Finding an SAP ABAP Developer: What to Look For

As companies increasingly rely on SAP software to manage their operations, the demand for skilled SAP ABAP developers has skyrocketed. While The Bureau of Labor Statistics does not have specific data for SAP ABAP developers, the outlook for all software developers is at an increase of 21% from 2018 to 2028, and in the United States alone, there are currently over 1,000 open SAP ABAP developer positions via LinkedIn.

These professionals are responsible for developing, testing, and maintaining custom applications within SAP systems, making them a critical part of any organization’s IT team. But with so many candidates to choose from, how do you find the right SAP ABAP developer for your needs?  

What to Look for During the Recruiting Process

Hard & Soft Skills

First and foremost, an SAP ABAP developer must have technical knowledge of SAP ABAP, the programming language used to develop applications within SAP systems. They should also have experience with other programming languages like Java, C++, HTML, or Python, as well as an understanding of SAP modules like MM and FICO.  

In addition to these technical skills, strong communication and teamwork skills are essential, as SAP ABAP developers often collaborate with other IT professionals, business analysts, and end users to develop solutions that meet the organization’s needs. Software development also requires a sense of natural curiosity, exploration, and problem-solving in order to successfully get the job done. 

Experience & Education

When it comes to experience, most employers require at least 3-5 years of SAP ABAP development experience. However, some organizations may prefer candidates with more extensive experience, depending on the complexity of the projects they are working on. Formal education in computer science or a related field is also highly valued, although some employers may be willing to consider candidates with relevant work experience or training programs in lieu of a degree. Finally, a certification in SAP ABAP, whether it be SAP Certified Development Specialist – ABAP for SAP HANA 2.0 or SAP Certified Development Associate – ABAP with SAP NetWeaver 7.50, can demonstrate that the candidate has a deep understanding of the programming language and its use within SAP systems. Additionally, having an ABAP developer that has an understanding and nuance of a specific industry can ensure outcomes that are more sustainable as they’re designed with the environment and industry context in mind.   

Assessing Suitability During the Hiring Process & Beyond

Interview Questions

During the interview process, it is important to ask candidates technical questions to gauge their knowledge of SAP ABAP as well as questions about their soft skills. Examples of technical questions might include asking them to explain how they would solve a specific programming challenge or asking them to describe a particularly complex project they have worked on in the past. Behavioral questions can help you understand their work style and approach to problem-solving, like asking them to describe a time when they had to work with a difficult team member or how they handle conflicting priorities. 

Hiring Options

When it comes to hiring SAP ABAP developers, there are several options to consider. You can hire in-house, which provides more control and oversight over the development process but can also be more expensive. Alternatively, you can outsource the work to a third-party vendor, which can be cost-effective but may result in less control over the final product. Another option is to hire a freelance developer, which can provide flexibility and cost savings but may be more challenging to manage. Finally, working with a staffing agency is an extremely effective way to gain access to a larger pool of candidates and streamline the hiring process but may come with additional fees. 

Retention Efforts

Once you have found the right SAP ABAP developer for your organization, it is important to retain them. Competitive compensation packages are essential for any candidate, but especially in this case as skilled SAP ABAP developers are in high demand. For reference, as of April 2023, the average SAP ABAP developer salary ranged between $79,000 and $137,000 in the U.S.  

Providing opportunities for professional development and advancement can also help keep your developers engaged and motivated, and creating a positive work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation can help ensure that your developers feel valued and invested in the organization’s success. 

Finding the Right SAP ABAP Developer for Your Needs

Finding the right SAP ABAP developer for your organization requires careful consideration, from skills, experience, and education to asking the right interview questions and exploring different hiring options. As you begin the search for an SAP ABAP developer for your team, consider reaching out to our team of expert recruiters to help you along the way. Our proven history may be exactly what you need to find your dream candidate. Click here to contact the team directly.