Want to become Java Developer? Read this blog and know the top skills you need to become the best Java Developer.
Java Developer is the booming profile of the market in 2021. According to web development stat, there are around 7,6 million Java Developers in the market today who earn around Rs. 443,568 annually.
The growth is at its peak; those looking to make their career in this profile have made the right decision. But what to do next? What do you think that a simple degree can make you a Java Developer?
No! You are mistaken. After taking so many webinars in 2020, I have found that students are just studying for a degree, not skills. This type of learning will never succeed in your future.
Build your skills, not your resume.
— Sheryl Sandberg
This blog is wholly focussed on the Java Development perspective. I thought you are already good at important stuff like Coding, Data Structures & Algorithms, and Computer science concepts like Networking, Object-oriented programming, Protocols, etc.
These tips help both core Java developer and one who write server-side applications but not involved with web development skills like Servlet, JSP, and JEE and Java Web developers whose write web applications with Java technology and those who want to become a full-stack developer.
So, let’s get started with the tips:
1. Software Design and Architecture
Software design and architecture are arguably the essential phases of the software development process. Seeing the big picture and thinking through the problem at hand, and deciding on the exemplary architecture and technology stack to implement your app are crucial skills for any software developer, not just a Java developer.
If you have planned to accelerate your career in 2021 and want to become a senior Java developer, organizations are sought after; I advise you to learn Software Architecture. If you want to become a solution architect, this skill will distinguish you from other developers.
2. Microservices
Architecture is continually changing, and many companies are shifting from monolithic applications to microservices. For Java Developers, it’s high time to learn Microservice architecture and how to build Microservices in Java to take the best advantage of the current market trend.
Fortunately, the Spring framework offers Spring Cloud and Spring Boot, which greatly simplify microservice development in Java. If you are looking for a course, Master Microservices with Spring Boot and Spring Cloud is a good choice.
If you prefer books, I recommend you check Cloud Native Java by Josh Long. It will provide you a comprehensive guide for developing Java applications for the cloud.
3. DevOps Tools (Jenkins, Docker, and Kubernetes)
He should know atleast continuous integration and continuous deployment and how Jenkins helps to achieve that.
DevOps’s knowledge is essential in Java Development. He should know at least continuous integration and continuous deployment and how Jenkins helps in achieving that.
Even it becomes more vital for senior java developers who are often responsible for setting code best environment and forming environments, build scripts and guidelines.
Better, if you learn DevOps in general and tools like AWS, Ansible, Docker, Kubernetes, etc. including the Maven and Jenkins.
If you need some study resources then take some online references, you will find many. Best I can suggest you watch YouTube, you will learn better because many online institutes are only there in the market to make money not to provide quality education.
4. Spring Framework (Spring Boot)
Today, learning the Spring framework has become necessary for Java Developers. Most companies prefer to develop Spring frameworks like Spring MVC, Spring Boot, and Spring Cloud to develop a web app, REST APIs Microservices.
It also encourages best practices like dependency injection plus makes your application more testable, an essential element for modern-day software.
If you are a new Java developer, I suggest you start with this Java and Spring tutorial to learn this excellent framework’s basics. If you are already familiar with Spring, you should explore Spring Boot and Spring Cloud to develop next-generation Java applications.
5. Learn APIs and Libraries
Have you ever worked with any great Java Developer? If yes, you may have noticed their overall knowledge of the Java Ecosystem and API is its main part.
As you know, Java is the world’s most popular programming language, and it has tons of libraries and APIs that make almost every customization possible.
I understand you won’t be able to learn all but you should have a bit of knowledge about some of its key APIs such as XML processing APIs like JAXB and Xerces, Unit testing libraries like Mockito and JUnit, JSON processing APIs like Jackson and GSON, etc. So, explore its libraries too if you want to go ahead with this profile.
6. JUnit and Mockito
One thing that distinguishes a good Java Developer from other developers is testing skills. A good Java Developer should pose a good unit testing skill.
A good and professional Java developer always writes unit tests for his code, and if he is the best developer, you can see a difference in his coding and testing.
Testing has also covered a journey with different integration testing tools, unit testing, and automation testing available today to Java developers.
You should spend some time honing your testing skill in Java, but for those new to Java world and unit testing, JUnit is the best library to start. The current version, JUnit 5, is both powerful and flexible, and every Java developer should know about it.
If you want a good overview of JUnit and unit testing in Java, JUnit and Mockito Crash Courses will start. It’s not the most updated one but still pretty useful for beginners.
7. Design Patterns
If you are working on a Java application from scratch, you are writing object-oriented code and design patterns and testing solutions to common problems.
Knowing and incorporating them into your code makes your app more flexible and easier to make changes in the future.
Also, it improves overall code quality and documentation as other Java developers are also familiar with design patterns, and they will get your solution rather quickly.
Though, don’t just concentrate on the code part; know the spirit, and be creative. Use Java 8 features like lambdas and Streams to rewrite patterns like Strategy patterns.
If you are looking for some resources to learn design patterns, then consult an expert. They will guide you better.
8. JVM Internals
Suppose you are serious about becoming a Rockstar Java Developer. In that case, you must spend the time learning JVM internals like what are various parts of JVM, how they work, JJVM options, IT, Garbage collections, etc.
If you have JVM knowledge, you can write both robust and high-performance Java apps, and that’s what the expert Java developers do.
With this, you should also learn how to profile your Java app and find performance bottlenecks, e.g., objects take most of your memories and eat CPUs.
For structured learning, I will recommend you to learn the Java Virtual Machine series on Pluralsight. It’s detailed and perfect for aspiring Java developers.
9. React
Around 50,000 React job openings are in the USA now! Moreover, there is no decline in react developer’s demand.
React is a JavaScript library primarily used for building fantastic user interfaces in a short time. Other libraries serve the same purpose but React in its competition. It is super easy and lightweight.
It works with reusable components that lead to way less code. Thousands of Components are already available; you have to download and plugin; it’s very simple!
The same thing built with pure JavaScript is more challenging and time-consuming, and worst of all, your code won’t have a robust structure. For becoming, a full-stack java developer you need to master this language too.
10. Communication Skills
The most important thing that’s required in every profession is communication skills. Nothing goes well without it. Similarly, communication skills are at the core of Java programmers. It lays a strong foundation; you can communicate with your clients better and discuss their queries.
In this, you can know your client’s requirements better and work accordingly. Good communication skills also help you in explaining things to your client better.
For instance, you can guide them with the right solutions and suggest to them the right ways that go well with their project and budget. Eventually, you can also use your communication skills in preparing the documentation.
Final Thoughts
Java Developer is one of the highest-earning profiles in the market and going to stay forever. It guarantees you a secure future. You can go far with the knowledge and experience in this field.
But to get an edge, you need to master your skills. All the skills that I have shared above are a must if you want to thrive in this field. It is better to hire java developer who is an experienced expert or connect with a good institute to get mastery in Java development. Also, watch YouTube videos; it will educate you better and boost your skills.
If you have any suggestion over it, let me know it in the comment section as it’s always great to hear from you.
Good Luck!
