what is a back-end developer?
A back-end developer works in tech and IT and facilitates data interchange between the servers, databases and site users. Your role is to develop the back-end logic and maintain the central database that will ensure responsiveness to requests from the front-end side of the website. While the work of a back-end developer is not seen in the front-end, it forms the foundation of a seamless and user-friendly experience. Hence, you understand the integration of front-end elements for smooth collaboration between the client-side and server-side.
what does a back-end developer do?
As a back-end developer, you design and alter the aspects of a website or software application that the user never sees. That means you construct the core features and components of software to aid in the functionality of a website. For instance, when a user places a request on the website (front-end side), your job is to ensure the programme delivers the requested information and data. You also maintain essential databases for the website and manage the application programme interfaces (APIs). Software and database management requires proficiency in server-side languages like Python, Java and Ruby.
Most back-end developers work in technology companies creating websites and software for their clients. Once they understand the business requirements, they develop the technical aspects using programming languages. Would working as a back-end developer suit your interest in technology and curiosity? Then read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in a back-end developer role.
average salary of a back-end developer
According to National Careers, a back-end developer earns £20,000 per year at the entry-level position. When you build up your experience and improve your qualifications, your earnings increase to £50,000 per year. You could earn more if you take up a supervisory role or manage a group of back-end developers.
Working as a back-end developer also involves working long hours. If you are willing to take up the challenging schedules, you can earn more through overtime pay and additional allowances. Some companies offer bonuses and other perks like paid vacations.
how to increase your salary as a back-end developer
As a back-end developer, your compensation package depends on the company size and project complexity. Small start-ups pay less due to the limited resources and small project sizes, but they allow you to sharpen your skills as you juggle numerous tasks. Large companies have unlimited resources and handle complex projects; hence the compensation package reflects the additional tasks. Besides, in big organisations, you work alongside multiple developers and specialise in specific aspects of web development. Your educational qualifications and experience also determine your salary prospects.
types of back-end developers
Some of the back-end developer roles include:
- back-end engineer: as a back-end engineer, you complete the server-side scripting and maintain the servers. This allows front-end developers to access the website's data structure. Your role focuses on the creative and innovative aspects of the project.
- database administrator: this is a back-end developer in charge of developing and maintaining databases. Your job is to perform regular back-ups and update permissions to ensure the databases run efficiently and support the website. Most back-end developers responsible for database administration are familiar with data science tools and SQL.
- solutions architect: as a solutions architect, you build software for businesses to scale their online functions. You use your expertise to design solutions and implement them for businesses.
working as a back-end developer
Working as a back-end developer involves building a website from scratch and controlling its functionality. You need exceptional programming skills and attention to detail to ensure the back-end technologies work smoothly.
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back-end developer job description
Standard roles of a back-end developer include:
- creating data structures: as a back-end developer, you need to master the frameworks necessary for building data structures. A data structure is used to build the server-side software supporting the front-end website function. It also holds the information users send and the feedback from a website. Hence, they need to be strong and easy to maintain so that the website can run smoothly.
- writing code: as a back-end developer, you write the code that supports front-end operations. For instance, when users click on a link or perform a search, they expect a prompt response. When you write clean and bug-free code, you improve the speed and quality of the results users receive on the client-side. You also write code for managing database functionality.
- maintaining a website's integrity: for the user interface to provide a seamless experience, a back-end developer creates the best design for the website functions. That involves troubleshooting problems throughout the programming phase to ensure the user interface has an outcome for every action a web user takes when interacting with the website. Back-end developers use DevOps and other tools to improve the website's integrity.
- database creation and management: as a back-end developer, you create and manage the database. Back-end developers use Structured Query Language (SQL) to build and manage databases. For instance, they can insert or delete records and formulate storage procedures for a database. Part of database management is regularly backing up website information and files or setting up restoration protocols.
- generating analytics and statistics: as a back-end developer, you can use the information in the databases to generate valuable statistics and analytics.
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work environment
You will likely work in an office surrounded by top-notch technology gadgets. Since you spend most of the day coding and developing websites, most employers create an interactive working space to boost your creativity. Your office has creative spaces for brainstorming ideas with no restrictions on your dress code. When you work remotely, your home office is your work environment.
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who are your colleagues?
Depending on the project you are working on, your colleagues are front-end developers, programmers and full-stack developers. Front-end developers help you integrate the back-end with the server-side to improve user experience. You also work in close proximity to systems analysts, IT consultants and other specialists like software engineers, developers, database administrators and project managers.
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work schedule
A back-end developer works over 40 hours a week on a full-time schedule. You also work overtime hours and weekends to complete web projects within the stipulated time. Since you are also in charge of maintenance, sometimes you have to work on holidays when there is a glitch in the website servers that need attention. Part-time positions are available for back-end developers, and you can work up to 30 hours a week. Some developers also work as freelancers or on short-term contracts. While the back-end developer role doesn't involve travelling, sometimes you attend conferences and workshops.
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job outlook
Working as a back-end developer is a rewarding career with a clear progression path. You can progress from a junior back-end developer role to a senior position or a team leader. In the senior role, you have the expertise to supervise an entire development project. A back-end developer also handles other aspects of software development like game development and mobile development. Alternatively, become a software engineer or focus on a database administration role.
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advantages of finding a back-end developer job through randstad
Finding your back-end 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 back-end developer is often a stepping stone to an attractive permanent job. Every year, thousands of people earn a permanent contract with great employers thanks to a temporary job found through Randstad. What's more, many companies recruit their permanent employees through Randstad too!
education and skills
A back-end developer needs the following educational qualifications:
- university degree: most back-end developers have a background in computer science or software engineering. Back-end developers need formal training since they do abstraction (writing algorithms and data mining), unlike front-end developers. A computer science degree helps acquire basic programming skills to excel in the role.
- boot camps: if you are a good coder, you can improve your skills in back-end development by attending programming boot camps. The boot camps often provide training on major coding languages, and you may get a mentor to help you learn coding skills.
- apprenticeship: in the UK, you will find various apprenticeship programmes to improve your programming skills, and you also learn back-end development techniques on the job.
skills and competencies
A back-end developer should have the following skills:
- programming skills: coding is crucial for your role. Expertise in back-end programming languages like Python and Java improves your success rate. You learn to code in college, but you can improve the skills through boot camps and vocational training programmes that provide certification in various programming languages.
- a learning attitude: you need a continuous learning attitude to keep up with the changing technologies and website environments. It is crucial to grasp programming languages as soon as they come into the market.
- communication skills: while you work on the back-end side of the website, your designs and ideas should shine through the front-end side. Communication skills help you collaborate with other designers and developers in creating a seamless user experience. For instance, you need to explain to your team the data structure design you intend to achieve to improve efficiency in the design process.
- time management skills: as a back-end developer, you work on various tasks, and without time management skills, you won't meet the deadlines. Time management skills help you prioritise and multi-tasks by creating work schedules and to-do lists.
FAQs
FAQs about working as a back-end developer
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what does a back-end developer do?
A back-end developer specialises in developing the server-side of a website or software that enables users to enjoy the functions on the client side. They also create databases for websites to store important information. Want to learn more about working as a back-end developer? Then check out this article.
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what is the salary of a back end developer?
A back-end developer earns between £20,000 and £50,000 per year, depending on the qualifications and level of experience. The compensation package can fluctuate due to additional benefits like overtime pay and bonuses.
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what is a back-end web developer?
A back-end web developer creates the server logic that aids in the functionality of a website. They also develop a platform for a front-end developer to build an interactive site.
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is a back-end developer a good career?
Being a back-end developer is a rewarding career that gives you multiple paths for career progression. You also enjoy an attractive salary and other benefits.
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what is the highest paying job in the IT field?
The highest paying jobs in information technology are software engineering, software architecture and solutions architecture.
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how do I apply for a back-end developer vacancy?
Applying for a back-end developer job is easy: create a Randstad profile and search our 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!
