Web Developer - Job Description

Close-up of hands typing code on a laptop in a dimly lit room.

The role 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.

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Duties and 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

Perhaps first and foremost a successful Web Developer will have a strong eye for 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.

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.

Qualifications and technical skills - How to become a Web Developer?

A good 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 degrees in subjects such as computer science, programming, and information technology. Non-graduates can often find excellent roles, 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?

Web Developers can 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, Head of UX Design, Head of UI Design, Technical Director, Director of IT or Head of Development.