what is a web developer?
As a web developer, you use coding languages to build web applications and websites. Sometimes, a design team creates the website design, and your job is to write the code that turns it into a website. At other times, you liaise with a client, discuss their preferences for the website, and then design it.
You also write the code that controls the functionality of a website. That means ensuring users can navigate the site easily and perform various functions. For instance, you may build pages on a website like a paywall for recording payment details or a command to provide a newsletter or email.
job description of a web developer
As a web developer, it is crucial to be familiar with web technologies, network protocols and server infrastructures. You also understand the programming languages necessary for developing a website. Some front-end coding languages for producing a modern website include HTML, JavaScript and CSS. As new languages emerge, you familiarise yourself to stay competitive.
In addition to developing a user interface and layout, a web developer keeps the site up-to-date with content and fresh updates to improve its functionality. For instance, you regularly update the security protocols and ensure the site performs all the necessary functions.
Would a job as a web developer suit your interest in technology and artistic eye? Then read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in a web developer role.
web developer rolesaverage salary of a web developer
According to Payscale, the salary of a web developer starts at around ₹255,000 a year. Once you have adequate experience and skills to perform complex tasks, you earn over ₹350,000 per year. Project complexity and work hours boost your earnings through overtime pay for working evenings and weekends. Some companies also have bonuses and paid holidays. If your employer pays on a project basis, your earnings will fluctuate depending on the scale of the task.
what factors affect the salary of a web developer?
The earnings of web developers are tied to various factors, from the location and company size to educational requirements and experience level. Your compensation package often depends on the local salary rates. Earnings fluctuate from one place to another due to the varied cost of living. Working in major cities generally offers better pay due to the cost of living and higher demand for web developers.
Also, consider the company size when looking for a better salary. Multinationals often have greater resources and pay more, while start-ups may offer lower wages. Your skill set and years of experience also impact your compensation package. Entry-level positions offer lower-than-average salaries, but you can increase your salary if you have additional skills or management experience.
types of web developer
- front end developer: your job is to implement the site design and the technical features that improve the website's functionality. You integrate applications, graphics and content to improve user experience.
- back end developer: you are responsible for the technical aspects of a site, from application logic to database management. You also establish security procedures that allow users to access different parts of the site.
- full stack developer: your job is to accomplish both back-end and front-end functionality. You complete the design and write code to guide the performance of a site based on the client's requirements.
- javascript developer: you write code using JavaScript that controls site functionality and enhances the user experience. Most JavaScript developers work on the front-end layout, but the programming language isn't limited to the user interface.
- webmasters: you are responsible for updating and maintaining websites, as well as managing servers and deployment procedures. You ensure sites work correctly by testing for errors and broken links.
working as a web developer
Working as a web developer involves creating websites, from their technical aspects to their appearance and functionality. Let's explore what roles and work environments you can expect.
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duties and responsibilities
Web developers typically perform the following duties and tasks:
- meeting with clients: as a web developer, you meet with clients to consult on the website requirements. After the meetings, you prepare mock-ups and storyboards before detailing the website requirements and functions to include in your design.
- writing website code: you are responsible for writing the code used to develop a website using languages such as HTML and JavaScript. You create the code that determines what users see on a website and how they interact with it. Application code is also executed on the web servers, accessing databases to power the website and provide dynamic functionality.
- constructing user interface and web layout: as a web developer, you build the structure of a website and implement its visual features. You are also responsible for improving the user experience by creating a user-friendly design.
- testing website functionality: during the development process, it is vital to test the code for bugs and modify it to improve its functionality. Testing the code before deployment also makes it easier to fix underlying issues.
- enforcing ongoing security: you are responsible for maintaining the security of a website on suitable host servers. You can liaise with security experts to ensure the site conforms to the best security standards. You are also in charge of backing up the website to prevent data loss in case of online attacks.
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work environment
As a web developer, your work can be office or home-based since you spend most of the day designing and coding websites. Most companies provide interactive workspaces for web developers to enhance their creativity. Your work environment may have functional spaces for collaborating with other designers and developers. Sometimes, you meet clients at their work premises to discuss their website requirements. Most web developers working as remote workers have furnished home offices with advanced technology to assist with coding.
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who are your colleagues?
Depending on the project's complexity, your colleagues may be web designers, UX designers, cloud engineers and software developers. Designers help you improve the user interface and layout so that users have a better experience. You may also be working with technical leads, security software developers, full stack developers, test managers, marketing managers and other specialists like graphic designers, content writers, SEO specialists, webmasters and digital interface designers.
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work schedule
As a web developer, you can work full-time, part-time and short-term contracts. In full-time roles, you work around 40 hours a week. While covering most of your work during regular office hours is possible, tight deadlines and complex projects require overtime work. Working evenings or weekends is common, and some maintenance roles require you to work at night. If you are on a part-time schedule, your work could be from 20 to 30 hours a week. Web developers working on short-term contracts may have more flexible work schedules.
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job outlook
The growth of the web continues globally, and web developers are therefore in demand. For example, research indicates that the demand for full-stack web developers in India grew by as much as 30% in 2021.
You can begin your web development career in junior roles, working on small development projects. Senior web developers lead complex projects and a team of developers. After acquiring skills and experience, you can become a technical director, the first step into management roles.
Alternatively, you may specialise in various areas of web development. For instance, concentrate on becoming a front-end developer, back-end developer or webmaster and hone your skills in these areas. Web developers can also become freelancers to offer web development services.
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advantages of finding a web developer job through randstad
Finding your web developer job through Randstad provides important advantages such as:
- a wide variety of training and development opportunities
- an experienced contact person to provide help if needed
- a range of opportunities in your area
- get paid on a monthly basis
- temporary and permanent contracts
Want a permanent contract? A temporary job as a web developer is often a stepping stone to an attractive permanent job. Every year, thousands of people earn a permanent contract with great employers thanks to a temporary job found through Randstad. What's more, many companies recruit their permanent employees through Randstad too!
education and skills
A web developer typically has the following educational qualifications:
- degree: as a web developer, you have in-depth programming knowledge and expertise in the digital landscape. A BTech in computer science, web design, or IT is a great way to join the field.
- short courses: you don't always need formal training to become a web developer. You can acquire the skills for the role through short training sessions and online courses. These can give you a head-start with the required technologies and programming languages.
- certifications: many online training courses offer their own certifications. For back end developer positions, you may also consider professional certifications such as Java EE and Web Services.
skills and competencies
The following transferrable skills help you excel as a web developer:
- communication skills: as a web developer, you communicate with multiple stakeholders before producing a website. You are a good listener, enabling you to learn requirements and talk to clients without technical jargon. Your communication skills benefit you when making presentations to the design team.
- continuous learning: to succeed as a web developer, you learn new techniques daily and study upcoming technologies. This requires natural curiosity and a passion for web design. Continuous learning helps you stay on top of the latest designs and computer languages.
- perfectionism: as a web developer, you double-check your code for bugs and regularly fix any problems. Perfectionists always find something to improve on a website.
- organisation and time management skills: if you handle multiple projects, your organisational skills enable you to stay on top of your tasks and workflows. Organisational skills help you develop a work schedule and meet deadlines.
FAQs about working as a web developer
FAQs about working as a web developer:
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what does a web developer do?
A web developer helps clients create a website by building the user interface and incorporating technical features so that the website functions properly. You also maintain the site and improve its features.
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is web developer a good career?
Web development is an exciting career that allows you to use your creativity and create websites that improve companies' visibility. Your earnings and opportunities for growth are also promising.
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what educational requirements are necessary for a web developer?
A degree in software engineering, computer science or web design will help you join the field. However, you can also land a role if you have exceptional coding skills and certifications from short courses.
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what does a web developer make?
A web developer makes about ₹350,000 per year on average. Overtime pay and bonuses can increase your earnings.
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how do I apply for a web developer vacancy?
Applying for a web developer job is easy: create a Randstad profile and search our job offers for vacancies in your area. Then simply send us your CV and cover letter. Need help with your application? Check out all our job search tips here!
