What does a Xero developer do?
A Xero developer builds custom software connections that allow external applications to read and write data within the Xero accounting platform. This role focuses on writing code that interacts directly with the Xero Accounting API to automate financial workflows and synchronize business records. The work requires strict adherence to security protocols because the code handles sensitive financial information across multiple client organizations.
- Implement OAuth 2.0 authorization flows to securely obtain access tokens and identify which tenant organizations have granted permission for the application to operate. This process involves registering the app, selecting the correct authentication method such as PKCE or custom connections, and managing the exchange of authorization codes for valid tokens.
- Write backend logic that calls specific Xero Accounting API endpoints to create invoices, update credit notes, and retrieve financial reports on behalf of authorized users. The code must handle multi-tenant architectures so that a single integration can serve many different businesses while keeping their data strictly separated and accurate.
- Configure webhook subscriptions to receive real-time event notifications when specific entities change inside a Xero organization. This setup allows the external application to react immediately to updates such as new payments or modified contacts without needing to constantly poll the API for changes.
- Develop robust error handling and token refresh mechanisms to maintain continuous connectivity as access credentials expire over time. The developer documents these security patterns and connection management strategies to ensure the integration remains stable and compliant with platform requirements during long-term operation.
How to hire a Xero developer on Upwork
Step 1: Post a job
Define the specific integration or app you need built using the Job Post Generator powered by Umaโข, Upwork's Mindful AI. Describe your requirements in a few sentences, and Uma drafts a complete job post tailored for a Xero developer. You can write a new post from scratch, update a saved draft, or reuse an existing post to save time.
- Specify whether you need custom connections for single-tenant access or standard OAuth 2.0 flows for multi-tenant applications.
- List the exact Accounting API endpoints the developer must use, such as invoices, credit notes, or financial reports.
- Clarify if the role involves submitting an app to the Xero App Store or maintaining an internal private integration.
Step 2: Evaluate candidates
Look for portfolios that demonstrate secure token handling and successful webhook implementations. Uma can run instant video interviews and build shortlists with side-by-side comparisons to help you assess technical fit quickly.
- Verify experience with Xero SDKs, such as xero-python, to ensure they can accelerate development and reduce errors.
- Check for examples of apps that process event notifications via the Xero Webhooks API to keep data synchronized.
- Review past projects for proper implementation of PKCE or authorization code flows to protect user credentials.
Step 3: Interview your top choices
Discuss their approach to managing access tokens and tenant connections over time. Schedule and conduct these interviews within Upwork Messages, which generates an immediate transcript and summary after each session.
- Ask how they handle rate limits and error responses when calling Xero Accounting API endpoints at scale.
- Request details on how they test integration logic before deploying code to production environments.
- Inquire about their process for updating apps when Xero releases new API versions or deprecates old features.
Step 4: Agree on scope and begin work
Set clear milestones for API implementation, webhook setup, and security documentation. Use Upwork Messages and the contract workroom for all communication and project management, while identity verification, payment protection, hourly tracking, and project funds keep the engagement secure.
- Define deliverables such as working OAuth flows, tested API calls, and documented webhook handlers.
- Establish criteria for accepting the integration, including successful data retrieval and update operations.
- Agree on a maintenance plan for monitoring token expiration and resolving connection issues post-launch.
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