Education and Skills
Nowadays, the importance of securing your 4-year bachelor's degree diploma in any reputable college or university when looking for the J2EE job of your dreams cannot be overemphasized. Well, of course, you can skip this employer requirement if and when you can prove yourself to be more than adequate to compete with the others. Still, it will be an advantage if you can acquire a college diploma especially in computer sciences-related degrees. (Even James Gosling, the father of the Java program himself, has a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degree from the University of Calgary)
Plus, you will need to present evidence for additional training and work experience in the Java programming language when applying for J2EE jobs. This is because employers know of the complexity of the development tools within the language, of which only experience can teach anybody to know the ins and outs of.
Also, a particular J2EE job may even require knowledge of other programming languages like C++ and Oracle. So, do look at the job qualifications to determine the programming skills that you still need to develop.
Types of Program Development
There are two main jobs in program development that require different skills and knowledge in Java programming. First, front-end Java program developers design interfaces for software and web applications. In many ways, it is the easier of the two types of J2EE jobs in that user-friendly applications are the main goal.
It must be noted, however, that even with such relative ease, many a J2EE job in front-end development require experience in back-end development as well as in other programming languages. The rewards are great for your efforts - salaries can range from $70,000 to $90,000 per year depending on location, education and experience.
Second, back-end Java program developers deal with more complicated applications since the program itself will be used on a server. As many of you know, a server is the core upon which computer applications and software operate on and, hence, should be more powerful and broader in scope.
J2EE jobs in back-end development may pay more than front-end development work although it must be emphasized that the factors of location, education and experience still come into play. Expect a higher salary than the usual $70,000 per year for up to $100,000 depending on the company.
As a back-end program developer, you may be required to perform responsibilities ranging from the development, maintenance and support of Java services to the documentation of deployment plans. Such bigger responsibilities often entail a longer working experience coupled with higher learning/training.
J2EE jobs are abundant in the market but very competitive. Thus, you must work on your degree and acquire sufficient experience in Java program development if and when you wish to take part in the industry. It may well be one of your best decisions where your career is concerned.
