I'm turning 18 soon and have been diving deep into full-stack development for about two years now. I'm pretty strong in React and Next.js – even built a full-stack car rental system! I can also whip up REST APIs with ASP.NET Core and have experience with databases like PostgreSQL and SQL Server. Plus, I've got a Certified Scrum Developer course under my belt and a solid grasp of Azure, CI/CD with GitHub Actions, Docker, and Kubernetes. I've done a voluntary two-month remote internship too. I'm wondering if companies actually hire young developers like me for remote positions if I showcase my skills and projects, or if age is still a major hurdle? What can I do to stand out?
6 Answers
Honestly, landing a dev job at 18 is tough unless you've got connections. The market is pretty competitive, and you'll be up against a lot of more experienced candidates who are also looking for work.
While landing a full-time job might be tricky, you could find gigs on platforms like Upwork once you're 18. Just keep in mind that starting out, you'll probably have to charge less to build your reputation.
Your situation might vary based on where you're located. Here, it's hard to get a full-time job right away. Maybe aim for an internship first; if you're good, they might offer you a position later on.
It's likely not going to happen without a degree. If I were you, I’d consider getting a Computer Science degree from a reputable school. The job market is pretty tough right now, not just for you but for many who have years of experience too. Maybe look at a different field for now if you need immediate work.
It's possible, but companies typically want candidates with at least a degree or relevant work experience for remote roles. Your skills are great, but you might need to manage expectations about what types of roles are available right away.
The age itself isn’t the barrier, but the lack of professional experience can be. If you've got a solid portfolio from freelance work, you might land a junior role; otherwise, you're just another candidate with minimal experience. It's a tough market for everyone right now.
I’m really in this for the passion of coding, not just for the money. But I hear you – I have dabbled in other jobs like construction, and it just wasn’t for me.