Who is a Python developer, what do they do and what skills are needed?
A Python developer is a programmer who develops software using the Python programming language.
Python is a high-level language with wide application in a variety of fields, from web development and scripting to machine learning and data analysis.
Interesting facts about Python:
• It was created by Dutch programmer Guido van Rossum, who began working on it in the late 1980s. The word “Python” was chosen in honor of the British television show Monty Python's Flying Circus, which Rossum liked.
• The first version of the language (0.9.0) was released in February 1991, and the stable version 1.0 in January 1994.
• Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, the language gradually gained popularity, especially in academic and scientific circles. In 2008, a new version 3.0 was released. Currently, the Python programming language is one of the most popular and widely used.
Technical features of the Python language:
1. It doesn't need to be compiled before running like some other languages, it “reads” your code and runs it immediately, line by line. You can quickly check and fix errors in your code.
2. No need to specify the type of each variable, it “understands” what type of data is stored in the variable. The code becomes flexible and easy to write.
3. Provides templates for solving many problems. For example, lists, dictionaries and other “collections” of data help to easily work with large amounts of information.
4. Supports different programming styles: procedural, object-oriented, functional, etc. Everyone will be able to choose the most suitable approach for a specific task.
5. The syntax of the language is very simple and clear, and the use of indents instead of curly braces makes the code more structured and easier to read.
6. Can work on different operating systems: Windows, macOS and Linux. This is convenient if you want your program to work on different computers.
Main tasks of a Python developer
Python developers work in many areas, including:
• Development and support of web applications, such as: online stores, portals, business card sites
• Creation of programs for automation of business processes, for example, scripts for collecting and processing data
• Implementation of server logic for mobile applications
• Development of programs for analysis and visualization of big data
• Creation of machine learning and artificial intelligence systems
• Writing scripts for system administration
Skills and competencies required to work as a Python developer
Analytic mind allows you to quickly analyze and process large amounts of information; with such abilities, a future programmer will be able to identify key factors, find cause-and-effect relationships and non-standard solutions to problems.
Attention to detail, Carefulness and meticulousness in completing tasks, as well as checking the results for possible errors or omissions, ensure high quality work, and the ability to notice small but important nuances can have a significant impact on the final result.
Continuous development help to remain a sought-after specialist in the labor market, and receptivity to feedback and criticism are key aspects that allow you to grow professionally.
Skill to work in team – the ability to interact effectively with colleagues, willingness to cooperate and share information. This also involves the ability to listen and hear, accepting the point of view of others, contributing to the achievement of team goals.
To become a successful Python developer, you need to have the following skills and competencies:
• Know Python language: syntax, standard libraries and frameworks.
• Design and develop software: ability to design application architecture, write clean, modular and scalable code.
• Know OOP and design patterns: understanding of the principles of object-oriented programming and the ability to apply design patterns.
• Working with databases: understanding how to work with relational and NoSQL databases, writing SQL queries.
• Know frameworks and libraries: Django, Flask, FastAPI, as well as libraries for data analysis (Pandas, NumPy) and visualization (Matplotlib, Seaborn).
• Be proficient in version control systems: skills in working with Git, GitHub or similar systems.
• Know the principles of testing: understanding of unit, integration and functional testing methods.
• Working with Linux/Unix: work in the command line, automate tasks using scripts.
If you want to become a Python developer, here are some directions:
• To get higher education. Many universities offer programs in the specialty of “Information Technology” or “Computer Science”, which include the study of Python. This path is not the fastest, but it will allow you to immerse yourself in the world of IT gradually and thoroughly and become a first-class programmer, having mastered a sought-after profession, in addition, potential employers highly value graduates of specialized universities in IT areas and often indicate this requirement in vacancies.
• Online training courses. It is not always possible to devote several years to studying computer technologies in universities, fortunately, there are courses and online learning platforms where you can gain knowledge and skills as a Python developer in a shorter time. Such courses are effective due to the support of mentors and curators during the entire learning process, and feedback on homework makes the learning process more effective.
• Self-study – is not the easiest path, and is not suitable for everyone, but if you are independent, diligent and persistent, you have every chance of becoming a specialist in your chosen profession!
Python is a relatively easy language to learn, so you can master it by studying books and articles, and also find the necessary information by watching video tutorials on this topic on the Internet. However, the disadvantage of this approach is the lack of consistency in mastering knowledge and the lack of feedback from an experienced specialist in this field, but you can always improve your practical skills during an internship. Many IT companies provide training to applicants with a strong theoretical base, perhaps this is your chance to join the ranks of strong Python developers as a “junior developer”.
A Python developer is a key specialist responsible for creating a wide range of software solutions in one of the most popular and versatile programming languages. With the necessary technical skills, soft skills, and a desire to continuously learn, a Python developer can build a successful career in IT and contribute to several interesting and useful projects.
