What does a Front End Engineer do?

A front-end engineer—the term sometimes used interchangeably with “front-end developer”—builds websites, designs applications and ensures overall user accessibility.

When designing web applications, front-end engineers work to perfect a website’s performance to ensure processes such as loading speed, security, proper coding and overall efficiency. While duties vary by employer, they often work within a team that develops, improves, or maintains various websites. While some work for a company, others are self-employed or work on a freelance basis for a variety of clients.

Front end engineers typically have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field, and a background in software development. They must be extremely proficient with the use of programming languages such as JavaScript and CSS. Experience troubleshooting compatibility and accessibility issues is helpful.

Website Development

Designing, installing and testing a website’s user interface elements. Focusing on a website’s functionality and the look of a website. Developing ideas for a new website or coming up with ways to renovate an existing website

Communication Skills

Front-end engineers need to know how to effectively communicate goals and issues to their teammates, and they may need to work alongside their employer’s sales team to help with its prospecting efforts.

Team Player

Creating a high-functioning website or application is typically a collaborative effort involving back-end developers and project managers. A front-end engineer could also be in direct contact with people on marketing or creative teams as well.

Problem Solving Skills

Developing a website or application is a large project likely to have many unexpected challenges along the way that will need plenty of troubleshooting. Monitor websites to ensure they continue to run properly and make modifications as needed.

How much does a Front End Engineer make?

The average annual salary for a Front End Engineer in the United States is $138,932. Salaries can be as high as $198,000 and as low as $61,000, the majority of Front End Software Engineer salaries currently range between $113,000 (25th percentile) to $161,500 (75th percentile) with top earners (90th percentile) making $179,500 annually across the United States.

These are 2025 national salary averages and may fluctuate based on location.

What does the workplace for a Front End Engineer look like?

How to become a Front End Engineer?

Front end engineers typically have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field, and a background in software development. They must be extremely proficient with the use of programming languages such as JavaScript and CSS. Experience troubleshooting compatibility and accessibility issues is helpful.

Front-end engineers build the tools that developers use to streamline and enhance their work. They also create user interfaces for computer programs and apps. The more you understand, the more innovative you can be with your creations. Programming boot camps are speedy, but you’ll be more attractive to employers if you have a four-year degree in computer science, programming, or a related field.

HTML, JavaScript, Python, and CSS are the most commonly used web development and engineering languages. To become a front-end engineer, you should have extensive knowledge of these languages and a knack for understanding why they work the way they do.