Web Developer Job Description
Looking to hire a Web Developer or thinking about a career in web development? Here’s what the role involves, and the key skills required.
What Does a Web Developer Do?
Web developers build and maintain websites. They focus on how a site looks, works, and performs. Whether it’s a simple landing page or a complex eCommerce platform, web developers are behind the code that brings it all to life.
They work with both the front-end (what users see) and back-end (the tech that powers it), and some do both – these are known as full-stack developers. Web developers are critical to user experience, SEO performance, and the functionality of any digital product.
Types of Web Developers
There are three main types of web developers:
- Front-End Developer – builds the visual parts of a site using HTML, CSS and JavaScript.
- Back-End Developer – writes the server-side code using languages like Python, PHP, or Ruby.
- Full-Stack Developer – works across both front-end and back-end development.
Some web developers also work as Webmasters – maintaining websites, testing for issues, and updating content.
Web Developer Responsibilities
Here’s what a web developer typically does:
- Meet with clients or teams to understand website needs
- Write and test code for websites and web applications
- Work with designers to bring visual concepts to life
- Integrate multimedia elements like video, audio and images
- Build in site features like payment systems or login portals
- Check the site for bugs, browser compatibility, and speed
- Stay up to date with new tech, tools and best practices
Essential Web Development Skills
Successful web developers mix technical know-how with soft skills like communication and problem-solving.
Technical Skills:
- HTML, HTML5, CSS, CSS3, JavaScript
- jQuery, APIs, PHP, Python
- Adobe Creative Suite
- UI and UX design fundamentals
- SEO basics and website performance optimisation
- Cross-browser and mobile compatibility
- Understanding of responsive design and frameworks like Bootstrap
Soft Skills:
- Strong communication
- Attention to detail
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines
Web Developer Career Path
Most developers start in junior or graduate roles, then move into more complex builds as mid-weight or senior developers. From there, they can step into:
- Lead Developer – oversees technical strategy and manages teams
- Technical Director – leads project delivery, budgets and hiring
- Specialist roles – in areas like DevOps, security, or AI development
Common Web Development Terms
A few key terms you’ll often come across:
- API, Backend, Frontend, Full-Stack, Bootstrap
- Cache, Bug, Responsive Design, UI, UX
- HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PHP, Python
- SEO, Wireframe, Mobile-first, Plugin
Web Developer FAQs
Do I need a degree to become a web developer?
No, but many have a degree in computer science, IT, or software engineering. TAFE diplomas and self-taught developers are also common.
What’s the difference between a developer and a designer?
Developers focus on function and performance. Designers focus on aesthetics, branding, and user interface. Some developers have design skills, but the roles are different.
Are web developers software developers?
Yes – web development is a branch of software development, focused specifically on websites and web apps.
Who do developers work for?
They work across industries – from startups and digital agencies to government and enterprise. Many also freelance.
Why do web developers need to keep learning?
Technology changes fast. New tools, languages and frameworks appear regularly, and good developers stay up to date to build better products.