How To Become an Application Web Developer (With Steps and Skills)

An application web developer works to create applications that help businesses meet their goals while providing a seamless experience to the users. They work with various programming languages to design and code the applications. Learning more about what an application web developer does may help you determine if the role suits your interest. In this article, we discuss how to become an application web developer, along with the job role, responsibilities, skills and salary.

What is an application web developer?

An application web developer designs, codes, and modifies web-based applications. They use various programming languages to build efficient code that renders a great user experience. An application web developer understands client requirements before working individually or with a team on a project.

How to become an application web developer

Here are the steps you may follow to learn how to become an application web developer:

1. Complete your education

Most employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering or a related field. It is often a four-year course that lays the foundation for web application development by exposing you to various software and design methodologies. Choosing subjects like interactive media design or game design may help advance your web application development career.

2. Get trained through internships

You may become a proficient web developer by gaining practical experience through internships. Internships provide an opportunity to work on live projects and familiarise yourself with industry standards. You may attain this experience by completing projects as a freelancer. These opportunities also help you connect with industry professionals, expand your network and gain guidance through mentors.

Related: How To Become A Freelance Web Developer: A 7-Step Guide

3. Complete certifications

To further enhance your skills, you may consider completing industry-recognised certifications. These certifications enhance your resume and also add credibility to your skills. Some of the popular certifications you may attempt include:

• Microsoft Certified Application Developer (MCAD)

• Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD)

• Microsoft Certified Professional Developer: Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 (MCPD)

• TensorFlow Developer Certificate

4. Apply for jobs

Software development companies, advertising and marketing agencies or even private companies require web application developers. As a web developer, you may work with a team or individually. You may apply for a job through an online job portal or email your resume to a potential recruiter. It is essential to visit the company websites and look out for recruitment advertisements when you are looking for a job.

Related: How To Become A Web Developer

What does an application web developer do?

A web application developer designs and develops websites and system applications. They understand the clients' requirements, business objectives and target audience to build a user-friendly experience while benefiting the organisation. They use various programming languages and collaborate with web application designers to ensure smooth navigation and clear communication.

A web application developer runs multiple tests to identify bugs and troubleshoots them before showcasing the project to the client. They may also update the application whenever required. It ensures the website contains relevant and timely information that may benefit the user.

While there are several tasks that an application web developer works on, here are some of their day-to-day duties and responsibilities:

• understand client requirements from project managers and work basis the web application wireframe

• manage, develop and integrate various application components on the front-end, server-side development and database

• create UI solutions using JSP, PHP, JavaScript, CSS and HTML

• use Java and AJAX to improve user experience

• implement design and visual effects using CSS3

• assist in digital initiatives and CRM integration

• code and create email campaigns, website animations and other interactive experiences

• deploy the web application

• communicate with project managers or clients to receive feedback and share updates

• run tests to check the web application and identify bugs for rectification

The work environment of an application web developer

A web application developer works in several industries, like software development, government, entertainment, finance, education, healthcare, technology and even marketing. They spend most of their day sitting at a desk coding, designing or testing their programs. Their work requires long screen hours and may often go beyond the prescribed work hours. A web application developer works in an office environment or even remotely.

How much does an application web developer make?

The average salary of an application developer is ₹3,45,915 per year. This salary varies by geographical location, expertise and experience. The pay received by developers also depends on the organisation.

Technical skills required in a web application developer

A web application developer requires a specific skill set to execute the requirements of a client. Here are some of the technical skills an application web developer posses:

HTML and CSS

HTML and CSS are the fundamental tools to become a web application developer. HTML is a markup language, while CSS helps style web pages. Knowledge of HTML and CSS helps web developers understand the basics of development and allows them to design, test and develop custom codes.

JavaScript

This language allows web application developers to create highly interactive applications with enhanced user experience. JavaScript helps developers create web programs and applications with ease. Additionally, using it makes it easy to meet client expectations. The knowledge of JavaScript frameworks such as ReactJS and Vue.js is also beneficial.

Related: How To Learn JavaScript (With Advantages And Functions)

Testing and debugging

Testing and debugging are essential to many web application developers. Regularly testing the code helps minimise bugs before they hinder the user experience. As an application web developer, it is crucial to understand the fundamentals of functional and unit testing. These methodologies allow you to ensure that all functions respond correctly when a user interacts with them.

APIs

An API allows a front-end developer to interact with the back-end architecture of web resources without coding. It is particularly essential when developing web applications, as API facilitates the integration of payment gateway, logistic partners or even an appointment booking application. Understanding the functioning and implementation of APIs is crucial to a web application developer for creating or editing the resource without hindering the server-side language.

Related: Essential Web API Interview Questions And Example Answers

The back-end and front-end development

The front-end of the website refers to the interface through which consumers interact with the business. The back-end of the website is the server-side that comprises the code to ensure the web application runs smoothly. An application web developer may work as a back-end or a front-end developer when they work as a part of a team. Understanding the fundamental components of each makes collaborating with other developers more effective. The basic knowledge may also help the developer enhance their skills and become a full-stack developer.

Content management system (CMS)

A web application attracts users and may act as a touchpoint to collect user data. Similarly, the organisation may intend to update the information on the web application occasionally. To enable the users, it is essential that a web developer understands the functioning of a content management system and integrates it into the application they develop.

User Interface and User Experience (UI/UX)

While this skill is not the core to a web application developer, the knowledge of UI and UX helps them design and code with the user in mind. Developers then create interactive designs and simplified navigation that enhances the user experience. It helps in bringing results to the client that may sometimes exceed expectations.

Soft skills required in an application web developer

Soft skills are essential for an application web developer to work within a team and individually. It aids personal growth and helps in advancing their career to managerial positions. Some important soft skills in an application web developer are:

Critical thinking

While developing an application, the developer may face several bugs and errors. It is essential to understand the code and identify potential areas that create the problem. Bringing a rational approach to resolving an issue also contributes to making an application that understands the user and addresses their issues.

Attention to detail

A web application developer spends hours writing numerous lines of code. It is vital to use the correct syntax and pay attention to how the code works. Paying close attention to the user behaviour on the application or monitoring how the application reacts during testing helps make an application with minimal or no bugs.

Communication

An application web developer may often interact with clients and colleagues. It is essential to possess strong communication skills to articulate thoughts, questions and solutions. It helps avoid miscommunication and lapses in the projects. This can improve the client experience and efficiency of the project.

Collaboration

Web application developers may work individually or as a part of a team. Collaborating with like-minded developers helps improve the results a project produces. It helps address the project through varied perspectives and helps individuals handle constructive feedback. Additionally, collaborating with multiple people help developers expand their network, stay relevant and help find better opportunities.

Salary figures reflect data listed on Indeed Salaries at time of writing. Salaries may vary depending on the hiring organisation and a candidate's experience, academic background and location.

Please note that none of the companies mentioned in this article are affiliated with Indeed