In recent years, technology has been evolving so rapidly that not only programming languages and frameworks, but even the very names and definitions of professions have been changing. Roles that once only required writing code have now expanded to include building communities, explaining products, and contributing to go-to-market strategies.
One of the standout roles of this new era is DevRel – Developer Relations. At first glance, it may seem like just technical support or community management. But in reality, DevRel is about building a strategic bridge between a company and the developer community.
I believe the main reason for this role’s emergence is that developers are no longer just code executors — they are architects of product success. Today, whether it’s an API, a SaaS platform, or an AI service, its success often depends on the strength of the developer community that embraces and supports it.
Through an engineer’s lens
A DevRel’s job is to break down complex technologies into understandable parts and show people how to apply them. This is not just about writing documentation — it’s about creating real code examples, hands-on experiences, open-source contributions, and problem-solving demos. In this sense, DevRel is a kind of technical translator for the product: turning complex architectures and APIs into simple “How to” guides.
Through a business lens
From the business perspective, DevRel accelerates adoption. Developers only bring a product into the market, integrate it into their projects, and recommend it to peers once they both understand it and love it. DevRel also shortens the feedback loop: real-world experiences and insights from the community reach the product team quickly, shaping the roadmap more accurately and ensuring market needs are met in time. As a result, DevRel becomes a brand ambassador for the company: creating trust, fostering community loyalty, and building a culture of sustainable usage.
The problems DevRel solves
Fills the communication gap between company and developers
Speeds up learning and implementation of the product
Ensures user feedback reaches product development quickly
Builds a vibrant ecosystem — which in turn ensures the longevity of the product
My perspective
DevRel is a role that combines speed, knowledge, and human connection in the tech world. It brings together engineering mindset, human empathy, and business strategy at the same table. Often, it is the DevRel who helps a developer run their very first “Hello World,” inspires at a meetup, and ultimately plays a key role in the product’s success in the market. Companies that do DevRel right don’t just build products — they build communities, create cultures, and earn trust.
If you’re interested, in my next piece I’ll dive into “The Future of DevRel: How This Role Will Evolve in the AI Era.” I believe the AI wave will make DevRel even more powerful and give it entirely new dimensions.
Salary snapshot – Senior Developer Relations Engineer (U.S.)
Average: ~$163,400 / year
25–75% range: $132K – $205K
At top companies (e.g., Google, Coinbase, Microsoft):
- Google: $305K – $473K
- Google Cloud: $250K – $370K
- Coinbase: $238K – $352K
