About the role
The web developer is a professional specialised in designing, developing and maintaining web applications and websites. An expert in programming, they transform functional requirements into robust and performant technical solutions. The UK market shows strong demand with a shortage of qualified talent in all regions.
In SMEs and startups, the web developer is often versatile (full-stack), mastering the full tech stack. In large companies and consulting firms, they can specialise: frontend (React, Vue.js), backend (Node.js, PHP, Python) or become a technical architect.
The role evolves constantly with new frameworks, cloud adoption, DevOps practices and AI integration into applications.
Requirements analysis and specifications
Participate in meetings with project managers and clients to understand functional requirements. Write technical specifications and propose suitable solutions.
Development and coding
Write clean, tested and maintainable code following best practices (clean code, SOLID). Use Git for version control. Implement frontend and/or backend features.
Testing and debugging
Conduct unit and integration testing. Identify and fix bugs. Ensure code quality with static analysis tools (ESLint, SonarQube).
Integration and deployment
Integrate data from APIs and databases. Deploy applications to test and production environments. Manage CI/CD pipelines.
Maintenance and evolution
Ensure corrective and evolutionary maintenance of applications. Optimise performance. Conduct technology watch and propose improvements.
Technical skills vs soft skills
- Mastery of at least one backend language (PHP, JavaScript/Node.js, Python, Ruby)
- Expertise in HTML5, CSS3 and modern JavaScript (ES6+)
- Knowledge of at least one frontend framework (React, Vue.js, Angular)
- Mastery of relational databases (MySQL, PostgreSQL)
- Experience with Git and version control workflows
- Knowledge of REST and GraphQL APIs
- Web security knowledge (OWASP, authentication, sessions)
- SEO and web performance optimisation skills
- Rigour and attention to detail
- Quick learning of new technologies
- Analytical mindset and problem-solving
- Teamwork and effective communication
- Technical creativity and innovation
- Autonomy and proactivity
Salary scale 2026
Web developer salaries by experience (gross annual)
| Experience | Startup/SME | Consulting | Large company | London/SE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Junior (0-2 years) | 32-38K EUR | 30-36K EUR | 35-42K EUR | +15-20% |
| Experienced (3-5 years) | 40-50K EUR | 38-45K EUR | 45-55K EUR | +15-20% |
| Senior (5-8 years) | 50-65K EUR | 45-55K EUR | 55-70K EUR | +20-25% |
| Lead/Architect (8+ years) | 60-85K EUR | 55-70K EUR | 70-95K EUR | +25-30% |
Training and careers
Becoming a web developer
| Level | Qualification | Outcomes |
|---|---|---|
| Bac+2 | BTEC Higher National Certificate, Higher National Diploma | Junior web developer, integration specialist |
| Bac+3 | Foundation Degree, Bachelor in Web Development | Web developer, full-stack developer |
| Bac+5 | BSc Computing, Computer Science degree, Engineering school | Senior web developer, Lead developer, Architect |
| Bootcamp | Le Wagon, Ironhack, General Assembly (3-6 months) | Professional career change |
Career progression
Junior developer
Supervised development
Experienced developer
Full autonomy, code reviews
Senior developer
Architecture, mentoring, technical decisions
Lead developer / Tech lead
Team management, technical roadmap
Software architect / CTO
Technical strategy, governance
Frequently asked questions about web developers
What is the difference between web developer and software engineer?
Do I need a degree to become a web developer?
Should a web developer know design?
Is the web developer role threatened by AI?
Recruit your web developer with Aurelia
Create an optimised job description and technical interview questions tailored to the level required.