Coder Job Description Template

4 steps to creating a coder job description that fits your needs 

The above job description is one example of the types of information you may want to include in your job post. Before you start writing your post, think carefully about the kind of work that the programmer will do and the experience and skills they’ll need to be successful. There are many different types of coders, so it’s essential to understand just what you need in a programmer before you hire one. The following steps can guide you through creating your job description: 

1. Determine what type of coder you need

The term “coder” is often a catch-all, and programmers specialize in many different fields and platforms. It’s essential to understand which type of coder will be most successful in completing the projects you have in mind. 

Coders often specialize in specific areas: 

• Software engineers: Software engineers tend to be highly versatile, and they often work with languages like HTML and CSS. They tend to have a broad knowledge base and usually create software and apps to meet a company’s needs. 
• Data scientists: Data scientists take a highly technical approach to computer programming. They often combine coding with statistical analysis and data visualization to ensure that programs perform optimally and meet the company’s needs. 
• Full-stack developer: A full-stack developer is a highly talented and versatile programmer who knows many coding languages. These experienced programmers work in both the front-end and back-end and can often handle all of a company’s coding and development needs. 
• Mobile developer: A mobile developer often develops apps for both iOS and Android. They commonly program using platforms like Java, C#, and C++.

2. Employee vs. independent contractor vs. agency

You can hire a coder in-house, contract the hiring through an agency, or work with the programmer as an independent contractor. Each work arrangement has its pros and cons. 

A coder operating as an independent contractor might specialize in one area and could fill a single talent gap on your team. If you work with an agency, the agency might have a team of coders who can help with web-based, software-oriented, and mobile-focused aspects of your project, providing an all-in-one solution. If you want a programmer who will become a full-time member of your team, you may want to hire someone directly. The right option depends on your project needs and the number of available programming hours. 

Worker classification can be tricky. Check out our compliance services resources page for more information, and consider talking things over with your business lawyer as you decide which option is best.

3. Experience

You’ll also need to consider the ideal amount of experience you want your coder to have. More experienced programmers can handle more complex tasks, and they tend to handle more variety. They also usually require minimal supervision and can often step right into a role within your company. 

In contrast, an entry-level coder might have a year or two of experience and have some familiarity with coding languages like JavaScript. An entry-level programmer can help with simple projects but will often require supervision by more experienced programmers and developers. 

Alternatively, you might consult with a senior-level programmer for your more advanced projects while relying on entry-level programmers for your more basic needs. Keep in mind that you can train and develop entry-level programmers, but that will also require that your current employees have time to supervise and guide those programmers. Your project scope and staffing needs will determine the amount of experience your ideal candidate should have. 

4. Industry 

Professional coders and programmers can often work across many different industries, but some programmers develop specializations by working only in specific industries. Many industries, including software development, gaming, online entertainment, engineering firms, and banks, rely heavily on coders. Programmers may develop software and apps that enhance the customer experience or provide increased security, so coders who work in these industries need to be highly skilled. 

Next steps

Now it’s time to write your coder job description. As you determine what you’re looking for in your ideal programmer, check out our list of top coders on Upwork. Each programmer’s qualifications and experience are listed, so you can determine which programmers are the best fit for your needs.

Upwork is not affiliated with and does not sponsor or endorse any of the tools or services discussed in this section. These tools and services are provided only as potential options, and each reader and company should take the time needed to adequately analyze and determine the tools or services that would best fit their specific needs and situation.