow through interceptors to the final action result.
- Discuss their method for implementing the intercept() method to control processing logic.
- Review how they configure result types to route action outcomes to specific view resources.
Step 4: Agree on scope and begin work
Set clear deliverables such as Java action classes and configuration updates before starting. Use Upwork Messages and the contract workroom for communication and project management while identity verification and Hourly Payment Protection secure your project funds.
- Define milestones for building Java action classes that implement specific Struts behaviors.
- Agree on deliverables for custom interceptor classes that extend base framework functionality.
- Specify tasks for updating JSPs with Struts tag libraries to render dynamic content.
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