How to hire TypeScript developers

TypeScript is a programming language widely used for developing large-scale web-based applications. TypeScript developers use this language to build efficient, scalable, and secure software solutions.

Hiring proficient TypeScript developers can help you build high-quality software solutions that are easy to maintain, extend, and debug.

Inexperienced or unskilled TypeScript developers may struggle to understand the language's nuances and best practices, leading to inefficient and error-prone code. They may also lack the ability to design and implement scalable and maintainable software solutions – increasing costs in the long run. 

But finding and hiring these developers isn’t easy. Worry not – in this article, we cover how to hire the best TypeScript developers for your team.

What do you need to know before hiring a TypeScript developer?

Pay attention to these factors when starting your TypeScript developer search.

Choosing when to hire a TypeScript developer

Start considering hiring a TypeScript developer when your project requires complex web applications or when you're transitioning from JavaScript to TypeScript for improved code quality. 

The timing may also depend on your company size and the specific stage of your project. For startups, a TypeScript developer can establish a strong foundation, while larger companies might need them to scale or update existing applications.

Finding candidates with industry-specific experience

Look for developers with experience in your industry. For example, if you're working on an e-commerce application, a developer with relevant online commerce experience can bring valuable insights and deliver results more quickly. After performing evaluations, review candidates' portfolios for projects like yours to gauge the relevance of their expertise.

Evaluating product fit

Similarly, you should assess candidates based on the specific requirements of your project. 

For instance, if you're building a mobile app, prioritize developers with experience in mobile-specific TypeScript development. On the other hand, if you're working on a web-based e-commerce platform, seek developers who excel in front-end technologies like React or Vue.js and have a proven track record in optimizing user experiences for online shopping. 

This ensures that the developer's skills directly contribute to the success of your project.

Deciding on compensation and benefits

TypeScript developers are increasingly in demand due to the growing popularity and adoption of TypeScript in web development. To attract top talent, ensure your package is at least on par with – or better than – what competitors offer. 

Regularly review and adjust salaries and benefits to remain competitive. Glassdoor states that as of 2023, TypeScript developers earn between $76,000 and $123,000 annually in the US, for example. 

Balancing competitive salaries with other benefits, such as flexible working conditions and opportunities to progress, can help attract the best people.

Skills and qualifications to look for in a TypeScript developer

When hiring TypeScript developers, think about both technical and soft skills. Here are key skills to look for:

• TypeScript: Look for experience in developing software using TypeScript. This should include a deep understanding of TypeScript’s unique typing constructs and features.

• JavaScript: Since TypeScript extends JavaScript, developers must be proficient in JavaScript, particularly its latest features (ES+). This forms the foundation of their TypeScript expertise.

• Object-Oriented Programming (OOP): Knowledge of OOP concepts is essential, as TypeScript supports these principles. Experience with other OOP languages can be beneficial.

• Front-end frameworks: Familiarity with frameworks like React, Angular, or Vue.js is important since they're often used in tandem with TypeScript for web development projects.

• Node.js: Understanding the Node.js runtime environment is very useful for backend development with TypeScript.

• Web development tools: Skills in using tools like Webpack or Gulp for web application development are valuable.

• Agile environments: Working knowledge in an Agile environment such as Scrum or Kanban is preferred, as Agile development is often used in TypeScript software development teams.

• Automated testing: Familiarity with automated testing platforms such as Selenium, Protractor, or Mocha is advantageous.

• Version control system experience: Experience with systems like Git is important for team collaboration and managing code changes effectively.

• Problem-solving abilities: TypeScript developers should be adept at solving complex problems.

• Effective communication skills: They must clearly articulate technical concepts to people who may not deeply understand TypeScript.

Where to find skilled TypeScript developers

Finding skilled TypeScript developers can be challenging due to the specialized nature of their skills and the high demand in the tech industry. However, with the right strategies, you can effectively tap into the talent pool. Here's where to start looking:

• Upwork: This is a global freelancing platform where businesses and independent professionals connect and collaborate remotely.

• Arc: This platform updates its roster of TypeScript developers daily, offering a variety of professionals with diverse skills and backgrounds from different countries.

• Xperti: Xperti specializes in connecting you with pre-vetted TypeScript developers.

• ProCoders: This platform provides experienced TypeScript developers for hire, focusing on maximizing your budget and meeting deadlines.

• Webflow: Known for its design community, Webflow is a great place to find skilled freelance TypeScript developers for your project.

• Freelancer: An extensive platform where you can find TypeScript developers specializing in web application development and debugging.

• OfferZen: OfferZen is a job marketplace with over 100,000 developers in its community.

Creative ways to find TypeScript developer candidates

Here are some other ways to find TypeScript developer candidates:

• Networking at tech meetups and conferences: Participate in local tech meetups and conferences centered around TypeScript or related technologies. These events are excellent opportunities to connect with developers in person and learn about their projects.

• Employee referrals: Inspire your current employees to refer skilled TypeScript developers they know. Employee referral programs often lead to finding candidates who align well with your team's culture and values.

• Consider remote talent: With the rise of remote work, don't limit your search to your local area. Remote developers can offer diverse perspectives and may be more readily available than local talent.

• Create educational content: Share TypeScript-related blogs, webinars, or tutorials to attract developers keen on learning and staying updated with the latest trends.

• Offer internships or apprenticeships: Providing opportunities for less experienced developers to grow with an internship program can help you build a pipeline of TypeScript talent.

How to select the best TypeScript developer candidates

Finding the best TypeScript developers starts with writing a great TypeScript developer job description and posting it on the boards listed above. Once your applicants start rolling in, TestGorilla provides an array of tests to help you evaluate their technical and soft skills. By incorporating TestGorilla into your hiring process, you can easily and thoroughly assess front-end developer skills. 

Our holistic approach ensures a well-rounded assessment, helping you identify candidates who not only have the necessary technical expertise but also fit well within your team's culture. Here's how to use TestGorilla to select the best TypeScript developer candidates.

Technical skill tests

We recommend you use several of TestGorilla's technical tests to assess candidates' core competencies in TypeScript and related technologies:

• TypeScript (Coding): Entry-Level Algorithms test

• TypeScript (Coding): Intermediate-Level Algorithms test

• Typescript (coding): Debugging test

• JavaScript (Coding): Data Structures & Data Types test

• JavaScript (coding): Entry-Level Algorithms test

• React test

• HTML5 test

Personality tests

Understand candidates' personality traits to gauge how they'll fit into your company culture. You can easily add one or two TestGorilla tests into your evaluation, such as:

• Motivation test

• DISC test

• Big 5 (OCEAN) test

• Enneagram test

• 16 Types test

• Culture Add test

Soft skill tests

Add in some soft skill tests to learn how well the candidates will work in a real-world setting. Relevant TestGorilla tests include:

• Attention to Detail (Textual) test

• Communication test

• Problem Solving test

• Critical Thinking test

• Time Management test

Customizing your assessment

TestGorilla allows you to add custom questions to your assessment, tailoring it to your business's specific needs. This feature ensures you can focus on aspects most relevant to your TypeScript developer role.

Interviewing candidates

Once candidates complete the assessment, TestGorilla provides detailed reports on their performances. These reports cover each aspect of every candidate's skills, offering insights that go beyond what a resume or traditional interview can reveal.

You can then interview the candidates with several TypeScript interview questions. TestGorilla's one-way video interviews allow candidates to respond to your interview prompts at their convenience. You can review these responses at a time that suits you, making the hiring process more flexible and efficient.

5 common mistakes when hiring a TypeScript developer

Hiring TypeScript developers is a process often riddled with little mistakes that can lead to mis-hires. Here are five frequent errors hiring managers make.

1. Forgetting about other frameworks

TypeScript is often used with certain frameworks and libraries like Angular, React, or Node.js. Ignoring a candidate's familiarity with these ecosystems – particularly ones that your team uses – can lead to challenges in integration and project development. Ensure your candidates know how TypeScript works with these other frameworks.

2. Overlooking TypeScript's typing discipline

TypeScript is a strict typing discipline, which is different from the dynamic typing in JavaScript. The distinction is complicated, but the gist is: the language demands clear definitions of data types for every variable and function. 

Failing to assess a candidate's understanding of advanced types, generics, and utility types could mean suboptimal code quality and maintainability issues in your TypeScript projects.

3. Ignoring version management skills

TypeScript is regularly updated with new features and improvements. Hiring a developer who lacks experience in managing TypeScript version upgrades can lead to compatibility issues in your projects and “technical debt.” This is a concept used to describe when less-than-ideal solutions make work harder and more expensive later.

4. Not assessing problem-solving skills in a TypeScript context

Problem-solving in TypeScript involves specific challenges, like type debugging and optimizing compiler options for performance. Not evaluating these skills during the hiring process can result in inefficiencies and delays in project execution.

5. Disregarding TypeScript-specific tooling experience

Tools like TypeScript linters, compilers, and bundlers are integral to TypeScript development. Neglecting to assess a candidate's experience with these tools can mean they take longer to become fully productive.

Hire the best TypeScript developers with TestGorilla

So, to hire the best TypeScript developers, remember to balance technical skills with soft skills, understand TypeScript's specific requirements, and assess cultural fit. Avoid rushing the hiring process. 

For a comprehensive evaluation, consider using TestGorilla, which offers a variety of tests to assess both technical and soft skills. Start streamlining your hiring process and find top TypeScript talent by signing up for free now. You can also take a product tour to learn more.