Web developers build the web pages and web-based applications that comprise the Internet. A basic web development work-flow includes collecting or creating web content (copy, images, videos, etc.), planning web site layout and navigation, coding the actual web pages, then testing and optimizing the website for superior user experience and optimum performance.
Successful web developers are fluent in the programming languages that power the World Wide Web. All web developers need a command of HTML, Javascript & CSS. It's also helpful to know a server-side programming language, such as PHP, Java, Python & Ruby to develop more complex applications. Web developers can further distinguish themselves and increase their earning potential by learning one or more of the leading database systems, such as MySQL, Microsoft SQL Server, IBM and Oracle to write web apps that seamlessly engage with business data. Learn more about web developer education requirements and compare top-rated web development training programs in the U.S. and online below.
Web development projects require frequent revisions, so web developers need patience and strong communication skills to interact with bosses, team members and clients. Creativity and an understanding of color theory and design concepts will also increase your value as a web developer. Web development jobs exist in all settings, including enterprises and government agencies, small to medium businesses or working alone as a freelance web developer.
a.k.a. Web Application Developer | Web Dev | Website Manager | Web Designer
Web Developer Skills & Responsibilities
Typical day-to-day activities and marketable skill sets for web developers include the following. Web Developers:
- Are fluent in the core web development scripting languages: HTML, CSS and Javascript.
- Should know one or more server-side programming languages, such as Java, PHP, C++, Python & Ruby
- Use search engine optimization (SEO) to develop websites that rank high in Google, Bing, etc.
- Test web pages and web apps in multiple browsers, e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Safari and Edge.
- Implement Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) to efficiently control the style of pages in a website.
- Develop websites that interact with popular database systems like MySQL, SQL Server & Oracle.
- Use wireframes to plan the layout, navigation and functionality of new web development projects.
- Communicate with clients and colleagues to troubleshoot websites and optimize site performance.
- Some web developers are responsible for designing a website's graphics and multimedia elements.
Web Developer Salary
The median annual salary for web developers is $93,000, according to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Web Developer Salary $93,000 |
Average salaries for web developers and related career paths:
- Web Designer: $81,000
- .Net Web Developer: $82,000
- PHP Programmer: $91,000
- User Interface (UI) Developer: $91,000
- Web Developer: $93,000
- Coldfusion Developer: $94,000
- SQL Server Developer: $94,000
- Java Web Developer: $98,000
- Software Designer: $98,000
- Perl Developer: $95,000
- J2EE Developer: $98,000
- Websphere Developer: $104,000
- Full Stack Developer: $106,000
- Senior Java Developer: $112,000
Top paying cities and metropolitan areas for web developers:
- Seattle, Washington: $138,000
- San Francisco, California: $114,000
- San Jose, California: $112,000
- Los Angeles, California: $110,000
- Atlanta, Georgia: 96,000
- Portland, Oregon: $96,000
- Boston, Massachusetts: $94,000
The hourly pay rate for web developers ranges from $20 to a whopping $100+ per hour. Key variables in a web developer's hourly wage include location, experience, strength of portfolio, and breadth and mastery of relevant programming languages.
Here is a deep dive comparison of web developer salaries.
Source: Indeed.comWeb Developer Education Requirements
Hands-on experience and mastery of the programming languages your prospective employer is using are the key requirements for securing work as a web developer. Hiring managers for web development positions will typically ask to see a digital portfolio with live samples of web pages and applications you've created. Professionals new to web development can learn the requisite programming skills and start building their portfolio through an accredited degree program in Web Design, Web Development, Software Engineering, or a related field of study.
Fundamental programming skills to look for in a web developer training program include HTML, CSS and JavaScript (the basic building blocks of most websites). Hot programming skills for back-end web development positions include PHP, Python, Java, C++ and Ruby. Beyond the basics, prospective web developers should choose a training program with the concentration that interests them most - such as graphic design, interactive media, computer animation, or mobile media development - as those who are passionate about their work tend to have the most rewarding careers. Both campus-and-online learning formats work well with the subject matter in web development training and degree programs.
Compare top-rated web development courses and degrees in the U.S. and online.
Web Developer Certifications
As a web developer, your portfolio of work will speak louder than any credential, however there is a small (yet growing) selection of certs to validate your skills in this field. Here are some of the most desirable web development certifications:
- MCSD: Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer
- Google UX Design Certificate
- CIW (Certified Internet Web Professional) Certifications
Web Developer Job Outlook
Employment for web developers is projected to grow by 16% from 2022 through 2032, much faster than the 3% average for all occupations. Each year, a record number of businesses bring their products and services to the Internet - as the number of online offerings increases, web developers will continue to see new job opportunities.
The continued dominance of ecommerce over traditional retail operations will contribute to the future demand for web developers as businesses look to promote their digital storefront and garner a competitive advantage. Greater access and capability of mobile devices will add even more opportunities for web and application developers - explore the mobile application developer career path for more information about development jobs in the mobile niche.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook
