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Headless Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Full Stack Web Developer

Rockville, MD · On-site

$101.40K - $154.65K/yr

Development & Architecture • Design and implement headless web applications using Next.js and ... Engineering, or other related science or engineering discipline is required. Advanced degree ...

Lead React Developer

Plano, TX

$56.75 - $74.25/hr

Integrate front-end systems with APIs, third-party libraries, and headless CMS platforms * Ensure high-quality code through unit tests, integration tests, and peer reviews Quality Engineering ...

New

Lead React Developer

Plano, TX

$56.75 - $74.25/hr

Integrate front-end systems with APIs, third-party libraries, and headless CMS platforms * Ensure high-quality code through unit tests, integration tests, and peer reviews Quality Engineering ...

OR

$122.40K - $161.30K/yr

... headless web platform using Optimizely CMS (SaaS) as a backend, and Next.js hosted on Vercel as the front-end framework. You'll collaborate closely with DevOps, data, architecture and platform ...

Senior Software Engineer

$125.40K - $165.30K/yr

... headless web platform using Optimizely CMS (SaaS) as a backend, and Next.js hosted on Vercel as the front-end framework. You'll collaborate closely with DevOps, data, architecture and platform ...

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Headless Developer information

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How much do headless developer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for headless developer in the United States is $52.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40.38 and $64.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Headless Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Headless Developer, you need a strong background in web development, API design, JavaScript frameworks (such as React or Vue), and a solid understanding of headless CMS platforms. Familiarity with tools like Contentful, Strapi, GraphQL, RESTful APIs, and version control systems (e.g., Git) is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and adaptability to rapidly changing technologies are valuable soft skills. These competencies ensure seamless integration of backend and frontend systems, delivering flexible, scalable digital experiences.

How does a Headless Developer typically collaborate with designers and backend teams on projects?

As a Headless Developer, you will often work closely with designers to implement user interfaces using frontend frameworks, while collaborating with backend teams to integrate APIs and data sources. This role requires strong communication skills to ensure the visual and functional aspects of the application align with both design guidelines and backend capabilities. Expect to participate in regular stand-ups, code reviews, and planning sessions where cross-team coordination is essential for delivering seamless digital experiences. Effective collaboration is key to addressing challenges that arise from decoupling the frontend and backend.

What is a Headless Developer?

A Headless Developer specializes in building applications using headless architecture, where the frontend (user interface) is decoupled from the backend (content management or data source). This allows developers to create flexible, scalable, and customizable digital experiences across multiple platforms like web, mobile apps, and IoT devices. Headless Developers typically work with APIs to connect the backend to various frontends, enabling faster development cycles and easier content delivery. Their expertise is valuable for organizations seeking omnichannel solutions and modern web development practices.

What is the difference between Headless Developer vs Front-End Developer?

AspectHeadless DeveloperFront-End Developer
Primary FocusBuilding and integrating decoupled backend systems with APIs for flexible content deliveryDesigning and implementing user interfaces and user experiences for websites and applications
Required SkillsAPI integration, backend development, JavaScript frameworks, CMS knowledgeHTML, CSS, JavaScript, UI/UX design, responsive design
Work EnvironmentOften collaborates with backend teams, works on headless CMS and API-driven platformsPrimarily works on client-side development, visual design, and user interaction

While both roles involve JavaScript and web development, a Headless Developer specializes in backend and API integration for flexible content management, whereas a Front-End Developer focuses on creating engaging user interfaces and experiences. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers target the right skills and responsibilities for each role.

More about Headless Developer jobs
What cities are hiring for Headless Developer jobs? Cities with the most Headless Developer job openings:
What states have the most Headless Developer jobs? States with the most job openings for Headless Developer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Headless Developer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 70% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 26% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,905 per year, or $52.8 per hour.
Senior Full Stack Web Developer

Senior Full Stack Web Developer

MSD

Rockville, MD • On-site

$101.40K - $154.65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:
This position leads enterprise web architecture initiatives on Sitecore XM Cloud and headless implementation. This position is responsible for the coding, innovative design and layout of the Company's websites. Responsibilities include but not limited to building website design from concept to completion. Also responsible for gathering requirements, design, conduct reviews, development, testing, and maintaining multiple tools that integrate across existing and emerging technologies to provide support for organizational actions.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Development & Architecture
• Design and implement headless web applications using Next.js and Sitecore XM Cloud with UI/UX best practices
• Build reusable React components mapped to Sitecore templates
• Optimize application performance for large volume of site visitors
• Implement server-side rendering (SSR) and static site generation (SSG) strategies
Sitecore Implementation
• Configure Sitecore XM Cloud environments and Experience Edge
• Develop custom Sitecore components and rendering logic
• Implement content serialization and deployment workflows
• Integrate with Sitecore APIs (GraphQL, REST, Layout Service)
• Support content authors with technical guidance on component usage
Troubleshoot Sitecore Publishing and Content Delivery Issues and Systems Integration
• Design and implement integrations between Sitecore and Martech platforms (CPQ, SFDC, E-commerce, etc.)
• Build data synchronization pipelines (real-time and batch)
• Implement authentication flows across multiple platforms with knowledge of Identity Management and Session Management
• Create webhooks and event-driven integration patterns
• Document integration architecture and data flows
Migration & Optimization
• Analyze legacy implementations and create migration strategies
• Refactor monolithic Sitecore applications to headless architecture
• Optimize database queries and API performance
• Monitor and improve application performance metrics, perform and optimize A/B testing
Collaboration & Leadership
• Collaborate with content authors, editors, designers, and marketing teams
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship
• Conduct code reviews and maintain coding standards
• Document technical specifications and integration patterns
EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS:
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or other related science or engineering discipline is required. Advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of full-stack web development experience with two years of years Sitecore headless development (XML Cloud, Experience Edge)
• Experience working with and upgrading a content management system (CMS) Platform (e.g. Sitecore XM/ Umbraco/Magento/Drupal, etc.)
• Experience with API integrations through web services (e.g. REST, SOAP or Web API) and both frontend and backend technologies like Node.js, Express.js, PostgreSQL, SQLServer, Redis, Next.js, TypeScript, React, Sitecore JSS SDK, Tailwind CSS or similar, Vercel/Netlify
• Proven work experience in web programming with portfolio of past application development projects, in which a tangible lead development role was held
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
• Deep expertise in modern JavaScript frameworks, Sitecore headless architecture, and enterprise system integrations supporting large volume of site visitors.
• Advanced knowledge of SEO and AEO Principles, including Google Analytics 360, GA4 or other web analytic metric tooling
• Understanding of various caching strategies (CDN, Redis, application-level)
• Strong knowledge of searching and indexing technologies like Solr/Lucene
• Excellent oral, written communication and interpersonal skills including communication with technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders
• Effectively communicate issues/problems and results that impact timelines, accuracy and reliability of project data
• A wide degree of creativity and latitude is expected including the ability to work closely with scientific subject matter experts, multi-task and work productively in a demanding team environment
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
While performing the duties of this job, the individual is frequently required to sit and stand for long periods. The individual is occasionally required to walk; use hands and fingers to operate, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
This position is performed in a traditional office environment.
COMPENSATION SUMMARY
The annual base salary for this position ranges from $101,400 to $154,650. This salary range represents a general guideline as MSD considers other factors when presenting an offer of employment, such as scope and responsibilities of the position, external market factors, and the candidate's knowledge, skills, abilities, education and experience. Employees may qualify for a discretionary or non-discretionary bonus in addition to their base salary. These annual bonuses are intended to recognize individual performance and enable employees to benefit from the Company's overall success.
BENEFITS SUMMARY
At MSD, we offer a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees' well-being and financial security. In addition to competitive salaries, our benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with prescription benefits. We provide a 401(k) plan with company matching, flexible spending accounts, and company-paid short- and long-term disability insurance as well as group life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance. Our offerings also encompass paid vacation, paid sick leave, paid holidays, and paid parental leave, along with an employee assistance program. Additional voluntary perks include a fitness club membership contribution, pet insurance, identity theft protection, home and auto insurance discounts, and optional supplemental life insurance.
EEO/AA STATEMENT
MSD is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, age, protected veteran status, pregnancy, disability status, or any other protected characteristic. For our full EEO/AA and Pay Transparency statement, please visit here. Meso Scale Diagnostics uses E-Verify to validate the work eligibility of candidates.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.