Wanted: Exec, jumper cables to shock U.S. Windows Phone to life
The Nokia job, which is based in the Bay Area, suggests the handset maker is gearing up for a far larger presence in the U.S.
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Nokia's recently unveiled Windows Phone smartphones may not be ready for the U.S. yet, but that hasn't stopped the company from laying the necessary foundation.
The Finnish mobile-phone giant is seeking a "developer evangelist" based in Sunnyvale, Calif., to encourage third-party programmers in the U.S. The posting is one of the early signals that Nokia is taking the U.S. market more seriously than ever, as it looks to regain its footing as a major power player in the wireless industry.
The position will be part of Nokia's Developer Experience team, working with developers and providing technical support, enabling them to create, distribute and generate a profit off of their Windows Phone apps. The individual will also serve as the voice of developers within Nokia.
"You job is to create excitement and momentum for the latest developer offerings, and to work with developers to deliver unique and creative apps that showcase the potential of our offerings," the listing said.
Microsoft is racing to expand its library of apps, which still falls short compared to Android and iOS. While consumers may use the same core number of apps, the larger libraries give Microsoft's rivals the perception of more options.
Microsoft has already attempted to goose developer interest with its own incentive programs, which includes monetary incentives, prominent positioning in the Marketplace app store, and free equipment for testing.
Microsoft is leaning on handset partners such as Nokia to help out with the developer and consumer outreach effort. Windows Phone President Andy Lees said he sees a more sustained roll-out of phones and commercials when compared with the singular "big bang" from a year ago.
Last month, Nokia made its big push when it unveiled its Windows Phone devices, the Lumia 800 and 710. The phones are launching in Europe and Asia later this year, but won't arrive in the U.S. for another few months.
Nokia hasn't been strong in the U.S. for several years, and its relationships with the carriers are lukewarm at best. The company will need more app evangelists if it is to get the attention of the carriers, developers and consumers.