10 Skills That Will Fetch You A Full-Stack Java Developer Job

10 Defining Skills For Full-Stack Java Developers

In the modern job market, if you are a specialist in your field, with mastery over a particular technical aspect, you have a distinctive lead over your peers. This stands true for Full Stack Java developers who have become indispensable for web development. As technology grows and evolves, companies are looking out for talented Full Stack developers

Full Stack Java Developer: Defining The Job & The Expertise It Entails

To understand the role of a Full Stack Java Developer, we must first understand that there are two components to web development:

The frontend development
The backend development

The front end deals with what's visible to the end-user, and the back end deals with all the technicalities that deal with how the system functions. Most Java jobs in USA look for Full Stack developers who have the combined expertise to deal with both the frontend and backend development, making them unique in the job market.

This distinction drives demand as more businesses see Full Stack developers as experts with a comprehensive working knowledge of the entire stack. Large and small companies highly value them for their broad skill set and extensive knowledge base.

As a prospective candidate for this role, you must possess a year of experience in software development and gain relevant skills through certified courses. As a Full Stack Java Developer, your title and certificates will add immense value to your resume. However, you also need some unique skills to grab the best job offer and excel in your role as a Full Stack Java developer.

Let's unpack the list of skills that will distinguish you from other developers.

10 Non-Negotiable Skills That Make You The Best Full Stack Developer

1. HTML/CSS

HTML or Hypertext Markup Language is a top prerequisite for all Java developers. HTML is used for adding web content and for defining webpage structure. Proficiency in CSS or Cascading Style Sheets goes along with HTML because it plays an instrumental role in presenting the HTML elements. There's a reason HTML, and CSS always go together. These frontend languages define the look and feel of the website, which is vital to attract visitors. Therefore, HTML and CSS top the list of skills for Full Stack developers for interactive and engaging frontend development.

2. DevOps Tools

The modern Full Stack developer needs to be skilled in DevOps tools like Jenkins, Kubernetes, Docker, Ansible, Maven, and AWS. And if you are a senior developer responsible for creating coding practices, guidelines, and building scripts, you ought not to miss out on DevOps. Whatever your job role, a basic knowledge of Continuous Integration and Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) is a must-have.

3. JavaScript

Knowledge of JavaScript is mandatory for Java developers. Full Stack developers must have a sound understanding of its fundamental concept. But that alone is not enough.

Make sure you are familiar with JavaScript features, functions, event delegation, prototypes, and closures. Furthermore, you should keep an eye on new tools and frameworks launched periodically. Also, do not forget to add the skills to use DOM and JSON to this list.

4. Unit Testing Skills

Your skills in unit testing are what define you as an expert Java developer. Your coding and testing abilities should showcase that you are a developer who cannot be missed out on. There are several tools for unit testing, automation testing, and integration testing, that are now available for Java developers. Take time to familiarize yourself with these trending testing practices. If you are a newbie to the Java world, JUnit is the best option to learn to test.

5. Backend Languages

To qualify as a proper Full Stack developer, you need to know backend programming languages. Java is the most popular of these languages, and has been used in web and mobile applications for backend development. However, there is a long list of backend languages you can learn through full-stack development courses. But, you should be well-versed with the languages listed below anyway:

Python- Highly popular for its extensive assortment of libraries and frameworks.
Ruby- Ideal for backend development with its documentation and dependencies.
PHP- works seamlessly on Windows, Unix, and macOS, which makes it a popular choice.

6. Software Architecture and Design

There is no software development process without software design and web architecture. Therefore, you cannot afford to overlook this skill requisite. As a Full Stack Java developer, you need to know the intricacies of the application design and architecture to develop a software from scratch.

These are skills that will help you analyze web development problems and decide on the right technology stack. In addition to structuring codes and categorizing data, you should also demonstrate exceptional computational skills.

7. Basic Design Skills

The knowledge of fundamental design skills, principles, prototypes, UI, UX design, and scalability are basic prerequisites for every Full Stack developer. You will also need a grip over the frontend design to enhance the appeal of a website.

8. Database Knowledge

As a Full Stack developer, your employer will expect you to be adept in relational databases, database storage, and management. Since the role calls for handling aspects related to website data, you also need to know how to create and manage database queries. Your other skills in database storage include proficiency in SQL databases, web storage, and the aspects of relational and non-relational data.

9. HTTP and REST

Developers must master both HTTP and REST since they are vital for Full Stack development. HTTP or Hypertext Transfer Protocol is used to create a communication channel with the client. REST or Representational State Transfer is an interface between systems that behaves like a translator between the two ends of web development. Therefore, knowledge of both HTTP and REST are necessary requisites.

10. APIs and Libraries

Given Java's popularity as the most reliable programming language, there are thousands of libraries and Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) to help you with web development. These APIs and libraries form a major part of the Java ecosystem. Although it is impossible to master them all, you can make quite an impression by mastering APIs like GSon, Jackson, Xerces, JAXB, etc. Knowledge of unit test libraries like Mockito and JUnit is an added advantage.

There is one major skill requirement for all aspiring Full Stack developers- your soft skills. This is a job that calls for a perfect blend of technical knowledge and soft skills such as:

Communication skills
An eye for detail
Time management skills
Analytical skills
Creative vision

Before We Conclude

Many organizations offering IT jobs in South Carolina, seek skilled Full Stack developers who can multitask with various roles and work simultaneously in various domains. Recruiters see it as an opportunity to narrow down their focus and hire that one person who can do the job of multiple people. When Full Stack developers are entrusted with the responsibility, it is easier to manage the project.

This explains why the demand for skilled Full-Stack developers is at an all-time high. So, hone your skills and grab the most rewarding job as a qualified Full Stack developer!