What is a Front End Developer?
The front end is the visible part of the application that users interact with, so a Front End Developer designs and maintains what users see in the browser. The front end is often referred to as the “client side” while the back end (which focuses on the server, database, and applications that power the front end) is referred to as the “server side.” A Front End Web Developer will work with languages like CSS and JavaScript as well as some frameworks. A Back End Web Developer works almost exclusively with databases, logic, and server side languages like PHP.
How to Learn Front End Development
Coding bootcamps are the quickest way to become a Front End Web Developer. Most bootcamps teach full stack development and graduates can choose a specialty like front end development. Coding bootcamps typically teach both technical skills and job hunting skills which help more than 80% of graduates secure jobs after bootcamp. Bootcamps can run anywhere from 8-16 weeks and on average cost $15,000 USD, although many bootcamps now offer a variety of financing options.
Types of Front End Development Jobs
Front End Developers can look forward to a wide variety of jobs since no two companies have the exact same expectations of a programmer who specializes in front end technologies. A remote Front End Web Developer job is also a distinct possibility. Here is a list of the most frequent Front End Development jobs for bootcampers:
- Junior Front End Developer
- Full Stack Developer
- Full Stack Web Developer
- Web Developer
- Front End Engineer
- JavaScript Developer
- CSS/HTML Developer
- Front End Web Designer
- UI/UX Designer
- Front End Quality Assurance
What Does a Front End Developer Do?
A Front End Developer manages what users see in their browser. They design, analyze code, and debug the client side of an application. This makes them responsible for the look, feel, and design of a website or web application. A Front End Developer is also expected to have some knowledge of the back end as well as frameworks they could be working with.
What Kind of Skills Do Front End Developers Need?
Knowledge of front end languages, frameworks, and critical thinking are essential parts of the developer’s toolbox. Because Front End Developers often work on a team, recruiters are also looking for strong evidence of soft skills. Thankfully, most coding bootcamps teach their students how to demonstrate their transferable skills as well as their technical skills.
Soft Skills Needed by Front End Developers
Soft skills that employers look for include the ability to communicate clearly and ask the right questions. Employers also look for developers who are good at problem-solving and working with a team. Other beneficial soft skills include:
- Time management
- Creativity
- Organization
- Attention to detail
Hard Skills Needed by Front End Developers
- HTML (Hypertext Markup Language)
- CSS
- Bootstrap
- Flexbox
- Grid
- JavaScript
- Responsive Design
- Version Control and Git
- Debugging and Testing
- Frameworks such as:
Job Market and Salary Insights
The job outlook for Front End Developers is positive, with the overall employment levels projected to increase by 16% over the next decade, which is faster than the average for all occupations in the U.S. This translates into approximately 19,000 openings each year through 2032. The median annual wage for a Front End Designer is $98,540 as of May, 2023.
There are several factors that can affect the salary for Front End Developers, such as:
- Education — Those with a degree in a computer-related field may earn more.
- Skillset — The more in-demand skills you possess, the more money you may earn.
- Location — Companies located in larger metropolitan areas tend to pay more.
- Experience — A senior level position will pay more than entry level.
FAQ Section
How do you get into Front End Development?
To become a Front End Developer, you have several paths:
- Coding bootcamps specializing in Front End Development or Full Stack Development will give you the technical foundation, project portfolio, and career support you need to become a Front End Developer.
- Self-study programs such as W3schools and Udacity’s Nanodegree programs.
- A college degree, which will provide you with theoretical knowledge, mathematics, and exposure to more low level programming than a coding bootcamp, and may provide opportunities for internships.
- Learning to code through your employer. Some employers will fund coding bootcamps or even teach you to code themselves. Companies like LinkedIn, Google, Amazon Web Services (AWS), and Microsoft are two examples of companies you could work for that offer programs for beginners.
How do you become a Front End Developer?
Like any career, the career progression for a Front End Developer is all about developing the required skills. To become a Front End Developer, you’ll need to do the following:
- Obtain the required education and on-the-job skills, either through a bootcamp, a college degree, self study programs, or online certifications.
- Fine-tune your tech skills by creating sample websites or volunteering to do front end development for charitable organizations.
- Practice your coding through online courses.
- Network in the tech community, such as participating in online coding communities.
- Create an online portfolio that showcases your relevant projects.
Is Front End Development a good career?
Yes, the job outlook is good. About 70% of developers report being happy in their job, which is always a green flag. Additionally, the salary level is above average, you’ll work on a variety of projects, there’s a demand for Front End Developers, and there’s opportunity to work remotely.
How long does it take to become a Front End Developer?
It depends. If you have some experience, it might take as little as 8-16 weeks, but if you’re a complete beginner, it could take a couple of years, especially if you choose to get a degree.
