How to hire Ruby developers

In today’s rapidly advancing tech landscape, hiring the right person is crucial for the success of any software-driven business. As the demand for skilled developers continues to rise, it’s no surprise that finding qualified professionals has become a significant challenge. This is particularly true for companies looking to hire Ruby consultants who are proficient in one of the most popular programming languages for web development.

However, finding the right Ruby developer can be challenging, as a poor hiring decision can lead to setbacks, low-quality code, and wasted resources. It’s critical to know how to hire Ruby developers with the knowledge and aptitude for your projects.

In this guide, we will navigate the process of hiring Ruby developers and software engineers to help you find the right fit for your organization.

What is Ruby and why use it?

Ruby is an open-source, object-oriented programming language known for its flexibility, readability, and simplicity. It has an elegant syntax and can be used to create web apps, servers, and other programming projects.

Ruby on Rails, commonly referred to as Rails, is a web application framework created using Ruby. It simplifies development by leveraging conventions over configuration, providing default settings and structures to accelerate web development. Rails includes built-in support for testing and follows the principles of rapid development. With its ease of use and focus on productivity, Rails remains a powerful tool for creating dynamic web applications.

Together, Ruby and Rails offer a robust solution for businesses undertaking web development projects.

What is a Ruby developer?

A Ruby developer is a backend software developer who writes code and builds applications using the Ruby programming language. They are competent in utilizing the features and functionalities of Ruby to build scalable web applications.

A Ruby developer job description typically includes tasks such as:

• Creating, implementing, and maintaining Ruby-based applications that meet functional requirements
• Writing clean and efficient code that adheres to industry best practices and coding standards
• Troubleshooting and debugging code to achieve optimal performance
• Integrating databases and external services into the application and ensuring seamless data flow and functionality
• Collaborating with other members of the development team, including product managers, designers, and QA engineers

Key Ruby on Rails developer skills

Ruby on Rails developer job description templates often emphasize expertise in Ruby and Rails, along with proficiency in front-end technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.

Here are ten essential Ruby on Rails developer skills to consider during the hiring process:

1. Ruby language – Deep understanding of Ruby’s syntax and features
2. Ruby on Rails technicalities – In-depth knowledge of core concepts and common libraries like RSpec and Resque
3. Object-oriented programming (OOP) – Strong grasp of OOP concepts like encapsulation, inheritance, and polymorphism
4. Server-side CSS preprocessors – Competence in using server-side CSS preprocessors like SASS or LESS to enhance styling capabilities
5. Front-end technologies – Basic understanding of front-end technologies like HTML5 and CSS3
6. Code versioning tools – Proficiency in code versioning tools like Git, Mercurial, and CVS
7. Database technologies – Well-versed in working with various database technologies like Oracle, PostgreSQL, and MySQL
8. Verbal and written communication – Effective communication for team collaboration, client interaction, and code documentation
9. Analytical and logical reasoning – Ability to understand complex problems, break them down, and devise efficient solutions
10. Learning agility – Enthusiasm and capacity to continuously learn and adapt to new industry trends, tools, and frameworks

How to hire Ruby developers: Dos and don’ts

Knowing how to hire Ruby developers is essential for building a strong and efficient team of Ruby developers. Here are some tips to consider to make informed hiring decisions and form a solid Ruby development team:

1. Do define your needs and goals

Without a defined roadmap, you risk wasting time and resources on candidates who may not possess the necessary knowledge and skills or align with your goals. Identifying your needs and goals ensures a focused and targeted approach to finding the right Ruby developers for your team.

By clearly outlining the specific skills and experience you need, you set a clear direction for your search. This helps attract candidates who can meet your expectations and contribute effectively to your projects.

2. Don’t limit your search to local candidates

By looking beyond your immediate area, you open up opportunities to find highly skilled and experienced developers from around the world. This broadens your talent pool and increases the chances of finding the right fit for your organization.

Embracing remote work and considering candidates from various locations allows you to tap into diverse perspectives, experiences, and expertise, ultimately enhancing your development capabilities and fostering innovation within your organization.

3. Do conduct technical assessments

Conducting technical assessments is crucial when hiring Ruby developers, specifically to evaluate their Ruby on Rails developer skills. These assessments can include coding challenges, problem-solving exercises, or technical interviews tailored to assess their proficiency in Ruby and ability to solve real-world development scenarios. They can help you accurately gauge competence, identify strong candidates, and choose developers who can deliver excellent solutions.

Andela, a leading tech talent provider, utilizes the technical skills assessment platform Qualified.io, along with Codewars, to enhance their developer screening processes and ensure they identify the best professionals efficiently and effectively.

4. Don’t hire inexperienced developers

While inexperienced Ruby developers may appear more affordable, hiring them can be detrimental in the long run. They may lack the necessary skills and understanding of the language, resulting in subpar code quality, inefficiencies, and potential project delays. The cost of fixing their mistakes and the impact on project timelines may outweigh the initial cost savings.

In your Ruby developer job description, indicate the minimum years of experience necessary. Then, prioritize candidates with a proven track record of working on Ruby projects and delivering high-quality results.

5. Do use a tech talent platform

Global job placement networks like Andela offer a streamlined and efficient way to find qualified candidates for your Ruby development needs. They provide a curated talent pool, allowing you to easily browse and connect with skilled Ruby developers that have been vetted by the platform.

By leveraging such platforms, you can save time and effort in sourcing candidates while accessing a wider talent pool. You also benefit from advanced filtering options and tools specifically designed to facilitate the hiring process of Ruby developers effectively.

6. Don’t forget to review references and run background checks

As part of your strategy on how to hire Ruby developers, it is vital to check references and complete thorough background checks. Contacting references allows you to gain insights into the candidate’s past performance and work ethic, helping you assess their suitability for your team.

Background checks provide an additional layer of assurance by verifying the accuracy of their information and identifying any potential red flags. This helps you make informed decisions and mitigate risks associated with hiring Ruby developers.

7. Do offer an attractive compensation package

In a competitive job market, offering a compelling compensation and benefits package is crucial to draw and retain top talent in the field. A good compensation package can help you stand out as an employer of choice and increase the likelihood of recruiting exceptional Ruby developers to join your team.

Additionally, comprehensive benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, and professional development opportunities can enhance the overall package and demonstrate your commitment to the well-being and growth of your Ruby developers.

8. Don’t underestimate the importance of culture fit

Disregarding culture fit can lead to negative consequences like team conflicts and high employee turnover. Failing to assess how well a candidate aligns with your company’s values and work environment can result in a poor fit, affecting team dynamics.

Diverse perspectives are valuable in software development, but a shared cultural foundation can facilitate effective collaboration and problem-solving. By prioritizing culture fit, you can cultivate a cohesive and harmonious team that fosters a positive work environment, boosts morale, and increases productivity and performance.

How much does it cost to hire a Ruby developer?

According to Glassdoor, the average annual Ruby on Rails developer salary is $80,506 in the United States. The estimated total pay is $102,610, which includes cash bonuses, commissions, tips, and profit sharing.

The following factors influence the cost of hiring Ruby developers:

• Location Rates in higher-cost-of-living areas like Canada and the United States can be up to 10 times greater than in regions like Asia or Africa.
• Experience Senior developers with more experience typically charge more than junior developers.
• Project complexity The complexity and length of the project can impact the rate.
• Type of business Service businesses usually pay lower rates compared to product businesses.

Level up your Ruby development team with Andela

Building a winning team of Ruby developers requires a thoughtful approach that takes into account various factors. By following the strategies outlined in this guide, you can improve your hiring process and increase the likelihood of finding brilliant Ruby developers who will contribute to your success.

However, hiring qualified Ruby developers can be a time-consuming and challenging task. That’s where Andela comes in. With a proven track record in providing access to top-notch developers, Andela offers a streamlined solution to connect you with exceptional Ruby talent.

Partner with Andela to simplify your hiring process and tap into the expertise you need to drive your Ruby projects forward.