What Is a Remote Developer and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

Remote developers, or remote software developers, design and create computer software programs and applications for their employer or client. Unlike in-house developers, remote developers work from home or another location outside of the office. As a remote developer, you discuss the kind of program you need to create, making sure to clarify with your department or with your client what they need in their application. You may develop an entirely new program or improve an existing one. Remote developers are responsible for a program’s overall function, and they design precise workflow charts that explain to programmers what code is needed for different aspects of the program. Remote developers may also design tests and protocols for the QA department to follow when they are testing the application.

There are several educational paths you can take to become a developer. Most of the current software developers in the industry hold a bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, mathematics, or a related field. Some have also earned a master's degree. But there is a growing number of developers who have learned the trade without a degree; they may have completed coding bootcamps or attended a certificate program at a vocational school. Others have just learned to code on their own through online resources. While many employers still prefer candidates to have a degree, the most important attribute they look for is the ability to adjust to the changing technological landscape and stay current with new updates.