Hiring Developers from Brazil: A Brief Overview/

Brazil has emerged as a popular destination for hiring software developers due to its growing tech industry, competitive costs, and expanding talent pool. In this article, we’ll cover key considerations for hiring mid-level and senior developers in Brazil, including costs, language skills, talent quality, and more.

1. Cost of Hiring Brazilian Developers

Brazilian developers, when hired directly by companies in Brazil, typically earn the following:

• Mid-Level Engineer: Mid-engineers in Brazil earn $10-$15 per hour.
• Senior Engineer: Senior engineers in Brazil earn $15-$20 per hour.

These figures reflect the average salary of employed developers in Brazil, not freelance rates, and provide a competitive cost compared to hiring in North America or Europe.

2. English Proficiency

English proficiency is a key factor when working with international developers. While Portuguese is the official language in Brazil, many developers possess intermediate to advanced English skills, particularly those working for global companies or in tech sectors. According to the EF English Proficiency Index, Brazil ranks moderately, but engineers working with international clients often have higher proficiency levels, making communication smoother.

3. Number of Engineers and Talent Pool

Brazil has a rapidly growing tech sector, with estimates of over 500,000 software developers. The country’s talent pool is supported by its large population and an increasing number of graduates from technical programs. Additionally, Brazil is home to various tech hubs, such as São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, fostering innovation and talent development.

4. Developer Skill and Global Ranking

Brazilian developers have a solid reputation for their technical skills, particularly in areas like mobile development, web technologies, and software engineering. HackerRank’s “Developer Skills Report” has consistently ranked Brazilian developers within the top 30 globally, showcasing their proficiency in various coding disciplines and problem-solving.

5. Do Big Companies Hire Engineers in Brazil?

Yes, many large companies, including Google, IBM, Microsoft, and Uber, have a significant presence in Brazil and hire local talent. These companies often set up development centers or work with Brazilian software outsourcing firms, attesting to the skill and reliability of Brazilian engineers.

6. Trustworthiness and Work Ethic

Brazilian developers are considered trustworthy and reliable in the global tech community. Many have experience working with international clients and demonstrate professionalism, adaptability, and a strong work ethic. The country’s developers are increasingly sought after due to their ability to meet deadlines and maintain quality standards.

7. Timezone Considerations

Brazil operates mainly in BRT (Brasília Time, UTC -3), which is only 1 to 2 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (EST) during most of the year. This makes collaboration between U.S. clients and Brazilian developers convenient, allowing for real-time communication and fewer delays compared to other offshore locations. This proximity in time zones makes it easier for companies in the USA to collaborate effectively with teams in Brazil.

In summary, hiring developers from Brazil offers a cost-effective solution without compromising on talent. With competitive salaries, growing English proficiency, and a strong presence of multinational companies, Brazil is a compelling option for businesses looking to scale their tech teams. The added advantage of timezone compatibility with U.S. clients makes Brazil an attractive destination for software development outsourcing.