Application developer

What does an Application Developer do? – Tasks and Work Environment

An application developer is responsible for creating, maintaining, and further developing software applications for various platforms, such as mobile phones, tablets, and computers. The work includes everything from requirements analysis and user interface design to programming, testing, and implementation of new features. Collaboration often takes place in teams consisting of other developers, designers, and project managers. The work environment is mostly office-based with elements of flexible remote work, and the pace can sometimes be intense, especially before important deadlines.

Salary Development Over Time

The salary for application developers has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 50,700 SEK per month, then rose to 52 800 during 2023 and further to 54 900 in 2024. This corresponds to a salary increase of approximately 8.3% over the three-year period. The positive trend can be linked to the continued high demand for qualified developers in the IT industry, as well as increased competition for skills in the job market. The industry is characterized by technological development and digitalization, which has further pushed up salaries. However, gender salary gaps persist, although they have decreased somewhat over time.

Application Developer Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 54 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 40,000 SEK/month (female, public sector, pre-university education)
• Highest salary: 61,600 SEK/month (male, private sector, postgraduate education)
• Hourly wage: 330 SEK
• Women: 52 700 SEK/month
• Men: 55 600 SEK/month
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 95% of what men do

Education and Qualifications

The path to becoming an application developer usually goes through a university or college education in computer science, systems engineering, or similar IT-oriented programs. Practical experience, certifications, and a strong portfolio of completed projects are highly valued by employers. In addition to formal education, it is common to supplement knowledge with online courses and self-study, as technological development is rapid and new frameworks and programming languages are frequently in demand.

• Formal education: University degree in computer science, systems development, or equivalent (3–5 years)
• Certifications: Examples include Microsoft, AWS, or Google Cloud
• Internships: Work experience through internships or trainee programs is recommended
• Prerequisites: Programming skills and mathematical/logical ability
• Self-study: Online courses and personal projects strengthen the CV

Common Benefits and Compensation

Application developers are often offered competitive benefits, such as occupational pension, wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and remote work options. Bonus programs, skills development, and insurance are also common, especially within larger companies and consulting firms.

Competition and Challenges

The competition for positions as an application developer remains relatively low due to the high demand for IT skills, but some roles and specializations may be more sought after than others. Challenges in the profession often involve staying updated with rapid technological developments, managing complex projects, and meeting high quality and delivery requirements. The recruitment situation is described as paradoxical: despite a large potential supply, it can be difficult to find the right skills, while many choose to leave the profession for new challenges. On a national level, there are good opportunities for employment over the next five years, but continuous further education and adaptability are always required.

Tips for Aspiring Application Developers

To succeed as an application developer, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a strong willingness to learn new things. Building a portfolio through personal projects demonstrates drive and creativity, while problem-solving ability is essential for handling complex coding challenges. Attention to detail and patience help reduce errors and improve code quality, and teamwork skills facilitate work in teams and projects. Participating in open source projects or hackathons can provide valuable experience and develop both technical and social skills. Finally, good communication skills are important for explaining technical solutions to colleagues and clients alike.

Key Facts about Application Developers

• Education level: University degree in IT (3–5 years)
• Work environment: Office-based with remote work possibilities
• Common work style: Agile teams and project-based assignments
• Demand: Large opportunities for employment nationwide
• Special skills: Programming, system design, and user-centered development

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years as an application developer, opportunities open up to roles such as technical specialist, team leader, system architect, or project manager. Some choose to specialize further in areas like mobile development, cloud services, or security. The Swedish Public Employment Service forecasts that the demand for software and system developers will remain strong over the next five years, with an unchanged demand. The recruitment market is characterized by difficulties in finding the right skills, even as many leave the profession for other challenges. Currently, there are 179 job openings in the field, reflecting the continued high demand for expertise in this area.

Frequently Asked Questions about Application Developers

• What is the average salary of an Application Developer?
  - An application developer has an average salary of 54 900 SEK per month.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Women earn an average of 52 700 SEK and men 55 600 SEK, which means women earn 95% of men's salaries.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for an Application Developer?
  - The highest salary is 61,600 SEK and the lowest 40,000 SEK per month.
• What are the future prospects for application developers?
  - Demand remains high and is expected to be unchanged over the next five years according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.
• What education is required to become an application developer?
  - Usually, a university degree in computer science, systems engineering, or similar IT-oriented programs is required.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Salary variations can occur depending on region, employer, and experience, but the largest differences are seen between private and public sectors and education levels.
• What personal qualities are highly valued?
  - Analytical ability, problem-solving skills, teamwork, and communication skills are especially important.