Web Developer: role, salary, training
Designs, codes, tests, and maintains websites and web applications focused on usability, performance, and security.
What is a web developer?
An IT professional (ROME M1805) who builds online interfaces and services for companies, agencies, or as a freelancer. This includes intranet sites, websites, web applications, and online tools. They work across the project lifecycle, from needs analysis to deployment, complying with the specification and with technical and legal constraints (GDPR, security). Development relies on varied languages and technologies. HTML defines page structure, CSS handles styling, and JavaScript (and TypeScript) provides client-side interactions. On the server side, languages such as PHP, Python, JavaScript/Node.js, C#/.NET, or Java handle business logic and communicate with databases (SQL or NoSQL).
Responsibilities
- Analyse needs and formalise specifications.
- Design the technical architecture and database.
- Develop front-end and/or back-end according to the chosen stack.
- Integrate CMS, APIs, and third-party services when relevant.
- Set up testing, CI/CD, and observability.
- Fix, secure, and iterate continuously.
Web developer skills
- Rigour, autonomy, and solid web culture (JavaScript, new technologies, AI).
- Versatility: hosting, SEO, and Analytics tools.
- Ability to understand client needs and explain without jargon.
- Ability to reassure with effective solutions tailored to requirements.
- Security watch and intrusion response, with potential urgent interventions to secure a site.
- Good communication: collaborate with the team and project lead; avoid last-minute escalations.
As a junior developer, expectations differ. Do not pressure yourself for skills that come with experience. Every new role includes a period of onboarding and training, even for seniors.
Training
Entry via Bac+2 to Bac+5 equivalents (e.g., BTS/DUT/BUT, Bachelor/Master, engineering or IT schools). Bootcamps and intensive courses also exist for career changers to cover key web languages. Ongoing technology watch remains essential.
Working environment
- Web agencies, IT services companies, software vendors, startups, product teams.
- Frequent remote work, organized by tickets and sprints.
- Exposure to penalties in the event of safety or production incidents.
Indicative salary (France)
Beginner
30–40 k€ gross/year depending on location and stack.
Mid-level
≈ 50 k€ gross/year on average.
Senior
≈ 60 k€ gross/year and more, possible bonuses.
Possible career paths
- Lead dev, Tech Lead, Staff/Principal Engineer.
- Software or cloud architect.
- Project Manager / Engineering Manager.
- Freelance, starting an agency, CTO.
FAQ
Front-end, back-end or full-stack?
The best way to know what you want is to explore different options through personal projects and research what’s possible. It’s best to be self-sufficient across web development and then specialize in a high-demand technology (React, PHP, C# .NET, Java…).
What tools are used daily?
Git, Docker, JS/PHP frameworks, IDEs like Visual Studio Code/PHPStorm, Jira.
Is remote work possible?
Yes, it’s common depending on the company and the role. Since COVID, the standard is around 2 remote days per week in full-time contracts.
Any questions?
Ask me your questions via private message on LinkedIn. I also started out once and know it can be hard to find a knowledgeable contact.