For most DTC brands, Shopify isn’t just a website. It's your entire business. Your storefront has to load instantly, feel clean, and be built to sell.
That's why you see so many Consumer Brands hire full-time Shopify developers.
Companies like Congo Brands (the team behind Prime, Alani Nu, etc.) and even Bryan Johnson's BluePrint
Problem is, “finding a Shopify dev” is a lot easier said than done. Everyone claims to know Liquid or can “tweak themes.” But what you really need is someone who’s lived inside Shopify, scaled stores past seven figures, and knows how to make the backend hum while the frontend looks like your brand.
That’s exactly the gap we fill at ConstantHire.
1. What a Shopify Developer Actually Does
Let’s clear this up. A real Shopify web developer isn’t just swapping fonts or dropping in an app. Here’s what separates the pros:
Customizing themes so your site doesn’t look like every other DTC brand.
Optimizing product and checkout pages for conversions (this is where the money is).
Making sure integrations likesubscriptions, Klaviyo flows, and loyalty apps all play nice with each other.
Keeping your store is lightning fast on mobile.
If you’re nodding because your current site is missing one of those things, you’re already overdue for help.
2. Learn The Different Types of Shopify Developers
Not all developers are the same. Depending on your needs, you might be looking for:
Front-end developers: Experts in Liquid, HTML, CSS, and JavaScript who focus on visuals and user experience.
Back-end developers: Handle more technical integrations, custom apps, and advanced functionality.
Full-stack developers: Can manage both ends, though they’re often more expensive.
Agencies vs freelancers: Agencies provide breadth but can be costly; freelancers are flexible but vary widely in reliability.
3. How to Define the Role
Before you start searching, get clarity on what you need. Create a role profile that includes:
Scope of work: New build, optimization, or ongoing support.
Key skills: Front-end vs back-end, CRO experience, integrations.
Time commitment: Full-time hire, contractor, or project-based.
Success metrics: Faster load times, higher conversions, fewer support tickets.
Having this written down ensures you don’t over- or under-hire.
4. Skills to Look For
When reviewing candidates, look for:
Technical skills
Proficiency in Shopify Liquid, JavaScript, HTML, CSS.
Experience with Shopify Plus (if applicable).
Knowledge of APIs and app integrations.
SEO basics for e-commerce.
Soft skills
Clear communicator (can explain technical work simply).
Attention to detail.
Understanding of DTC brand goals, not just code.
Portfolio
Live, functioning Shopify stores.
Examples where their work improved conversion or functionality.
5. Salary & Cost Benchmarks (2025)
Compensation will vary by region and seniority, but here are rough benchmarks:
Hiring too general: A generic “web developer” isn’t the same as a Shopify pro.
Not scoping the role: Leading to mismatched expectations.
Choosing solely on price: Cheap often costs more when fixes are needed.
Skipping trial projects: Always test real-world performance before a long-term commitment.
Final Thought
Whether you recruit on your own or partner with a specialized recruiter like ConstantHire, the process starts with clarity. Know what you need, set expectations, and vet for both technical ability and e-commerce fluency.
The right Shopify developer isn’t just a coder—they’re an accelerator for your brand.
