what is a full stack developer?
As a full stack developer, you are multitalented in software programming. Your versatile skills help with various stages of development, from front-end to back-end tasks. Since you handle the user interface that provides an interactive platform for users and the server side, you require expertise in various coding languages. Front-end developers rely on HTML, CSS or scripting languages like JavaScript. In contrast, while back-end developers use Ruby and Python or database management languages like SQL.
Small-scale software applications often rely on front-end and back-end developers for development. However, when a company is creating scalable software, it needs a full stack developer with knowledge of both sides of the software to improve its functionality.
Aside from developing new websites or software, a full stack developer can troubleshoot errors and resolve bugs to ensure the front end and server side work together seamlessly. The overall efficiency of the software is improved by in-depth knowledge at the design stage.
full stack developer jobsaverage salary of a full stack developer
The average remuneration package for full-stack developers is $80,000 annually. The salary fluctuates based on qualifications and experience levels. Junior-level full stack developers earn a salary of $60,000 per year. The amount increases gradually, and you will likely make over $120,000 per year in senior-level roles.
what factors affect the salary of a full stack developer?
The remuneration package for full stack developers depends on their experience, qualifications and company size. You can negotiate a higher salary when you have substantial capabilities, unlike someone with minimal qualifications. Experience also propels your career and salary prospects. In junior-level positions, you cannot complete complex tasks. However, your skills and expertise grow as you work longer in the role. Your salary also increases due to the transferable skills you bring to the company.
The company size also influences your remuneration package. Working for a small start-up business limits your salary prospects because small companies have limited resources to fund high salaries. Large companies or multinationals offer higher pay because they handle complex projects that require specialised knowledge.
types of full stack developers
Full stack developers work in two categories:
- front-end developers: as a front-end developer, you design and implement the interactive user interface of a web application or page. You create the interface to allow users to interact with or access the web application. You test the websites for functionality to ensure they perform the intended purposes. Your job also involves troubleshooting and removing bugs on the client-facing side to provide a seamless website.
- back-end developers: as a back-end developer, you also design and implement software applications. However, you focus on the back-end or server side. Your job is to write the programming code that keeps the web application running. You develop the instructions or code that helps the website understand user requests from the front-end interface. You are also in charge of the website databases. You ensure the data is stored and maintained for future reference.
working as a full stack developer.
Working as a full stack developer is an exciting career that allows you to work on interesting software applications and troubleshoot websites. Since you complete your tasks online, you can work remotely to resolve issues behind the scenes. Let's explore the duties and specific tasks of full stack developers.
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job description
The role of a full stack developer is a combination of front-end and back-end development tasks, including:
- building software components and applications: your main responsibility is developing applications, creating websites or building software. As a full stack developer, you design the software applications’ underlying structure and framework. You discuss the components of the website with other developers and the client before you start coding.
- creating functional databases and servers: you ensure the back-end of a website functions as expected. That involves incorporating databases on the server side to store data and other tools. the instructions stored in the databases improve functionality and user interaction with the website.
- developing interactive features: as a full stack developer, you ensure that the user-facing side of the website promotes a smooth, user-friendly experience. You rely on various programming languages to develop intuitive interfaces for web users' interactions.
- incorporating new features: keeping up with emerging technologies is crucial to ensure the web applications serve users' needs. That involves regularly testing applications and websites to maintain a responsive design and improve compatibility with upcoming platforms.
- testing and troubleshooting applications: you create and oversee quality assurance testing on applications and websites. The tests identify bugs and optimisation issues that may arise and help you develop new ways of improving user interface and experience. You check the applications' efficiency, speed and display on various devices. You also troubleshoot and remove bugs to improve performance.
- training and supporting other workers: you remain in touch with a client's developers to provide ongoing support. You also train junior developers on handling various design problems or coding issues when creating web applications and other software components.
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work environment
You work in technology companies that develop software or game applications as a full stack developer. Some developers also work for businesses that rely on software applications. You work indoors in an office surrounded by computers and servers. The role can be rudimentary, so most companies create a space for developers to brainstorm. The role involves minimal travelling unless you work for consultancy companies that require you to meet clients in person.
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who are your colleagues?
Depending on your employer and the industry you work in, your colleagues might include software developers, data engineers, software engineers, software developers, and web developers. You might also be working close to project engineers, project managers and project coordinators, as well as other specialists that could include, but not be limited to, information system analysts, database administrators and app developers.
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work schedule
Full stack developers work traditional business schedules of 40 hours a week in full-time positions. Sometimes, you work evenings and weekends to complete a project or resolve a problem that needs urgent attention. Some companies offer part-time positions, while others provide short-term contracts for flexibility. You can also become a freelancer and set your own work schedule.
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job outlook
Working as a full stack developer equips you with valuable skills, including web development and database management, which prepare you for various career paths. The job's projected growth rate of 30% in the next five years provides numerous career opportunities. Most full stack developers start as junior back-end or front-end developers and learn new programming skills to become full stack developers. When you improve your skills and experience, you can become a full-stack engineer, software developer or web developer.
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advantages of finding a full stack developer job through randstad
Finding your full stack developer job through Randstad provides important advantages such as:
- a wide variety of training and development opportunities
- an experienced contact person to provide help if needed
- a range of opportunities in your area
- get paid weekly or monthly, depending on the job
- temporary and permanent contracts
Want a permanent contract? A temporary job as a full stack developer is often a stepping stone to an attractive permanent job. Thousands of people earn a permanent contract with great employers every year thanks to a temporary job found through Randstad. What's more, many companies recruit their permanent employees through Randstad too.
education and skills
You do not need educational qualifications to become a full stack developer if you have exceptional coding skills. However, many employers prefer developers with the following qualifications:
- education: you should complete a relevant qualification in computer science or software development to become a full stack engineer. Some relevant courses include Certificate in information technology (programming) or a diploma in information technology. If you meet the entry requirements for an advanced qualification, complete a bachelor's degree in computer science or IT majoring in software development.
- work experience: ensure you secure an internship while studying to improve your career prospects. Internships give you the relevant work experience needed in full stack development. You can also enhance your expertise with industry-recognised certifications, such as becoming a certified full stack developer.
full stack developer skills and competencies
Aside from technical knowledge, you require soft skills to excel in the role, such as:
- creativity: you rely on creativity to design interactive websites. Creative skills are useful when building front-end aspects of a user interface, which needs to be eye-catching with a user-friendly design. Creative problem-solving also helps you troubleshoot problems in web applications.
- organisation skills: because you juggle the tasks of a front-end and back-end developer, you will have difficulty keeping track of the processes without great organisational skills. Organisation skills help you organise tasks and break down your workload into small projects and achievable milestones.
- research skills: you rely on research techniques to find the ideal tools, templates and software for web development. Research also helps you analyse the best approaches for incorporating client requirements.
FAQs about working as a full stack developer
Here are the most asked questions about working as a full stack developer:
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how long does it take to become a full stack developer?
If you choose to complete a bachelor's degree, the course usually takes three to four years before you can apply for an internship. Certificate and diploma courses take a few months to complete, and you start working immediately. It helps to attend coding courses to improve your programming skills.
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is it hard to become a full stack developer?
You will enjoy becoming a full stack developer if you have a technological aptitude. It is important to note that full stack developers deal with complex software applications, so the role is demanding. However, seeing the end product of the programming process is extremely rewarding.
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how much do full stack developers earn?
Full stack developer roles are lucrative careers with attractive salaries. A full stack developer takes home an average salary of $125,000 annually. Even with minimal experience, you still earn a decent income of $110,000 annually, while top-level full stack developers earn over $130,000 annually.
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what skills does a full stack developer need?
A full stack developer relies on analytical skills to understand client requirements and replicate them in a web application. Creativity helps you design attractive user interfaces, while problem-solving skills help you diagnose and troubleshoot various website problems.
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how do I apply for a full stack developer vacancy?
Applying for a full stack developer job is easy: create a Randstad profile and search our full stack developer job offers for vacancies in your area. Then simply send us your CV and cover letter. Need help with your application? Check out all our job search tips here.