How to Hire Top Ruby Developers
From rapid web development to embedded systems and automation tools, Ruby is a flexible, high-level language trusted for building scalable back-end applications—especially when paired with Ruby on Rails. Whether you’re launching a startup MVP, integrating APIs, or crafting internal tools, a skilled Ruby developer brings critical back-end architecture and programming expertise to your team.
This guide walks you through how to hire Ruby developers effectively on BorderlessPro, including what skills to look for, how to write a compelling gig post, and common hiring pitfalls to avoid.
What Does a Ruby Developer Do?
A Ruby developer specializes in writing server-side logic using Ruby, often in combination with the Rails framework. They build, maintain, and optimize applications, manage databases, and ensure seamless integration between the server and client side.
Core Responsibilities:
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Write clean, scalable code using Ruby and Ruby on Rails
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Design and manage robust, secure databases
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Integrate APIs and third-party services
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Implement test-driven development (TDD) and continuous integration
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Optimize application performance and scalability
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Collaborate with front-end teams to integrate UI elements with server-side logic
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Deploy and maintain production-level applications
Skills to Look For in a Ruby Developer
A high-performing Ruby developer doesn’t just write code—they solve business problems with technical precision. Here’s what to evaluate:
✅ Technical Skills
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Ruby & Ruby on Rails (RoR): Strong command of Ruby and deep experience with Rails conventions and the MVC framework
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Front-end integration: Familiar with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript for bridging UI and back-end logic
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API design: Experience with RESTful APIs and third-party service integrations
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Testing: Proficiency in unit testing and TDD using RSpec or Minitest
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Database management: Knowledge of SQL, PostgreSQL, MySQL, or Redis
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Version control: Comfortable using Git and GitHub workflows
✅ Framework & Ecosystem Knowledge
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Gem usage: Familiar with essential Ruby gems like Devise, Sidekiq, Pundit, and Ransack—but selective about adding dependencies
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Security best practices: Understanding of SQL injection prevention, encrypted credentials, and secure authentication
✅ Soft Skills
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Strong problem-solving and debugging skills
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Clear communicator with ability to explain complex back-end logic
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Comfortable working in agile teams and sprint cycles
How to Write a Ruby Developer Gig Post
A compelling gig post on BorderlessPro should attract qualified candidates while filtering out those who aren’t a fit. Structure your post clearly and include enough detail for Ruby developers to assess if the project aligns with their experience.
Sample Titles:
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Ruby on Rails Developer Needed to Build MVP for SaaS App
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Back-End Ruby Expert for API Integrations & Performance Tuning
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Full-Stack Ruby on Rails Developer for E-commerce Platform
What to Include in the Description:
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Project scope: E.g., “Develop a custom CRM dashboard with user authentication and reporting features”
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Expected deliverables: Outline specific milestones or outcomes
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Timeline: Estimate start and end dates or ongoing commitment
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Budget: State preferred rate type (hourly vs. fixed)
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Tech stack: Include front-end tools, databases, and libraries in use
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Preferred qualifications: E.g., “Experience integrating payment systems like Stripe”
Common Mistakes When Hiring Ruby Developers
Avoid these pitfalls to ensure you hire a high-quality Ruby professional:
🚫 Overreliance on Gems
Too many gems can bloat your codebase, slow performance, and introduce unnecessary complexity. Ask candidates how they evaluate which gems to use—and why.
🚫 Misuse of method_missing
Metaprogramming is powerful but can degrade performance and maintainability if used carelessly. Look for developers who understand when to use define_method instead for dynamic behavior.
🚫 Mixing Logic in Views
Application logic in views violates the MVC pattern and reduces code clarity. Ensure your developer understands the role of presenters, decorators, or helpers to keep views clean.
🚫 Bloated Models
The principle of “fat models, skinny controllers” can be taken too far. A good Ruby developer should know when to extract logic into POROs (Plain Old Ruby Objects) or services.
🚫 Ignoring SQL Injection Risks
Improper use of find_by and raw SQL leaves your app vulnerable. Ensure candidates use parameterized queries and are familiar with Active Record’s safe querying methods.
Ruby Developer Interview Questions
Ask targeted questions to assess both technical depth and real-world problem-solving:
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How do you handle performance bottlenecks in a Ruby on Rails app?
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What’s your approach to organizing business logic that doesn’t belong in the model or controller?
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Can you walk through how you’d set up authentication using Devise?
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How do you write and structure unit tests for a Rails application?
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What’s your process for evaluating whether to use a gem or write custom logic?
Ruby Developers FAQ
What is Ruby best used for?
Ruby is often used in back-end web development—especially with Rails—but is also found in DevOps scripts, automation tools, embedded systems (via MRuby), and DSLs.
How much does it cost to hire a Ruby developer?
Rates vary widely based on project complexity, developer seniority, and geography. On BorderlessPro, experienced Ruby developers typically charge $20–$50/hour or offer fixed pricing for MVPs, custom apps, and integrations starting around $800–$5,000 per project.
What industries use Ruby?
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Tech startups: Rapid MVP development with Rails
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E-commerce: Platforms with complex cart and user systems
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Healthcare & FinTech: Compliance-heavy apps needing test coverage
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IoT: Embedded Ruby (MRuby) for smart devices
Best Practices for Working With Ruby Developers
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Start small: Begin with a pilot feature or milestone to validate code quality.
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Prioritize testing: Encourage use of TDD to avoid regressions during scaling.
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Leverage the Ruby community: Benefit from years of open-source tools and best practices.
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Write clean contracts: Define expectations around deliverables, code ownership, and support.
Hiring Ruby developers doesn’t need to be a gamble. On BorderlessPro, you can find vetted Ruby experts with the experience to build stable, elegant, and scalable applications that move your project forward.
