What Is a Front End Developer and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

A front-end developer is in charge of coding and maintaining a user-facing website or application. The user interacts with the HTML, JavaScript, CSS coding, and designs that the front end developer puts in place. A back-end developer works with the server and integration of the front end developers coding. A front-end developer makes sure the information on the site is accessible, readable, and works across multiple browsers and platforms.

To become a front-end developer, you have to have a love of all things code. Front-end developers work with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript all day. They practice using methodologies and models to learn, solve problems, and develop results. Some are self-taught; there are multiple courses and programs available online to learn for free or for a fee, and they practice until they are ready for employment. Others attend community college or pursue a bachelor’s degree to learn and develop their coding skills.

Working as a front-end developer can lead to multiple career paths. Starting off as a front-end developer will allow you to learn how to build, code, and design front-facing sites and apps. This can lead to corporate positions for large companies. Since front-end developers have an eye for design, they can move up to a director or manager position and be in charge of the look of the sites visited by millions every day.

Front-end developers must be very detail-oriented and able to quickly process and understand multiple lines of code and data. Focused individuals who have strong problem-solving capabilities do well in this role. If there is a mistake or if the website fails, the front end developer must quickly solve coding problems. They must be calm under pressure, and of course, have excellent computer skills.

Job Summary

We are seeking a driven, detail-oriented front end developer to join our growing team. In this role, you will take the designs created by web designers and use a mix of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to code those website designs. You will work closely with various members of the organization to play a key role in the successful launch of websites and applications.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Review designs created by web designers; ask any necessary clarifying questions before starting on work
• Write code to implement visual elements into various web applications
• Create prototypes, mockups, and staging sites for review and feedback
• Optimize websites and applications to ensure fast loading speeds
• Maintain websites and implement any necessary additions or enhancements
• Identify and troubleshoot various website issues and coding problems
• Collaborate with members of the website team, including designers and back-end developers, to consistently improve functionality and user-friendliness of web applications
• Maintain updated knowledge of the development industry and any advancements in technology
• Meet tight deadlines as required

Requirements and Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in a front end development role
• Portfolio or samples of past work and projects
• Understanding of the entire web development process, with an emphasis on front end design and development
• Solid grasp of HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and various content management systems
• Ability to interpret and implement web designs
• Strong communication skills to effectively collaborate with designers, developers, and other relevant staff members or clients
• Willingness to troubleshoot and solve complex problems
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines
• Flexibility to adapt to changing instructions and requirements