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The Ultimate Guide for Hiring BigCommerce Developers
Finding the right BigCommerce talent can make or break your ecommerce store. Whether you’re launching a new shop, customizing an existing one, or adding advanced features, hiring the right BigCommerce developers is key to your business’s growth and success. With over 2.2 million applications reviewed annually and only the top 1% of tech talent selected, we connect companies with proven BigCommerce experts.
This guide, built on our experience of delivering 1,200+ projects across 100+ industries, walks you through hiring BigCommerce developers. You’ll learn what to look for in skills like React or BigCommerce API. You’ll also learn how to find BigCommerce developers that fit your team and mission.
Before You Start Hiring
Project or Team Requirements
Define your exact needs before you hire. Are you building a new BigCommerce site, improving an existing store, or tackling a complex integration with Stripe or QuickBooks? By knowing your project scope, you can focus on hiring a BigCommerce developer with the right skills. Clear requirements also help with onboarding, collaboration, and cost.
Timeline and Budget
It’s important to set clear timelines and budgets when hiring BigCommerce developers. Tight deadlines demand swift action. That means you need to find talent fast but within your budget. Budgeting helps you allocate resources effectively so you can move your BigCommerce project forward without financial overreach.
Niche Experience in BigCommerce
BigCommerce has powerful tools like the Stencil framework and versatile APIs, but it takes special skill to use them well. When you hire developers with robust experience in BigCommerce development projects, they can handle complex customizations and integrations. These experts bring the knowledge to improve store performance, add advanced features, and support your ecommerce business as it grows.
Portfolio and References/Testimonials
Check each developer’s portfolio and references before you start a BigCommerce store project. Look for team members who have built responsive storefronts, integrated payment gateways, or customized inventory management systems. Client testimonials confirm their ability to handle BigCommerce-specific challenges. Have they scaled product catalogs or implemented advanced search engine optimization (SEO)? The answers will tell you if you’re hiring a developer with proven skills in ecommerce development.
Location and Timezone
Location and timezone compatibility are a requisite for project success. Nearshore BigCommerce experts working in similar time zones can communicate in real-time when you’re integrating APIs or resolving checkout issues. They can work in feedback loops for faster debugging and implementing features critical to your store’s success.
20 Skills Every BigCommerce Developer Should Have
BigCommerce is a leading ecommerce platform that helps businesses build, scale, and optimize their online stores. Developers need a blend of technical and soft skills to use BigCommerce's features fully. The right skills, like theme customization, RESTful API, and teamwork, can help them create standout shopping experiences and efficient back-end operations.
Expertise in BigCommerce development helps developers tackle complex tasks like integrating APIs, customizing themes, and implementing advanced functionality. These skills lead to faster project delivery, better collaboration, and scalable ecommerce solutions designed to meet your business goals.
We've identified 20 important skills BigCommerce developers should have:
Technical Skills to Look for in Your Ideal BigCommerce Developer
1. BigCommerce Stencil Framework
Stencil Framework is a must for customizing the front end of your BigCommerce store. It allows developers to create responsive, fast loading, visually stunning themes unique to your brand. Stencil also supports dynamic content and mobile and desktop optimization. It’s key to a great shopping experience.
2. API Integration Expertise
To connect third-party systems like Stripe or QuickBooks, BigCommerce developers need to know BigCommerce API development. They can use it to automate tasks like order management and data syncing to reduce manual work. APIs also allow real-time communication with marketing tools to increase your store’s functionality and scalability.
3. Experience in Theme Customization
Your BigCommerce website will use custom themes to reflect your brand and cater to your audience. This includes modifying layouts, adding custom scripts, and adjusting UX. Developers who can do themes can also optimize templates for faster load times and better compatibility with BigCommerce apps like Yotpo and AfterShip.
4. Knowledge of BigCommerce App Development
BigCommerce developers skilled in app development can extend your store’s features with custom upgrades. For example, they might build apps to manage customer loyalty programs or automate tax calculations. This can help your BigCommerce platform evolve as your store grows.
5. SEO
Developers with expertise in BigCommerce SEO can improve your store’s visibility in search engines. They can configure SEO-friendly URLs, craft product descriptions, and add schema markup. Proper SEO can get your BigCommerce store to rank higher in search results, drive organic traffic, and increase revenue.
6. Advanced JavaScript Frameworks
Knowledge of JavaScript frameworks like React or Angular compliments BigCommerce’s features by adding dynamic elements to your storefront. For example, developers can add real-time search filters or dynamic product displays to improve user experience. This allows customers to navigate your site faster and interact more with it, which builds loyalty.
7. RESTful API Development Knowledge
The right BigCommerce developer will understand RESTful APIs to set up integrations with shipping carriers or CRMs like Salesforce. These APIs connect your BigCommerce site to external systems. This gives you real-time updates for shipping, order tracking and customer management. The result is a better experience for your customers and your team.
8. Payment Gateway Integration
BigCommerce developers should be able to integrate payment gateways like PayPal or Authorize.net. These integrations provide secure and smooth transactions for your online store and improve customer trust. A top BigCommerce developer can also configure multi-currency support and localized payment methods. This can get you into international markets.
9. Database Management
Large product catalogs create big databases. The right BigCommerce developer will know how to optimize queries and store data securely. Proper database management reduces page load times and search times on your BigCommerce site. This, in turn, improves customer experience.
10. BigCommerce API
In-depth knowledge of BigCommerce APIs allows developers to integrate advanced features like automated inventory updates or real-time product recommendations. APIs streamline operations and add functionalities that increase your store’s scalability. For example, it makes it easier to sync your inventory with external warehouses.
11. Cross-Browser Testing
When you hire BigCommerce developers, make sure they have cross-browser experience. A developer should know how to test for layout consistency, script performance, and loading speed on different platforms. Cross-browser compatibility reduces bounce rates and provides a unified experience to every customer who visits your online store.
12. ecommerce Security Standards
A skilled BigCommerce developer can implement security measures like SSL certificates, PCI compliance, and fraud protection tools. These measures protect customer data during transactions and build trust. Security expertise keeps your BigCommerce site in line with industry standards. This reduces risks and safeguards your reputation.
13. Performance Optimization
Image compression, lazy loading, and script minification are key to online store performance. An experienced BigCommerce developer will also use built-in features like Akamai’s content delivery network (CDN) for rapid content delivery. A fast-performing store retains customers and increases conversions.
14. Git
Using version control systems like Git helps manage code changes efficiently. This is critical during BigCommerce development, where multiple developers may work on features simultaneously. Git allows for quick rollbacks if issues arise, maintaining stability and uninterrupted progress.
15. UX Design
Developers who know UX design back to front can create intuitive and user friendly interfaces. Features like fast checkout process, clear product categorization and responsive design keeps customers engaged. A well designed UX reduces cart abandonment and increases sales.
16. Custom Integrations
A BigCommerce developer can integrate your store with tools like HubSpot for marketing or ShipStation for shipping. These custom solutions automate tasks and save time. Integrations also scale with your business.
Soft Skills to Look for in Your Ideal BigCommerce Developer
17. Problem-Solving
Problem-solving is critical for both a BigCommerce developer and a BigCommerce development company. This is because developers often face unique challenges like integrating third-party TrustPilot or optimizing performance. Strong problem-solving skills keep your project on track, so you get a robust, scalable ecommerce store.
18. Collaboration
BigCommerce developers must collaborate with project managers, designers, and QA teams to reach project goals. They should also work closely with stakeholders during BigCommerce customization. This teamwork creates a smoother development process and gives better results.
19. Attention to Detail
BigCommerce website development requires meticulous attention to detail to avoid errors in theme, API integration, or SEO. Accurate, detail-oriented BigCommerce experts reduce the risk of costly bugs and deliver a high-quality store. Their vigilance avoids errors in your API, theme, and BigCommerce SEO services.
20. Flexibility
The ecommerce landscape is changing rapidly. A BigCommerce developer has to adapt quickly to new tools, features, and evolving technologies. They may need to create custom solutions, improve store functionality, and address evolving customer needs. By staying current with innovations, developers can provide BigCommerce development services that keep your store competitive and scalable.
15 Questions to Identify Top BigCommerce Developers
When interviewing BigCommerce developers, it's important to ask questions that first assess the candidates' technical skills and knowledge. Employers will also usually conduct a coding test to further assess specific on-the-job knowledge.
The following set of questions aims to uncover not only the developer's technical knowledge but also their problem-solving abilities, teamwork, communication skills, and adaptability—all crucial traits for success in a collaborative environment.
Here are a few examples of technical interview questions:
1. How do you optimize the performance of a BigCommerce store?
To optimize a BigCommerce store, I focus on reducing page load times and improving user experience. Strategies include compressing images, minimizing JavaScript and CSS files, and leveraging BigCommerce’s Akamai-powered CDN. I also optimize product pages by using relevant meta tags and keywords to improve speed and SEO.
2. Can you explain your experience with BigCommerce API integrations?
I’ve implemented custom BigCommerce API development for several projects. At my last company, I automated inventory updates and synched data with third-party CRMs and ERPs. For example, I integrated a payment gateway using BigCommerce’s RESTful APIs to support multiple payment methods and improve checkout experiences.
3. What is your approach to customizing BigCommerce themes?
I start by analyzing the client’s branding needs to create a custom theme that fits their goals. Using the Stencil framework, I implement responsive designs, add interactive elements, and set up cross-browser compatibility. BigCommerce customization boosts user engagement and improves the shopping experience.
4. How do you handle SEO for BigCommerce websites?
SEO is integral to a successful BigCommerce development project. I use the platform’s built-in tools to optimize meta titles, descriptions, and product URLs. I also configure schema markup to improve visibility on search engines and load the site quickly to meet Google’s Core Web Vitals criteria.
5. Describe a challenging BigCommerce project you worked on. How did you solve the challenges?
In a recent BigCommerce development project, I had to integrate a custom loyalty program with multiple third-party apps. The challenge was setting up cross-platform data flow. I used BigCommerce’s API to build a middleware solution that synchronized user data and transactions in real-time.
6. What tools or strategies do you use to make sure a BigCommerce store is mobile-friendly?
I use BigCommerce’s responsive templates as a starting point. I optimize them for mobile devices by testing them on tools like Google Mobile-Friendly Test. I also implement touch-friendly navigation, lightweight image formats, and fast-loading product pages.
7. What is your process for integrating third-party apps into BigCommerce?
I analyze the app’s compatibility with BigCommerce using the platform’s App Marketplace and APIs. For custom integrations, I use BigCommerce’s RESTful APIs. Recently, I integrated a marketing automation tool to track user behavior and boost sales through targeted campaigns.
8. How do you support cross-browser compatibility in BigCommerce websites?
I test the site across browsers like Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge. Using tools like BrowserStack, I identify inconsistencies and resolve issues in CSS and JavaScript. Compatible BigCommerce solutions guarantee a uniform experience for all users and reduce bounce rates.
9. What is your experience with BigCommerce app development?
I worked for a leading BigCommerce development agency for two years. When I was there, I built several custom apps. One of them simplified bulk product uploads, saving significant time and reducing errors for a client with an extensive inventory. These custom apps are a critical part of delivering custom BigCommerce development services. They address unique business needs and improve store functionality.
10. How do you stay updated with BigCommerce platform updates?
I regularly review BigCommerce’s developer blog and participate in online communities like BigCommerce forums. Keeping up with updates helps me adapt quickly to new features and tools, like the latest enhancements in the Stencil framework or BigCommerce APIs.
11. What has been your most challenging BigCommerce development project, and how did you approach it?
This question explores the candidate’s problem-solving abilities and technical expertise. Their approach can show how they align their strategies with the goals of a BigCommerce development company.
12. How do you collaborate in a BigCommerce team?
This question evaluates the candidate’s communication and teamwork skills. Look for examples of how they work with designers, QA specialists, and project managers offering BigCommerce development services to reach project milestones.
13. What strategies do you use to stay updated with BigCommerce platform updates?
This reveals their commitment to professional growth. Understanding updates lets them use the latest tools and features for custom BigCommerce solutions.
14. How do you handle conflicting priorities when working on multiple BigCommerce projects?
This assesses their organizational and time management skills. A great response will include strategies for prioritizing tasks. They might discuss using tools like Jira or Asana to maintain focus across multiple ecommerce platforms.
15. Can you provide an example of how you improved a client’s online store through BigCommerce integrations?
This explores their ability to deliver measurable results. Look for examples like integrating payment gateways or syncing inventory management tools.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I evaluate the cost-effectiveness of hiring BigCommerce developers?
To assess cost-effectiveness, consider hourly rates, project scope, and the value of the expertise on offer. A BigCommerce development company can often deliver more ROI than freelancers because of a more mature process and experience. Evaluate each developer’s ability to meet deadlines and minimize downtime, as delays can increase overall costs.
What’s the best way to scale my BigCommerce store for long-term growth?
Scaling BigCommerce solutions involves optimizing infrastructure for traffic spikes and adding multi-channel selling. You may also need to create custom solutions like dynamic pricing or automated inventory updates. Custom BigCommerce developers make sure your store’s performance remains consistent as your product catalog grows or you expand internationally.
How do I comply with industry security standards on BigCommerce?
Your store will need to comply with standards like PCI DSS, and use SSL certificates, fraud detection, and data encryption. Developers with expertise in BigCommerce integrations can connect your store with trusted third-party security tools to protect customer data. This reduces the risk of breaches.
Should I hire freelance BigCommerce developers or work with an agency?
Freelancers can be cost-effective for small projects, but expert BigCommerce development services can provide a more reliable solution for complex needs. Agencies offer scalable teams, project management, and expertise in advanced features. They can also give you long-term support and collaboration.
How do I measure the success of a BigCommerce development project?
You can measure success via KPIs like site speed, conversion rates, SEO rankings, and customer satisfaction. A strong BigCommerce development team will implement features that lead to measurable improvements in these areas. Regularly review performance metrics to stay in step with your business goals.
What steps do developers take to ensure a smooth BigCommerce migration?
Careful data transfer, error testing, and downtime reduction are all important steps in migrating to BigCommerce. Developers skilled in ecommerce platforms use migration apps to move product data, customer information, and order histories without disrupting operations. They also optimize the new store to meet modern design and performance standards.
How can I reduce risks when hiring BigCommerce developers?
To reduce risks, evaluate portfolios, references, and client testimonials. Conduct a thorough interview process to assess both technical and soft skills. Hiring through BigCommerce development companies or agencies with proven experience can provide added assurance.
How do BigCommerce development services improve the efficiency of an ecommerce business?
BigCommerce development services improve efficiency via integrations, automation, and advanced features. Developers can connect your store to inventory management systems, payment gateways, and marketing tools. These services also optimize store performance for fast load times and smooth navigation. This directly boosts customer satisfaction and sales.
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