How To Hire An iOS Developer

An iOS developer is a professional who specializes in creating applications for Apple's mobile devices. They adeptly use programming languages like Swift to design and implement software solutions. iOS developers tackle diverse challenges, from optimizing app performance to addressing compatibility issues with different devices and iOS versions. These developers collaborate with cross-functional teams to create innovative and user-friendly applications that meet the evolving demands of the iOS ecosystem.

iOS development traces its origins to the launch of the first iPhone in 2007, marking the inception of Apple's revolutionary mobile operating system. Initially, third-party app development wasn't accessible, but in 2008, Apple introduced the App Store, opening doors for external developers. The release of the iOS Software Development Kit (SDK) empowered developers to create native applications. Over the years, iOS underwent significant updates, introducing Swift as a new programming language in 2014 and consistently enhancing features and security. The App Store flourished, hosting millions of apps, and iOS development evolved, embracing advancements like ARKit and SwiftUI, ensuring a dynamic and innovative ecosystem for developers worldwide.

iOS Developers: Why are they needed?

iOS developers are essential due to the widespread usage of Apple devices and the demand for high-quality, user-friendly applications. Companies ranging from tech giants like Apple, Google, and Facebook to startups and enterprises hire iOS developers to create innovative apps that cater to the vast iOS user base.

The seamless integration of hardware and software in Apple devices necessitates specialized skills to optimize performance and user experience. With the App Store being a lucrative marketplace, businesses understand the value of hiring skilled iOS developers. They help design, develop, and maintain applications that enhance brand visibility, user engagement, and overall market competitiveness.

Skills required

  • Swift
  • Objective-C
  • iOS SDK
  • Xcode IDE
  • UIKit Framework
  • Auto Layout

Job titles

  • Swift Developer
  • Mobile App Developer
  • Software Engineer
  • Mobile Application Engineer
  • iOS Application Developer

How to Search for iOS developers

LinkedIn

To find iOS developers on LinkedIn, use relevant keywords like "iOS Developer," "Swift Developer," or "Mobile App Developer (iOS)." Refine your search by adding location or specific skills. Explore profiles that showcase iOS development experience, a robust portfolio, and endorsements. Engage with relevant LinkedIn groups and communities to connect with potential hires.


Additionally, posting a job listing on LinkedIn can attract qualified iOS developers actively seeking employment opportunities. Ensure your company's LinkedIn page highlights a compelling work culture and exciting projects to further attract and hire top iOS talent.


There are various region-specific communities on LinkedIn that you can join. For example, "Mexico iOS Developer Group", "Sydney iOS Developer Group", etc. It will aid in finding the developers specifically for your region.

Online job boards

Online job boards serve as invaluable platforms to hire iOS developers by offering a vast pool of talent. Platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, Naukri, and Glassdoor provide targeted job postings, allowing recruiters to find iOS developers more efficiently.


Additionally, consider niche job boards like Stack Overflow Jobs or GitHub Jobs to find developers with specific expertise. Engage actively on these platforms, participate in relevant discussions, and showcase your company culture to enhance your chances of attracting top-tier iOS talent. Leverage the power to find and hire iOS developer best suited for your team.

Developer communities and forums

Engaging with developer communities and forums is a strategic approach to hire iOS developer for your team. Participate in platforms like Stack Overflow, iOS Dev Weekly, and Reddit's r/iOSProgramming. It will allow you to find and connect with active contributors in the iOS development space. Establishing a presence by sharing insights, discussing industry trends, and posting relevant job opportunities fosters a positive relationship with the community.


Moreover, creating a dedicated space on forums to showcase company culture and projects can attract potential hires. Leverage these forums to find iOS developer with the right skillset. Engaging and understanding iOS developers' perspectives can significantly contribute to successful recruitment process.

Tech conferences and meetups

Tech conferences and meetups offer unparalleled opportunities to hire iOS developer with latest technical skillset. Attending events like WWDC or local iOS meetups can enable you to find iOS developer and witness their skills firsthand.


Additionally, participating in panel discussions or organizing workshops allows you to position your company as a thought leader, making it more appealing to potential hires. Establishing a presence at these gatherings not only fosters connections but also creates a platform to find and hire iOS developer who resonates with your organization's goals and values.

HackerEarth hiring challenges

Sponsor online coding challenges to find competitive developers. For instance, HSBC Bank collaborated with HackerEarth to run the iOS Developer Hiring Challenge in 2021, to hire iOS developer with 2-11 years of experience.

Open source communities

Active participation in open source communities is a strategic way to hire iOS developers. You can utilize these platforms to find iOS developer passionate about innovation and community collaboration.


Platforms like GitHub showcase developers' coding prowess and collaboration skills. You can find and engage potential hires by contributing to or creating open source iOS projects. This not only enhances visibility but also allows employers to assess candidates' abilities firsthand.

Online learning platforms

Online learning platforms are instrumental in finding and hiring iOS developers. Platforms like Udacity, Coursera, and LinkedIn Learning host iOS development courses will allow you to identify candidates who have proactively honed their skills.


Establishing partnerships with these platforms or sponsoring educational initiatives demonstrates a commitment to continuous learning. Thus, making it an effective strategy to find and hire iOS developer who aligns with technical requirements of your organization.

Local universities and coding boot camps

Partnering with local universities and coding boot camps can prove to be instrumental in hiring iOS developers. Establishing internship programs with institutions or collaborating with respected coding boot camps will allow you to nurture and assess emerging iOS developers. Participating in career fairs, conducting workshops, or offering guest lectures enables direct engagement with prospective hires. By aligning internship experiences with real-world projects, you can evaluate and hire iOS developer with practical skills and work ethic.

Social media channels

To find iOS developer, you can also use platforms like Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook. Share projects and job openings. Engage with other online iOS developer communities such as NSHipster, iOS Dev Weekly, etc. Here you can find dedicated programmers who are passionate about programming and latest developments.

Referrals and employee networks

Promote employee referrals and leverage existing networks to gather recommendations.

Lightbulb Pro-Tip

Reddit is a great place to look for various iOS-related communities, including r/ios, r/iOSsetups, r/iOSProgramming, r/apple, r/swift, r/iosdev, r/iOSWidgets, etc. You can also join related Communities on Discord with thousands of members.

iOS Developer Assessment

The most common assessment framework for iOS Developers on HackerEarth includes

A combination of technical evaluations, coding exercises, and behavioral assessments. Here are some common components of the assessment framework:

Code completion tasks

Code completion tasks assess a candidate's understanding of syntax and their ability to write correct and well-formed code. For instance, ask candidates to complete a Swift function that fetches data from a RESTful API using URLSession and handle the asynchronous response. Evaluating candidate's knowledge will help you find iOS developer who has the right technical skills required for the job.

Multiple-choice questions (MCQs)

While preparing for the iOS developer hiring assessment, you should include MCQs to test technical knowledge of candidates. Assessing knowledge of common design patterns, debugging techniques, and memory management is crucial. MCQs can also delve into app lifecycle, understanding of Grand Central Dispatch for concurrency, and integration of third-party libraries. Including the right questions will help you filter the candidates and you will be able to hire the ones with exceptional iOS developer skills.

Project-specific questions

In the iOS developer interview assessment, delve into project-specific questions. It will help you assess their hands-on experience and problem-solving skills. For instance, inquire about a project where the candidate implemented a complex user interface using SwiftUI. Discuss the design decisions made and any performance optimizations applied. Ask about their experience with asynchronous programming, such as handling network requests using URLSession and managing concurrency. It will aid in an informed decision to hire iOS developer who is technically sound.

Language-specific questions

An iOS developer can be asked questions related to Swift programming language, iOS architecture, and familiarity with UIKit and Core Data. Crafting questions around these topics not only ensures a comprehensive assessment but also helps identify candidates with the right skills. Ultimately helping you hire iOS developer best suited for your development team.

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Steps to Create a iOS Developer Assessment on HackerEarth

  1. Log in to Hackerearth assessments
  2. Add questions from our library and create a test
  3. Send invites to candidates
  4. Evaluate our AI-assisted report and shortlist candidates

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Sample Questions to Ask an iOS developer

  • Implement a function that checks whether a given string is a palindrome in Swift.
  • Create a Swift function that asynchronously fetches data from a RESTful API using URLSession.
  • Write an asynchronous function that fetches data from a URL using URLSession and prints the result when the task is complete.
  • Create a simple UIView with two UILabels and a UIButton. Add Autolayout constraints programmatically to ensure proper layout on various device sizes.

  • Which UIKit component is used for displaying a collection of data in a scrollable list?
    1. UICollectionView
    2. UITableView
    3. UIPickerView
    4. UIScrollView

  • In Auto Layout, what is the purpose of the "priority" property for a constraint?
    1. It determines the order in which constraints are applied.
    2. It specifies the strength of a constraint.
    3. It sets the animation priority for view transitions.
    4. It controls the visibility of a constraint.

  • Which tool in Xcode is used for profiling an iOS app's memory usage and performance?
    1. Interface Builder
    2. Debugger
    3. Instruments
    4. Asset Catalog

  • What is a protocol in Swift? Provide an example of when and why you would use a protocol in your code.
  • Differentiate between value types and reference types in Swift. Give examples of each and discuss scenarios where you would prefer one over the other.
  • Explain Swift's error handling mechanism using try, catch, and throw. How would you handle errors in a network request?
  • Describe how memory management works in Swift. What is Automatic Reference Counting (ARC), and how does it prevent memory leaks?

  • Explain the main features of the Xcode integrated development environment (IDE). How does it support iOS/macOS app development?
  • What is Interface Builder in Xcode, and how does it facilitate the design of user interfaces for iOS/macOS apps?
  • Describe the debugging tools available in Xcode. How would you troubleshoot and fix a runtime error in your Swift code?
  • How does Xcode integrate with version control systems like Git? Explain the process of committing changes and resolving merge conflicts.

File Note

These sample questions provided here are for interviewing early-experience talents. For more customized assessments for candidates with higher experience, you can contact our team at contact@hackerearth.com or request a demo here.

Guidelines for Writing Job Description for iOS Developers

Job title

Let's see how you should include job titles while writing the iOS developer job description. In any job description, the job title is typically placed near the beginning, preferably at the top of the document. This helps potential candidates quickly identify the position for which they are applying. The job title should be clear and concise, reflecting the role, such as "Swift Developer", "Mobile App Developer", and "iOS Application Developer". These titles improve searchability on job platforms and search engines. Candidates actively seeking roles in Swift development or iOS application development are more likely to discover and engage with job postings that align with their expertise.

Job summary

A well-crafted job summary plays a crucial role in a job description by providing a concise overview of the key aspects of the position. It serves as a snapshot that quickly communicates the core responsibilities, qualifications, and unique aspects of the job. For example, while writing the iOS Developer job description, you can start with "Seeking a skilled iOS Developer to design and implement innovative mobile applications using Swift and iOS frameworks. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in..." and so forth.

Responsibilities

Outline the specific duties and responsibilities that the iOS developer is expected to manage. For example:

  • implement robust iOS solutions, ensuring adherence to coding standards and best practices.
  • Collaborate closely with UI/UX designers to create seamless and visually appealing user interfaces.
  • Integrate RESTful APIs for data communication and synchronization.
  • Conduct thorough testing, including unit and integration testing, to guarantee the reliability of developed features.
  • Optimize application performance, identifying and addressing bottlenecks.
  • Provide technical expertise in code reviews and mentor junior developers.

Clarifying the specific tasks and responsibilities that the iOS developer will handle serves to provide a clear understanding of their role and expectations. This detailed outline aids potential candidates in assessing whether their skills align with the requirements of the position.

Skills and qualifications

List the essential iOS developer skills and qualifications that candidates must possess, including, but not restricted to:

  • Proficient in Swift programming language.
  • Expertise in iOS app development using UIKit.
  • Strong understanding of mobile app architecture.
  • Experience with version control systems, particularly Git.
  • Competence in integrating RESTful APIs.
  • Knowledge of Core Data for data persistence.

Preferred skills

Mention any additional iOS developer skills or qualifications that would be beneficial but not mandatory for the role. You can also ask for experience with specific tools, libraries, or frameworks. This might include:

  • Experience with SwiftUI for modern UI development.
  • Knowledge of testing frameworks like XCTest.
  • Understanding of push notifications and background processing.
  • Exposure to ARKit for augmented reality applications.

Education and experience

Defining the educational background and professional experience in the iOS developer job description, establishes a clear baseline for candidate qualifications. This could range from a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field to several years of relevant experience. It contributes to a more efficient and targeted hiring process.

Company culture and EVPs

Showcasing your company's culture, values, and unique perks in the job description is instrumental in attracting candidates who align with your ethos. By providing insight into the work environment, values, and additional benefits, you create a more appealing and transparent proposition.

For example, mentioning flexible work hours, professional development opportunities, or a collaborative team culture can be enticing for potential hires. This not only helps in attracting candidates who share similar values but also sets expectations. Thus ensuring that you attract and hire iOS developer who is genuinely interested in and compatible with your company's culture. Including these elements while writing the iOS developer job description contributes to a more informed and self-selective candidate pool.

Application instructions

Guide candidates on the application process by detailing where to submit their resume, portfolio, or any necessary documents. Clearly outline the preferred method of application, whether through email, an online application form, or another specified channel. Additionally, if there is an application deadline, communicate it clearly. This not only streamlines the hiring process but also ensures that candidates submit their materials in a timely manner.

Providing these instructions in the job description makes the application process more straightforward for candidates. It facilitates efficient processing for the hiring team, contributing to an organized and effective recruitment cycle. It enables you to hire iOS developer best suited for the position.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Include a statement affirming that your company is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion.

Lightbulb Pro tip

You can incorporate gender-neutral pronouns like 'they/them' to promote an inclusive workplace. Additionally, it's beneficial to align your developer personas with your job profiles before advertising an open position. This approach ensures that your job descriptions resonate with a diverse range of candidates.

Download our guide for writing better developer personas

How to Conduct an iOS developer Job Interview

Skill-first hiring requires that the developer interview process be designed to understand the candidate’s skill and experience in the given domain. You can consider the following guidelines when conducting a face-to-face interview with an iOS Developer:

Conduct a real-time technical assessment

During the iOS developer hiring assessment process, candidates are usually given a remote assessment before the interview. However, using the interview platform to assess skills in real time will tell you a lot about the candidate’s communication skills and thought process.

HackerEarth's flagship tech interview platform, FaceCode, offers an integrated question library tailored for assessing candidates' knowledge of iOS/Swift concepts. Within FaceCode's built-in IDE environment, you can evaluate candidates' coding abilities—assessing their capacity to produce clean, efficient, and maintainable code. Employing the pair-programming method during interviews enables recruiters to observe candidates' logical thinking, problem-solving approach, and attention to detail in real-time. This online coding interview platform not only streamlines the process of setting up and inviting candidates but also automates interview summaries, making it an efficient tool to hire top talent.

Learn how Facecode can make tech interviews easier

Understand the candidate’s project experience and review the portfolio

When conducting an iOS developer interview assessment, delve into the candidate's past and present projects, emphasizing their personal contributions and the skills applied. Request a detailed discussion on an iOS project, exploring their responsibilities, and problem-solving strategies. If accessible, thoroughly review their portfolio or code samples to assess coding style, and overall project quality. By scrutinizing these aspects, you can make informed decisions to hire candidates whose experience aligns seamlessly with the demands of the role.

Understand if they are a good culture and team fit

To hire an iOS developer, it's crucial to recognize that while technical skills remain paramount, cultural fit holds equal significance. Assess the candidate's ability to work independently and collaboratively within agile and cooperative environments. This evaluation, crucial in determining their fit for the role and team dynamics, unveils insights into problem-solving aptitude, communication prowess, and adaptability. Beyond accurate coding abilities, the ideal candidate should exhibit effective communication and collaboration skills.

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FAQs

When seeking to hire an iOS developer, prioritize candidates with a strong command of Swift and experience in iOS development, including proficiency in UIKit and other relevant frameworks. Look for individuals with a robust portfolio showcasing diverse app projects, demonstrating their problem-solving skills and creativity. Familiarity with version control systems, such as Git, and a solid understanding of mobile app architecture are crucial. Assessing their ability to collaborate in cross-functional teams and adapt to evolving technologies is essential. Additionally, consider candidates with a keen eye for design and user experience, as well as a proactive approach to staying abreast of industry trends.

When considering an iOS developer for hire, it's advantageous to find a candidate with proficiency in a spectrum of tools rather than a singular expertise. While expertise in specific tools like Xcode, Interface Builder, and version control systems is crucial, adaptability to new tools and technologies signifies a developer's versatility. Ultimately, look for candidates who showcase a willingness to learn and stay updated in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.

An adept iOS application developer possesses a robust skill set encompassing proficiency in Swift programming language, UIKit framework, and an in-depth understanding of iOS architecture. Hiring an iOS developer with expertise in Interface Builder, Core Data for data persistence, and a strong grasp of Autolayout for responsive design is crucial. A keen eye for design, coupled with a commitment to delivering seamless user experiences, rounds out the skill set of an exceptional iOS application developer.

To effectively evaluate an iOS developer's real-world project-handling skills, incorporate a comprehensive assessment strategy. Begin by scrutinizing their portfolio for diverse app projects, emphasizing complexity, and innovation. During interviews, delve into specific challenges faced and solutions implemented, gauging their problem-solving abilities. Incorporate practical coding exercises that mirror real-world scenarios, assessing their proficiency in Swift, UIKit, and other relevant frameworks.

The demand for iOS developer skills varies across job roles, necessitating a nuanced approach when hiring. In roles focused on app architecture and system optimization, finding iOS developers with expertise in Swift, Core Data, and performance tuning is critical. For UI/UX-oriented positions, emphasis should be placed on candidates skilled in Interface Builder, Autolayout, and design principles. In contrast, roles centered on backend integration require developers proficient in networking, RESTful API implementation, and data serialization.