Web developer job description

A web developer specialises in web-based applications like web pages, apps, cloud software, and other software that work on an internet connection. Web developers typically create websites for clients and set up related services like emails, calendars, user databases, customer relationship management systems, cloud storage systems, and more. Web developers can focus on front-end development or back-end development. As a front-end web developer, you focus on the interfaces users see and interact with. Back-end developers focus on the structures and server-side code that makes things work. Full-stack web developers work on both the front and back end.

Tasks and responsibilities for a web developer

Day-to-day, the duties and responsibilities of web developers include:

Building user interfaces from wireframe designs
Building products using different programming languages, including HTML, CSS, PHP, Java, SQL, and JavaScript
Coding and deploying applications
Understanding what functionality and design a client needs for their web-based applications and functional website
Creating and managing relevant databases for web-based applications
Debugging and testing for errors and client-side usability
Implementing cybersecurity protocols

How to become a web developer

Study

Get good foundational web development skills with a qualification like Certificate IV in Information Technology (Web Development) (ICT40120), or study website development, computer science, software engineering, or IT. Highly motivated people may also choose to self-study to pick up the relevant skills to put them on track for a web development career.
Get experience

Make your own website, or volunteer to make websites for friends starting a business. You could also offer to create a website for local community organisations. With experience, you can build a portfolio to show potential employers and clients.
Find work experience

You can find an internship or job placement with working web developers as you study.
Get a web developer role

Once you have a solid grounding in what a web developer does and have a track record of developing, you become e a strong candidate for entry-level web developer positions and be on your way to becoming a successful web developer.

Pathway options

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

Certificate IV in Information Technology (Web Development)

Study method Online

Learn the fundamentals of managing website development projects, including designing a website, building wireframes, search engine optimisation, software development, responsive design, web frameworks, APIs, cybersecurity, version control, website accessibility, e-commerce, coding languages and scripting, and developing and maintaining websites and databases. You get a mix of theory and hands-on website building and collaboration experience. A certificate IV typically takes one year of full-time study (or part-time equivalent) to complete.