What Does a Web Developer Do?
Web Developers build and maintain websites and web applications that are functional, visually appealing, and performant. They work with HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and various frameworks to create responsive user experiences. This role bridges design and technology to build sites that are easy to use.
Other Job Titles for This Work
Workers in this occupation report titles such as Technology Applications Engineer, Web Architect, Web Design Specialist, Webmaster.
Web Developer Duties and Responsibilities
The primary responsibilities of a web developer include:
- Develop responsive websites and web applications using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
- Implement front-end frameworks such as React, Angular, or Vue.js to build dynamic user interfaces.
- Collaborate with UX designers to translate wireframes and mockups into functional web pages.
- Optimize web applications for speed, scalability, and cross-browser compatibility.
- Integrate back-end services and APIs to support front-end functionality.
- Troubleshoot and fix bugs across different browsers and devices.
- Maintain and update existing websites with new content, features, and security patches.
- Implement SEO best practices to improve site visibility in search engine results.
- Conduct usability testing and incorporate feedback to improve user experience.
- Set up and manage web hosting environments, domain configurations, and SSL certificates.
Required Skills and Qualifications
To succeed as a web developer, you will need the following skills and qualifications:
- Expert-level HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
- Experience with front-end frameworks like React or Vue.js
- Understanding of responsive design principles
- Familiarity with back-end languages such as Node.js or PHP
- Knowledge of web performance optimization techniques
- Experience with content management systems like WordPress
- Understanding of web accessibility standards (WCAG)
- Proficiency with browser developer tools and debugging
Education and Training
A bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Web Development, or a related field is commonly preferred, though many employers value a strong portfolio over formal education. Associate degrees and coding bootcamp certificates are increasingly accepted, especially when paired with demonstrable project experience. Key coursework includes web programming, database management, and user interface design. Certifications such as the W3Schools Web Developer certificate or freeCodeCamp certifications can strengthen a candidate's profile.
Salary and Job Outlook
Typical pay: $64,230 - $126,230 per year, with a median of $92,650.
The range covers the middle half of earners nationwide. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, Web Developers.
The rise of progressive web apps and evolving web standards creates ongoing demand for skilled developers. Professionals who master modern JavaScript frameworks and full-stack development techniques are especially well positioned in this market.
Web Developer Pay Range
| Earners | Annual pay |
|---|---|
| Bottom 10% earn less than | $48,100 |
| Bottom 25% earn less than | $64,230 |
| Median (half earn more, half less) | $92,650 |
| Top 25% earn more than | $126,230 |
| Top 10% earn more than | $162,290 |
What the Work Is Like
O*NET surveys people who work as web developers about their daily conditions. Of those surveyed:
- 100% spend more than half the workday sitting
- 92% use email every day
- 88% say being exact and accurate is very or extremely important
- 79% work indoors in a climate-controlled space every day
- 75% say teamwork is very or extremely important in their job
- 63% usually work more than 40 hours a week
- 54% use their hands on tools, objects or controls for more than half the day
Education Workers Say the Job Needs
| Education level | Share of workers |
|---|---|
| Bachelor's degree | 46% |
| Post-secondary certificate | 17% |
| Associate's degree | 17% |
| High school diploma or GED | 8% |
Tools and Software Web Developers Use
Tools and equipment
Software
Is This Job a Good Fit for You?
People who do well in this job tend to enjoy organized work with data, records and clear procedures as well as analyzing problems and working with ideas.
Skills O*NET rates most important: Programming, Critical Thinking, Reading Comprehension, Complex Problem Solving, Operations Analysis, Active Listening.
Knowledge areas used most: Computers and Electronics, English Language, Mathematics, Communications and Media, Customer and Personal Service.
Preparation: O*NET places this occupation in Job Zone 3 of 5, which means medium preparation.
Related Careers
These jobs use similar skills, according to O*NET's related-occupation data:
Applying for a Web Developer Job
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Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025.
- O*NET 30.1 Database, occupation 15-1254.00 (Web Developers). View on O*NET OnLine.
This page includes information from the O*NET 30.1 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. The Job Explorer has modified some of the information; USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed or tested these changes.