Modern tech stacks require application programming interface (API) connections to connect two or more computer programs. Common examples of APIs include "Pay with PayPal" and "Login Using Facebook or Google."
If you need to create custom APIs, consider hiring an experienced API developer. The right API developer can transform your ideas into APIs and products that align with your business needs. They can also ensure that APIs provide optimal design and developer experiences.
This article explains how to write a compelling job description to help you attract and retain the best API developer for your team.
API Developer Job Description Template
Creating an API developer job description can be daunting, especially if you're new to hiring these developers; use this job posting template to hire a qualified API developer regardless of your technical knowledge.
Job Overview
Start with an overview of the API developer role. Summarize what makes your position different from other API developer roles, and briefly touch on the candidate's responsibilities.
Here's a sample job overview:
[Company name] is a cutting-edge tech company in [city, state]. Founded in [year], we specialize in [specialties] and aim to [company's purpose or mission statement]. We are interested in hiring a [level, i.e., entry-level or senior] API developer with [brief list of skills]. Candidates should have a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field, an eye for detail, and strong teamwork and leadership skills. They should also have at least [number] years of professional API development experience.
API Developer Responsibilities
API developer responsibilities will vary depending on the industry and employer, but most companies hire API developers to complete the following tasks:
- Design and implement highly interactive, scalable web apps and prototypes
- Build and modify high-performance APIs and programs using Python and Amazon Web Services (AWS)
- Implement APIs based on architecture frameworks and guidelines
- Prepare functional specifications and test data
- Collaborate with external and internal teams to troubleshoot performance and functional issues
- Work with DevOps engineers to integrate new code into existing continuous integration (CI) and continuous delivery/deployment (CD) pipelines
- Deliver industry-leading results on time with minimal supervision
API Developer Qualifications
Most employers require API developers to have the following qualifications:
- At least a bachelor's or master's degree in computer science, engineering, or information technology
- At least three to five years of experience in API development and implementation
API Developer Skills
Besides listing the necessary qualifications, you should also indicate the position's required hard and soft skills. Soft skills are communication skills that enhance new hires' abilities to interact harmoniously with team members. Hires can also use soft skills to finish tasks effectively and efficiently. On the other hand, hard or technical skills stem from specialized training, including the skills, abilities, knowledge, and capabilities that well-trained hires use to perform expert tasks.
Soft Skills:
API developers should have comprehensive soft skills, including the following:
- Leadership skills
- Mentorship skills (in the case of mid-level and senior API developers)
- An eye for detail
- Organization and time-management skills
- Compassion
- Flexibility
- Creativity
Hard Skills:
API developers should have comprehensive hard skills, including the following:
- Experience designing and implementing APIs
- Familiarity with cross-platform development
- Front-end development
- Knowledge of multiple coding languages
Technical Skills:
API developers should have comprehensive technical skills, including the following:
- Knowledge of API orchestration (the ability to develop multiple API code lines simultaneously and make them work together)
- Understanding of service-oriented architecture (SOA)
- Proficiency with common API development tools, including J2EE, JUnit, Makefile, TortoiseSVN, JSON, PHP, Apache JMeter, and Tomcat
Compensation & Benefits
Your job description should also list the role's salary range and employee benefits. Remember to tailor this section according to the level of experience you're looking for. Mid-level and senior API developers have higher salaries than entry-level or junior colleagues.
Consider including competitive benefits for your position. Talented API developers are attracted to companies with a comprehensive benefits package, including vacation time, a dog-friendly office, a hybrid or remote work model, and health insurance.
Company Information
Include a brief paragraph summarizing your company's values and mission statement. Be as specific as possible and show candidates what makes you unique — high-quality candidates want to work for a company that aligns with their values and priorities.
Hire API Developers With Revelo
Sourcing, vetting, and hiring API developers can be challenging, especially if you have limited technical knowledge or time, or lack a robust HR department.
Revelo can help you find talent by matching you with a highly qualified API developer on our platform. Our developers are in U.S. time zones and have been rigorously vetted for soft skills, technical skills, and English proficiency. We can also support you by assisting with benefits administration, payroll, and local compliance laws, so you can focus on growing your business.
Interested in experiencing the Revelo difference? Hire top-tier talent today.
