What Does a Front-End Developer Do?

A front-end developer creates websites and applications using web languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript that allow users to access and interact with the site or app. When you visit a website, the design elements you see were created by a front-end developer.

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What does a front-end developer do? 

Front-end developers create user interfaces (UI). UI is the graphical layout of an application that determines what each part of a site or application does and how it will look. "I've always found crafting polished user interactions that surprise and delight users to be the most rewarding and engaging task," says Mari Batilando, a software engineer at Meta. "In order to do this, you need to both have an eye for detail and a rock-solid understanding of the platform."

Front-end vs. back-end: What's the difference?

What's the difference between a front-end developer and a back-end developer? Back-end developers work to develop the behind-the-scenes portions of a website or application, like data storage, security, site performance, or other server-side functions.

Front-end developer job description

If someone wanted to build a website, they might hire a front-end developer to create the site's layout. The front-end developer determines where to place images, what the navigation should look like, and how to present the site. Much of their work involves ensuring the appearance and layout of the site or application is easy to navigate and intuitive for the user.

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Average salary for front-end developers

Glassdoor reports an average yearly pay of $90,345 for front-end developers in the US. This figure includes an average annual salary of $83,119 and a reported additional pay of $7,226. Additional pay insights may include profit-sharing, commissions, or bonuses. Factors like education level, experience, and certifications may affect salary range.

Front-end developer job outlook

Front-end development is a career that is expected to continue being in demand for years to come. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that web developer jobs in the US should grow by 16 percent from 2022 to 2032 [1]. 

Where do front-end developers work?

The demand and flexibility of this position translate into many career opportunities across various industries and locations. Whether that means working with a non-profit organization, starting your own freelance business, or being an in-house developer for a company, you’ll likely have the chance to find a role that fits your interests.

Work remotely as a front-end developer

The computer-heavy nature of the job also means plenty of opportunities to work remotely. Being a front-end developer can mean being able to work for companies across the country—or even the globe—from the comfort of your home.

How to become a front-end developer

A career as a front-end web developer can flex your creativity and problem-solving skills. As a field that is constantly evolving to incorporate new technology, front-end development can reward those who like to learn new things and face challenges. The next few sections outline some of the most prominent skills for front-end developers.

HTML, CSS, and JavaScript

These three languages are essential to anyone who wants to work in front-end development.

• HTML (hypertext markup language): The basic building block needed to develop websites; a language that allows you to make notes in digital documents that are different from regular text.

• CSS (cascading style sheets): The language used to create the layout, color, and overall style of the pages you create with HTML.

• JavaScript: The programming language that determines what the page will do.

HTML, CSS, and JavaScript work together to determine the look and functionality of the page. 

How to get started: If you want to learn HTML, JavaScript, and CSS, consider enrolling in an online course like HTML, CSS, and Javascript for Web Developers from John Hopkins University. You'll build the foundational knowledge you need to start a career in web development while earning a certificate for your resume.

Frameworks

Frameworks are platforms for developing software consistently, efficiently, and accurately. They are tools required for JavaScript and CSS to perform the way you want them to. Having a solid understanding of them is crucial for creating page structures.

How to get started: To brush up on your knowledge of popular web development frameworks, consider learning from an industry leader. For example, you can enroll in the Django Web Framework online course taught by the staff at Meta.

Developer tools and software

Software like version control, which tracks and controls changes in your source code, is critical. It allows you to make changes to your code without starting over. Understanding how to use various software development tools is a building block to a successful career. 

How to get started: The Software Design Methods and Tools course by the University of Colorado is an excellent way to expand your knowledge of software development tools. It's 100% online and self-paced.

Workplace skills

In addition to understanding the technology that drives a website, having specific non-technical (or soft) skills can make you a better candidate for becoming a front-end developer. Here are a few you’ll want to keep in mind:

• Creativity

• Problem-solving skills

• Written and verbal communication skills

• Teamwork

Start advancing your front-end developer skills

Are you ready to take the next step toward becoming a front-end developer? If so, consider enrolling in the Meta Front-end Developer Professional Certificate, taught by Meta staff. You'll learn fundamentals like HTML and CSS and gain essential experience using them.

If you're looking to build the skills needed to become a front-end developer along with AI-powered skills to streamline your workflow, try Microsoft's Front-End Developer Professional Certificate.