Over the past several years, the American workforce has seen a jump in the number of professionals freelancing full-time. In 2020, the number of freelancers increased to 59 million, and they now make up 36% of the total workforce.
There are many factors that can account for the increase, one of which is the ever-growing number of positions — like a freelance iOS developer — that companies are willing to outsource.
Let’s take a look at some of the key benefits of becoming a freelance iOS developer and what it takes to land these contracts.
What Does a Freelance iOS Developer Do?
A freelance iOS developer job requires a host of skills, but the primary responsibility involves designing and building mobile applications for Apple’s iOS platform. They monitor the performance and quality of applications as well as identifying potential or existing bottlenecks to create solutions and correct any application bugs prior to release.
Freelance iOS developers also collaborate with the company’s design team to define app features and design and implement application updates.
Benefits of Being a Freelance iOS Developer
While the exact reasons for becoming a freelancer will depend on the individual, there are some key benefits that are universal — starting with flexibility.
Being a freelance iOS developer, or any other kind of freelancer, means you’re in control of your time. You choose the location you work from and the hours you work, meaning more freedom than a 9-to-5 position.
Along with that flexibility is the autonomy and variety you have as a freelancer. You have the power to pick the clients and projects you work with, so you can focus on what you find most interesting and rewarding.
It’s also important to note that the majority of freelancers report high job satisfaction. In fact, when surveyed, 60% of new freelancers said that there’s no amount of money they could be offered to get them back into a traditional job.
Salary, Skills and Experience
Freelancing usually offers equivalent or even higher earning potential than a traditional career and it’s reported that 60% of freelancers earn just as much or more than they would if they worked for a traditional employer.
With the average base salary of an iOS developer reported at roughly $127,000 per year, becoming a freelance iOS developer has the potential to be even more lucrative.
Those looking to become a freelance iOS developer will need a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or Software Engineering. Proven experience as an app developer along with strong knowledge of Apple’s application interface guidelines and design principles will be expected by companies looking to hire freelancers for this role.
Finally, experience with iOS Frameworks such as Core Data and Core Animation and knowledge of iOS back-end services are required.
Start Your Transition to Freelance iOS Developer Today
Roles like a freelance iOS developer offer skilled workers a unique opportunity to create a professional life that offers a different balance than a typical 9-to-5 job. For those looking to make a career transition from their existing field or gain the necessary experience for the first time, the right education and skills will be critical.
If you’re considering taking the plunge to become a freelance iOS developer, the Udacity iOS Developer Nanodegree is the ideal way to master the Swift programming language and create a portfolio of iOS apps for iPhone and iPad to showcase your skills.
