What does a web developer do?
A web developer builds and maintains websites or web applications, focusing on functionality, performance, and usability. They write clean, maintainable code using languages like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and may also work with backend technologies depending on the stack.
Key responsibilities include building new features, fixing bugs, testing across devices, and collaborating with designers and marketers to deliver business goals. They may use frameworks like React, Vue, or CMS platforms such as WordPress or Drupal.
In smaller companies, web developers often work full-stack across both front and back end. In larger organisations, the role tends to be more specialised, with clearer division between development disciplines.
Key responsibilities of a web developer.
The responsibilities of a web developer typically involve building and maintaining websites that are functional, user-friendly, and optimised. These may include:
-
Writing and testing clean, responsive code using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
-
Building website layouts and user interfaces based on design briefs
-
Maintaining and updating websites to fix bugs or improve performance
-
Integrating APIs, plugins, or third-party platforms as needed
-
Ensuring compatibility across browsers, devices, and screen sizes
-
Supporting CMS implementation or configuration (e.g. WordPress, Drupal)
-
Collaborating with designers, marketers, and back-end developers
-
Implementing accessibility and SEO best practices
-
Performing website performance tests and optimisation
-
Maintaining version control using Git or similar tools
The role blends front-end execution with back-end collaboration and continuous improvement.
Skills and requirements for a web developer.
Web developers build and maintain websites, balancing technical and creative skills. Employers typically look for:
-
2–5 years of experience in web development roles
-
Proficiency in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and frameworks like React or Angular
-
Understanding of responsive design, cross-browser compatibility, and web performance
-
Experience integrating APIs and managing CMS platforms (WordPress, Drupal)
-
Skilled in troubleshooting, debugging, and updating websites
-
Ability to work with design tools and translate mock-ups into code
-
Familiarity with Git and version control practices
-
Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently
-
Experience working with SEO best practices and analytics tools
Most web developers collaborate closely with designers and marketers to deliver user-friendly websites.
Average salary for a web developer.
In the UK, the average salary for a web developer typically ranges from £35,000 to £50,000, depending on experience, tech stack, and project complexity.
-
Mid-level web developers tend to earn between £35,000 and £42,000
-
Senior developers or those managing front- and back-end development can earn between £43,000 and £50,000
-
Roles involving ecommerce platforms, custom CMS builds, or performance optimisation may offer higher pay
Salaries are elevated in London and digital hubs, especially in agencies, fintech, and SaaS companies.
Career progression for a web developer.
A web developer focuses on building and maintaining websites, typically across front and back-end functions. This role offers multiple pathways into technical specialisation or leadership. A typical progression path includes:
Junior web developer
Assists with coding, debugging, and updating websites under supervision. Gains familiarity with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
Web developer
Builds full websites or modules. Works on cross-browser compatibility, responsive design, and CMS integrations.
Senior web developer
Handles complex builds and integrations. Leads smaller projects or mentors junior devs.
Technical lead / engineering manager
Oversees development best practices, tooling, and sprint planning. Aligns dev with business goals.
Head of engineering / CTO
Owns digital infrastructure, team strategy, and future-proofing tech stack across the business.
System Developer
Electrician
Data Cabling
Electrical Improver
salary guide
Our UK tech salary guide.
Web developers build and maintain websites, digital products, and CMS platforms. Whether you’re hiring or considering your next move, salary should reflect the breadth of technical responsibilities involved.
Use our 2025 UK tech salary guide to benchmark roles, compare against 2024 figures, gain hiring insight, and plan ahead with 2026 salary projections.
FAQS
Web developer FAQs.
Web developers are in demand across digital agencies, ecommerce brands, SaaS companies, media outlets, and public sector organisations. Any business with a content-driven or transactional website needs web development support — making this one of the most widely hired roles in tech.
A web developer often works across both visual and structural parts of a website, with a focus on user interfaces, CMS customisation, and general site functionality. Front end developers specialise in the visual and interactive layer, while back end developers focus on server-side logic, databases, and infrastructure.
Not necessarily — but they should understand layout, responsive behaviour, and how to translate design files (e.g. Figma, Sketch) into clean code. In smaller teams, Web Developers may be asked to make UI tweaks or optimise visual consistency.
Beyond HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, most web developers should know version control (Git), CMS platforms (like WordPress, Shopify, or Craft), browser developer tools, and front-end frameworks such as React or Vue. Some may also work with APIs or basic PHP/Node.js for integrations.
A strong portfolio of functional, responsive websites is key. Look for developers who understand UX best practices, accessibility, and performance optimisation — especially in businesses reliant on digital presence or conversions.
Web developers often progress into front end or full stack specialisms. Others move into product engineering or take on lead developer responsibilities in agency or in-house settings.
