This job guide looks at becoming a Web Developer.
Web developers primarily work in the creation of new websites, and the upgrading or refurbishment of existing ones.
With the ubiquity of the Internet, virtually every company from the largest franchise to the smallest business requires the services of a web developer at some point. Examples of the kind of work you would be doing :
- Creating an eye-catching company website to advertise their services and goods
- Setting up an online retail site like eBay or Amazon
- Developing a specialized internal network for use by a companys employees
Flexible Hours
If is a full-time position or a contract, youd likely be working 37 to 40 hours a week, Monday through Friday. Some overtime on evenings or weekends may be required to meet deadlines. If youre working freelance or self-employed, you can set your own schedule as long as the job gets completed on time.
This is an office job, meaning youd usually work on-site for your client. If self-employed or freelancing, you may be able to telecommute or travel to your clients offices.
Salary Expectations
Generally, web developers initially earn around £20,000 a year. With enough experience, you can earn £30,000, or possibly even £40,000 once you become an expert in the field.
If you are really good and prepared to contract then you could charge anything from £200-£600 a day.
Wed Developer Skills
Certain skills are required to be a successful web developer. These include :
- Creativity, especially with regards to graphic design
- A good sense of usability (i.e. form versus function)
- Flexible problem-solving skills
- The ability to follow instructions while still thinking on your feet
- The ability to meet strict deadlines, even if it requires extra work
- The ability to work either by yourself, or as a part of a larger team
- Good oral and written communication skills
- Familiarity with web standards, various operating systems and programming scripts (see below)
Basic Requirements
Web developers need to be familiar with a number of concepts. These include common operating systems and server software (including Windows, Linux and Mac), databases and web programming, networking and security protocols, and various graphics and web design software suites.
Generally, employers will want to see a portfolio that shows your best work, proving your have the experience and technical skills to meet their needs. Doing goodwill work by developing websites for a local non-profit group, church or charity is a good way to show off your skills to any potential employers. Although a computer-related degree may help your chances of finding a job, employers will generally judge you based on your portfolio. Experience counts more than education.
Web Developer Technical Skills
Before seeking a web developer job, its a good idea to be familiar with several programs, including web authoring suites like Dreamweaver, the Adobe Creative Suite, Coldfusion, Azure RP, Hotmetal Pro and Visual Interdev. Its also necessary to know various programming languages like HTML, HTML5, XML, Perl, PHP, Javascripts, CSS, SQL, MySQL and SSL security technologies. Once you have these skills, most companies will offer additional on-the-job training.
Sites to take a look at :
These sites should have you decide if you are technical enough to code and become a web developer
- Tech crunch
- w3
- php code home
- and mircosofts .Net code
Other IT Careers
If you decide that becoming a web developer isnt for you but still want to work in IT then check out our job guides on:
- IT Trainer
- Network Manager
- Web Content Manager
- or an IT Support Technician
And please dont forget our Online Job Centre , where you can find information on your local jobcentreplus.