A Full Stack Developer is an all-round developer who is well versed in many areas of software development and often has an accompanying or monitoring function. They are equally familiar with both front-end and back-end and ideally master all common programming languages.
As software and programming language all-rounders, Full Stack Developers combine the skills of back-end and front-end developers but are also capable of taking over tasks from system administrators, data scientists, and machine learning developers.
They can work in all areas of software programming and development and are accordingly in demand on the job market.
Full-stack developers understand the whole technology on a website and translate user requirements into the website architecture. They are familiar with several programming languages and frameworks and work with the following:
- Front End languages and frameworks
- Back End languages and frameworks
- Servers
- Databases
- Networks
- Hosting
- APIs
The tasks of a full stack developer are not one hundred percent definable. Since they have a broad spectrum of knowledge, they can handle almost all jobs that deal with software or web development. So, they work both with the client-side and server-side.
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Responsibilities
Frequently, a Full Stack Developer supports the management of projects and analyses the requirements for the implementation of a program. As a result, they are often responsible for the planning, programming and test runs of software.
This also includes troubleshooting systems, administration or management of complex projects that may combine multiple programming languages, front- and back-end development.
In corporate practice, they may also act as a consultant to other developers and programmers and may also work with other departments that require support and advice.
What are the tasks of a Full Stack Developer?
- Software and web development
- Develop front end websites and applications
- Ensure user experience with responsive applications
- Ensure website speed and scalability
- Develop back end applications
- Design databases (e.g MySQL)
- Designing user interfaces and elements
- Administration of complex projects
- Advice to other departments
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Hard skills and soft skills
In order to be a successful full-stack developer, there are certain skills you’ll need to master. Hard skills include extensive knowledge of programming and development, sound mathematical knowledge and logical thinking, as well as the ability to analyze codes and recognize problems in them.
Furthermore, being proficient in programming languages is also an essential technical skill. Typical languages used are:
- HTML
- CSS
- JavaScript
- Ruby
- PHP
- Python
Soft skills, on the other hand, include the ability to work within a team, to work independently and to be highly motivated. Due to the continuous development in the area of IT and programming, a developer must have the will for continuous training and education in order to keep up with industry standards.
What skills are required?
- Comprehensive knowledge in programming and web development
- Profound mathematical knowledge and keen analysis skill
- Knowledge of popular programming languages
- Personal responsibility, motivation and team player
- Passion for continuous training and further education
Background and Requirements
The prerequisite to becoming a full-stack developer is usually an academic education at a university or college. Since programming is still a rather young science and the working world is strongly results-oriented, IT specialists can find their way into the job.
With the pursuit of further education being especially relevant in the industries where programming languages are used, programmers who continue their education at a Master’s level are always at an advantage.
Specialization
Specialization is particularly useful in the area of programming languages. Since 100% proficiency is more valuable in practice than the number of superficial skills, a full stack developer often focuses on the most common languages such as HTML, CSS, Java and other topics that serve niches or are competitive in the job market.
Typical industries
Since Full Stack Developers are hardly limited in their programming skills, they are represented in almost all industries. They can plan, develop and revise projects, such as programs from Adobe, but are also needed in industries such as gaming, IT, medical, security, etc.
Apart from large scale operations, a full stack developer is also invaluable for certain small businesses. With their ability to take on a large variety of responsibilities, hiring a full stack developer is great for businesses that may not be able to hire multiple employees.
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Salary
The starting salary of a full stack developer is around $50,000 per year, which is already in the upper range. Nevertheless, the average annual salary of $75,000 is significantly higher. A senior developer can achieve a top salary of over $120,000 and more. As always, the remuneration always depends on the industry and the professional experience.
How much does a Full Stack Developer earn?
| Starting Salary | $50,000 |
| Average Salary | $75,000 |
| Senior Salary | $120,000 |
What is the average freelance rate?
| Average rate Full Stack Developers (2022) | $81/hr |
According to freelancermap’s price and rate index in September 2022, freelance Full Stack Developers charge $81/hour on average.
Freelance rates in Full Stack Development range between $51 and $91 for the majority of freelancers.
If we consider an 8-hour working day at $81/hour, the daily rate for freelance Full Stack Developers is around $648/day.
