Do you want to be a Web Developer? Well there are great opportunities and great rewards on offer. Web Development is a growth sector with high demand for web developer skills. In simplistic terms a web developer will create or update websites.
A front-end web developer builds websites and applications using web technologies e.g. HTML, CSS, and JavaScript which run in a web browser or maybe mobile applications.
A back-end developer normally focuses on the development of the “server-side”. It is basically how the site works, updates and changes. This refers to what the user can’t see in the browser, such as databases and servers.
The line can sometimes be blurry between front-end and back-end. Additionally there is also full-stack web developer which is becoming a popular job title. In general a full-stack developer has broad knowledge, but not necessarily very deep, and has core competencies in the pieces of the stack in which they work most. A “full-stack developer” is a programmer who can perform core tasks at any given level of his or her application’s stack – including back-end, front–end and systems admin.
Web Developer Responsibilities:
- Write code, either from scratch or by adapting existing website software
- Test the code and identify any technical problems
- Ensure the installation procedures, and systems including source code control and issue tracking
It is best to research the skills required or languages you want to learn. This could include Java, PHP, .net and there are more. Three skills that are currently in great demand include Ruby on Rails, Node.js, and Swift. Often a basic level of HTML, CSS and Javascript would be a good starting point.
If you are starting from scratch then it is best to take a course or qualification – that can be an online course or maybe a full time college course.
Alongside any qualifications, employers will look for experience. Even if there is no practical work experience then it is important to demonstrate that you have been building a portfolio in your spare time or volunteering for a local business or charity. Demonstrable evidence is very important when looking for a job in web development.
Other advice is to join user groups and also start building a profile online via development sites such as Git Hub.
Finally, apprenticeships which may be available in England are Young Apprenticeships, Apprenticeships and Advanced Apprenticeships. To find out if one is appropriate log onto www.apprenticeships.org.uk or contact your local Connexions Partnership.
Before applying for a job, make sure your CV is up to date and competitive. Click here for a free CV Review and advice on writing your CV.
The average salary for a Junior Web Developer usually starts at around £20,000 and then with experience the average salary for a Senior Web Developer is approximately £50,000. However, Web Developers with a good amount of experience and skills can earn higher. There are also many contract roles available for experienced Web Developers. Contracting provides a great opportunity to work in many different client sites and earn a high daily rate.
Click here to start your search for Web Developer Jobs