How to Hire iOS Developers
Overview: What Is an iOS Developer?
An iOS developer specializes in designing, developing, and maintaining mobile applications that run on Apple’s iOS operating system. These professionals use programming languages like Swift and Objective-C, and tools such as Xcode, Interface Builder, and Cocoa Touch to build responsive, secure, and high-performance mobile apps. Whether you’re launching a new app, modernizing legacy software, or scaling features to support a growing user base, hiring the right iOS developer is critical to your mobile success.
iOS developers often collaborate with UI/UX designers, product managers, and back-end engineers to deliver seamless digital experiences. They understand Apple’s strict guidelines and ensure smooth App Store submission processes, efficient memory use, fast load times, and excellent security.
Scope: What Can an iOS Developer Do for You?
-
Develop custom mobile applications from scratch using Swift or Objective-C
-
Migrate Android or web apps to iOS platforms
-
Integrate with third-party APIs and backend services (Firebase, AWS, custom APIs)
-
Build UI layouts using Storyboards or SwiftUI
-
Conduct unit testing and continuous integration (CI/CD)
-
Optimize for performance, battery efficiency, and accessibility
-
Submit and maintain apps on the App Store
-
Implement secure authentication methods (OAuth, biometric login)
-
Ensure compliance with Apple’s Human Interface Guidelines
Writing an Effective iOS Developer Job Post
A strong job post helps you attract top talent by clearly defining your goals, timeline, and expectations. Here’s how to break it down:
1. Project Overview
Start with a one-paragraph summary of your product, the intended users, and what stage your app is in (e.g., prototype, MVP, scaling).
Example:
“We’re building a secure iOS mobile app for remote workforce communication. The app will include video calls, encrypted messaging, geolocation, and calendar integration.”
2. Scope of Work
Detail the exact features or deliverables expected, such as:
-
UI layout and animations
-
Data storage and local caching
-
Secure API integrations
-
Push notifications and background tasks
-
Apple Pay or in-app purchases
-
App Store submission and review
3. Technical Requirements
Indicate your required tools, frameworks, and platforms:
-
Programming: Swift 5, Objective-C
-
IDE: Xcode, Interface Builder
-
Frameworks: UIKit, Combine, CoreData, SwiftUI
-
APIs: REST, GraphQL, Apple’s HealthKit/HomeKit/CoreML
-
Tools: Git, Fastlane, Firebase, Sentry, TestFlight
4. Timeline & Budget
Include the expected start/end dates, milestones (e.g., prototype in 3 weeks), and payment terms. Clarify whether you prefer hourly or fixed-price arrangements.
Sample Job Titles for iOS Development
-
Senior iOS Developer Needed to Build Subscription-Based App
-
Swift Expert to Build Secure iOS App for Fintech Startup
-
Convert Android App to iOS with Full Feature Parity
-
iOS Developer for Augmented Reality Feature Integration
Key Skills and Qualifications
When hiring an iOS developer, prioritize:
-
Expertise in Swift and Xcode
-
Familiarity with Apple’s MVC and MVVM architectures
-
Experience with offline storage and Core Data
-
Knowledge of asynchronous programming and concurrency in Swift
-
Security best practices (HTTPS, data encryption, App Transport Security)
-
Fluent in auto layout, responsive design, and accessibility standards
-
Version control proficiency using Git or GitHub
Bonus if the developer has:
-
Experience building apps with Bluetooth LE, NFC, IoT, or watchOS
-
A proven track record of App Store launches with high user ratings
-
Familiarity with Agile development methodologies
-
Ability to work with UI/UX design tools like Figma or Sketch
iOS Developer Rates
iOS development rates vary based on seniority, complexity of work, and region. Expect:
-
Junior iOS Developers: €15–€30/hr — Basic UI layouts, bug fixes, prototyping
-
Mid-Level iOS Developers: €30–€60/hr — Full app development, API integration, testing
-
Senior iOS Developers: €60–€120/hr — Architecture, team leadership, security, complex features
iOS Developer FAQs
Q: What’s the difference between Swift and Objective-C?
Swift is Apple’s modern programming language for iOS development—cleaner, safer, and more concise than Objective-C. Most new apps are built with Swift unless supporting legacy codebases.
Q: Do I need a full-stack iOS developer?
Not necessarily. If your app involves backend systems, you’ll either need a full-stack developer or a dedicated back-end engineer. Many iOS developers integrate with REST APIs but do not build the backend.
Q: Can iOS developers help after launch?
Yes. Many offer post-launch support for debugging, OS updates, new feature development, and user analytics integration.
Q: What is the approval process for App Store submission?
Apple performs a manual review of all submitted apps, checking for UI/UX quality, content policy compliance, security, and performance. An experienced iOS developer ensures your app passes this on the first attempt.
Final Tips
-
Hire for more than code—look for a product-minded iOS developer who understands UX and user flows.
-
Ensure version control is in place from day one—GitHub or Bitbucket.
-
Use project management tools like Jira or Trello for smooth collaboration.
-
Don’t forget NDA agreements or IP clauses if the project is proprietary.
