What to expect as a junior developer: from the interview process to everyday job role

What to Expect as a Junior Developer: From the Interview Process to Everyday Job Role

Embarking on a career as a Junior Developer is an exciting journey filled with opportunities for growth and learning. This guide helps you get ready for your first job. It explains the interview process. It also covers daily tasks and extra skills that can improve your chances as a candidate.

The interview process

1. Application and screening

Your journey begins with submitting your CV and cover letter. Tailor your application to highlight relevant projects, internships, and any technical skills. Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen CVs. Ensure your documents include keywords from the job description.

2. Technical assessment

Once your application passes the initial screening, you'll likely face a technical assessment. This could be a coding test or a take-home project designed to evaluate your problem-solving abilities and coding skills. Common platforms for these assessments include HackerRank and Codility.

3. Technical interview

If you pass the assessment, you’ll be invited to a technical interview. Here, you might be asked to solve problems on a whiteboard or using an online coding environment. The focus is on your coding logic, problem-solving skills, and understanding of algorithms and data structures. Make sure you are prepared for your interview, do as much research and practice as possible.

4. Behavioral interview

In addition to technical skills, employers assess your fit within the team and company culture. Expect questions about how you handle challenges, work in teams, and approach problem-solving. Prepare to discuss your previous projects and experiences, even if they are academic or personal. You should also consider asking your own questions to see if the role and company are a good fit for you.

5. Final round and offer

If you succeed in both technical and behavioural interviews, you may be invited for a final round. This could involve meeting with potential team members or discussing your potential role and career development with HR. Once selected, you’ll receive an offer, which will detail your salary, benefits, and other employment terms.

Everyday responsibilities

1. Coding and development

As a Junior Developer, your primary responsibility is to write code. You’ll work on implementing features, fixing bugs, and contributing to various parts of the codebase. Expect to collaborate closely with senior developers and team members to understand requirements and deliver quality solutions.

2. Learning and development

Continuous learning is crucial. You’ll need to stay updated with the latest technologies, tools, and best practices. On-the-job training, mentorship, and self-study will be essential for your growth.

3. Code reviews

You’ll participate in code reviews, both giving and receiving feedback. This process helps ensure code quality and provides learning opportunities to improve your coding skills and understanding of best practices.

4. Documentation

Documenting your code and processes is important for maintainability. You’ll be responsible for writing clear and concise documentation to help other developers understand and work with your code.

5. Meetings and collaboration

You’ll attend team meetings to discuss progress, plan tasks, and address any issues. Collaboration with other developers, designers, and stakeholders is key to ensuring the project’s success.

Extra qualifications to stand out

1. Additional certifications

While a degree in Computer Science or a related field is often required, additional certifications can enhance your CV. Consider certifications in popular technologies like AWS, Azure, or specific programming languages.

2. Open source contributions

Contributing to open-source projects demonstrates your commitment to coding and allows you to work on diverse projects. It’s a great way to build your portfolio and gain practical experience.

3. Personal projects

Working on personal or freelance projects showcases your initiative and passion. Build and share projects that highlight your skills and creativity. Platforms like GitHub are excellent for showcasing your work.

4. Advanced technical skills

Familiarise yourself with advanced topics such as cloud computing, DevOps practices, or specific frameworks relevant to your industry. Mastering these can set you apart from other candidates.

5. Soft skills

Strong communication skills, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities are essential. Being able to effectively collaborate and articulate your ideas can make you a more valuable team member.

Starting your career as a Junior Developer is a thrilling opportunity to grow and learn in the tech industry. Prepare thoroughly for the interview process, understand your day-to-day responsibilities, and pursue additional qualifications. This way you can position yourself for success and stand out in the competitive job market.