What does a .NET Core developer do?
A .NET Core developer builds cross-platform backend services and web applications using the Microsoft .NET ecosystem. This role focuses on server-side logic, data access, and API creation rather than front-end visual design. You write code that runs on Windows, Linux, or macOS to power business operations and digital products. The work centers on performance, security, and maintainability of the application architecture.
- Design and implement RESTful APIs using ASP.NET Core to handle client requests and process data. You configure dependency injection containers and middleware pipelines to manage application behavior and request flow. This work creates the endpoints that mobile apps and web browsers use to interact with your database and business logic.
- Build data access layers with Entity Framework Core to map object models to relational database tables. You write LINQ queries to retrieve, update, and delete records while maintaining data integrity and performance. This layer abstracts complex SQL operations into C# code that is easier to test and maintain across different database providers.
- Automate build and test processes using the dotnet CLI and GitHub Actions for continuous integration. You define YAML workflows that compile code, run unit tests, and publish artifacts whenever changes are pushed to the repository. This automation catches errors early and ensures that every deployment includes verified and stable application binaries.
How to hire a .NET Core developer on Upwork
Step 1: Post a job
Define your backend requirements clearly to attract developers who specialize in the .NET ecosystem. Use the Job Post Generator powered by Uma™, Upwork's Mindful AI to draft a precise description from a few sentences about your needs. You can write a new post, update a saved draft, or reuse an existing post to save time.
- Specify that the developer must build REST APIs using ASP.NET Core and implement data access with Entity Framework Core.
- Request experience with the dotnet CLI for compiling code, running tests, and publishing application outputs.
- Ask for examples of automated CI workflows they have configured using GitHub Actions to build and test .NET projects.
Step 2: Evaluate candidates
Look for portfolio items that demonstrate clean architecture and robust server-side logic. Uma can run instant video interviews and build shortlists with side-by-side comparisons to help you assess technical fit quickly.
- Review code samples that show proper use of dependency injection and middleware pipelines within ASP.NET Core applications.
- Check for published application packages or deployment scripts that prove they can ship production-ready software.
- Verify their ability to write efficient SQL queries and manage database migrations through EF Core implementations.
Step 3: Interview your top choices
Discuss specific technical challenges related to your project scope during the interview. Schedule and conduct these conversations within Upwork Messages, which generates an immediate transcript and summary after each session.
- Ask how they handle configuration management and environment variables in different deployment stages.
- Request an explanation of their approach to error handling and logging in distributed backend services.
- Discuss their experience with optimizing API response times and managing asynchronous operations in C#.
Step 4: Agree on scope and begin work
Finalize deliverables such as source code, API documentation, and CI pipeline configurations before starting. Use Upwork Messages and the contract workroom for all communication and project management, while identity verification, payment protection, hourly tracking, and project funds secure the engagement.
- Set milestones for completing specific modules, such as user authentication services or data integration layers.
- Define acceptance criteria for unit tests and integration tests that must pass before marking a task complete.
- Agree on a schedule for code reviews and deployment updates to maintain consistent progress throughout the contract.
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The rates and information provided in this article are based on current data and industry sources available at the time of publication. Freelance rates can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, project scope, and market conditions. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research to confirm current rates and trends, as this information may change over time.