Full stack developer job description

Full-stack developers are creative, organised, research-driven professionals involved in designing both the front-end and back-end of websites and web applications. Front-end development specialises in the interfaces users see and interact with. Back-end development focuses more on the underlying structures and server-side code that makes things work. The ability to do both is invaluable as you bring a wide range of skills that help you work with knowledge and agility. As a full-stack developer, you work with building web pages and web applications like cloud software, email clients, cybersecurity software, or anything that involves an internet connection and is valuable to clients.

Tasks and responsibilities for a full stack developer

The day-to-day duties and tasks of a full-stack developer are:

Developing the front-end, client-side usability of websites with front-end technologies and programming languages like HTML, CSS, Angular, React native, and JavaScript (alongside JavaScript libraries like reactJS, node.js, AngularJS, and jquery)
Developing servers and databases for website functionality using back-end technologies programming languages like Java, PHP, SQL, Ruby, and Python (as well as the Django web framework for Python)
Coding for mobile platforms so users can interact with web apps wherever they go
Understanding and analysing clients' needs and how to best implement them
Designing user interactions on websites
Implementing cybersecurity protocols

How to become a full stack developer

Study

Studying helps you get the foundational skills for web development, specifically full-stack development. Qualifications such as a Certificate IV in Information Technology (Programming) (ICT40120) or a Diploma of Software Development (ICT50715) would be an excellent start for learning the ropes, as would study in a range of areas like computer science, software engineering, or IT. If you’re a self-starter, self-study to get the required skills may also be an option.
Develop your skills with projects

Making and scripting complex web applications and websites as a full-stack developer is one of the best ways of getting the required practical experience. Try out your skills on a project, and learn new skills as needed.
Get work experience

Find someone working as a full-stack developer to mentor you or get an internship or a work placement as you study. Experience in the development process helps you build your professional networks and your skills.

Pathway options

As you gain experience as a full-stack developer, you may be able to move into higher-level roles, with potential career paths like:

Certificate IV Information Technology

Study method In-class Online

Explore the fundamentals of programming and learn how to code up apps and create databases as you study topics like critical thinking, cybersecurity, different emerging technologies, working in teams, troubleshooting and debugging, intellectual property and more. A Certificate IV may take between 9 to 12 months to complete.

Diploma Of Software Development

Study method Online

Learn the technical and theoretical foundations of software development, including web development. Find out how to create and test programs, including web-based applications using various tools and programming languages. You may take courses in mathematics, statistics, and algorithms. Other topics include creating and maintaining databases and web servers, data structures, web frameworks, object-oriented programming, computer architecture, version control systems, operating systems, APIs, game design, artificial intelligence, and cloud computing. This qualification takes one year of full-time study (or part-time equivalent).