10 Best Career Options for Java Developers in 2023


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The programming world is changing, and opportunities await aspiring coders. With robust support from major technology giants and an ever-expanding job market, now is the time to start your career as a Java developer.

Whether you’re a professional looking to break into the field or a beginner with no experience who wants to get a java developer job with no experience, we’ve rounded up ten exciting options that are sure to put you on your way to success. From mobile app development to software engineering, this article explores the best career options for you in 2023!

Will Java Developers Still Be in Demand in 2023?

If the ever-increasing number of job posts—specifically for Java developers at Jooble is anything to go by, Java developers will have no shortage of job offers in 2023. Also, as an open-source language, Java is widely used for enterprise development, mobile applications, web applications, and artificial intelligence projects.

In addition, its inventor – Oracle –has regularly added new features to the language over the last two decades. This has allowed Java developers to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to coding skills.

Moreover, as technology advances, more organizations are turning to Java developers to meet their needs. For example, many businesses are transitioning their entire infrastructure from monolithic services and adopting microservices architectures.

This trend requires skilled Java developers who understand how microservices work and can develop them effectively. The same goes for AI-driven systems that rely heavily on Java development expertise.

All things considered, it means there will still be plenty of demand for talented Java developers in 2023 and beyond. Here are ten of the best career options for Java developers in 2023:

1. DevOps Engineer

A DevOps Engineer is a software engineer who works collaboratively with development and operations teams. They ensure that digital projects are delivered quickly, efficiently, and without errors.

They are responsible for deploying software, maintaining application stability, and automating workflows. Essentially, they are the bridge between development and operations teams, ensuring communication flows within an organization.

Becoming a DevOps Engineer requires knowledge of programming languages like Java, and scripting languages like Ruby or Python. It also requires an understanding of automation tools like Jenkins or Chef; source code management platforms like Git, and cloud-based solutions such as Amazon Web Services or Microsoft Azure.

Becoming a DevOps Engineer could be a great choice for Java developers looking for the best career options in 2023. This is because there is an increasing demand for this role in organizations worldwide.

2. Artificial Intelligence Engineer

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a rapidly growing field. As a result, companies are looking for developers with expertise in AI technologies to help them stay competitive.

AI Engineers are responsible for creating intelligent systems that can perform tasks independently and operate with human-like accuracy and speed. Becoming an AI Engineer requires knowledge of Java, Python, R programming language, Natural Language Processing (NLP), Machine Learning algorithms, and more. For Java developers in 2023, this could be a great option, as AI technologies will only increase in the coming years.

3. Solution Architect

A Solution Architect is a technical leader who designs and implements software solutions to solve business problems. They create high-level designs that integrate various systems, applications, and services, maximizing efficiency and scalability.

To become one, you’ll need to understand software engineering fundamentals such as object-oriented programming (OOP) and system design concepts like architecture patterns and frameworks. Additionally, you’ll need to be well-versed in the latest technologies and trends in the industry, such as Kubernetes and microservices.

To become a Solution Architect, the best approach is to start by gaining experience with coding; then pursue additional training focused on system architecture principles and design patterns. Having some relevant certifications will also give you an edge over other candidates applying for positions.

4. Data Scientist

Data Scientists manage, analyze, and interpret data to extract valuable insights. They use various technologies and methods such as big data analytics, machine learning algorithms, natural language processing (NLP), statistical analysis, etc.

Becoming a successful Data Scientist requires good knowledge of programming languages like Java along with strong mathematical and statistical skills. You’ll also need to be well-versed in databases, machine learning tools, data visualization frameworks, and modern algorithms such as deep learning neural networks. Data Scientists are in high demand these days due to organizations’ ever-increasing use of data-driven decisions.

5. Scrum Master

A Scrum Master is a role that is essential for software development teams that employ agile methodology. A Scrum Master is responsible for organizing and managing a team’s workflow during the phases of development.

They’re responsible for ensuring that tasks and deadlines are met. They also facilitate conversations around potential roadblocks or issues.

For Java developers looking to become a Scrum Master in 2023, it is essential to understand the fundamentals of agile software development, such as its core tenets and techniques, before attempting to take on the role. Being fluent with related frameworks, like Extreme Programming and Lean Development, can also be beneficial. It would also help to have good communication and interpersonal skills and knowledge of your team members’ strengths and weaknesses to manage their assigned tasks effectively.

6. Mobile Developer

Mobile Developers specialize in creating applications for mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. They use coding languages like Java, HTML5, and CSS3 to create user interfaces and write code that interacts with an application’s backend systems.

In 2023, the demand for Mobile Developers is projected to increase exponentially. Mobile applications will become increasingly crucial for businesses as more organizations move their processes and services online.

To become a successful Mobile Developer in 2023, you’ll need to understand software development and mobile design basics. Additionally, understanding modern trends such as augmented reality (AR) can also be beneficial.

7. Project Manager

Project Managers are responsible for overseeing the development process from start to finish. They work closely with teams of software developers, UX/UI designers, marketers, and other professionals to ensure that each project is completed on time and within budget.

Project managers need strong communication skills and an understanding of software development processes. They should be familiar with popular project management tools like JIRA and Trello.

8. Database Administrator

Database Administrators are responsible for creating, maintaining, and securing databases. They use programming languages like Java to develop database applications.

In 2023, Database Administrators will need to be experts in a wide range of technologies such as SQL, NoSQL, OLTP/OLAP systems, and cloud computing platforms. Additionally, knowledge of related areas such as machine learning and big data can also be beneficial.

9. Security Analyst

Security Analysts are responsible for protecting networks and systems from cyber threats such as malware, viruses, and unauthorized access. They use programming languages like Java to develop security protocols, monitor networks for suspicious activities, investigate incidents and analyze system vulnerabilities.

To succeed in this role in 2023, Security Analysts need to understand cyber-security best practices thoroughly. They should also be knowledgeable about the latest threats and technologies, such as biometrics, artificial intelligence (AI), and blockchain.

10. Cloud Solutions Architect

Cloud Solutions Architects design and implement cloud-based systems for businesses. They need to understand the fundamentals of cloud computing, including infrastructure as a service (IaaS), platform as a service (PaaS), and software as a service (SaaS).

In 2023, Cloud Solutions Architects should have experience with popular cloud computing providers such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform. Additionally, they should know the principles of DevOps, microservices, and containerization.

In summation, these are the ten best career options for Java Developers in 2023. With a good understanding of software development principles and the latest technologies, you can pursue any of these roles and excel in them. Good luck!

How do I find Java version?

The simplest way to get the Java version is by running the java -version command in your terminal application or Windows command prompt. If Java is installed and available on your path you can get information like below.

java -version                                     
java version "17" 2021-09-14 LTS
Java(TM) SE Runtime Environment (build 17+35-LTS-2724)                       
Java HotSpot(TM) 64-Bit Server VM (build 17+35-LTS-2724, mixed mode, sharing)

Using System Properties

But if you want to get Java version from your Java class or application you can obtain the Java version by calling the System.getProperty() method and provide the property key as argument. Here are some property keys that related to Java version that you can read from the system properties.

package org.kodejava.lang;

public class JavaVersion {
    public static void main(String[] args) {
        String version = System.getProperty("java.version");
        String versionDate = System.getProperty("java.version.date");
        String runtimeVersion = System.getProperty("java.runtime.version");
        String vmVersion = System.getProperty("java.vm.version");
        String classVersion = System.getProperty("java.class.version");
        String specificationVersion = System.getProperty("java.specification.version");
        String vmSpecificationVersion = System.getProperty("java.vm.specification.version");

        System.out.println("java.version: " + version);
        System.out.println("java.version.date: " + versionDate);
        System.out.println("java.runtime.version: " + runtimeVersion);
        System.out.println("java.vm.version: " + vmVersion);
        System.out.println("java.class.version: " + classVersion);
        System.out.println("java.specification.version: " + specificationVersion);
        System.out.println("java.vm.specification.version: " + vmSpecificationVersion);
    }
}

Running the code above give you output like the following:

java.version: 17
java.version.date: 2021-09-14
java.runtime.version: 17+35-LTS-2724
java.vm.version: 17+35-LTS-2724
java.class.version: 61.0
java.specification.version: 17
java.vm.specification.version: 17

Using Runtime.version()

Since JDK 9 we can use Runtime.version() to get Java runtime version. The feature(), interim(), update and patch() methods of the Runtime.Version class are added in JDK 10. These methods is a replacement for the major(), minor() and security() methods of JDK 9.

Below is the code snippet that demonstrate the Runtime.version().

package org.kodejava.lang;

public class RuntimeVersion {
    public static void main(String[] args) {
        System.out.println("Version: " + Runtime.version());
        System.out.println("Feature: " + Runtime.version().feature());
        System.out.println("Interim: " + Runtime.version().interim());
        System.out.println("Update: " + Runtime.version().update());
        System.out.println("Patch: " + Runtime.version().patch());
        System.out.println("Pre: " + Runtime.version().pre().orElse(""));
        System.out.println("Build: " + Runtime.version().build().orElse(null));
        System.out.println("Optional: " + Runtime.version().optional().orElse(""));
    }
}

Running the code snippet above produce the following output:

Version: 17+35-LTS-2724
Feature: 17
Interim: 0
Update: 0
Patch: 0
Pre: 
Build: 35
Optional: LTS-2724

Here are the summary of outputs running the above code using some JDKs installed on my machine.

Version Feature Interim Update Patch Pre Build Optional
10.0.2+13 10 0 2 0 13
11.0.6+8-LTS 11 0 6 0 8 LTS
12.0.2+10 12 0 2 0 10
13.0.2+8 13 0 2 0 8
14+36-1461 14 0 0 0 36 1461
15.0.2+7-27 15 0 2 0 7 27
17+35-LTS-2724 17 0 0 0 35 LTS-2724

Java Programming Keywords Summary

Here are the summary of the available keywords in the Java programming language. Keywords are reserved words that already taken and internally used by Java, so we cannot create variables and name it using this keyword.

Keyword Meaning
abstract an abstract class or method
assert used to locate internal program errors
boolean the Boolean type
break breaks out of a switch or loop
byte the 8-bit integer type
case a case of a switch
catch the clause of a try block catching an exception
char the Unicode character type
class defines a class type
const not used
continue continues at the end of a loop
default the default clause of a switch
do the top of a do/while loop
double the double-precision floating-number type
Keyword Meaning
else the else clause of an if statement
enum define an enum type
extends defines the parent class of a class
final a constant, or a class or method that cannot be overridden
finally the part of a try block that is always executed
float the single-precision floating-point type
for a loop type
goto not used
if a conditional statement
implements defines the interface(s) that a class implements
import imports a package
instanceof tests if an object is an instance of a class
int the 32-bit integer type
interface an abstract type with methods that a class can implement
long the 64-bit long integer type
Keyword Meaning
native a method implemented by the host system
new allocates a new object or array
null a null reference
package a package of classes
private a feature that is accessible only by methods of this class
protected a feature that is accessible only by methods of this class, its children, and other classes in the same package
public a feature that is accessible by methods of all classes
return returns from a method
short the 16-bit integer type
static a feature that is unique to its class, not to objects of its class
strictfp Use strict rules for floating-point computations
super the superclass object or constructor
switch a selection statement
synchronized a method or code block that is atomic to a thread
this the implicit argument of a method, or a constructor of this class
Keyword Meaning
throw throws an exception
throws the exceptions that a method can throw
transient marks data that should not be persistent
try a block of code that traps exceptions
void denotes a method that returns no value
volatile ensures that a field is coherently accessed by multiple threads
while a while loop type

How do I write Hello World program in Java?

Hello World is a classic program example to start with when we begin to learn a new programming language. The main purpose is to know the basic syntax of the language. Below is the Java version of a Hello World program, it is simple enough to start.

package org.kodejava.basic;

public class HelloWorld {
    public static void main(String[] args) {
        System.out.println("Hello World");
    }
}

The code contains one class called HelloWorld, we declare a class using the class keyword. A main(String[] args) method with a public static void signature and an argument of string array is a special method in Java class. This method is the execution entry point of every Java application. When a class have this method it will be executable. And finally in the body of the method we have a single line of code that write a Hello World string to the console.

The HelloWorld class must be saved in a file named HelloWorld.java, the class file name is case-sensitive. In the example we also define a package name for the class. In this case the HelloWorld.java must be placed in a org\kodejava\basic directory.

To run the application we need to compile it first. I assume that you have your Java in your path. To compile it type:

javac -cp . org.kodejava.basic.HelloWorld.java

The compilation process will result a file called HelloWorld.class, this is the binary version of our program. As you can see that the file ends with .class extension because Java is everything about class. To run it type the command bellow, class name is written without extension.

java -cp . org.kodejava.basic.HelloWorld

And you will see a string Hello World! is printed out in the console as the output of your first Java program, the HelloWorld program.

To install Java Development Kit (JDK) and configure Java environment you can see the following tutorial: