Duties and responsibilities
A web programmer is a programmer who codes web pages and server programs. Typically, they are thoroughly familiar with HTML, XML and other languages, such as JavaScript, Python, C++ and much more. Their typical duties and responsibilities include:
- Meeting with clients and colleagues to determine website needs
- Creating website layouts
- Building websites to client specifications by writing code, designing pages and widgets, and incorporating graphics and video elements
- Testing websites using a variety of browsers, including Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, Safari, and Mozilla Firefox
- Maintaining fluency in one or more programming languages, such as HTML
- Maintaining websites by checking for errors, broken links, and hacking attempts
- Developing knowledge of website accessibility standards and legal requirements
Qualifications
If you’re interested in becoming a web programmer, you will typically need a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as computer science or computer information systems. Some employers may prefer to hire web programmers who have master’s degrees. Even though most web programmers have a bachelors degree, it’s possible to become one with only a high school degree or an associates degrees and lots of relevant work experience!
Skills and relevant work experience
The typical skills and talents required for an web programmer include:
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- Problem-solving skills, as web programmers will need to work to address complex challenges and meet the needs of computer users
- Attention to detail, as web programmers need to carefully write lines of code – if they don’t pay attention and get it wrong, the web page would not work
- Communication skills, as web programmers will work closely with clients and will need to be able to understand their needs and communicate their ideas with them
- Knowledge of programming Languages, as they will need to use this language in their everyday tasks
Hours
Web programmers tend to work full time, normal hours. They may, however, have to work additional hours if there is an emergency or when approaching a deadline.
Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for a web developer in the United States was $77,200 in May 2020. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $40,750, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $146,430 per year. Web programmers can expect to earn a similar figure.
Progression
Computers and webpages are very important for modern day society. As a result, web developers can expect to have many exciting job opportunities in the coming years. Once they land their first entry-level role, they can go wherever they want… team leader, project manager, self-employed, the opportunities are endless!