A web developer’s job is to create websites. While their primary role is to ensure the website is visually appealing and easy to navigate, many web developers are also responsible for the website’s performance and capacity.
Types of web developers
Web developers usually fall under one of three categories: back-end developers, front-end developers, and full-stack developers. Some web developers also work as webmasters. Let’s take a closer look at each of these roles.
Back-end web developers create the website’s structure, write code, and verify the code works. Their responsibilities also may include managing access points for others who need to manage a website’s content.
Web developer tasks and responsibilities
As a web developer, you could work for a company or agency, or as a freelancer taking on projects for individual clients. Your tasks will vary depending on your work situation, but day-to-day responsibilities might generally include:
- Designing user interfaces and navigation menus
- Writing and reviewing code for sites, typically HTML, XML, or JavaScript
- Integrating multimedia content onto a site
- Testing web applications
- Troubleshooting problems with performance or user experience
- Collaborating with designers, developers, and stakeholders
Web developer career path
Many web developers start their careers with a single focus, usually front-end or back-end development. They may move on to be full-stack developers or explore careers in related fields, including project management, computer programming, or graphic design.
