How much does it cost to hire an offshore C++ developer?

C++ was developed as an extension to the C language in 1979. Code in C++ is developed on object-oriented programming and has a high level of reusability. It offers developers a high level of control over system resources and memory. Programs in C++ are statically typed and the code is case sensitive.

C++ is a multi-paradigm cross-platform language that can be used to create high-performance applications. It can be found in a number of graphical user interfaces, embedded systems, and operating systems. C++ has also found use in IoT devices such as cars, smartwatches, and TVs.

However, the most popular use of C++ is in game development. A number of titles such as World of Warcraft, Counter-Strike, and StarCraft, are based on the language.

Gaming engines used by popular consoles such as PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch are all based on C++. It is also used to develop web browsers such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Opera, and Safari.

There are a number of versatile and useful development tools that can be used while developing apps in C++. Here are some of them:

Microsoft Visual C++

Visual C++ is a free interactive development environment that supports Windows, iOS, and Android. It is the most popular development software in the C++ niche today. It also provides support for languages like NodeJS, Python, and C#.

Boost

Boost is a collection of sample libraries that helps in the development of cross-platform applications using C++ and works very well with the Standard Library in C++. Its libraries provide direct support for image processing, linear algebra, multithreading, and unit testing.

QT

QT is an open-source widget toolkit that enables developers to build graphical programs that can work on Windows, Mac OS, Linux, and even Android without a lot of changes. QT can also be of use if you like terminal and console interfaces.

Eclipse IDE

Eclipse is a widely used IDE for the development of programs in C++ and C. It is also used by Java developers for coding in the same language. Eclipse supports development frameworks for different toolchains and source navigations. It boasts of having a number of powerful features that can be used in full-fledged development projects.

A C++ developer designs and develops programs based on the C++ language. The applications can be used on a variety of devices, and range from video games to web browsers and IoT devices. They are responsible for finding the requirements of the program, writing and implementing the code, and overseeing its deployment. Once the app is being used by others, these developers are also responsible for maintaining the code and fixing any bugs or glitches that might be there.

Depending on the years of experience of the C++ programmers and their skill sets, there are three main categories into which they can be classified.

Junior developers

Junior C++ developers have little experience in practical programming and are working in their first entry-level job. These developers have a clear understanding of the basics of development using C++ as the main language. Junior developers are helpful in working on basic tasks that don’t require complex solutions. They are also mentored by more experienced developers for learning the practical details.

Middle developers

Middle developers have spent around 2-4 years working with C++ as the main programming language. They are able to come up with programming solutions alone as well as in a team. These developers are often responsible for coming up with practical solutions when working on the project. They may also have knowledge of other programming languages besides C++.

Senior developers

A senior developer has spent at least 4 years of experience working on projects. These developers usually have job titles that put them in leadership positions, like Team Lead. As a result, senior software engineers work on creating business solutions with the help of software development. They are also responsible for laying down the foundation and direction of a coding project. Due to their seniority level, they are able to call upon ideas from other languages and frameworks that they have learned over the years.

Here are some of the most common tasks and responsibilities of a C++ engineer:

• Designing fully functional programs and apps using C++
• Suggesting changes for the current state of the app/software, and different ways in which the improvements can be implemented
• Performing diagnostic tests on the software to detect errors, and fix them
• Documenting software development process and maintaining regular records
• Manage share network resources using JavaScript, RMI
• Integrate SQL and databases into the back end of the program
• Staying updated with the latest developments in the C++ development niche

Here are the most commonly sought-after skills when it comes to hiring a C++ developer:

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science and a clear understanding of software development in C++
• Thorough knowledge of STL containers, standard library, and algorithms
• Ability to write code in high-level languages such as Python and NodeJS
• Good understanding of object-oriented programming and memory management
• Knowledge of the software development life cycle
• Great verbal and written communication with other teams and the client
• Familiarity with templating in C++
• Having knowledge of development in different operating systems

Depending on your needs and the hiring model that you choose, there are three main hiring models that you can choose from.

Freelancers

Freelancers are the best solution for you if you are seeking a developer for a short-term project. In these cases, a deep understanding of the project is not needed and the scope of the project is clear and defined. They are not heavily invested in the project since they have several different projects to work on simultaneously. And it usually takes much time to find the perfect match for your project on freelance platforms.

In-house engineers

In-house engineers are usually the best solution for maintaining a core product for a company that needs regular software assistance. This is usually a costly solution since other factors like bonuses, health insurance, and tools need to be covered by the company itself. But the main advantage is the devotion of in-house developers, as they are fully dedicated and interested in product development, as they are employees of this company.

Outsourced programmers

Since outsourced software developers are usually located offshore, you can choose the best location and hire high-quality software engineers for remote work at a much lower price. You can hire engineers or development teams from software development agencies, or extend your team with full-time contractors with YouTeam. Since the USA is facing a shortage of quality talent, outsourcing developers for US projects is the most relevant solution.

The C++ project description is used to communicate a number of important details to the developers. Here are the things that you should include in the project description for job listings or for a new project:

• A brief background of the business, the business problems, and how the program attempts to solve them
• Any specific coding style or norms that need to be followed while writing the code
• A list of technologies to be used on a project
• A description of the developer’s responsibilities and tasks
• A description of a development team to explain the role of a newcomer

When you’re hiring software engineers, you need to be able to screen them beforehand. Here are some sample questions for you to vet C++ developer’s tech skills:

• What is operator overloading in C++?
• What do you know about friend class and friend function?
• Suppose you have the GPA (Grade Point Average) of n number of students, and you need to store and display it using C++. Can you write a program that accomplishes this?
• Define the copy constructor in C++. Also, talk about the general function prototype of the constructor. Talk about the various scenarios in which you can call upon this operator.
• Is it possible for a C++ program to be compiled without the main() function?
• What are the different types of polymorphism in C++?
• Output-based questions: require the candidate to assess a block of code and evaluate its output.

The interviewer can also ask a candidate to examine a block of C++ code and identify the errors in the given code. They may also be asked to come up with solutions to make the program functional.