What Is a Mobile Developer and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

A mobile developer is involved in app development for smartphone and mobile applications. Your job duties include creating a detailed app development plan, writing source code, and testing finished builds. Exact responsibilities may vary depending on app type, platform, your company, and the industry. The career requires you have excellent communication skills, as you collaborate with a team of other developers on a daily basis. Most mobile developers have at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science.

Mobile developers work as part of an app development team to create new software for mobile devices. You must have extensive experience with computer programming, especially writing, editing, and implementing source code for a variety of applications. Additional qualifications include postsecondary education in computer science, typically a bachelor’s or master’s degree, as well as work experience using common programming languages. Internship opportunities are often available to students and can help you build a portfolio of work. For first-time job searchers, a portfolio of personal work can help set you ahead of other candidates. Mobile developers need strong analytical, communication, and technical skills to excel in the career.