The front end web developer is the “artist” who is responsible for getting the data from the back end and displaying it in a way that users can navigate through it and access the required information. The front end developer responsibilities are complex in nature, and he/she is mostly associated with the production, maintenance and modification of the organization's websites as well as web application's users interfaces. It is a significant position that requires programming skills and aesthetic sensitivity. If you are techno savvy person who loves working in a team environment with strong knowledge and command over HTML5, CSS3, Javascript, etc., then this is the perfect job for you.
Key Responsibilities of a Front End Developer
The front end developer should be able to convert the original visual designs and concepts into front end HTML code. He/she works in close association with the development team, designers, and information architects to realize and deliver the best web technology solutions. He/she needs to be fully aware of web development issues, strategies, and should be able to handle the front end development frameworks efficiently. He/she takes the support of the existing infrastructure and may develop new technologies to complete the given assignment successfully. He/she designs and develops new websites and reviews the scope of the work. To get a more clear and better picture, let us get some more detail information about the core responsibilities and duties that need to be carried out by this professional:
Apart from the above responsibilities, the front end web developer leverages the capabilities of the content management system and is actively involved in streamlining content, deploying, updating and maintaining it. He/she is responsible for incorporating the best practices and methods that would assist in search engine optimization. He/she adapts and monitors search optimization so that he/she is able to maintain results and visibility and adapt according to the changing needs of the organization. He/she ensures that the websites of the organization are developed in a way that are compliant with W3C standards. He/she should provide correct time estimates for the given projects and is involved in the technical specification and instructional documentation. He/she may need to train the non technical staff on some occasions. He/she remains updated with emerging technologies so that he/she is able to incorporate them and provide clients with innovative and best technological solutions.
Essential Skills
The front end developer should be well versed with HTML, CSS, Javascript coding and programming skills and should be eager and enthusiastic to learn about the latest technologies. He/she should pay strong attention to designing details and should be able to devise quick solutions for complex problems. Strong written as well as communication skills, good organizational skills, ability to switch and juggle multiple projects and meet deadlines, self starter, ability to work in a team as well as handle project individually are some of the other required skills.
Educational Requirements
The basic educational criteria to qualify for this post is that an individual should have completed an associate or bachelor's degree in designing, interactive design, computer science etc. Those with higher education, updated technological knowledge and applicable experience would definitely have better chances for growth and development.
Work Schedule
This professional is required to work under tight deadlines. Hence, he/she may need to work for longer hours. Sometimes, he/she may even need to work on the weekends to meet the deadline of the assigned project.
Salary Details
According to one of the job portals, indeed.com, the average salary earned by the front end developer is $111,000. The basic starting salary for freshers is close to $70,000 and those with experience can expect a rise in their compensation up to $130,000. The salary will change with location, size and type of the organization he/she is working with.
Career Prospects
The career prospects look bright and promising for the individuals who have a successful track record with relevant experience and technical knowledge to make it to the top. They can aim to become online content producer, technical lead, project manager, development manager, etc., and ensure to get a better package along with individual growth.
If you are passionate about technology and have the relevant educational background, then handling the front end developer responsibilities would be much easier and can definitely be carried out more effectively and efficiently.