Discover the necessary skills, daily tasks, and employment opportunities of an IT application developer. Explore statistics on salary potential, industry growth, average weekly hours and commonly held qualifications.
Overview
IT application developers are software developers who focus on building and managing apps for specific operating systems (i.e. macOS or Windows) and devices. While much of the field is currently comprised of mobile app development, desktop applications (i.e. Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Suite) also play a key role in the field.
Application developers will analyse a client’s needs on a project to map out the required specifications for a prospective app. Their process will then involve building and programming the app, troubleshooting the app for errors, and making any modifications to related programs if necessary. The final stage may also include creating documentation for future reference, and further changes or repairs may take place to improve app performance.
Employment for IT application developers is expected to grow very strongly in the next five years – with a projected 23.4% job growth, according to SEEK statistics.
Key Skills
Strong creative skills for building effective, user-friendly interfaces and app functionalities
Problem solving skills for troubleshooting applications and creating functions/features that address a client’s needs
High-level knowledge of multiple programming languages (in mobile development), including Java, Objective-C, Kotlin, and C++
Excellent communication skills for liaising with clients, delegating tasks among team members, and explaining application features in non-technical terms
Skills in back-end computing – including security, database management, and memory allocation
Business skills and expertise for maintaining positive client relations and identifying new areas of opportunity
Quick Facts
IT application developers can find work in most regions of Australia, with New South Wales and Victoria currently holding the largest share of workers. Weekly salary potential is currently higher ($2,003) than the all job average ($1,460) with plenty of opportunity for full-time work.
Salary Range
$54,000 - $103,000 (Median: $74,000)*
*Source: Payscale
Average Weekly Hours
41 hours (vs. all jobs average of 44 hours)*
*Source: Job Outlook
Main Industries
Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services; Financial and Insurance Services; and Public Administration and Safety
STUDY PATHWAYS
Getting the skills you need is simple by studying one of our information technology courses below.
ICT40120 - Certificate IV in Information Technology (Networking)
ICT50220 – Diploma of Information Technology (Back End Web Development)
ICT50220 – Diploma of Information Technology (Advanced Networking)
Cloud Computing Certified Professional
*Sources: payscale.com.au and joboutlook.gov.au – All information is to be used as a guide only, and are accurate at the time of publication.
