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Java Application Developer Jobs in Fort Smith, AR

Java Application Developer information

See Fort Smith, AR salary details

$21

$49

$72

How much do java application developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for java application developer in Fort Smith, AR is $49.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41.06 and $59.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Java Application Developer vs Java Software Engineer?

AspectJava Application DeveloperJava Software Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related field, Java certificationsBachelor's in Computer Science or related field, Java certifications
Work EnvironmentDevelops, tests, and maintains Java applicationsDesigns and implements Java-based solutions, often involved in architecture
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, software firms, enterprise applicationsTech firms, consulting, enterprise software development
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on application development tasksBroader role including system design and architecture

Java Application Developers primarily focus on building, testing, and maintaining Java applications, while Java Software Engineers often have a broader role involving system design and architecture. Both roles require similar credentials and are used across tech and enterprise industries, but their day-to-day responsibilities differ slightly.

What are some common challenges Java application developers face when working on large-scale enterprise projects?

Java Application Developers working on large-scale enterprise projects often encounter challenges such as managing complex codebases, ensuring application scalability, and maintaining robust security practices. Coordinating with cross-functional teams like QA, DevOps, and UI/UX can also present integration and communication hurdles. Staying up-to-date with evolving Java frameworks and best practices is essential to address performance bottlenecks and optimize application efficiency. Proactive problem-solving and effective collaboration are key to overcoming these challenges.

What does a Java application developer do?

A Java Application Developer designs, develops, and maintains software applications using the Java programming language. They are responsible for writing clean, efficient code, debugging and resolving technical issues, and collaborating with other developers, designers, and stakeholders to ensure applications meet user needs. Java Application Developers often work on both frontend and backend components, integrate databases, and ensure the security and scalability of applications. They may also participate in code reviews, testing, and documentation throughout the software development lifecycle.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Java application developer?

To thrive as a Java Application Developer, you need strong proficiency in Java programming, object-oriented design, and a solid understanding of software development principles, typically supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with frameworks like Spring or Hibernate, version control systems such as Git, and experience with build tools and IDEs are highly valued, and certifications like Oracle Certified Professional Java Programmer can be advantageous. Excellent problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and strong teamwork skills set top developers apart. These competencies ensure the delivery of robust, maintainable applications and facilitate collaboration in dynamic development environments.
Infographic showing various Java Application Developer job openings in Fort Smith, AR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,828 per year, or $49.9 per hour.

Manager, Application Development (Application Standards & Training)

ArcBest

Fort Smith, AR • On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Other

Re-posted yesterday


ArcBest rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 360 rated logistics


Job description

Job Description

The Manager, Application Development analyzes, estimates, conducts research, and assists customers in solving specific problems or questions concerning the technology systems under their area of responsibility. This position may lead multi‑person teams, prepare a system definition and determine the steps necessary to design, code, test and implement a software solution to meet their customers' needs, including providing estimates for the different stages of the development project and revising these as additional information becomes available. The Manager, Application Development leads design discussions with other team members, proposes alternative courses of action to help the customers meet their needs, and analyzes and interprets data to present results in a meaningful manner. This position provides additional support by overseeing the completion of responsibilities for an application support area. The Manager, Application Development assists team leaders as needed in the system definition, system design, coding, testing, and implementing of software development solutions designed to meet the customers' needs and if necessary, assists in the training of their customers on how to operate systems in the analyst's area of responsibility. This position maintains communication with management and other team members on the status of the project. The Manager, Application Development provides the customers with exceptional service, and extends to developing an exceptional work team, while ensuring the customers' requirements and internal requirements are satisfied, which must be provided throughout the entire project life cycle. This position's duties also include reporting, career development, performance evaluations, personnel assessments, salary reviews, and schedule management.

Responsibilities
  • Analyze, estimate, advise, counsel, serve, conduct research, guide, and assist customers in specific problems or questions concerning the technology systems under one's area of responsibility.
  • Determine whether a problem exists and if so, formulate and implement a solution for the problem.
  • Follow‑up on solutions implemented and maintain close, regular communications with the key functional department personnel.
  • Assist employees with systems design, system definition, and determine the steps necessary to code, test, and implement software systems to meet the customers' needs.
  • Consult with customers on implementing proposed solutions and plan courses of action to help the customer meet their needs.
  • Provide estimates for the different stages of the software development project, revising these estimates as additional information becomes available.
  • Administer special projects as assigned.
  • Maintain existing systems support as needed, assist employees with estimates, designs, test procedures, and implementation of system enhancements when requested by the customers.
  • Provide solutions for any software problems that may arise, including 24‑hour on‑call support for existing systems.
  • Provide for and manage personnel in the IS area of responsibility, including personnel‑related tasks such as planning, organizing, scheduling, delegating, coordinating, motivating, leading, training, directing, reviewing, and evaluating performance and work assignments.
  • Take an active role in assisting in the new hire recruiting process.
  • Assist employees with questions concerning their responsibility and share technical knowledge.
  • Train customers in specific applications.
  • Prepare, organize, and conduct training classes for employees when needed.
  • Other duties and projects, as needed.
Requirements

Education

  • Bachelor's Degree in a computer related field, preferred
  • Experience will be considered in lieu of formal education

Experience

  • 10+ years software development experience, preferred

Computer Skills

  • A solid understanding of object‑oriented programming with significant hands on experience, preferred
  • Prior training and/or experience in any of the following: COBOL, Object Oriented Programming, HTML, CSS, MVS, Visual Basic, VB Script, Assembler, Client Server VBA, CICS, ZEKE/ZEB Technologies, TSOIISPF/SDSF, COM objects, JCL application design, OLAP - ESSBASE, DB2, Active Server Pages, Java Script, C#, VB.NET, .NET, ASP.NET, Vue.js, SQL
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite

Competencies

  • Decision Making and Critical Thinking
  • Knowledge of Organization
  • Leadership
  • Managing Multiple Priorities
  • Performance ManagementPlanning: Tactical, Strategic
  • Producing Results
  • Stakeholder Focus
Other Details

Work Hours

  • Work hours are flexible Monday - Friday with hours between 6:00 am - 6:00 pm. Occasional irregular hours may be required depending on projects and workload.

Travel Requirements

  • Occasional (25%-50%)

Compensation

  • This is a salary position paid biweekly.
About Us

ArcBest Technologies, ArcBest's tech and innovation team, provides custom‑built solutions and leading‑edge technologies that help our customers successfully navigate the complex supply chain landscape. The team is made up of highly engaged, creative tech and analytics professionals who create smart solutions that help keep the global supply chain moving.

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