IT developer (m/f/x).

Your tasks within the company are particularly varied: 

• identify and analyse the needs of the users of the computer tool to be developed
• define the possible development options in accordance with the specifications
• to produce lines of code for programming software, websites, modules, or applications
• create a beta version of the product used for testing purposes
• manage and adapt technical solutions during the development of features for the software, website, or application
• prepare the documentation regarding further developments and the deployment to production
• ensure compliance with standard practices in seo (search engine optimisation), marketing, or responsive design
• ensure compliance with it laws, particularly the gdpr (general data protection regulation)
• set up a series of tests after the launch to verify that the solution is working properly
• assist in the design of tools and methods specific to the technical environment
• manage the maintenance of the various solutions developed
• correct the issues with usability or ergonomics reported by users
• taking responsibility for training users who operate the tool as part of their work

Your activity largely depends on the company or institution that employs you. In a business with no connection to IT, your role involves developing internal solutions (such as websites or customised software) for that organisation. You may work on their premises or remotely. If your employer is a software publisher, you also work either at the office or from home, and you may occasionally visit clients. If you are recruited by an IT services company (formerly known as an IT consulting firm), your position is usually outsourced to the client’s site. In the public sector, you work within a specialised department that manages all aspects of the organisation’s IT infrastructure.

According to your employer, you might have colleagues who are graphic designers, web designers, or even web project managers. You could also work alongside integrators and other specialists, such as SEO consultants and UX/UI designers (user experience, user interface).

The vast majority of companies seeking IT developers hire on permanent contracts (indefinite-term employment) or through subcontracting. The work is carried out full-time during the week. The working hours typically amount to 8 hours per day. This role may require you to work additional hours depending on the tasks, their complexity, or urgency. Extended hours are sometimes necessary to meet project deadlines. Certain technical issues (system failures, security breaches, hacking, software bugs) can seriously compromise the security of the company or its clients. These situations can also lead to changes in the work schedule.

The role of a computer developer is often a stepping stone to many other positions after several years of experience. The most likely progression is to become a project manager, responsible for developing IT solutions for the company or its clients. A managerial role such as a technology lead (tech lead) is also a possibility: they oversee the team and liaise with stakeholders involved in the project. Another option is to attain a status as a technical IT expert or web consultant, providing specialised input on projects that require a high level of expertise. There is also the profession of web architect, another specialist responsible for creating and evolving the technical framework of an application or website.

The choice of operating system depends on the programming languages used and the purpose of the programmes to be developed. The preference between a desktop or a laptop, ideally equipped with a numeric keypad and a mouse, depends on your working habits. When selecting your machine, ensure it has sufficient storage, a capable processor, enough RAM, and a graphics card suitable for your activities. Purchasing a second, or even a third, monitor is recommended, as is a tablet or even a virtual reality headset for game design.

There are many free online resources and training courses available on the internet to get started in this profession without being employed. Many developers have started out as freelancers, building their portfolios before applying for jobs. Recruiters are open to this approach: they look for enthusiasm for programming, the candidate’s motivation, and their achievements.

The growth of digital across all sectors is creating significant demand for programming skills. Careers in IT such as programming, security, networking, and data management are highly sought after. This is especially true for roles like engineers and software developers: the number of positions is expected to increase by 26% by 2030. Many companies are actively recruiting to fill upcoming retirements, and some are even providing in-house training to develop talent.

Python is currently the most widely used language in the field of machine learning and data science. JavaScript is ideal for creating dynamic content and animating images. Java is the language of mobile applications. R is highly popular in data science for building statistical models and developing algorithms.

It requires a lot of personal investment and patience. Your motivation, curiosity, and interest in programming and the web are key to developing solid skills in the field. Coding isn’t something you can do on the fly: you need to learn, test, make mistakes, and learn from them.

To apply for an IT developer position, it's simple: create a Randstad account, browse the job listings in your area, then send us your CV and cover letter.