So, you built your MVP. It works. It solves a real problem. But now comes the hard part turning it into a full product that can scale, stay stable, and keep users coming back.
To do that, you need the right person on your team.
Not just someone who can code. You need someone who understands growth, performance, and how Android works in the real world. You need to hire Android developer talent that’s ready to take your app to the next level.
This guide will help you find that person or team and make sure they’re the right fit for what comes after the MVP.
Why Scaling an Android App Takes More Than Just Code
A minimum viable product (MVP) is just the beginning. It helps you test the market and learn what works. But scaling means building something stable, fast, and ready for thousands (or millions) of users.
That’s where many apps break down. They weren’t built to grow.
So, if you’re planning to scale, you need to think long-term. And that starts with hiring a Kotlin expert, Android engineer, or Android freelancer who gets it.
What to Look for When You Hire an Android Developer
Let’s keep it real. Not every mobile developer is built for scale. Some are great at MVPs. Others shine when it’s time to grow. The key is knowing who’s right for your stage.
Here’s what to focus on.
Experience Beyond Just MVPs
MVPs are fast and lean. But scaling is different. You want a mobile developer hire who’s seen both.
Ask for:
- Examples of apps they helped scale
- Experience with apps that support large user bases
- Projects where they added features after launch
Someone who’s been through it will help you avoid common pitfalls.
Solid Knowledge of Kotlin
Kotlin is now the preferred language for Android. It’s clean, safe, and future-ready. If your app is still on Java, it might be time to switch.
A Kotlin expert will:
- Write modern, clean code
- Help avoid bugs and crashes
- Make your app easier to maintain long-term
When you hire Android developer talent today, Kotlin skills should be non-negotiable.
Focus on Performance and Optimization
As your user count grows, so do the problems — slow loading, crashes, or battery drain.
Ask candidates:
- How do you handle performance testing
- What tools do you use to track crashes
- How do you optimize for low-end devices
These questions will help you find someone who thinks beyond just building features.
Clear Understanding of Android Ecosystem
Your developer should be comfortable with the full Android world — from device types to libraries to Google Play updates.
Look for skills like:
- Experience with different screen sizes and OS versions
- Knowledge of Android Jetpack, Room, Retrofit, and Coroutines
- Familiarity with Google Play guidelines and deployment steps
A well-rounded Android developer can help your app stay compatible and compliant as it grows.
Good Communication and Collaboration
At this stage, you’re likely working with a team — maybe designers, testers, or backend devs. Your Android dev should know how to work with others.
Good signs:
- Can explain technical things in simple words
- Shares progress clearly and honestly
- Gives input during planning, not just coding
If you’re going with an Android freelancer, make sure they’re available and responsive during your work hours.
Where to Find Android Developers Who Understand Scaling
You have options. And not all of them require hiring full-time.
Option 1: Hire a Freelance Android Developer
Great for:
- Short-term projects
- Feature upgrades
- Apps that need work but don’t need a full team yet
Look on:
- Upwork
- Toptal
- Freelancer
- Remote OK
Make sure the Android freelancer you choose has experience beyond MVPs.
Option 2: Hire a Full-Time Android Developer
Great for:
- Apps that are growing fast
- Startups building core tech in-house
- Products needing daily updates
Use platforms like:
- AngelList
- Wellfound
- Local job boards
You’ll want to offer clear job roles and long-term growth plans.
Option 3: Work With Android App Development Services
If you want a team with full skills — design, backend, and QA — working with Android app development services might be your best move.
Great for:
- Complete product overhauls
- Enterprise-level apps
- Launching new versions quickly
Look for:
- Agencies with case studies
- Teams with real Android scaling experience
- Clear pricing and timelines
This gives you a full solution without building a team from scratch.
What to Ask Before You Hire
Whether you’re hiring a Kotlin expert, a mobile developer, or working with Android app development services, these questions can save you a lot of stress.
Questions for Developers:
- Can I see examples of apps you’ve helped scale
- How do you handle app crashes and performance issues
- What libraries or tools do you prefer for Android development
- How do you test your code before launch
- How do you make sure your code works on all Android devices
Questions for Agencies:
- Have you worked on Android apps with over 100K users
- What is your process from audit to deployment
- Who will manage the project and talk to me regularly
- What’s included in your post-launch support
These questions will help you find someone who knows what they’re doing — and can explain it clearly.
How to Avoid Common Hiring Mistakes
Here’s what many founders get wrong when scaling their Android team.
Rushing the Hire
It’s tempting to hire fast. But take time to check portfolios, do test tasks, and talk to references.
Hiring Based Only on Price
Cheap now often means costly later. Focus on value, not just rate.
Not Testing Skills
Even if someone has a great resume, give them a short task. See how they think, code, and communicate.
Ignoring Cultural Fit
If they don’t understand your product vision or team style, it won’t work — even if they’re great at coding.
After Hiring: Set Things Up for Success
Hiring is just step one. Here’s how to help your Android dev do their best work.
Share Your Product Vision
Let them understand the “why” behind your app. It helps them make smarter choices.
Use Simple Project Tools
Use tools like Trello, Notion, or Jira to track tasks. It avoids confusion and keeps work moving.
Give Regular Feedback
Don’t wait for the final product. Give short, clear feedback during the build.
Plan for Growth
Ask your developer what’s needed for scaling. Talk about databases, caching, and backend upgrades before problems show up.
Quick Checklist to Hire Smart
- Look for scaling experience, not just MVPs
- Choose a Kotlin expert who writes clean code
- Test their knowledge and communication
- Ask for past work and references
- Plan for long-term growth, not just short-term fixes
Final Thoughts
Building an MVP is great. But scaling it — that’s where the real work begins.
If you want your app to grow, improve, and last, you need to hire Android developer talent that’s ready for more than just basic builds.
Look for someone who knows Android inside and out. Someone who can think about users, performance, and product goals. Whether it’s a full-time hire, a skilled Android freelancer, or a trusted Android app development services team, make your choice wisely.
Because the right hire doesn’t just write code. They help build your app’s future.
