Java Apprenticeships: Programs, Jobs, and Salary

In 2021, you can make money while learning to code by joining an apprenticeship program. These formal training programs are excellent at helping professionals break into tech regardless of their level of education and experience. 

This guide features top Java apprenticeship programs to help you go down a career path that you will be happy with. You will also learn what a Java apprenticeship is and the role of Java apprentices. Since most people have a hard time choosing the best apprenticeship programs, we also included factors to consider when selecting a Java apprenticeship program.  

What Is a Java Apprenticeship?

A Java apprenticeship is a training program offered to early-career people looking to transition to the professional workforce. The apprenticeship programs are usually offered at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels. The level of apprenticeship should align with your current skill level or career goal. Most companies require apprenticeship candidates to meet certain prerequisites.

What Does a Java Apprentice Do?

A Java apprentice works in conjunction with the product development team to design and build applications for the company. The apprentice class often writes, tests, and debugs code in preparation for product launch. Senior Java developers often supervise and mentor the apprentices as they carry out their duties, making sure they adhere to company standards.

Java Apprenticeship Salary

According to Glassdoor, software developer apprentices earn an average salary of $34,122. You can use this information to get an idea of the salary for Java apprenticeship opportunities, but your salary will depend on the company and your level of expertise. Some Java apprenticeships require candidates to have a master’s degree. These positions come with higher salaries.

Java Apprenticeship Requirements

Java apprenticeship requirements vary. This is because companies have different needs and goals. However, most Java apprenticeships require applicants to have a bachelor’s degree to qualify. They’re also looking for a working knowledge of the software development life cycle and backend technologies. Companies will usually list the required technical knowledge and skills.

Some Java apprenticeship programs only accept coding bootcamp, trade school, and community college graduates. Some others also encourage high school diploma holders, career changers, and job seekers who took more than a two-year break from their careers to apply. 

Types of Java Apprenticeships

Java is one of the most popular programming languages, and its versatility creates countless job opportunities. Once you master Java, you can access multiple types of Java apprenticeships. These apprenticeships give professionals an excellent opportunity to develop technological skills and get access to career development in the form of professional networks.

Java Web Developer

Java web developer apprentices are involved in writing code and debugging backend web applications. They also conduct tests and update security protocols of websites and applications. The web development team relies on the apprentices to develop well-written and efficient code for the development life cycle. 

To excel as a Java web developer, you need experience using Java and knowledge of the development process. Additional topics you should be familiar with are SQL, REST APIs, and relational databases. Having excellent communication skills and related soft skills is also an advantage since you will be working in teams.  

Software Developer

Companies hire software developer apprentices to join the development team and work on different designs. As an apprentice, you will be writing code, fixing bugs, and attending design meetings. You will also monitor the technical performance of systems and applications. The development team will rely on you to gather customer feedback to improve the products. 

To be successful as a software developer apprentice, you will need to complete a four-year degree in computer science. This means mastering programming languages such as HTML5, JavaScript, and C++. You should also have a basic understanding of databases and operating systems. You must be able to follow instructions and work collaboratively with others.  

Java Android Developer

Java Android apprentices participate in the development process for user-friendly Android applications. In this role, you will use your programming skills to build high-quality applications in conjunction with the product team. You will also test the software before launching the application to the public. 

The job requires you to know the fundamentals of programming in Kotlin or Java. You should also be well versed in Android as a development platform. Having knowledge in mobile architecture, trends, and technologies will also be an advantage. Most companies offering also require the apprentices to be familiar with the full development life cycle and REST APIs.

Quality Assurance Analyst

As a quality assurance (QA) apprentice, you will be testing, debugging, and fixing software. This means you will conduct regression, integration, and performance testing while establishing the stability of the software. Jira is one of the tools you will use to track bugs in the software. The senior QA testers will also rely on you to use tools and research for automation testing.

The most successful QA apprentices have college degrees in computer science. It is also important to have automation experience. Therefore, having a working knowledge of Visual Studio and Selenium WebDriver is vital. You should also have experience in coding and testing, as well as excellent problem-solving skills. 

DevOps Engineer  

As a DevOps engineer, you will work on improving the communication and deployment of high-quality software. You will write code for tasks related to automation, systems administration, and configuration. You will also test code to improve automated delivery. 

Java Apprenticeship Jobs

There are plenty of Java apprenticeships. These jobs feature on-the-job training and technical education to help professionals transition to the workforce with ease. Most training opportunities often require a full-time commitment from applicants, making it hard for students to participate. If you are a career changer or a recent graduate, check out the Java apprenticeships below.

Arkansas Center for Data Sciences Java Developer Apprenticeship

Whether you are a veteran, recent college graduate, or a potential career changer, you can apply to the Arkansas Center for Data Sciences apprenticeship program. The program also takes on successful graduates from top coding bootcamps. You may also be eligible if you are a self-taught programmer who learning how to code with online tutorials.

As a Java developer apprentice, you will be responsible for designing and developing top-notch software features using modern technologies and frameworks. You will also optimize software systems to increase efficiency and scalability. This means you should have some experience in Java development and RESTful web services. Having a thorough understanding of Agile workflow will also help. 

It is important to note that this apprenticeship program is only open to residents of Arkansas. The company also limits the training program to professionals who can work in the United States without sponsorship. To ensure you meet this criterion, the company will hold an interview, which also includes a phone screening and knowledge assessment. 

Apprenti Software Developer Apprenticeship Program

Apprenti offers technical training to professionals before they join the competitive field of software development. Through the program, apprentices gain in-demand skills and a certificate to authenticate their newly acquired expertise. You can use the certificate of completion to validate your skills in software development. 

In 12 to 19 weeks, the software development apprenticeship program will take you through HTML, JavaScript, and the fundamental concepts of computer science. After completing the on-the-job learning requirement, you will go through a 12-month on-the-job training program to solidify your skills. 

IBM Software Engineer Apprenticeship Program

IBM offers a 12-month apprenticeship program, which is recognized by the US Department of Labor (DOL). To earn the certificate of completion from the DOL, you must complete the stipulated number of learning hours in 12 months. You will need a background in coding or application development to be able to carry out the tasks.

IBM apprenticeships also list design thinking and Agile principles as preferred qualifications. To qualify, you must have experience in web languages, such as JavaScript, PHP, C#, C++, Python, and Ruby. You should also know some functional languages, such as Haskell, Scala, and F#. DevOps automation and toolchain development are also among the requirements. 

To ensure you are familiar with IBM software engineering practices, you will spend the first few weeks familiarizing yourself with the company. You will then proceed to work with the IBM managers and mentors to develop your skills through hands-on programming assignments and team projects.

While working with a large team of developers and mentors at IBM, you will develop skills in software design and testing. IBM designed the curriculum so that apprentices could build both hard and soft skills in a collaborative environment.

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Detroit Labs Software Developer Apprenticeship

Detroit Labs features a paid apprenticeship program that helps professionals learn and improve their software development skills. During this 12-week training program, you will immerse yourself in mobile and software development in conjunction with quality assurance. It’s a highly collaborative opportunity to work hand in hand with Detroit Labs team members.

The Detroit Labs apprenticeship program does not have any prerequisites. This means you do not have to have any hands-on experience in Java programming. However, you must be a local applicant or be willing to incur an extra expense and move to Detroit. During the program, you will receive a living stipend, and if successful, you will land full-time employment after completion.

First Orion Software Engineer Apprenticeship Program

First Orion’s software engineer apprenticeship is for recent graduates looking to explore the tech industry in depth. It also encourages professionals with one to two years of experience to apply. In the program, you will first learn about the foundational concepts of software engineering. You will learn about Scrum project management methodology, DevOps, and cloud-native development. 

The introductory program features self-paced online learning with projects delivered by external companies. You will also go through additional training delivered by First Orion’s experts. In the program, apprentices will work in conjunction with mentors and the program director, who will provide any necessary guidance.

Once you complete the introductory training program, you will be absorbed into the company as a fully-fledged software engineering practitioner. In this position, you will work full-time and receive the same benefits as full-time software engineering team members.

To qualify for this apprenticeship training program, you will need extensive knowledge in backend technologies and programming languages. You must demonstrate a working knowledge of REST APIs, C++, and Java. Having experience in SQL databases, Linux, and Windows, as well as a degree in computer science or equivalent, are added advantages.  

How Do I Choose a Java Apprenticeship Program?

Choosing the best Java apprenticeship program can be overwhelming. To ensure you get the most out of a program, you must consider a few factors before you apply. We have compiled the following list of factors to help you choose a Java apprenticeship program. 

Program Delivery

Company providers offer Java apprenticeship programs in various modalities. Some companies take their apprentices through virtual training programs while others prefer on-site training. The best apprenticeship programs combine the best of both worlds to ensure apprentices acquire in-demand knowledge and skills. 

Therefore, it is important to establish the best apprenticeship pathway for you or your team before committing to a program. The best way to do that is by considering your learning needs. 

Program Length

Java apprenticeship programs can run anywhere from one to six years. Depending on your schedule and goals, you should select a program that will work with your availability. 

Learner Support

There are some apprenticeship providers who are more committed to an apprentice’s success. In addition to providing an opportunity to solidify your skills and knowledge in Java, they also offer technical mentorships. Some of them provide career coaching sessions that help apprentices acquire essential skills within their chosen field of specialization.

There are some providers that feature online support groups for apprentices. Through these groups, apprentices get to share their ideas and support each other during the program. This is an excellent way to develop a professional network alongside your peers.

Curriculum

You should check whether the curriculum reflects your learning needs. As much as all Java apprenticeships might seem similar, they are not. You can look into the apprenticeship program’s curriculum to get an overview of what you will learn during the training.

Expertise

It’s important that you register for a program that provides in-demand knowledge and skills. Check to see how long the provider has been offering the program and its impact on recent apprentices.

How to Get a Java Apprenticeship

Getting a Java apprenticeship can be a daunting process, so below you will find out how you can get one without much hassle. 

Bootcamps

Coding bootcamps are an excellent way to gain entry into a Java apprenticeship. These programs take students through immersive courses to help them master the knowledge and skills that will help them effectively navigate the industry. Coding bootcamps ensure their programs are career-oriented and that their main focus is to reduce the skill gap. 

By attending one of the best Java bootcamps, you will acquire essential skills and learn Java development best practices. Once you complete the program, you will be able to land a Java apprenticeship. The providers often seek bootcamp graduates and self-taught professionals to join their apprenticeship programs. 

Internships

Through an internship, you can acquire the proper work experience and connections to gain entry into an apprenticeship training program. Oftentimes, technology companies retain their interns as apprentices after they graduate.

Trade Schools

Trade schools are excellent for picking up new skills and knowledge. Through a technical diploma, you can navigate the industry to land an apprenticeship with a top-tier company. Most trade schools have extensive partnerships with tech companies that offer apprenticeship training opportunities. By completing a trade school program, you can apply to apprenticeships offered by industry partners. 

Vocational Training

Vocational training programs offer students an opportunity to specialize in particular fields, including Java development. The training programs usually run for several weeks and ensure that students gain enough skills and knowledge to apply for an apprenticeship program.

Is a Java Apprenticeship Worth It?

Yes, a Java apprenticeship is worth it. Through a Java apprenticeship training program, you will gain in-demand skills and knowledge to navigate the tech industry. It is an excellent way for recent bootcamp and university graduates to positively impact their careers. Self-taught Java professionals can also use these training opportunities to advance their careers.

Through the training programs, you will develop an extensive professional network, forming solid relationships with experts within your company and external organizations. An apprenticeship can be an excellent opportunity to make new connections.  

In addition, Java apprenticeship programs lead to nationally recognized certificates. At the end of any apprenticeship training program, providers issue a certificate of completion. Since the programs are registered by the US Department of Labor, you will have enough credentials to prove to employers that you have the necessary skills to develop applications using Java.

Java Apprenticeship FAQ