What Does A JavaScript Developer Do?

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Javascript developers develop and design software and applications using the programming language JavaScript. They are responsible for maintaining and testing these applications as well as performinging code analysis and improving overall functionality and usability. What Does A JavaScript Developer Do?

What is JavaScript?

JavaScript, also known as JS, is a scripting language used by web developers to create interactive web pages, software and applications. 

One of the most popular and most commonly used programming languages in web development, JavaScript can be used to add interactive functionality and other dynamic web content to web pages. 

In our latest study, JavaScript was the second most-voted programming language (38%) – only after Python (44%) – when we asked which programming languages will become more important in the future.

Freelancer Survey Study 2022 - Programming Languages
Freelancer Survey Study 2022 – Programming Languages

Also the Stack overflow developer survey 2022 put JavaScript as the most commonly used programming language for the 10th time.

JavaScript is supported by all the major browsers and is widely used in front-end development. However, it has also gained popularity in back-end development through frameworks like Node.js, Express or Meteor.

Is JavaScript high in demand? 

JavaScript is in high demand and, as stated above, is one of the most popular languages used by developers. According to reports published by Developer Nation, 16.5 million developers made use of JavaScript in 2021, a staggering 4 million more than the year before.

Employers constantly search for JavaScript developers as it’s a powerful tool to create dynamic website elements.

Role Overview - JavaScript Developer
Role Overview – JavaScript Developer

JavaScript job description: What are JS developers responsible for?

JavaScript developers are responsible for designing, developing and maintaining web applications using JavaScript as well as developing new user-facing features to support internal and external clients. 

They manage and code automated test scripts, and ensure the technical feasibility of UI/UX designs. They also analyse code, and make sure the software is reliable.

Responsibilities of a JavaScript Developer
Responsibilities of a JavaScript Developer

JavaScript developers optimise the applications they work on for maximum speed and scalability and are responsible for enhancing performance of the main front-end website of their clients.

Although this professional usually focuses on the front-end, the programming language is not limited to this use only. Thanks to Node.js, its use has also become popular in back-end development and some JavaScript developers could also responsible of the server-side sometimes.

What are the responsibilities of a JavaScript developer?

  • Design, develop and maintain applications using JavaScript
  • Develop new user-facing features
  • Support internal and external clients
  • Manage and code automated test scripts
  • Ensure feasibility of UI/UX designs
  • Analyse code to ensure software is reliable
  • Optimise applications for maximum speed and scalability
  • Enhance performance of the main front-end website
  • Collaborate with front-end and back-end web developers
  • Develop new features

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Skills of a JavaScript developer

JavaScript developers have a strong understanding of JavaScript as well as experience in using web technologies such as HTML and CSS.

These developers have extensive knowledge when it comes to JavaScript libraries and frameworks such as AngularJS and KnockoutJS, and are often proficient in full-stack web development.

JS developers are familiar with JavaScript module loaders, such as Require.js and are able to work with front-end build tools such as Grunt and Gulp.js. They are also experts in writing cross-browser code and are able to work with the version control system Git.

Skills Of A JavaScript Developer
Skills Of A JavaScript Developer

JavaScript developers have exceptional communication and organisational skills as well as optimisation and troubleshooting skills.

Is JavaScript a skill? JavaScript is a skill that is essential for most web developers. This is mostly because it allows them to add complex features and functionalities to websites and helps them meet client demands.

What are the skills of a JavaScript Developer?

  • Strong knowledge of JavaScript 
  • Experience in using web technologies such as HTML and CSS
  • Extensive knowledge of JavaScript libraries and frameworks such as AngularJS, Vue.js, jQuery, etc. 
  • Familiarity with JavaScript module loaders, such as Require.js
  • Ability to work with front-end build tools such as Grunt and Gulp.js
  • Familiarity with different platforms, browsers (compatibility and functionality)
  • Expertise in writing cross-browser code
  • Ability to work with the version control system Git
  • Knowledge of UI/UX concepts
  • Proficiency in full-stack web development
  • Exceptional communication skills
  • Good organisational and optimisation skills 
  • Strong analytical thinking


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How can I be a Javascript Developer?

The first step to becoming a JavaScript developer is usually obtaining a degree. This could be in Computer Science, Engineering, MIS, Math, or a related field. However, a college degree is not a mandatory requirement to work as a JS developer if you can prove your skills.

In general, proven experience in programming is the key to qualify for most development jobs.

There are also numerous courses and certifications that you can obtain online, including an official certification from JavaScript Institute.

You can check options for these courses down below:

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Salary of JavaScript Developer

The salary of a JavaScript developer who is just starting their career is somewhere around $74,000 in the USA whereas the salary of one who has extensive training and skills is about $175,000. The average salary of a JS developer is $115,000. 

Salaries vary depending on the professional experience, the certifications, the urgency of the hire, or the location.

In Germany, the salary range for JavaScript developers is €45,000 – €75,000 whereas in the UK, the range is £52,500 – £72,000. 

How much do JavaScript developers make?

US$74,000 – $175,000
Germany€45,000 – €75,000
UK£52,500 – £72,000

How much do freelance JavaScript developers make?

According to the freelancermap rate index in December 2022, Freelance JS developers make on average $60/hour. 

Freelance rates of JavaScript experts range between $24 and $85 for most freelancers working in the industry.

If you consider an 8-hour working day, the daily rate for developers would be around $480/day.

Natalia Campana

Natalia is part of the international team at freelancermap. She loves the digital world, social media and meeting different cultures. Before she moved to Germany and joined the freelancermap team she worked in the US, UK and her home country Spain. Now she focuses on helping freelancers and IT professionals to find jobs and clients worldwide at www.freelancermap.com

By Natalia Campana

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