Java Contracting

[JackMaloney]

Hi,

I just wondered how many years of Java experience you should have before considering going into Java contracting? Does uni experience count for anything? How much can you expect to charge when you first start out?

Thanks,
Jack

[stek]

<placeholder> for NothernLadUK's standard response No.3!

[DeludedAussie]

Hi,

I just wondered how many years of Java experience you should have before considering going into Java contracting? Does uni experience count for anything? How much can you expect to charge when you first start out?

Thanks,
Jack

A couple of years is fine - I would say two to three years after university

And rate wise expect 500+

[JackMaloney]

500 when you first start out!?

[northernladuk]

How can Uni experience count towards industry based experience??

It is not just the fact you have never written codings in anger it is the fact you haven't actually done any work for a company (lets assume you are normal uni grad and forget the year out). Not having any experience in that will also put people off. Not only will you not be able to hit the ground running with plenty codings but you will have to be hand held through all the processes to do with working in an office environment.

As a potential employee that a company can invest in they yes you are perfectly positioned. As a seasoned expert in your field bringing experience and knowledge to a client then no.

I would agree with 2 to 3 years as well.

One thing I would throw in here is that going contracting straight off could also seriously stunt any career aspiriations you have as well. If you have any plans to rise through the ranks quickly in to managent type positions you are going to struggle in contracting, it isn't impossible but in general it is, particularly bearing in mind your age. If you want to do this and get the training and opportunity you are going to have to think about staying permie for awhile. That is your choice and I don't know coding so might be pissing in the wind here but something I though would be worth pointing out.

[northernladuk]

500 when you first start out!?

That’s just Deluded for you. His rep is self explanatory really.

[JackMaloney]

How do you know my age or how much experience I have?

[nomadd]

Hi,

I just wondered how many years of Java experience you should have before considering going into Java contracting? Does uni experience count for anything? How much can you expect to charge when you first start out?

Thanks,
Jack

I'd say a couple of years post-Uni.

I think £500 / day might be a bit of a struggle at first, unless you have some Banking skills, etc. Maybe £300-400 might be a bit more realistic. Still, you never know until you start looking. And I started looking 1 year after Uni. to go contracting.

[ChimpMaster]

500 when you first start out!?

Let's be clear: 500 Rupees

[NervousRexx]

How do you know my age or how much experience I have?

How many years experience do you have and does your CV reflect key acheivements on major projects?