How much does it cost to hire an offshore SQL developer?

SQL or structured query language is the standard programming language to work with databases. It is mostly used to carry out different tasks with data on relational databases. SQL is accepted as the top choice around the world to create, edit, or change relational databases.

SQL is universal and applicable to any application that connects to a database. It is used for back-end development and enabling functions at the client-end.

SQL is the most popular programming language to interact with a database. Developers use SQL to manage databases of apps and software. The language enables software developers to perform various tasks like adding, changing, or deleting data from a relational database.

Whatever product you develop, web or mobile app, software, or a game, you will always need someone with SQL knowledge to manage the database of your app. Moreover, there is a role of a database administrator who can use SQL to manipulate or manage data on a relational database.

The fundamental element of any SQL stack is the SQL database. Some companies also use SQL servers for specific workflows. It drives all the database functions and is a prerequisite for business intelligence workflows.

In addition, a SQL stack can include various databases like MySQL, Oracle Database, or SQL Anywhere. Also, many projects use tools like SQL Server Analysis Services and SQL Server Reporting Services for Microsoft BI stacks.

A SQL developer is a master of building web or mobile database applications. They can write SQL queries using the language and are proficient in performing different database functions. SQL engineers can create, edit, read, update, or delete data stored in a database.

Additionally, SQL programmers attend to the security of SQL servers. They can also manage programs like Oracle SQL or SQLite.

Moreover, they monitor SQL functions and implement best practices in information technology setups. They also maintain the database and ensure the app interacts with it without any hiccups.

An entry-level SQL developer is usually a graduate with a bachelor’s degree in computer sciences who starts their career in software development. Such a person learns to work with different databases and manipulate data. Generally, junior SQL programmers work under a mentor who guides them.

The next experience level for software engineers is the middle-level engineer. It can take them 2-3 years of experience to become mid-level programmers. Then, they play a more crucial role in the development process, like coding the back-end and connecting the app with the database.

The next stage in the developer’s career path is becoming a senior engineer. They usually have 4-5 years of experience, but the developer’s level depends on their skill set and knowledge, not the years. They are in high demand among recruiters in the IT job market as they can handle complex workflows and solve complex business problems. Additionally, senior engineers can lead a project and become team leaders and guide other members to be more productive and upskill.

A SQL programmer performs a range of tasks in the organization. They design databases and are responsible for their smooth functioning. Additionally, SQL developers develop and assist in the implementation of database systems relying on client requirements.

Moreover, SQL coders manage the memory nuances of databases and create documentations. They also ensure all the databases and queries are performing reliably with stability.

In some teams, SQL engineers also are in charge of creating database tables and schemas. They also ensure the quality of data in the database is top-notch and accurate. As a result, they also fix bugs and issues that are present in databases. They are also responsible for creating regular backups and testing new databases.

Additionally, SQL engineers are in charge of database optimizations. They help a database to stay lean and return queries with high responsiveness. They may even use caching plugins to cache the database to improve the performance of the app or software.

Ultimately, SQL coders handle authorizations and authentications for any database. It is not possible to build or develop software or apps without developers with SQL skills.

SQL developers should be adept at working with different types of databases. Along with the relational database, they should be familiar with NoSQL database systems like MongoDB. Additionally, SQL coders generally know how to work with business intelligence and reporting tools. You can look out for skills in tools like SAP Crystal Reports or Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services.

Moreover, some developers come with knowledge of big data resources like Spark or Hadoop. They also know how to leverage cloud services like Azure or AWS. Most importantly, SQL developers are aware of the entire software development life cycle or SDLC. Some of them are also familiar with modern development trends like agile or scrum.

You can also find programmers who excel at functional programming.

Developers can prove their skills with certificates from different bodies. So, you can search for professionals with certificates from Microsoft and Oracle. Microsoft conducts the Certified Systems Engineer: Data Management and Analytics program, while Oracle runs the Database PL/SQL Developer course.

A certificate is a seal of approval for a developer’s skills. Therefore, it can allow recruiters to hire with more confidence and fewer screenings.

Employers can choose different options to hire SQL database developers. Below are the most common ones according to company needs:

Freelance developers

Freelancers are ideal for short-term projects or temporary needs. Businesses can hire freelance developers from platforms like Upwork within a day. They generally charge per hour or for the whole contract. However, it’s not a reliable way to hire a developer, as freelancers can leave the project midway. Additionally, communication can also turn out to be a challenge, as they may have multiple projects simultaneously and not be involved in your project needs.

In-house programmers

Businesses with long-term hiring needs should go for in-house SQL developers. They are the best option for full-time work on core development. Communication and involvement have no challenges, as the in-house team is always easily reachable and interested in the company’s needs.

However, in-house developers have a higher annual salary compared to freelancers or contractors, as companies will also have to pay them incentives, bonuses, and fees. Additionally, recruiting in-house talents need more investment and time, but after all, a company gets a highly interested, engaged, and matching engineer on board.

Outsourced engineers

Outsourced developers are a popular way to get high-quality engineers from abroad. That’s especially an efficient way of hiring during times of developers shortage in the US.

There are two options for outsourcing developers. Companies can outsource the entire development process to a reliable outsourcing agency. Or, if there is an in-house development team and there is a need to get additional quality developers, full-time contractors can help.

The project description is one of the most important aspects of your hiring process. It will help the right talents know more about your vacancy and what they can expect. As a result, begin your project description by sharing a few lines on your company and values.

The most crucial part is describing the responsibilities of your new hire, and the requirements you have for this role. You should spell out all tasks that you expect your developer to handle.

Additionally, you can mention a bit about your work culture and what your business wants to achieve.

Consider the following details when describing your project in a job post:

• Salary and starting date for the job
• Experience or skills you are looking for
• The duration of the project or work
• The location of the vacancy
• Expected deliverables
• Log in and log off times

Recruiters or CTOs need to carefully select the questions they want to ask during interviews. The questions will help in the assessment of the tech skills of the candidates. Therefore, businesses should prepare a list of questions in advance to ask during the interviews.

Below are a few example questions to ask SQL developers to assess hard skills:

• Explain the different types of joins and their functions.
• Enumerate the differences between MySQL and SQL.
• Are you aware of the subsets of MySQL?
• What do you mean by unique constraint?
• What do you know about local and global variables? Can you differentiate between them?
• What do you mean by a foreign key in SQL?
• What do you know about query optimization?
• What are the pros and cons of the stored procedure?
• What do you mean by normalization? What are its benefits?
• What do you know about CDC in a SQL server.