What is a Web Developer? An Overview and Job Description

The job of a Web Developer is to design, create and maintain websites, providing in the process a cohesive and user-friendly online portal for the use of clients, customers, work colleagues and other interested parties. They incorporate content, images, graphics, videos, and other utilities to make eye-catching sites that users will want to interact with.

Web developer responsibilities - What does a Web Developer do?

• Creating the coding that brings a website to life and helps it to perform as required by the host
• Designing not only the way a website looks but also how it operates for the end user
• Taking responsibility for what functions can be performed when a user lands on the web page
• Using the latest mechanisms and applications to keep the site running as smoothly and as efficiently as possible
• Testing both new and existing sites and correcting potential errors that may arise

Qualities needed for a successful Web Developer

A Web Developer is crucial to many businesses’ online presence.  Some of the key duties when doing web development work include:

1. Write code that brings a website to life: A core aspect of a Web Developer’s job is writing the code that makes a website work. This involves using programming languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to build the structure, style, and interactive elements of the website.
2. Design the look and feel of the website: In addition to coding, web developers also design the visual elements of a website. This includes creating layouts, selecting fonts and colours, and creating graphics and images that will help to convey the desired message or brand identity.
3. Ensure that the website functions as required: Web Developers must make sure that the website works as intended for end-users. This involves working on back end development, testing the website's performance and ensuring that it functions correctly on different devices and browsers.
4. Testing and troubleshooting: In addition, as part of a Web Developer's job, they test both new and existing sites, identifying and correcting errors that may arise, and ensuring that the site is user-friendly and easy to navigate.
5. Stay up-to-date with the latest tools and technologies: Web development is an ever-evolving field, and developers must stay current with the latest tools and applications to keep their sites running as smoothly and efficiently as possible.

Qualities needed to be a successful Web Developer?

Perhaps first and foremost a successful Web Developer will be skilled in design, allied to an understanding of what end users will be wanting to see and experience. It’s also vital for the developer to have a strong focus on tools that are currently available on the market as well as those that are yet to appear. Software developments can have a major influence on all types of websites.

A major part of the Web Developer’s brief is often linked to understanding the client’s vision for a particular site, and how best to communicate that vision to other members of the team. Therefore, communications skills are a must, for both listening and talking. The creation of a new website is often a result of a great deal of consultation. In this regard, leadership skills are also valuable for Web Developers, as they may lead a team or be responsible for managing projects and timelines.

Successful candidates also need to be proficient at time management, especially when deadlines are getting tight. Proven problem-solvers with methodical approaches and analytical minds are particularly suited to such a role. Patience will also be a necessity when testing sites and debugging potential issues.

What qualifications and technical skills are needed to become a Web Developer? 

What web development skills are needed to excel in this role? Excellent all-round knowledge of technical applications relevant to web design will be a must, including core competency in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Chrome DevTools, npm and build processes using Git and cloud deployments. An understanding of the principles of Search Engine Optimisation will also be an advantage, especially when applying for Web Developer roles within a commercial organisation.

In some but not all instances, employers looking for Web Developers will insist on candidates who have gained university degree qualifications in subjects such as computer science, programming, and information technology. 

Non-graduates can often find excellent jobs as a web developer, however, if they have experience of working with computer operating systems and have an aptitude for UX/UI and coding.

Career development - What is the next step after Web Developer?

Many Web Developers enjoy an excellent career development as they become more experienced and more skilled. They can become ideal candidates for several attractive jobs, including Senior Web Developer, Lead DevOps Specialist, UX Designer, Head of UI Design, Technical Director, Director of IT or Head of Development.

Salary and remuneration - How much does a Web Developer make?

Salaries and benefits packages for Web Developers are very good, and they become even more rewarding as the individual moves up the career ladder.

Frequently asked questions

Is a Web Designer the same as a Web Developer?

Web Designers and Web Developers have separate duties, despite the considerable overlap in their jobs. The Web Designer job description works towards optimising user experience. Web designers concentrate on the aesthetic and interactive design of a website. They choose colours, typography, images, and layouts that reflect the website's purpose and target audience. 

In contrast to this, a Web Developer focusses on the technical parts of creating a website. They use programming languages and tools to create the website's functionality, structure, and interactivity. They ensure that the website is responsive, optimised, and accessible to users.

Web Developers often work on a website's back end to ensure it functions as smoothly as possible. They must be knowledgeable in back end web development. Web Designers often work on the front end and focus on the user interface and website layout. To guarantee that the website's functionality and design satisfy the demands of users and the company, successful website creation involves coordination between designers and developers.

Is it also important for Web Developers to know version control systems?

It is crucial that Web Developers are familiar with version control. When they create sites, developers can collaborate with other developers, keep track of changes to the codebase, and maintain several versions of the codebase with version control. This is especially crucial in large development teams where numerous developers are concurrently working on the same project or website. 

How important is it to know Full Stack Development as a Web Developer?

In an interview, the hiring manager may ask the candidate questions to evaluate their knowledge and skills in full stack development. Some employers in the tech industry may consider it as basic knowledge. 

Knowing this kind of development skill can provide an advantage during a job interview because it demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of web development and the ability to work on various aspects of a project. Additionally, it may differentiate a candidate from other applicants who specialise solely in back-end development and programming language.