Similar to hiring an iOS developer, hiring an Android developer is a long and complex process. With very few available experts on the local market, limited project budget, and the need to scale here and now, it seems like a “mission impossible” kind of endeavor.

And if you’ve already started the development and need to add a person to the team in the middle of the project, things can get even more confusing. 

If you really need to hire a skilled and experienced dedicated Android app developer to join your team but don’t know where to start, this small guide is for you. 

In this article, we’re going to take you all the way through the hiring process, from what qualifications you should look for to where you can find so much-needed Android developers. Let’s get started!

• Is Android Development a Good Career?
• How do I Hire Android Developer?
• How Much Does it Cost to be an Android Developer?
• How Much Does a Freelance Android Developer Make?
• How Much Does it Cost to Hire an App Developer?
• How to Hire Android Developer
• Why Every Business Needs an Android App
• Where Can we Get The Best Android Developer?
• Why Hire an Android Developer From Toogit
• Hire Dedicated Android Developer
• Hire Android App Developers
• Hire Android Developer India
• Android Developer Freelancer Salary
• How to Become a Freelance Android Developer
• Android Developer Skills
• Best Freelance Websites For Android Developers
• How do I get a Free Google Developer Account?
• How do I get a Free Google Play Developer Account?
• Who is The Best Android Developer?

Is Android Development a Good Career?

Absolutely. You can make a very competitive income, and build a very satisfying career as an Android developer. Android is still the most used mobile operating system in the world, and the demand for skilled Android developers remains very high. Do a quick search for “Android” jobs on LinkedIn, and you’re presented with over 268,000 results.

Read Also: Android App Development for Business

By learning Android development, you open yourself up to many career opportunities such as freelancing, becoming an indie developer, or working for high profile companies like Google, Amazon, and Facebook. The demand for native Android developers is still very high, and learning Android development has never been easier thanks to increases in online learning materials.

How do I Hire Android Developer?

You can go about hiring remote Android developers in two ways ‒ use freelance websites or partner up with outstaffing companies. It’s possible to book an individual contractor for a few hours or outsource Android development team for the entire project. Let’s take a closer look at both.

Hiring freelancers 

Hiring freelance contractors is the way to go for many companies. Some of the most popular platforms for that are Upwork, YouTeam, Freelancer.com, Toptal. In a nutshell, they are all the same. Here’s how they work. You go to the website, set up your “client” account, create a job post, wait for the candidates to send you their job applications, and discuss with your preferred developers how you are going to work together.  

Pros of working with freelancers:

• Lower rates;
• Large talent pool; 
• Previous clients’ reviews available; 
• Very good for short-term projects or making minor changes to the existing ones.  

Cons of working with freelancers:

• No quality guarantees;
• Your only protection is the platform’s policy;
• Different time zones;
• Possible language barrier;
• You have to manage everything yourself. 

Hiring Android developers through Ukrainian IT companies

A universally beneficial option for projects of any size and budget is hiring Android developers via Ukrainian IT companies. Outstaffing from Eastern Europe is less expensive than adding more in-house employees, but it is just as reliable.

Pros of outstaffing through IT companies

• Cost-effectiveness; 
• Dedicated manager for each project; 
• Guaranteed expertise and reliability; 
• Great team experience and quality work.

Cons of outstaffing

• Possible language barrier; 
• Different time zones.

You can outsource one developer or the entire team through IT companies. The key is to find software developers and a partner you can trust. Ukraine is a well-known IT hub, so you can be sure that your project is going to be in good hands. All you need is to give out as many details of your project as possible and be willing to collaborate along the process

Indeed, finding a reliable outsourcing company is not an easy task. Visit Clutch, it’s a platform designed to help you get to know your potential partners better and make an informed hiring decision.

How Much Does it Cost to be an Android Developer?

To publish Android apps on Google Play, you’ll need to create a Google Play Developer account.

There is a US$25 one-time registration fee that you can pay with the following credit or debit cards:

• MasterCard
• Visa
• American Express
• Discover (U.S. only)
• Visa Electron (Outside of the U.S. only)

Note: Prepaid cards are not accepted. The types of cards accepted may vary by location.

How Much Does a Freelance Android Developer Make?

The average annual pay for a Freelance Android Developer in the United States is $119,171 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $57.29 an hour. This is the equivalent of $2,292/week or $9,931/month.

While ZipRecruiter is seeing annual salaries as high as $200,000 and as low as $24,000, the majority of Freelance Android Developer salaries currently range between $87,500 (25th percentile) to $151,000 (75th percentile) with top earners (90th percentile) making $175,500 annually across the United States.

The average pay range for a Freelance Android Developer varies greatly (by as much as $63,500), which suggests there may be many opportunities for advancement and increased pay based on skill level, location and years of experience.

How Much Does it Cost to Hire an App Developer?

When it comes to hiring that mobile developer, how much they charge and your project’s budget are probably primary concerns. Whether you’re working with a native operating system or using cross-platform software, starting from scratch or adding new integrations, you’ll need a mobile pro with the right skill set for your particular project. Let’s take a look at the cost factors for hiring a mobile app developer.

1. Your chosen mobile platform—native, web, or hybrid?

Do you need a native app—whether that’s Android, iOS, or Windows—or are you looking to create a hybrid, web, or cross-platform mobile app? This can affect cost for a few reasons. First, creating a native app locks you into that specific platform.

You’re creating a codebase that’s written for that mobile platform, and that mobile platform only. This means that creating a native app for each platform immediately adds to the timeline and budget of a project.

When businesses want apps that can run on multiple platforms, many turn to web, hybrid, or cross-platform options, whether those are web applications that run on any device, or apps created with Xamarin or PhoneGap that compile to run natively on a device.

With one version of your app for all OS’s and devices, you’re saving time and money—and it can be easier to update down the road. But you should account for cross-platform apps being a bit slower, and the app will still need to be optimized for each device despite the promise of building once and running everywhere.

Second, many cross-platform and hybrid options use technologies that many developers already know, like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. This means it can be more affordable to hire developers for the project because they’re not required to be skilled in specific languages like Swift or Kotlin.

2. App project complexity and deliverables.

Laying out what you need from your mobile app will help you determine deliverables, phases, and the amount of time it will take to complete. Mobile app development projects can take anywhere from a week to six months, or more—it will all depend on what you need in terms of design, integrations, and other functionality.

For example, a simple utility app may require no server-side integrations, but a real-time messaging app will need back-end integrations and database support.

Define what the mobile developer will be doing as more simple app development might incur a lower rate and shorter timeline.

Are you converting your mobile app’s code to a newer version, like Swift to Swift 3, or updating an Android app to Kotlin? Are you making a few updates or adding integrations for resubmission? Or, are you starting an app from scratch? Will it handle sensitive data and require complex OAuth customization?

When Determining Scope and Cost

Less Complex	Medium	Large
Existing app: bug fixes, new features, or patches needed	OS Updates	New app
Designer onboard	New version: with patches for resubmission	Requires: API integration
Testing	UI Design Updates	Security
		Database Integration

3. Developer experience, location, and rate

Much has been written about the cost of mobile app development. The cheapest, quickest option on the market today, is probably an app builder site like Buildfire or Apps Builder.

If all you need is a simple layout with minimum functionality, app makers can be very economical with tiered subscription plans ranging from $10-150 per month. However, if you want full customizability, and are serious about incorporating a mobile app into your business, you’re going to want a developer.

Geographic location and local market conditions can also affect a freelance developer’s rates. Freelance Xamarin developers and PhoneGap freelancers charge anywhere between $10-$60 an hour, depending on location. Another factor is a mobile developer’s reputation.

If they are still building their portfolio, they may price more competitively than experienced professionals. What you need will depend on your app’s complexity—finding the right mobile developer should match your goals for your app with their related experience.

Typical Rates Charged by Mobile Developers*

Type of Mobile Developer	Description	Average Hourly Rate
Basic/Intermediate iOS Developer	Beyond fundamentals like Objective C and/or Swift, and the Xcode IDE, also skilled in one or more frameworks and APIs like Foundation, UIKit, and Cocoa.Skills may include familiarity with bu tracking systems like Bugzilla, dependency management tools like CocoaPods, and version control with GitHub – technologies typically learned while working on project teams.	$45-75+
Basic/Intermediate Android Developer	Beyond fundamentals like Java, Android SDK, and the Android Studio IDE, also skilled with one or more frameworks like Ionic, Corona, and Material Foundation. Familiarity with bug tracking systems like Jira, dependency management tools like Gradie, and version control with GitHub – technologies typically learned while working on project teams.	$35-60+
XAMARIN Developer	Programming with C# and the .NET framework, Xamarin or Visual Studio.	$20-50+
PhoneGap Developer	HTML5, CSS, and JavaScript, plus additional tools like jQuery Mobile, Ionic, or BackBone.js. To add native UI features, developers should have knowledge of Swift/Java and the UIs for the respective platforms.	$16-55+

How to Hire Android Developer

Not everyone has the technical skills required to write, compile, and debug Android apps. Typically, you’ll need to hire a professional developer to do that. Finding and hiring developers may be a real challenge for business owners. Here’s a useful guide on how to hire the best Android app developers for your project:

Step 1 – Prepare a technical description of your project

Gather all the tasks and business requirements in one file. While looking for app developers, you can easily share the file with them.

Step 2 – Choose the most suitable model

There are several ways to get your app developed. You can hire an in-house app development team or outsource mobile app development services. Hiring in-house app developers is the most expensive way to get your app developed. For this reason, most business owners choose to outsource. Outsourcing provides access to a better talent pool of developers and allows you to develop your app faster without breaking the bank.

Step 3 – Carry out technical interviews

You should shortlist your developers or outsourcing partners by carrying out technical interviews and checking portfolios and reviews. Sometimes client reviews are the best way to evaluate your prospective outsourcing partner.

Step 4 – Finalize the agreement and sign the contract

Discuss all the issues related to your app development project, set time frames, negotiate the time and format of your daily or weekly meetings, and ask for preliminary estimates of your project. Don’t forget to sign NDAs and discuss security issues.

Why Every Business Needs an Android App

If you are still skeptical and unsure as to why develop an Android app for your startup then, here are some reasons that might convince you to firm your decision:

1. Greater user base

Today, most of the users across the world are using android mobiles. And from what we have read so far, this is surely the truth. The majority of users globally use Android-powered devices as compared to its contenders, which gives you a large pool of potential users. 

Moreover, not having an android app for business means losing limitless business opportunities. No business can afford such a loss, especially when there’s cut-throat competition going on in the market. Thus, it is advisable to look for Android application developers to convert your website into an app.

2. Easy availability of resources

Android application development services are primarily based on the base language Java. The programming language, one taught at the graduate level as a compulsory subject, makes it extremely easy for every android app developer for startup (even freshers) to adopt and learn. 

For a startup, the fact that they have to spend less time and money on developers’ training makes Android the best choice for their app needs. 

3. Open-source platform

Android is an open-source platform. That implies Google doesn’t charge any fee for using this platform. In fact, Google provides Android app development tools and technology for free. Hardware device manufacturers such as Samsung, Xiaomi, etc., all use Android as their default OS. This is because the Android code is open-source and hence free. 

This allows Android to capture the majority of the market. This also acts as a great factor in cutting the cost of the entire project. Although the android app development cost does vary from company to company depending upon multiple factors, the more devices you connect with the operating system, the greater would be the overall cost that your android app startup ideas will have to bear.

4. Compatibility with multiple devices

One of the biggest advantages of choosing an android app over iOS is that there’s no restriction on devices to be used for building an android app. You can build an app on Windows desktop, Mac as well as on Linux system. The fact that Android allows you to expand your brand across devices and systems makes it a go-to platform for all the sectors with interoperability needs. 

As a matter of fact, Google provides application development tools and technologies for all. Moreover, submitting apps to Play Store is easier and the subscription fee of Google – $25 (one time) is much lower than that of iOS – $99 (per annum).

5. Faster deployment

The duration of deployment for iOS apps stretches up to weeks whereas making an android app live on the Play Store takes only a couple of hours.

This is why most of the android app development companies recommend choosing android as a platform. Android app development process must be a fast affair because the sooner the app is developed, the quicker the business will bloom.

6. Build a customizable app

Another interesting fact or rather a primary pro of choosing android application development services is that it allows the android app developers to customize the apps as per the business requirement. This means your business app development will get done with the right requirements which might not have been possible with any other platform.

In a nutshell, no matter whether you are a product-based company or a service-based company, having an Android app for business is a must. It will act as a channel to reach maximum customers and hence improve your sales.

7. Incredible graphics support

Another reason for choosing Android mobile app development for startup is because it offers amazing graphics support by providing incredible features. In fact, this is what makes it a perfect choice for Game app development, and apps that will be more centered around the graphics. The platform also provides support for 2D and 3D graphics.

8. Easy integration

In terms of integration, Android is a great choice indeed. Ask any android app development company and they will tell you how easy it is to integrate third-party APIs with your Android app. The ease, in turn, positively impacts the total cost and time of the app development towards a downward way.

9. Heavy device fragmentation

Though it is true that fragmentation can lead to up to increased development cost and testing time, however, it has its own benefits to offer. The variety of devices that the Android ecosystem is made up of: smartphones, TV, home assistant devices, wearables, etc. inevitably points towards the big market all ripe and ready for you to target with your application. Unlike iOS, your app won’t be limited to just a set of devices.

10. Multiple network distribution

If you look at the advantages of the Android mobile app development for startup, you will find that the apps are not just limited to the Play Store. Meaning, you can publish your app on other app stores as well, namely Samsung Galaxy Store, MI store, and so on.

11. Higher ROI

Since you have such a wide market to target, the return of investment on your android app development for business would be instant and always on a higher end. From the time you publish your app on the store, there is a big pool of potential users you can tap into. All you need to do is devise a robust marketing and promotion strategy and follow best practices to get your app featured on the Play Store – processes that a sound android app development company can help you with. 

12. Greater scalability

This is another strong reason why businesses aim for becoming Android based startups. The platform is not limited to just smartphones, but can also be integrated into devices running on other technologies like IoT, AR, and VR. This provides a larger scope of scalability for businesses. It is this versatility that shows why businesses across the globe are looking for skilled android app development companies for startups.

Though it is true that Android and iOS are tough competition for each other, and deciding which to choose can be difficult since they have their own benefits to offer to businesses. However, even if you choose the benefits of android apps for startups over iOS, you can always try cross-platform development to target multiple platforms for expanding your reach.

Where Can we Get The Best Android Developer?

Android development firms assist with the production of mobile applications that are compatible with Android-based smartphones and tablets. Mobile app developers typically offer services along the entire production cycle including design, building, testing, and release.

Many Android developers also offer services for other operating systems, such as iOS, but some specialize in Android programming. Product and development teams within an organization can work with these services providers to complete individual components of mobile apps or see entire projects through from start to finish.

1. EBS Integrator

EBS Integrator is a software development house, that focuses its energy on delivering outstanding digital experiences for each stakeholder, in an accelerated rhythm. The company powers a full-cycle development approach in delivering Minimum Viable Products (MVPs), Full-Packaged Products, Application Refactoring and Software Redesign services. Each of their projects, feature industry-related consultancy, architecture design, logic implementation, testing, post-launch support (software piloting) as well as ongoing project maintenance.

2. AppsChopper

AppsChopper is a creative app design and development company with offices in New York, Walpole and Boston, providing application design & development services on iOS and Android platforms; for Startups, Enterprises & Partners. Our Service Offerings: – Shaping Mobile Strategy – Designing Beautiful Apps – Engineering World-class Code – Robust Web Apps & Backend – Dedicated Staffing – Marketing your Apps to Audience – Integrating Analytics for Improvising App.

3. Algoworks

Algoworks announced that they are now a Salesforce Gold Consulting Partner and a Salesforce Talent Alliance Member. Algoworks is a B2B IT services provider company that has expertise in key areas of Salesforce CRM and Mobility, including Software Product Engineering.

Being a Salesforce Consulting Partner/ISV Partner and rated 5.0/5.0 on AppExchange, we provide clients with access to our Salesforce experts for their administrative and development needs, be it customizing SFDC to business processes, integrating it with third-party systems, upgrading to lightning experience and Force.com App Development.

4. Mercury Development

Mercury Development offers unparalleled expertise in all aspects of digital and mobile transformation, from strategy and ideation, to development and delivery. We develop for every major mobile platform as well as emerging platforms and web/database projects.

From Startup organizations to Fortune 100 companies, our extensive platform expertise makes us the ideal candidate for multi-platform, cross-platform development and porting projects.

5. Konstant Infosolutions

Konstant Infosolutions is a globally recognized mobile app development company along with a successful work experience in web development. The whole team is focused on one thing: creating world-class digital experiences implementing various cutting-edge technologies like IoT, wearable, enterprise mobility, cloud and mobile solutions that exceed client’s and their customer’s expectations and establish them as category leaders.

With the vision to become the most trusted offshore IT solutions partner for businesses and organizations worldwide, Konstant is continuously adopting new and latest technology trends coming up in iPhone and Android app development and various other verticals.

Having served 18+ years of smart technology, Konstant has expanded globally with its offices in California, Texas and Florida and providing its services in Canada, UK, Saudi Arabia, New York, London, Chicago and all other regions worldwide that outsource IT solutions.

6. Chetu

Chetu is a US-based software development company that provides businesses worldwide with custom technology solutions. As an application development company with over 2,000 skilled software developers, Chetu combines technological expertise, specific domain experience, and passion for excellence to deliver enterprise-grade solutions.

Chetu is a true and seamless backend technology partner, helping your business accelerate the development of desktop, mobile & web-based apps with on-demand developers that focus on moving your business forward.

7. Chop Dawg

Since 2009, we’ve helped launch 350+ next-generation apps for startups, first-time entrepreneurs, growing companies, and non-profits around the world. When it comes to working with Chop Dawg, Think Partner, Not Agency.

Their Focus Includes: Product Strategy Prototyping & Demonstrating User Interface Design App Icon, Logo, & Branding Design iOS App Development Android App Development Web App Development Wearable App Development WordPress Site Development Augmented & Virtual Reality App Development Artificial Intelligence & Chatbot App Development Blockchain, ICO & Cryptocurrency Programming Security, Encryption, & Compliances Mobile Backend Engineering Quality Assurance (QA) & Product Testing App Analytics Integration & Marketing

8. Prismetric

Prismetric is an ISO 9001:2015 Certified Mobile App Development Company having a development center in India with offices in USA, Hong Kong, Brazil and Qatar that offer exceptional applications development for iPhone, iPad and Android devices along with other web services to provide end-to-end solutions.

They have the strength of over 90+ highly skilled and competent mobile app developers and designers working with a sole mindset of customer satisfaction. Since its inception in 2008, the company has always followed a vision to provide customized technology solutions that delight clients and today have turned out to be a leading and reliable App Development service provider.

Their main services include:- – Mobile Application Development (iOS & Android) – Cross-Platform Mobile App Development ​​​​​(React Native, Flutter, Ionic) – IoT App Development – AI and Machine Learning – Responsive Website Development – Ecommerce Web and Mobile App Development – SAP Consulting Services – Big Data – Wearable App Development – Mobile Application Marketing – Mobile Game Development (Unity Platform).

9. Savvy

Savvy is an award-winning creative agency that helps companies design, build, and grow across Android, iOS, and web. We’re humbled to work with household names like Levi’s, Toyota, PBS, NFLPA, and Motley Fool, as well as disruptive, technology-driven companies such as Homesnap, LifeFuels, Pocket Prep, and The Draft Network.

With locations in D.C., San Francisco, Chicago, Seattle, Raleigh, and Philadelphia, we believe we have the best team in the game: a group of passionate, particular, and proven individuals. We hire only the most experienced talent across the U.S. At Savvy, that means you won’t be paying for people to learn on the job or sacrificing quality by using cheap labor. Savvy consists of product managers, designers, developers, growth experts, and even content strategists (including social and video).

10. AltSource

AltSource provides strategic consulting and custom software development services to drive operational efficiency and accelerate growth. Our Product, Engineering, UX, and QA teams collaborate to maximize value throughout the software development lifecycle.

With a deep understanding of their clients’ challenges, we create powerful custom software solutions designed to achieve business goals. Headquartered in Portland, Oregon, AltSource has U.S. offices in Oregon, California, Texas, and Florida and an international office in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Their talented team is made up of 200+ in-house designers, mobile app developers, QA experts, software architects, DevOps engineers, data analysts, and business strategists. Since 2004, AltSouce has helped companies align technology with business goals to create a competitive advantage. AltSource has been recognized on the Inc. 5000 List of Fastest-Growing Private Companies for seven consecutive years.

Why Hire an Android Developer From Toogit

This platform is a popular online freelance platform, Android developers on Toogit are highly skilled, talented, and extremely dedicated to their profession and most of them are specialized in their selective field.

Technology is something that fascinates each person if it is in the form of a mobile app, and Toogit top freelance Android developers are proficient in technology-based projects and enough to deliver something new to business expeditiously.

• Flexible option: Our multiple models are designed to give you the flexibility in hiring your team at your own budget and project requirements.
• Build your own team: Choose from a variety of technologies and create your dream team or your own IT team.
• Transparency at all levels: Options to choose from a pool of talented resources, interviewing them as per your own standards, and hiring the right resource.
• Complete control: Assign tasks at your own will or give control to the team to lead the development.

Hire Dedicated Android Developer

At Toptal for example, they thoroughly screen their dedicated Android developers to ensure they only match you with talent of the highest caliber. Of the more than 100,000 people who apply to join the Toptal network each year, fewer than 3% make the cut.

You’ll work with engineering experts (never generalized recruiters or HR reps) to understand your goals, technical needs, and team dynamics. The end result: expert vetted talent from our network, custom matched to fit your business needs.

Depending on availability and how fast you can progress, you could start working with a dedicated Android developer within 48 hours of signing up.

Hire Android App Developers

When it comes to the development of an app, if you have an idea of something new and exciting and want to make it happen, but maybe you lack the expertise to bring your idea to life; hiring an expert freelancer is your best bet. For this purpose, you can hire a freelancer who can work on your idea and develop an app for you.

You can hire an individual or a team for that purpose from the world’s best freelancing website for android application development known as Freelancer.com. You can find hundreds of the top freelancers around the world who offer their Android app development skills on Freelancer.com at an affordable price. Still not sure who to hire?

The Freelancer Recruiter team can help you find the perfect person for your project! With over 19 million users, you’re sure to find the right person to bring your ideas to fruition.  So, if you’re looking to get an Android app developed, or you need a helping hand with your next Android-related project, simply log onto Freelancer.com, and browse through hundreds of expert freelancers around the world.

Directly hire them through their profiles, or post a project (with a detailed description of your project needs) and then choose from the best bidders, and discuss your project with them directly. Using Freelancer.com is as easy as 1-2-3. Post a project today to find your perfect Android app developer!  

Hire Android Developer India

MindInventory is an evolving Android application development services providing company in India. It has accumulated a talented, experienced, and skilled pool of software engineers, designers, and other related professionals.

Its portfolio is boasting with some more than 500 projects in web and mobile development niches. Therefore, hiring an Android application developers for your dream project may turn into solid reality in the hands of vast Android devices users, which occupying more than 50% space across the world. We have spread our tentacles around the globe, but performing decently in US, Canada, Australia, and in European countries.

Our android app development services include up-to date integrated seamless apps that are highly functional and combines irresistible features to suit your business.

Our android app developers have developed innumerable android applications for the diverse nature of businesses and industries. Therefore, they know the key elements of success for your esteemed projects. Moreover, we have collected all required resources and infrastructure so you can take advantage of it easily.

Android Developer Freelancer Salary

What needs to go into your project, how long will it take, and how much it will cost to hire the right Android developer for the job? Here’s a look at the process and what to expect.

• Will your app require a login? Will it be via email or social profiles? And will users need to create profiles?
• Do you need security, like 2-factor authentication?
• Will your app need to enable in-app purchases, reviews, or direct access to your site?
• How important is design? Do you need an app icon created?

If you have preferences about Android IDEs or programming languages, state those upfront as well. With your project clearly defined, here are a few aspects that can typically affect cost.

1. Project timeline and deliverables.

Laying out what features you need from your app will help you determine deliverables, phases, and the amount of time it will take to complete. Android development projects can take a week, a month, six months, or more.

2. Developer experience & rate

Define what the Android developer will be doing. Are they adding to or updating an existing app? Are they creating an app from scratch? Do you have an existing app that needs some bugs fixed? Do you need your developer to have UI and UX experience, or are they working alongside a designer? How much server-side scripting or database administration experience do they need? The more you require, the more you should be prepared to spend.

Typical Rates Charged by Android Developers*

Type of Android Developer	Description	Average Hourly Rate
Basic Android Developer	Mastery of basic Android development fundamentals which include wireframing and storyboarding, Java, Android SDK, and the Android Studio IDE.	$15-40 +
Intermediate-Advanced Android Developer	Beyond fundamentals, also skilled with one or more frameworks like Ionic, Corona, and Material Foundation. Familiarity with bug tracking system like Jira, dependency management tools like Gradle, and version control with GitHub—technologies typically learned while working on project teams.	$35-75 +
Android Developer and UI/UX Designer in one.	These Android developers can also perform traditional design tasks like high fidelity visual mockups with Photoshop and are well versed in color schemes, typography, and Android Material Design.	$45-100 +

*Reflect rates charged by freelancers on Upwork in North America with over 1,000 hours and 90% success rate.

3. Scope and complexity of the project

The quickest way for a timeline and budget to balloon beyond scope is by not anticipating complexities and challenges. Does your app require complicated API integration? Will it handle sensitive data and require complex OAuth customization?

Defining your Android project upfront will help you more accurately determine time and cost estimates when finding a developer. Bear in mind: an app is never “really done,” and often requires follow-up work to keep it updated with new versions of operating systems and devices, as well as patches and bug fixes.

How to Become a Freelance Android Developer

Demand for mobile app development skills in Android and iOs is high. Demand for quality developers is even higher. Of course you’ll have to start small and take the gigs you can get. But once you get a few projects under your belt, you’ll have ample opportunities for work as a freelance app developer.

Here are 6 tips for landing freelance app developer gigs.

1. Launch your own apps on the Play Store / App Store

The reason for this is twofold:

Demonstrate experience

If you’ve just learned how to develop mobile apps, you don’t have any professional work experience yet for your resume/LinkedIn. Having your own apps on the Play Store and/or App store demonstrates that you have relevant experience for a job, and provides valuable stuff for your resume/social media.

Demonstrate excitement

Most companies, especially startups, like to see that you’re enthusiastic about Android / iOs app development outside of the job. They also want to see that you keep up to date with latest app development trends. Having your own apps on the Google Play / App Store provides a good indication of both.

You don’t need to build the Mona Lisa

In my experience, your app doesn’t have to be grand. It doesn’t even need many users or reviews. Oftentimes HR managers / recruiters just “check the box” that you have apps on the Play Store.

That said, I’d highly recommend releasing apps that provide use to some subset of mobile users. A “Hello World” app has amateur written all over it. Ultimately you’ll still have to show the dev team you’ve got the skills to do the job, so put your skills to work!

2. Your Resume (CV)

Just like any other job, applying for freelance roles requires an up-to-date resume. To be blunt: oftentimes your resume doesn’t even get read, just scanned for keywords. Employers want to know if you can do the job. Therefore your resume should scream “I can do this job.” Here’s how to convey this plain and simple:

List your relevant skills and achievements

A few short bullet points like: You have x amount of apps on the Play Store, experience working with X, Y & Z SDK’s, experience programming in both Java & Kotlin, familiar with SQL, etc.

List your relevant work experience by project

If you don’t have professional full-time or freelance app developer experience, list your own apps as work experience. Remember, it’s all about showing that you can do the job, so if your projects are functional and complete, they can help boost your resume while you’re building professional experience.

If you do have professional experience, I’d suggest you break it down into projects. For example: you worked on Project A for company X from dates Y to Z. This helps highlight your exposure to various technologies, making your resume more robust.

Get those keywords in, make it shine

For each work experience item, provide bullet points (not paragraphs) of the notable technologies used, anything interesting / unique about the project, and any notable experience you gained such as working with an SDK, etc. Remember: keywords.

Secondary resume info

After this you can add previous unrelated work experience, hobbies or whatever else to make you look like a well-rounded person people want to work with. Just remember that this is second priority after all the above.

3. Update your LinkedIn & AngelList

Keep it simple: Copy your CV

We strongly advocate that your LinkedIn profile mirror your CV exactly, and link to companies you’ve worked with before. That also makes it less daunting to fill out, if LinkedIn isn’t “your thing.” A lot of CodingNomads students feel that way about LinkedIn and AngelList. But many of our students also found jobs through these sites. So they really can help, and it really doesn’t take too much time.

Be searchable

Recruiters search LinkedIn for candidates based on profile keywords. List all the technologies you’ve worked with, and ask your network to endorse you for those technologies.

Put your title as “Freelance app developer – seeking opportunities” so that people can find you by title, and see you’re looking for work. Let your network and recruiters know you’re available for work by sending public status updates, and turning on your “Open Candidate” toggle.

4. Upload your CV to every job site you can

Try it – go on a job board, find any freelance app developer role, apply for it by uploading your CV, and you should soon hear from recruiters offering to help you find your next gig. Then find another job board and do it again. Obviously the more experience, projects and technologies (keywords!) that you have listed, the more “boxes you’ll check,” and the more recruiters you’ll hear from.

5. Network

Tapping into your existing network plus expanding your network can definitely increase your opportunities.

Existing Network

For your family, friends, and professional contacts – write up a quick message telling them the type of work you are looking for, and highlight your skills and motivations. Send it to your network, and ask them to pass it along too. Your mobile development skills are in high demand, and you never know who is looking for the skills you have to offer.

How to Build your Network

Now with most meetups happening online, you can join a hackathon, various Facebook communities, or volunteer for a tech event to meet other people in the field. The more people you talk to, the more contacts, ideas and avenues to explore will open up. You can also learn what people are looking for, and if you should study up on certain skills to be a more appealing recruit.

Reach out to people on LinkedIn and AngelList who work for the company you want to work for. Send them the quick message you drafted above. Demonstrate interest in their company/product, and ask if they are looking for a freelance app developer. Ask them if they’ll intro you to the appropriate person. And follow up. You’re offering a valuable service, and the squeaky wheel oftentimes lands the job!

6. Take what you can, but don’t sell yourself short

If you’re just getting started as a freelance app developer, at first you’ll need to take what you can get. It might not be a project you’re interested in, it might not be an ideal location, it might not be ideal pay. But it is a foot in the door, and once you have one gig under your belt it’s wayyyyy easier to get the next one.

All that being said, don’t undercut the market when it comes to your compensation. You have the skills required for the job, or you wouldn’t be close to getting the gig. Don’t let someone value you less than the market rate for an entry-level developer, because you don’t have any “official” experience building apps. If you can do the job, you should get paid the same as anyone else who can do the job.

7. Stand out from the rest

Now that most work takes place online, you may be faced with more competition for the same role. It’s up to you to stand out amongst the other applicants. Consider making a video with your application, or using bold/funny subject lines to catch their attention.

As mentioned, reach out directly on LinkedIn to make a personal connection with someone at the company. Even if these suggestions feel out of your comfort zone a bit, your potential client will notice your extra efforts.

And as always, get very good at your skill, and you’ll have a lot more leverage to take your skills remote.

Android Developer Skills

So what does it take to become an Android developer? We asked some of the brightest developers in our community – here’s what you need to know.

1. Java

Java is the programming language that underpins all Android development. For those who have gained most of their programming experience in languages like JavaScript and Ruby, there can be a learning curve when picking up Java for the first time.

Java, like JavaScript and Ruby, is object-oriented, but it is also stricter about the way it handles data types. Developers have to be much more thoughtful with their code, defining the types of data their applications plan to work with, and more carefully allocating scarce memory resources.

“You can’t afford to have ambiguity in a mobile environment, and Java makes sure that there’s no confusion about what each component of your application is trying to do,” says James Traver, a seasoned Android developer who’s taught the Software Engineering Immersive at GA. “You end up writing less code, but your code is more elegant and precise.”

2. Understanding of XML

XML was created as a standard way to encode data for internet-based applications. It is a structured markup language, sharing many features in common with HTML – you may recognize the angled brackets, the <opening> and </closing> tag types, and the deep nesting of elements.

In short, it allows information to be passed between devices in a way that can be understood consistently. In the Android world, developers use XML to create layouts that serve as the foundational UI definition for Android applications.

Developers can also write Java code that modifies layout elements once the application is already running, in the same way that web developers use JavaScript to modify the elements in their website at runtime. But mastering the basics of XML is an important skill for Android developers.

3. Android SDK

SDK stands for Software Development Kit, which, though it may conjure up images of a briefcase full of spy tools, is actually just a fancy name for a set of pre-packaged code. The Android SDKs are modules of Java code that give developers access to mobile device functions like the camera and accelerometer.

One key component of the Android SDK is a library called Gradle. Let’s say that you want to integrate a social media platform like Facebook with your app. You would download a code library (or SDK) from Facebook, and then tell Gradle that you’re using it, so that when your application compiles, your code stays well organized.

New Android developers will spend much of their time discovering how the various SDKs for Android can be pieced together in different ways to put together an application. While this will take time, each Android SDK comes with many examples that can be found in the official documentation, making it easy to understand what each package does and how to plug it into your app.

4. Android Studio

The integrated development environment (IDE) of choice for Android developers is called Android Studio. Android Studio is built on top of the well-respected IntelliJ IDE, and it comes with great out-of-the-box support for many of the most common Android SDKs. Android Studio also features many of the capabilities developers expect of a full-featured IDE. Code completion helps make auto-complete suggestions as you type.

Code debuggers let you step through your code to identify the source of errors. There are even more advanced tools like memory and CPU monitors, helping developers make sure their code will maintain high performance on a mobile device. Android Studio is a must-have for both the beginner and experienced Android developer.

5. APIs

As an Android app developer, you’ll likely want to interact with many other services. For example, you may want to allow your users to access a calendar from a third party service, or check the stock market. Many companies offer APIs, and will tell you exactly how to query them for data in a consistent, secure way. While you’re free to interact with any existing API, Google also makes it very easy to connect to their own APIs from your Android app.

For example, you can easily use Google APIs to monitor the location of your users, let them search for local places, and reference a map from within your application. You’ll want to get comfortable exploring the nuances of different APIs, and recognize that no two APIs are exactly alike.

6. Databases

If your app handles large amounts of data, most of it probably won’t live on your device at any given time. Instead, your app will likely interact with a database living outside of your phone. Cloud services like Firebase or Parse provide simple APIs to store data in the cloud and make it available across devices.

These platforms also often provide Java libraries that you can plug into your app, making it easy to cache some of the data on the user’s device. This syncing of data between local storage and remote database is important if you want to let users use the app when they’re offline.

Another way to store data locally is through Android’s built-in support for using SQL to interact with a SQLite database. However you choose to handle data in your application, you’ll need to explore and understand how databases work, and the ways to query that data to use it in your app.

7. Material Design

In contrast to competitors like Apple, Google has not historically maintained a consistent design aesthetic across their products. In recent years, that has changed. Google has released a set of forward-thinking interface guidelines and standards called Material Design, that are being rolled out across all of their products.

These standards include tips for how to layer various elements on the screen and use specific styles like drop shadows. You’ve probably seen Material Design in real life if you’ve used the new Google Drive app or the new Inbox by Gmail application on mobile.

While not mandatory, Google recommends that Android developers use these guidelines as a foundation for their own user interfaces. The documentation online provides a great foundational understanding of Material Design principles.

Best Freelance Websites For Android Developers

1. Toptal

Toptal is a talent matching service, initially created with tech talent in mind. Although it has expanded its talent pool to include designers and finance experts, the company’s focus remains on its freelance development talent. If you want to be sure that an Android developer is up to the job, hiring a developer from Toptal is likely your best option.

Why? Toptal hosts a broad developer base of software developers and mobile app developers, including Android developers. Their trademark system for vetting talent allows only the best applicants to become a part of their software development community.

According to Toptal, only 3 percent of applicants make it through their technical mobile app development tests and comprehensive vetting process. If you’re interested in multiple Android app developers, they can create a development team specifically dedicated to your app project, or you can hire full-time or part-time Android developers.

2. Authentic Jobs

Authentic Jobs is a job board for some of the leading web, design, and creative talent on the web. This site has been steadily rising in popularity since its inception.

As Android development often involves both creative and technical aspects, use Authentic Jobs to begin your search for application development. A large portion of their job board is populated with listings of Android, web, and mobile developer positions, which are likely similar to your own needs.

Authentic Jobs also allows for posting developer positions remote or local, so you are not necessarily limited to remote employees or freelancers.

3. Hired

Hired helps employers easily find software engineers and developers for their development teams. Use Hired’s pipeline to find custom matches for mobile app development. You can create a company profile, search for candidates using their search algorithm, and request interviews with candidates for Android app development.

What do we love most about Hired? It’s great for finding specialized Android developers who are actively searching for new opportunities, have relevant experience, and might even be located in your area. Hired will also help you streamline project management and client experience. If needed, you will also find other experienced software developers for PHP, Python, Java, and more.

4. GitHub Jobs

Do you feel like you are spending too much time perusing large job boards? Perhaps you’ll have far better luck with job boards geared toward tech talent, software developers, and Android app programmers.

GitHub has a massive developer community as it’s one of the largest open-source online repositories for coders with years of experience in multiple programming languages. For a relatively small fee, you can post an Android developer job listing and gain exposure to GitHub’s developer community.

5. Stack Overflow

Stack Overflow has an online community that rivals most. Arguably, it’s one of the largest and trusted communities of software developers and mobile app developers on the web. Stack Overflow is often used as a resource for developers of all levels, novice to expert, seeking to learn more about coding.

Their job board, like GitHub’s, allows for an incredible amount of exposure to dedicated Android developers around the world who are dedicated to mobile development.

6. Upwork

If recruiting services and job boards aren’t your first choice, you might want to consider a freelance marketplace like Upwork to find Android programmers.

Upwork has one of the largest marketplaces with millions of registered freelancers. Use this platform to your advantage by hiring either contractors for a few simple coding tasks or begin a long-term relationship with a series of complex Android projects. If you like the idea of finding, interviewing, and managing freelancers, Upwork’s marketplace will likely meet your needs.

7. People Per Hour

People Per Hour is a freelance marketplace akin to Upwork. What makes People Per Hour unique is that it holds contests and allows Freelancers to post their job listings called hourlies.

People Per Hour has millions of registered members, thousands of confirmed hours, and many successful stories from freelancers and entrepreneurs alike. The ease of posting jobs, contacting freelancers, and paying for hours worked makes People Per Hour a potentially perfect choice for employers interested in searching for their own freelance mobile app developers.

Additionally, with People Per Hour, you can connect with local freelancers, so you aren’t necessarily limited to remote talent.

8. Dice

Dice is one of the leading databases for technology professionals, managing millions of registered profiles in the United States. The platform helps technology professionals manage their careers, and employers connect with highly skilled tech talent from across the country.

Dice will provide you with insights, data, and career opportunities for technology professionals while putting state-of-the-art tools in the hands of recruiters and employers seeking tech talent.

9. Gun.io

Gun.io has one of the fastest-growing communities of developers on the web of dedicated professionals committed to developing mobile applications. Gun.io vets their talent and ensures that their freelancers are committed to every project.

Every employer is connected with a VP, instead of a sales representative, and freelancers are provided with the resources to succeed.

What do we find most alluring about this network? Gun.io manages and replaces talent – with no risk to you – and back hours worked with a money-back guarantee.

10. Guru

Guru has a large global network of freelancers. Use this site to easily explore the profiles of gurus, propose projects, and pay your hired talent with their secure SafePay system.

Guru’s freelance network hosts different types of professionals, including Android developers. Like with Upwork and People Per Hour, you’ll be able to narrow your search yourself. Also, vetting and interviewing will be up to you.

11. Freelancer

Freelancer is a marketplace with a large number of registered users and total posted jobs. Android development is a popular search category on Freelancer. You will be able to browse through their pool of Android freelancer profiles, vet and interview candidates yourself, and manage payments yourself. If you’re looking for an affordable option, Freelancer might be a solution worth exploring.

12. Android Jobs

At present, there aren’t too many job boards solely devoted to Android developer positions. Android Jobs is one of the largest and most prominent Google/Android-related job boards on the web. Why use their services? Android-specific job sites help you pinpoint some of the most established Android developers available.

How do I get a Free Google Developer Account?

You can upload your application to other app stores that are free, one is amazon app store there are may others, you can upload there and test your applications it can be used by anyone, they can download it, its just that your app will not be on the google play. otherwise it can be used by the android developer.

You can upload your app to their play store account and later buy that account if you get some earnings.

But still, it’ll be best if you buy your own account so that later when you are earning huge, you do not have account conflicts as the owner can remove your app.

The Google Play Developer Console is a platform where application developers can showcase their products. It requires a mandatory $25 for one-time registration. Think of it, as a lease to a market store. Steps for registration (Get Started with Publishing) are as follows:

1. Visit the Google Play Developer Console
2. Enter basic information about your developer identity — name, email address, and so on. You can modify this information later.
3. Read and accept the Developer Distribution Agreement for your country or region. Note that apps and store listings that you publish on Google Play must comply with the Developer Program Policies and US export law.
4. Pay a $25 USD registration fee using Google payments. If you don’t have a Google payments account, you can quickly set one up during the process.
5. When your registration is verified, you’ll be notified at the email address you entered during registration

How do I get a Free Google Play Developer Account?

The Google Play Developer account is what gives you the ability to make your app available on the Play Store for Android users. Due to Google’s guidelines and policies, you are required to setup your own developer account for your app to be published.

The good news, however, is that because the app will exist under your account, you will have more control over it and it will maintain your business’ branding on the Google Play Store listing.

Now, let’s get on to the steps for how to create an account.

Step 1: Upgrade your account
Before creating your Google Play Developer Account, we suggest upgrading your account. You can do so by clicking on the green Upgrade button in the top right-hand corner.

Step 2: Go to Settings >> Publishing Info
Before upgrading, the Publishing Info page was only a single text box. Now the rest of your Publishing Info page should be populated, including the Android Specific Publishing Information.

Step 3: Click on the link to open a new Google Play Developer account on the Screen or by Clicking Here to Open a new Google Developer Account.

Step 4: Follow the steps on the next page to register for a publishing account,

Step 5: Make sure to read this screen carefully. We’d like to emphasize two parts:

Make sure the account shown here is the one that you’d like to use to sign up for the Google Play Developer account. This email will be the one linked to your account and receive updates on your app, so make sure that it is the correct one. If this app is tied to an organization, we highly recommend that you use an email associated with that organization and not your personal account.

Read Also: How Can Business Get Competitive Edge with the Help of Mobile Apps?

Be sure to read Google’s distribution agreement document and then check the box in order to move forward.

Click “Continue to Payment”

Step 6: Enter your credit card information to pay the one-time $25 signup fee.
Then click Pay.

Then click Continue Registration to finish up your Payment and continue to your Google account.

Step 7: Complete Your Account Details

You’ve now successfully created a Google Play Developer account! Please note that it may take Google up to 48 hours to process your payment. Until Google has processed your payment, then we will be unable to publish your app.

Who is The Best Android Developer?

This list has a lot of Google developer experts and mobile Java experts who are sure to keep you up to date on skills and tools once you start following them. Here are the 10 Android experts you should follow.

1. Chiu-Ki Chan

After 6-plus years as a software engineer at Google and more than a year developing at two startups, Chiu-Ki Chan now runs her own mobile development company, Square Island. Chan is a public speaker, a Pluralsight course author, and teaches in Caster.io videos. She is also the co-creator of Android Dialogs and runs the 360|AnDev conference.

2. Jake Wharton

Jake Wharton was there at the beginning of Android, coding for the platform before he even knew that it would dominate the mobile landscape and end Blackberry’s dominance. He’s been an Android engineer at Square for more than four years, and he’s a major contributor to RxJava (reactive extensions for the JVM) and RxAndroid (RxJava bindings for Android). 

3. Donn Felker

Donn Felker is a co-host of the Fragmented Podcast and the founder of Caster IO—a bite-sized video lessons site for Android development (like RailsCasts for Android). He’s also the author of Android Application Development for Dummies, Android Tablet Application Development for Dummies, and he contributed a chapter to Android Developer Tools.

4. Kaushik Gopal

Kaushik Gopal is the other co-host of Fragmented Podcast. He currently works as a senior Android engineer at Instacart, and maintains an Android NTP time library, open-sourced by Instacart, called truetime-android.

5. Annyce Davis

Annyce Davis develops for Off Grid Electric, a company on a mission to power homes across rural Africa with solar energy. She has over a decade of development experience and has been an Android developer for 5 years.  Davis specializes in building resilient online-offline app experiences, and she’s an instructor on Caster IO.

6. Kristin Marsicano

Kristin Marsicano is an Android developer and senior instructor at Big Nerd Ranch, a highly successful developer training company. She has also co-authored the Big Nerd Ranch Guide to Android Programming, and is a published academic researcher in the field of human-computer interaction. She also participates in Google’s exploration of a visual programming language to be used in Computer Science education.

7. Nick Butcher

Android design and developer advocate Nick Butcher has spoken at countless mobile conferences and events on behalf of Google and the Android community. He has also written an Android app that aggregates design news and inspiration while also serving as a perfect example of material design techniques.

8. Reto Meier

Reto Meier is an Android developer advocate at Google. Along with conference speaking, Meier is known for his Professional Android Application Development book series. He is also a lecturer in Google’s official Android fundamentals course on Udacity.

9. Roman Nurik

Roman Nurik is an Android design advocate who works on Firebase, a mobile development platform and backend from Google. Check out his design portfolio.

10. Huyen Tue Dao

Huyen Tue Dao works for Trello as an Android developer. She’s the co-creator of Android Dialogs and speaks at conferences and meet-ups. She’s also an instructor on Caster IO.

Next Step?

There are places you can look for remote gigs like AngelList, LinkedIn Jobs, RemoteOK, WeWorkRemotely, YunoJuno, Jobspresso, and Airtasker, just to name a few. Take a look at these job postings. If you don’t yet have the skills to qualify, try learning them and building them into your next project!

You can also create a profile and search for jobs on popular freelance websites like Upwork.