Everything you need to know about hiring Python developers on OfferZen

When scaling your team, finding the right Python developer can be a challenge. A poor hiring decision can lead to setbacks, low-quality code, and wasted time. Here we unpack everything they want from their next job.

What skills does a Python developer need?

Python is one of the most widely used and desired programming languages in South Africa. That means there are plenty of great Python developers available for your team. Here are the core skills to look out for when looking for top Python developers:

• Python developers need to be familiar with the core principles of object-oriented programming languages, which includes Python. They’ll also need experience with Python frameworks and libraries such as Django, Flask, Pandas and NumPy.
• Python is also a popular language for data analysis and visualisations, so experience with SQL and NoSQL databases and database management systems such as MySQL, PostgreSQL and MongoDB is an advantage.

Python developers on OfferZen typically have at least 2-4 years of experience. 28.5% of Python developers are at this seniority level.

Python developers’ level of experience on OfferZen

What does it cost to hire a Python developer?

We gathered data from 2650 Python developers to better understand what they can expect to earn over the course of their careers.

Average Python developer salary by level of experience

Key salary trends and insights:

• The highest salary increases for Python developers occur in the early stages of their careers.
• Senior Python developers with 10+ years of experience can command salaries almost four times higher than entry-level developers.
• Their earnings can potentially increase by 295% as they progress from entry-level to senior positions.

What else should you consider when looking at what it costs to hire Python developers?

Salary is just one part of a standout compensation package. A great set of benefits can make a world of difference when it comes to landing top Python developers.

Let's first take a closer look at the industries in which Python developers commonly work. The data shows that South African Python developers tend to work for companies based in FinTech or SaaS development. Other common industries for Python developers include Data and Analytics, Web development and Consulting.

Industries where Python developers commonly work

The FinTech, SaaS and Consulting sectors typically have larger tech and enterprise companies, so it’s normal for developers to receive generous benefits packages.

So what benefits are common for developers working in these sectors?

1. Bonuses (with around half of developers receiving them at their current jobs)
2. Medical aid contributions
3. Retirement or pension contributions

Developers are also likely to get education budgets to support their career development and allowances for things like home internet expenses.

The three most common monetary benefits for Python developers in these industries

When you’re looking at potential Python developers for your team, it also helps to consider other factors they consider when evaluating an offer. This way, you know what to highlight in your interviews so you don’t lose the best people in the process.

What are Python developers looking for from their next role?

While a great compensation package can give you an edge when it comes to hiring Python developers, your non-monetary benefits also play a key part in getting the best people on your team.

When weighing up an offer, here are the top three things Python developers in South Africa prioritise:

• Growth opportunities
• Remote work options
• Languages and frameworks

This means you need to show potential team members the career growth opportunities you provide during the interview process. At the same time, if you’re not offering remote work, you run the risk of losing out on top Python developers.

Factors Python developers consider when assessing a role

Keep in Mind

This article's salary and benefits data is taken from OfferZen’s 2023 State of the Software Developer Nation Report. In this article, ‘salary’ refers to the gross monthly salary (before tax) provided by more than 4500 survey respondents..It excludes other incentives like equity or bonuses.

Last but not least, it is always important to remember that every individual’s context is different. At the end of the day, salary is a personal conversation that should take place between employee and employer. It should consider the nature of work, perks and other contextual factors like tech stack or industry.

Ready to find your next Python developer? On OfferZen, you'll get notified weekly about new candidates and receive recommended matches.

Hiring teams can make unlimited hires across all the roles on OfferZen, saving up to 50% compared to traditional recruitment costs.

Are you hiring software developers? OfferZen is the curated developer hiring marketplace that connects job-seeking developers with exciting opportunities at over 2000 companies in Europe and Africa.

Hiring teams can make unlimited hires across all the roles on OfferZen, saving up to 50% compared to traditional recruitment costs.

Further reading:

• Python developer job description
• Python interview questions
• Python developer salaries in South Africa