Full stack developer job description.

What does a full stack developer do?

 

A full stack developer works across both the front end and back end of a web application, bridging the gap between user interfaces and server infrastructure. They’re capable of building entire web features from scratch.

 

Responsibilities include coding responsive UIs, writing APIs, managing databases, debugging, and ensuring smooth integration between systems. They typically use JavaScript (Node.js, React), Python, or similar technologies.

 

In startups, Full stack developers often own entire features. In larger environments, they provide flexibility across teams and can support faster delivery by understanding the entire tech stack.

 

Key responsibilities of a full stack developer.

 

Full stack developers work across both front-end and back-end systems. Their responsibilities typically include:

• Designing and building complete features from database to UI

• Writing scalable code for both client-side and server-side applications

• Managing databases, servers, and APIs for smooth functionality

• Collaborating on product design and user experience discussions

• Integrating third-party services and internal platforms

• Troubleshooting and resolving issues across the tech stack

• Implementing best practices for security, performance, and testing

• Managing version control, build pipelines, and deployments

• Balancing short-term fixes with scalable architecture decision

• Documenting systems and supporting onboarding for other developers

This role blends versatility, collaboration, and problem-solving across the full stack.

 

Skills and requirements for a full stack developer.

 

Full stack developers deliver complete digital products across front-end and back-end systems. Employers typically look for:

• 3–6 years of experience across both client-side and server-side technologies

• Strong knowledge of JavaScript, HTML, CSS, and backend frameworks

• Experience with APIs, microservices, and application architecture

• Confidence working with databases, deployment pipelines, and testing

• Familiarity with cloud services like AWS, Azure, or GCP

• Skilled in debugging, optimisation, and performance monitoring

• Ability to work autonomously across the stack

• Experience collaborating with design, product, and QA teams

• Comfortable managing tasks and code reviews in Git

Most full stack developers thrive in fast-paced environments, taking ownership of feature delivery end-to-end.

 

Average salary for a full stack developer.

 

In the UK, the average salary for a full stack developer typically ranges from £45,000 to £70,000, reflecting both front- and back-end development skills.

• Mid-level full stack developers tend to earn between £45,000 and £57,000

• Senior developers proficient across multiple languages or leading product features can earn between £58,000 and £70,000

• Startups and scale-ups often offer equity or bonus structures for delivery speed and adaptability

Higher salaries are offered in SaaS, ecommerce, and rapidly-scaling product businesses.

 

Career progression for a full stack developer.

 

A full stack developer works across front and back end systems, offering a 360° understanding of web application development. This hybrid role leads into architecture or leadership. A typical path:

 

Junior full stack developer

 

Builds smaller features or supports senior devs on both sides of the stack.

 

Full stack developer

 

Delivers end-to-end features, handles integrations, and manages performance optimisation.

 

Senior full stack developer

 

Leads builds, refactors legacy codebases, and mentors other developers.

 

Technical lead / solutions architect

 

Designs entire applications and infrastructure, aligning with product and business strategy.

 

Head of engineering / CTO

 

Owns all development operations and sets the roadmap for technology growth.