The most powerful business software requires a desktop computer, and most companies use Windows PCs. When you need robust custom applications, it is often best to hire a WPF developer.
However, hiring WPF programmers is rarely easy. A Gartner survey of chief information officers discovered that 86% believe there is increasing competition for qualified tech talent. 73% even worry about keeping their existing IT professionals.
For WPF in particular, data shows there may be 2 million programmers worldwide. However, as many as 1 million WPF applications are active.
Since large enterprise software requires more than two developers on a team for design, maintenance, and support, it is easy to see that there may not be enough staff to go around. This is concerning because getting the right WPF engineer can be a make-or-break factor in project success.
For example, petroleum technology firm LMKR created and maintains GeoGraphix — a powerful, integrated, and collaborative geology and geophysical interpretation system. To achieve this, LMKR had to hire multiple WPF developers to design and implement advanced 2D and 3D visualization. This illustrates the vast capabilities of the software and the benefits of working with these developers.
Fortunately, you can meet the challenge of finding the right WPF engineers. Use the suggestions from this guide for ideas on how to create a winning job description. Plus, learn how to vet and interview talent for the appropriate skills. You will also discover the advantages of hiring a remote freelancer.
Hiring a Freelance WPF Developer
With developer talent in short supply, expand your scope beyond candidates for local full-time and part-time work. If you hire a freelance WPF coder, you can rapidly access experts.
Saving money on overhead and employee benefits is only one advantage. You will be able to scale your operations up and down as necessary for increased flexibility. Furthermore, diverse hiring from a worldwide talent pool provides fresh and competitive insights.
What a WPF Developer Does
Desktop computers remain an important tool in the professional world. By far, the most popular operating system is Windows, with 73% of the market share. Therefore, many companies hire dedicated WPF developers to maximize the capabilities of the software.
WPF stands for Windows Presentation Foundation. Microsoft developed the framework in 2006 as a tool for building Windows applications. What does a WPF developer do with this resource?
The framework is primarily for the user interface (UI) and takes advantage of modern graphics hardware. Skilled WPF engineers often use its features to create high-quality and attractive desktop apps that reside on the machine. It can also support robust web-based apps.
Of note are the data-binding techniques that make WPF suitable for data visualization apps. Since data analytics are more important than ever, WPF engineers can help you maximize your potential.
Naturally, WPF developers can also create vivid media apps that use video, audio, and animation. Of course, any software these programmers make can be more engaging and interactive because of the framework.
How important is it to hire dedicated WPF engineers with considerable experience for successful projects? David Platt has a humorous take on the question. (He is an expert in all things Microsoft and a professor at Harvard University in the Computer Science department.) He states:Therefore, when searching for WPF coders for hire, it is important to seek out top talent who know how to handle this powerful tool.
Why Hire WPF Developers?
Attaining peak computing power for Windows apps that use lots of data or visual elements is why hiring WPF developers is a good idea for innovative businesses. If you use desktop PCs in your business and need custom software, seek out WPF programmers for hire.
What WPF Developers Can Do for Your Business
Consider the various skills and competencies that senior WPF engineers bring to the table.
XAML and C# Expertise
The foundational C# programming language is one of the top choices for Windows applications. Consequently, top WPF developers for hire are proficient in the language and efficiently create robust apps.
XAML is the Extensible Application Markup Language. This code enables interactive user interfaces that stay separate from the rules and algorithms for data processing. XAML also streamlines things for program design teams who use Microsoft Blend.
The MVVM Pattern
The Model-View-ViewModel (MVVM) architectural pattern is the concept of separating business logic from presentation logic in software. As such, the rules and algorithms for data manipulation are easier to control, test, maintain, and update. Still, the infrastructure keeps UI and data connected for simplicity in coding while preserving dynamic user experiences.
Custom Control Development With Windows Forms
When you hire WPF engineers with experience using Windows Forms, they can create custom controls for software routines to enhance your applications’ UI. For example, the programmer can insert design-branded UI elements, such as custom buttons or progress bars. The WPF programmer could also combine controls so end users can work more efficiently.
Knowledge of the .NET Framework
Only with a complete grasp of .NET can a WPF developer make the most of what is possible because WPF sprang from this framework. Familiarity with the .NET libraries permits rapid development.
Integrations With Other Microsoft Technologies
Integrations with other Microsoft technologies enable greater capabilities. For instance, SQL Server integration can store procedures for the most complex data operations.
Integration with Azure Functions lets you execute resource-intensive operations in the cloud. Azure Cognitive Services allows you to implement AI functions into apps, such as text analysis, speech recognition, and image recognition.
How To Hire WPF Developers
Since you have tough competition in the hiring market, be strategic about how you hire WPF developers. Define the scope of the project, including budget, timeline, and developer responsibilities.
Networking with industry connections can lead you to quality talent. Still, this method can be time-consuming as you review applications, candidate portfolios, and references. If you need someone to begin within weeks or days, use one of the companies from our list of the best sites for hiring WPF engineers.
Top WPF programmers have several years of experience. Expect a senior developer to have led teams of other coders, mentored junior and mid-level devs, and served as a consultant on successful projects.
Junior-level applicants typically have no more than two years of work experience. Only consider hiring them to support teams or projects under the guidance of someone with more experience.
Those at the mid-level can have up to six years of experience but have not likely led teams on multiple projects. They can work independently on coding, testing, and debugging, as well as take on jobs that only need a single developer.The Skills To Look for When Hiring a WPF Developer
The top technical WPF developer skills include experience with:
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XAML for front-end development
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C# programming language for back-end development and object-oriented programming (OOP) techniques
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MVVM design pattern experience for database interactions and data binding
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DirectX Direct3D9 for 3D and Adobe for animations
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Visual Studio and other common tools for writing apps
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Basics about Microsoft Blend
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ReSharper Visual Studio extension to improve code quality and speed up code analysis
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SQL Server for managing complex databases
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Git for code versioning, support, and the latest tips from the WPF Roadmap
Vital soft skills for any remote software expert include strong communication, adaptability, time management, creativity, and problem-solving. Also, look for someone with experience in your vertical and who matches your corporate culture.
Because the framework is Windows-based, top WPF engineers are Microsoft Certified professionals. Expect a mid-level developer to have the following certifications, as well as others that fit their niche.| Certification | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Azure Cosmos DB Developer Specialty | Use Cosmos DB (a database service for building scalable AI apps) to write efficient queries, create indexing policies, manage and provision resources in the SQL API and SDK |
| Azure Developer Associate | Build end-to-end solutions in Azure to create Azure Functions, implement and manage web apps, use Azure storage to develop solutions, and more |
| Dynamics 365 Business Central Developer Associate | Demonstrate the skills to design, develop, test, and maintain solutions based on Dynamics 365 Business Central |
| Power Automate RPA Developer Associate | Improve and automate workflows with Power Automate RPA developer |
| Power Platform Developer Associate | Use Power Platform Developer to simplify, automate, and transform business tasks |
Each certification requires an exam, which costs $165. Developers must renew the skill annually with a free online assessment.
How Much It Costs To Hire WPF Developers
WPF developers earn roughly $62/hour on average, though the most highly skilled professionals can rake in $76/hour. The lowest you could expect to pay hourly for a junior-level coder is $19. However, you are more likely to pay at least $51/hour for a quality mid-level software engineer.
Tips for Writing a WPF Developer Job Description
Introduce your company in a short paragraph. Highlight a few pertinent facts and your enticing perks, benefits, or culture.
Use a bulleted list for a responsibilities section and another that lists required skills, degrees, and certifications. Stick to the essentials, but you can outline a few preferred skills or accreditations that would make an applicant stand out.
The key thing is to look interesting in a clear and succinct manner. Job seekers should be able to quickly scan your WPF developer job description and determine whether they are a good fit.
Common Interview Questions To Ask When You Want To Hire a WPF Developer
Through either interviews or programming exercises, evaluate each applicant’s level of expertise. Sample questions and answers include:
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What are a few important features of MVVM?
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This pattern allows you to extend layers separately without impacting other layers and enables enhanced system performance for quicker screen load times. It also streamlines workflows between designers and developers.
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How do you implement a value converter in WPF?
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Derive the value converter in the System.Windows.Data namespace. Then, complete the Convert and ConvertBack methods.
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What are the uses and limitations of reflection in C#?
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Reflection is useful for building generic frameworks and creating extensible and dynamic applications. A potential drawback is that it lacks compile-time safety and can be slow.
You may lack the time or familiarity with WPF to thoroughly vet an applicant on such matters. In that case, our list of the top hiring sites mentions various companies that can competently assess these skills.
Also, appraise a programmer’s soft skills with behavioral questions about the person’s process, communication, and response to stress. Often, a blind assessment is an ideal way to eliminate bias during the decision-making process.
How To Find Freelance WPF Developers for Hire
If you have sufficient time and know-how, you can find WPF programmers through networking and general job boards. However, if you need to know where to find top WPF engineers for hire in the shortest amount of time and the least amount of effort, use our list above of the best sites to hire WPF developers.
In particular, freelance marketplaces can meet your budget while quickly connecting you with top-tier professionals. Of all of the choices, we determined that Toptal offers the best value.
WPF developers can augment your company with robust Windows apps that significantly boost your operations. To find the upper echelon of talent, get to know the job market and figure out the most effective hiring strategies. With a solid plan and execution, you can hire WPF developers who ensure successful project outcomes.