Application Developer
Create software applications for specific platforms including mobile, desktop, and web. Focus on user experience and functionality to solve real-world problems.
What you need to know
Overview
Application developers design, build, and maintain software applications for various platforms. They create mobile apps for iOS and Android, desktop applications for Windows and Mac, and web-based applications. Unlike general software developers, application developers typically specialize in specific platforms or types of applications.
Ireland's app development sector is thriving, with over 700 mobile app companies employing thousands of developers. Irish app developers have created globally successful applications used by millions worldwide, from fintech apps to health and wellness platforms.
Specializations include mobile app development (iOS/Android), desktop application development, cross-platform development, and progressive web apps (PWAs).
What do application developers do?
Application developers typically work full-time, with flexibility for remote work increasingly common in Ireland. Project deadlines and app releases may require additional hours.
Some of the things an application developer might do:
- Design and develop applications for mobile, desktop, or web platforms
- Create intuitive user interfaces and engaging user experiences
- Write clean, efficient code using platform-specific languages
- Integrate APIs, databases, and third-party services
- Test applications across different devices and screen sizes
- Debug and resolve performance issues
- Implement security features to protect user data
- Publish apps to app stores (Apple App Store, Google Play)
- Maintain and update applications with new features
What skills are needed?
Development Skills
- • Mobile: Swift (iOS), Kotlin (Android)
- • Cross-platform: React Native, Flutter
- • Desktop: Java, C#, Python
- • UI/UX design principles
- • API integration and REST services
Technical Knowledge
- • Database management (SQLite, Core Data)
- • Version control (Git, GitHub)
- • App architecture patterns (MVC, MVVM)
- • Testing and debugging
- • App store submission processes
Professional Skills
- • Problem-solving and creativity
- • Attention to detail
- • User-focused thinking
- • Communication and collaboration
- • Continuous learning
What is the pay?
Average Salary in Ireland
€36,000 - €60,000
Entry-level application developers in Ireland earn €36,000-€42,000, while experienced developers can command €50,000-€60,000. Senior app developers and those with specialized skills (iOS, Android) often earn €65,000-€80,000+.
Salaries vary based on platform specialization (mobile typically pays more), years of experience, location (Dublin offers highest salaries), company type (tech giants vs. startups), and whether working as a contractor or permanent employee. Many roles include benefits like health insurance, pension, and stock options.
What is the career outlook?
Job Growth in Ireland
The Irish mobile and application development sector continues strong growth, with over 1,200 application developer positions advertised annually. The Department of Enterprise identifies app development as a critical skills area.
Mobile-first strategies adopted by Irish businesses have increased demand significantly. The gaming sector in Ireland also creates substantial opportunities, with companies like Keywords Studios headquartered in Dublin.
Why the growth?
- • Smartphone usage at all-time high
- • Digital transformation across all sectors
- • Growth in mobile commerce and payments
- • Health tech and wellness app demand
- • Ireland's position as tech hub
- • Enterprise mobile solutions growth
What education is required?
Educational Pathways
Level 8 Honours Degree
Computer Science, Mobile Application Development, or Software Development from Irish universities. TU Dublin and UL offer specialized mobile development programs. Takes 4 years.
Higher Certificate/Diploma (Level 6/7)
Mobile App Development or Software Development programs from Technological Universities. Provides practical skills for immediate employment. Takes 2-3 years.
Bootcamps & Self-Study
Intensive mobile development bootcamps or self-study through platforms like Apple Developer Academy (available in Ireland). Portfolio of apps is crucial for employment.
Key Course Topics
- • Mobile app development (iOS/Android)
- • Programming (Swift, Kotlin, Java)
- • Cross-platform frameworks (React Native, Flutter)
- • UI/UX design for mobile
- • Mobile databases and data persistence
- • API integration and networking
- • App testing and debugging
- • App store submission and deployment
- • Mobile security best practices
- • Performance optimization
Ready to Start Your Application Development Journey?
Explore our resources and discover how to begin your career in application development.
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