With the world running on software and web applications, programming languages are some of the most useful skills to have. A very popular one among them is Python, and one can have a very successful career as a Python developer.
If you are seeking tips and information on how to land Python jobs, this guide may put you on the right path.
What is Python?
Python is a general-purpose coding or programming language, which can be used for software and web and mobile application development. Python is known for being easy to learn by beginners and its wide range of functions and applications.
What does a Python developer do?
Python developers use the Python language to build, implement and debug projects. Python is used by software engineers, web and mobile app developers, coders and even data scientists. The projects and applications developed are tailored according to the needs of the developer’s employer. Some Python developers may even work independently for multiple employers.
| ROLE | MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES |
|---|---|
| Python developer | Coding, testing, debugging programs, developing software solutions, data storage, data security, etc. |
Why build a career in Python development?
Python is easy to pick up and a versatile programming language. Due to its fast growing popularity and the universal dependence on web or computer-based applications, Python jobs are also on the rise.
Scope of Python development
• Python is used by some of the biggest companies in the world, including Google, Facebook, Spotify and Netflix. ( Real Python )
• Python is steadily featured among the top programming languages to learn, maintaining its position even in 2019 according to multiple blogs and lists.
• The versatility of Python has led to successful ventures and developments in fields like software development, science, arts, business, education and government administration. ( Python )
Demand of Python development
• Python is expected to leap over Java and C in the next three or four years to become the most popular language, according to trends on the TIOBE index. ( InfoWorld )
• Due to industries recognising the benefits of using Python, Python developers are currently in high demand both in India and overseas.
• Knowledge of Python is needed not just in developer profiles. Other jobs you can land with Python are DevOps engineer, data analyst, data scientist and software engineer. ( Analytics India )
Pros and cons of Python developer jobs
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Plenty of Python jobs available across sectors | Other languages like C and Java might not go out of demand |
| Python has a large set of libraries and tools | It is a relatively slower language, as compared to C or Java. |
| Python is being increasingly used in Machine Learning and AI jobs | It is not the preferred language if you are trying to build a career in mobile app development |
Qualification required for Python development
Although any interested individual can learn how to code using Python, a background in science or computer science can be helpful.
| DEGREE | FIELD OF STUDY |
|---|---|
| Bachelors or Masters | Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data Science, Statistics, Business Administration, etc. |
Note: Even if you do not hold any formal degrees in computer science, engineering or data science, you can learn how to code using Python using online courses and tutorials.
Python courses and certifications
There are several options for learning Python and getting a certificate, both online and offline. Apart from the options given below, you may also search online for the best institutes or tutors for Python learning in your city.
-
Website: Google
Course: Python Class
Price: Free
Format: Online
Learning duration: Self-paced -
Website: Udacity
Course: Introduction to Python
Price: Free
Format: Online
Learning duration: Self-paced (Approx. 5 weeks) -
Website: Lynda (by LinkedIn)
Course: Become a Python Developer
Price: Included in Lynda membership (INR 900/month)
Format: Online
Learning duration: Self-paced (Approx. 33 hours) -
Website: Coursera/University of Michigan
Course: Python for Everybody
Price: Free trial for 7 days, INR 3480/month after that
Format: Online
Learning duration: Self-paced (Approx. 4 months) -
Website: Code Academy
Course: Learn Python
Price: $15.99/month (Approx. INR 1,142)
Format: Online
Learning duration: 25 hours -
Website: Harvard University
Course: Web Programming with Python and Javascript
Price: $ 1840 (Approx. INR 1.3 Lakhs)
Format: Online
Learning duration: Instructor-led -
Website: EdX/MIT
Course: Computational Thinking Using Python
Price: INR 10,683
Format: Online
Learning duration: Self-paced (5 months) -
Website: Data Flair
Course: Certified Python Training Course
Price: INR 4,995
Format: Online
Learning duration: Self-paced (Approx. 20 hours) -
Website: Data Camp
Course: Introduction to Python
Price: 9 free beginner courses, $25 (approx. INR 1785) per month
Format: Online
Learning duration: Self-paced -
Website: AnalytixLabs
Course: Python Data Science Course
Price: INR 27,000 - 32,000
Format: Real-time/Online
Learning duration: 220 hours -
Website: Manipal ProLearn
Course: Advanced Business Analytics with Python
Price: INR 20,322
Format: Real-time/Online
Learning duration: 198+ hours -
Centre: NIIT
Course: Python Programming and Data Exploration with Python
Price: INR 7,700 + 18% GST
Format: Classroom + Online
Learning duration: 44 hours -
Centre: Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), Mohali
Course: Cyber Security with Python
Price: INR 6,400
Format: Offline
Learning duration: 6 weeks -
Centre: National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology, Chandigarh
Course: Certificate in Raspberry Pi with Python
Price: INR 4000-8000
Format: Offline
Learning duration: 4-8 weeks -
Centre: National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology, Delhi
Course: Certificate in Python
Price: INR 6,800
Format: Offline
Learning duration: 6 weeks
Python jobs in India
Let us take a look at the number of Python-related jobs in India.
| JOBS | NAUKRI | INDEED | MONSTER | TOTAL | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Python Developer | 7.6k | 5.5k | 14.8k | 7.5k | 35.4k |
| Python Web Developer | 7k | 2.3k | 1.2k | 6k | 16.5k |
| Software Developer | 108k | 51.6k | 2.8k | 74.2k | 236.6k |
| Data Science | 5.2k | 516 | 125 | 5.9k | 11.7k |
| Business Analyst | 9.4k | 334 | 2.1k | 4.5k | 16.3k |
| Machine Learning | 6.4k | 156 | 188 | 5.5k | 12.2k |
Job roles using Python
| ROLE | MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES |
|---|---|
| Python Developer | writing code, designing applications, integration with server-side logic |
| Web Developer | writing code, testing code, debugging, integrating applications with third-party web services |
| Software Developer | writing code, designing software, installing and testing software |
| Data Scientist | Analyzing raw data, using data analysis techniques and tools, sharing insights with companies, strategizing |
| Business Analyst | Identifying how Big Data can be used, interpreting high volumes of data, providing relevant insights for business solutions |
| Machine Learning Engineer | Carry out A/B testing, building and implementing algorithms and data pipelines, producing data-based products or services, helping with operations |
Python job salaries
| JOB ROLE | AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY | SALARY RANGE (LPA) |
|---|---|---|
| Python Developer | 4.9 lakhs | 2.4 to 10 |
| Web Developer | 3 lakhs | 1.2 to 7.7 |
| Software Developer | 4.7 lakhs | 2 to 10 |
| Data Scientist | 6.3 lakhs | 3 to 20 |
| Business Analyst | 5.8 lakhs | 2.5 to 10 |
| Machine Learning Engineer | 7 lakhs | 3.2 to 20 |
Python job skills
Take a look at the typical skills that a Python coder or developer is expected to have.
Core skills
| SKILL | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Python language | Knowing the syntax, semantics and data structures of Python |
| Python frameworks | Familiarity with common frameworks like Django, Flask and CherryPy |
| Python libraries | Knowing how to use common Python libraries like Requests, NumPy, SciPy, etc. |
| ORM libraries | Using and linking applications through ORM like SQLAlchemy or Django ORM |
| Version control | Tracking changes made during the entire process, and knowing relevant terms and actions |
Soft skills
Communication, team-building, perseverance, result-oriented behaviour, etc.
Python job tools
Some of the common tools used by people working with Python have been mentioned below.
| JOB ROLE | TOOLS |
|---|---|
| Python Developer | Scikit-Learn , Keras , SciPy , Robot Framework , Beautiful Soup , LXML , etc. |
| Data Analyst | Spark , Excel , KNIME , pandas , Spotfire , Bokeh , etc. |
| Machine Learning Engineer | BigML , Data Robot , GraphLab Create , Logical Glue , ML Base , Tensor Flow , etc. |
Python developer common career paths
Here are some common ways in which you can make a career coding with Python.
A. When you have a Bachelors degree in Science/Engineering
Career Path 1:
Get a degree in software engineering → Complete relevant projects using Python → Apply for web or software developer positions
Career Path 2:
Get a degree in computer science → Get certifications in working with Big Data and/or Data Analytics → Join as a Data science or engineer at a firm
Career Path 3:
Get a degree in physics → Take online courses in Python and complete projects→ Collect professional certifications in Data Science and/or Machine Learning → Intern or get a job as a Data Scientist or Machine Learning Engineer
B. When do not you have a Bachelors degree in Science/Engineering
Career Path 1:
Get a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration → Learn Python online and complete projects → Opt for a Master’s degree in Data Science or Marketing/Business Analytics → Intern or find a job as a Business Analyst
Career Path 2:
Get a degree in any discipline → Learn Python through online or classroom courses → Complete projects using Python →Build a portfolio and apply for jobs as an independent Python developer
Note: The above career paths are just examples. There is no fixed career path to start a career in Python development, etc. It may vary according to the background, interests, and skills of the individual.
Tips to get a job as a Python developer
Here are some useful tips for making a career in a Python job.
1. Gain mastery over the language
Form a solid foundation with the basics of Python and then proceed to covering advanced topics like data models, bytecode semantics, runtime stack inspection, metaclasses, coroutines, multithreading, etc. Only when you have a firm grasp on the language, will you feel confident about using it in the workplace.
2. Get relevant certifications
Learning Python on your own is a good option but if you want to make your skills look more legitimate, it is best to complete a course or get a certificate. If you have a particular career path or job profile in mind, you can get a certificate in a more specific module or area. It will add weight to your CV and make a better impression on a future employer.
3. Follow blogs and tutorials
It is important to stay up to date with everything that is new in the world of Python and its applications. One way to do this is to use the Internet to follow interesting blogs and informative tutorials which update regularly on new developments regarding Python and its real-world uses.
4. Complete Python projects
Whether done independently or as part of a course, completed projects are necessary for you to master the language. It not only adds to your work experience, but also helps you improve as a programmer. You can use more complex functions as you progress to sharpen your Python skills over time.
5. Choose an area of specialisation
Python can be used for a variety of purposes and in multiple fields. However, instead of being just one in the crowd of programmers and developers coming up every day, it is better to know what or who you want to use your Python skills for. Be it business analysis, data analysis, machine learning or web development, a clear goal will help you decide your career path with Python better.
Python blogs
Python books
Python YouTube videos and channels
- Python Tutorial for Beginners
- Python Tutorial for Beginners – Full Course
- Learn Python
- Google Developer Python Classes
- Python Full Course by Edureka
- Django Tutorial for Beginners
- Python Neural Networks for Beginners
- Ethical Hacking Using Python
- Introduction to Python (Hindi)
- Python Tutorial for Programmers
Python forums
Python webinars
Python interview questions
Once you start applying for jobs, it is the right time to start preparing for common interview questions in Python-related fields.
Business Analyst
Machine Learning Interview Questions
Also Read: HR Interview Questions
Top companies to follow
Here are some companies which are known for using Python in their functioning.
Popular companies:
Google , Netflix , Amazon, Pinterest , Spotify , Uber , YouTube , ClassyServe Technologies , Turbolab Technologies , Contus , Micropyramid , etc.
Popular startups:
Instamojo , HackerEarth , EveryCrave , Recruiterbox , Thinklabs etc.
Python is on the way to become the most used and in-demand programming language across industries and sectors. As job opportunities for Python developers increase, the abovementioned tips and guidelines will help you land a Python job of your dreams.
