Front End Engineer

Front end engineers plan, design, build, and implement the user interface systems of websites, software programs, and web-based applications.

Their primary goal is to provide a satisfactory user experience with no issues, errors, or downtime. They create and optimize systems, play an active role in testing and troubleshooting, and resolve issues such as those related to accessibility and browser compatibility. They often serve as an intermediary bridging the gap between the user and the backend developers, and tweak tools and platforms to adapt to real-world use situations.

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

Junior Front End Engineer

Senior Front End Engineer

Salary

The estimated total pay for a front end engineer is $119,748 per year.

0 - 1 Years

Front end engineers with 0 - 1 years experience earn on average:

$113,516 per year

7 - 9 Years

Front end engineers with 7 - 9 years experience earn on average:

$131,895 per year

4 - 6 Years

Front end engineers with 4 - 6 years experience earn on average:

$126,651 per year

10+ Years

Front end engineers with 10+ years experience earn on average:

$139,065 - $147,853 per year

1 - 3 Years

Front end engineers with 1 - 3 years experience earn on average:

$119,349 per year

These are 2021 national salary averages and may fluctuate based on location.

Decent salaries, high demand, job security, and plenty of options for mobility are just some of the perks that come with a career in front-end web development.

Employers look for problem solvers, not just people who can code, but people who can sit down with visual and user experience designers to solve major challenges.

Front-end development is a pretty flexible field in terms of where and when it can get done. The amount of freelance work available tends to be just as plentiful as full-time openings.

How to Become a Front End Engineer?

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.

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Sources:

Canva.com, 2022 | Glassdoor.com, 2022 | Indeed.com, 2022

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