How to Become a Python Developer? Step By Step Guide

By Michael Warne 15-Jun-2023
How to Become a Python Developer? Step By Step Guide

Among all the programming languages, Python is a high-level, simple, flexible and versatile language. Most of the apps you use today, including Spotify and Netflix, are made using Python. Python developers are in high demand across the IT industry; if you are looking to join a fulfilling and exciting career, becoming a Python developer will not be a disappointment. The best part about this field is that you don’t need to have any specific experience or background to enter this field. The only thing you need is great skills and a mastery of Python. 

If you are curious about the profession and want to learn more about it, know “how to become a Python developer?” in the article below. 

Who is a Python developer?

Python is a beginner-friendly language, making it a great choice for people unfamiliar with coding. The language is simple, versatile, and integrated. A Python developer is an expert in creating and designing applications and programs in Python. They work as a part of a software team and are also responsible for debugging Python-based projects. Python developers also work on web development, scripting design, data examination, and scraping the internet and web frameworks, among other duties.

Why become a Python developer?

If you are wondering why you should become a Python developer, here is your answer. 

All programming languages have different features, strengths, and weaknesses. So if you are skilled in any programming language, say Python, you can become a Python developer easily. Many companies use Python for their back-end services, so doesn’t that make this career an attractive option now?

Here are some of the advantages that Python has over other languages. 

  • Python is a simple language
  • It is more dynamic than Java
  • It is more flexible than PHP and offers more readability
  • It is ideal for machine learning and data analysis projects 
  • It has low development costs, making it popular among startups

All of these advantages have made Python highly popular among developers. More and more developers are learning Python as the demand for Python developers increases. Another reason why Python is a great choice is because of the good salary package Python developers get. 

Python developer job description

A job description for a Python developer can look like this:

Description

We are looking for a Python developer to become a part of our software engineering team. The ideal candidate must have expertise in Python and must be able to write, manage, deploy, and test applications. You must be proficient in backend technology along with some familiarity with front-end technologies. 

Responsibilities

  • Write reusable and scalable code
  • Scripting design
  • Assist in automation deployment
  • Construct back-end components
  • Locate and correct errors
  • Run tests on written codes
  • Integrate elements to assist front-end development 
  • Communicate with the team to come up with creative solutions
  • Create a functional and responsive application
  • Come up with data security solutions

Requirements

The ideal candidate will have the following.

  • Bachelor in computer science or a related field
  • Prior work experience
  • Knowledge of SQL or any other programming language is preferred
  • Proficiency in any Python framework
  • Basic knowledge of front-end technologies
  • Familiarity with machine learning
  • Good communication skills 
  • Analytical skills

Roles and responsibilities of Python developer

Some of the responsibilities of a Python developer include the following.

  • Write reusable, scalable, and testable code
  • Integrate user-oriented elements into applications
  • Understand business needs
  • Develop backend components that assist in performance enhancements
  • Develop elements to make highly responsive web applications
  • Design low latency and high availability applications
  • Develop and implement security features
  • Work with Python libraries
  • Work with machine learning and artificial intelligence
  • Stay updated with the latest developments in the field
  • Performance tuning and debugging

Skills for Python developer

Python developers have many responsibilities, they should have many technical and soft skills to do their jobs successfully. Let us discuss both of them separately.

Technical skills

Here are the hard skills you must have to become a Python developer.

Frontend technologies

A Python developer typically works for backend (server-end) development; this doesn’t mean they are completely isolated from front-end development. As they work with a development team, they often assist front-end developers with basic front-end technologies, such as CSS and JavaScript. It will also help them gain an understanding of the user interface of the application.

AI and machine learning

Machine learning is often used by Python developers in the course of their work. It is also one of the latest and most happening things in the technological world. Having a solid grasp of machine learning and its fundamentals will help you stand out from the competition. 

Object Relational Mapper (ORM)

ORMs help in transferring data from a relational database to Python objects. It uses object-oriented languages to convert data from incompatible types. Using ORMs can help Python developers save significant time and ensure more flexibility. 

Test automation framework

Knowledge of test automation frameworks can help you increase your efficiency while debugging. Familiarity with tools, such as TestComplete and Selenium, can also give a boost to your resume. Of course, along with this framework, you should also be well-skilled in Python’s test automation frameworks. 

Version control

Expertise in version control software, including Git, can make you more efficient. How? Well, as a Python developer, you will deal with massive datasets. And managing those datasets can be made easier with version control software. 

Data structures and algorithms

As a Python developer, you must be able to do quality work efficiently. Knowledge of data structures and algorithms can help you maximize your efficiency in solving coding queries.

Soft skills

All jobs require certain soft skills. It’s the same for a Python developer. You must have a certain set of soft skills that complement your technical skills to be successful. Here are some of the soft skills you need. 

Communication skills

Python developers work as a part of the software development team. They have to communicate with other team members and front-end developers during the course of a project. Therefore, they must have good communication skills.

Detail-oriented

Python developers are responsible for debugging and testing code. This requires them to pay attention to every single detail. Therefore, you must be detail-oriented in everything you do. 

Time management

Python developers may have to manage many deadlines. This requires them to have good prioritization ability and time management skills.

Career path and salary

Python developers in India earn an annual average salary of INR 4.2 lakh, according to AmbitionBox. The salary ranges between INR 1.8 Lakh to INR 9.4 Lakh. 

With the rise in the popularity of Python among developers, the future for Python developers is full of opportunities. Your salary package will continue to rise as you grow and learn in the industry. 

How to become a Python developer?

Becoming a Python developer has less to do with your education and background and more with your skills. Therefore, your focus should be on developing your skills. You can take Python training to begin your learning. 

Here are the steps you can follow to become a Python developer.

Read and write in Python

Python is one of the widely used languages by data scientists, backend developers, etc. The first step is to actually learn how to read and write in Python. It is a beginner-friendly and easy-to-learn language. You can take Python training or a course to become familiar with the language. 

Create a GitHub repository

A GitHub repository is a cool and better way of showing your skills than a plain old resume. As a developer, your GitHub repository will allow potential employers to directly view your work on the developer platform. Add your samples and practice work to the repository. 

Develop readable codes

While this may seem obvious, try to write readable codes. Your codes should be easily understandable and readable. To make your codes readable, you can use line breaks, source file encoding, string quotes, naming conventions, indentation, and maximum line length.

Read code of people with the same skill level

Developing your own coding style goes a long way as a Python developer. One way to do this is to look at other Python developers. Search for people with the same skill level as you and understand their style. 

Grow your skill set

The thing about people who work in IT is that they have to constantly upgrade themselves. You can only stay competitive when you grow your skill set. Start reading books on Python coding. To quote a famous saying, “knowledge is power.” Therefore, grow your knowledge. 

You can also learn the process of working with Python libraries, such as Keras, NumPy, and TensorFlow. Work on projects using your knowledge from these libraries. Do not forget to put them on GitHub. 

Machine learning with Python

Python is heavily used in artificial intelligence and machine learning fields. Most employers also look for developers who can use their skills with machine learning. You don’t have to gain an in-depth understanding of machine learning. You can start with learning algorithms like neural networks, linear regression, and K Means Clustering. 

Work on projects

One way to develop and test your skills is to work on Python projects. Do not be afraid to experiment. You can start by developing a website that allows you to use your skills. You can also go ahead and create a game, build a web service, or use Python to collect data from the net. 

You can also start taking freelance projects. Many people tend to hire freelance developers. In the initial stage, try not to concentrate on the money. Work on the projects that appeal to you and add them to your repository. You can use platforms like Upwork, Twago, etc., to find freelance projects. 

Keep on practicing

The learning doesn’t stop even when you have mastered the language. Try to put some time aside for writing codes every day. This will help you remember the finer aspects of coding. 

Apply for jobs

With solid skills in your hands and a great repository showing your experience, start applying for jobs. Use online job platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, etc., to find job opportunities. Reach out to your network to check whether they know of any opportunities. 

Tools for Python developers

If you are wondering what kind of tools Python developers typically use, here are some of them. 

Keras 

Keras is an open-source Python library. It is highly suitable for working with machine learning and deep learning. The library is based on the principles of user-friendliness, operation, easy extensibility, and modularity.  

Python Anywhere

Python Anywhere overlooks end-to-end SDLC requirements. It helps Python developers run, develop, and host Python programs online. It is a highly reliable tool and allows for decentralized hosting. 

PyCharm IDE

PyCharm IDE supports several famous frameworks, including Flask and Google App Engine. It has many features that make it popular with Python developers. These include intuitive auto-completion and several code quality improvement features. 

Job roles

Python is widely used. It can be used to develop different types of applications and in many different job roles. Apart from being a Python developer, it can also help you apply for other roles.

Data scientist

Data scientists are one of the most demanded professionals in the IT industry. As the name suggests, data scientists gather, clean, analyze, and interpret data to glean meaningful insights from it. They do so with the help of a programming language and statistical methodologies. Since Python is a highly flexible and efficient language, it is well-suited for data scientists. 

Entry-level software developer

Python can also help you work as an entry-level software developer. The job profile includes designing, developing, and testing software. As a beginner in the Python field, you can receive many benefits from working as an entry-level software developer. 

Machine learning engineer

Machine learning engineers develop algorithms that enable machines to work on their own. They are highly knowledgeable in algorithms, data structures, and computability. They are also skilled in statistical and mathematical models. 

Conclusion

Technology is all-pervasive. Programming languages, especially Python, are a crucial part of making technology all-pervasive. It is fair to say that the demand for Python developers will continue to rise in the future. Therefore, do not wait and begin your Python training today!

Associated Course

32 Hours
English
32 Hours
English
32 Hours
English
32 Hours
English
32 Hours
English
32 Hours
English
Michael Warne

Michael Warne is a tech blogger and IT Certification Trainer at Koenig Solutions. She has an experience of 5 years in the industry, and has worked for top-notch IT companies. She is an IT career consultant for students who pursue various types of IT certifications.