A Front End Engineer is responsible for using their knowledge of programming languages to code user-side applications, including visual elements like menu bars, clickable buttons and the overall layout of websites or web applications. Their duties include communicating with clients to identify their needs, optimizing websites for different formats like desktops and mobile phones and running tests to ensure code strings perform the correct functions.

Front End Engineer Duties and Responsibilities

A Front End Engineer’s main goal is to combine technology and design to create inviting, easy-to-use websites for consumers. In order to accomplish this goal, they need to be able to handle the following day-to-day duties:-

1. Working with clients to develop the overall look and design of a website

2. Writing website code with programming languages such as HTML, Javascript

3. Producing, maintaining and modifying websites and user interfaces

4. Incorporating applications, graphics, audio and video clips into client websites

5. Creating tools that enhance the user’s website experience

6. Ensuring websites are accessible across many platforms, including laptops and smartphones

7. Routinely testing websites for ease of use, speed and other quality factors

8. Fixing any website issues or bugs that arise

What does a Front End Engineer do?

Front End Engineers typically work for corporations across industries as members of the IT department, but they also work for software companies and work as self-employed individuals. They work closely with other Web Developers and IT professionals to design web applications. Their job is to code websites and preview website layouts to see how code strings influence their designs. They may also be responsible for using client feedback to make adjustments to current projects to accommodate their needs better.

If someone wanted to build a website, for example, they might hire a front-end engineer to create the site's layout. The front-end engineer determines where to place images, what the navigation should look like, and how to present the site. Much of their work involves ensuring the appearance and layout of the site or application is easy to navigate and intuitive for the user.

Front End Engineer Skills and Qualifications

Some of the most prominent skills you’ll want to have as a front-end engineer are:

HTML, CSS, and JavaScript: These three languages are essential to anyone who wants to work in front-end development. HTML, CSS, and JavaScript work together to determine the look and functionality of the page.

Frameworks: Frameworks are tools required for JavaScript and CSS to perform the way you want them to. Having a solid understanding of them is crucial for creating page structures.

Developer tools and software: Software like version control, which tracks and controls changes in your source code, is critical to allow you to make changes without starting over. Understanding how to use many different software development tools is a building block to a successful career.

In addition to understanding the technology that drives a website, having specific workplace skills can make you a better candidate for becoming a front-end engineer. Here are a few you’ll want to keep in mind:

1. Creativity

2. Problem-solving

3. Communication

4. Teamwork

Front End Engineer Education and Training Requirements

Front End Engineers must have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer engineering or a related field. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in programming languages such as HTML, CSS and JavaScript. Front End Engineers should also have a thorough understanding of web design and SEO optimization. Most employers prefer applicants who have trained in cross-platform website design and keep themselves up to date on new website tools and languages as they enter the workforce.

Front End Engineer Experience Requirements

Front End Engineers should have several years of experience in web or app development. Past experience and work in cross-platform web design is a plus. Front End Engineers who are heavily involved in the visual appearance of websites should have work experience in graphic design as well. Many employers look for candidates who have a portfolio of their work and code as proof of their experience and abilities.

Qualities of a good Front End Engineer

A good Front End Engineer values continued education. This quality inspires them to pursue advanced certification courses for front end development or a particular coding language. They enjoy working as part of a team and ask other Web Developers for assistance in creating or troubleshooting web applications. Further, a good front end engineer values constructive feedback from clients and uses their feedback to deliver a product that aligns best with client needs. A good front end engineer also has a commitment to quality.

Front End Engineer Salary and Job Prospects

The average salary for Front End Engineers in the United States is $92,985 per year. The actual salary for a qualified candidate may vary depending on their work experience, specific skills and educational background. Your office location and company size may also affect the salary.

Front-end development is a career that is expected to continue being in demand for years to come. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that web developer jobs in the US should grow by 13 percent from 2020 to 2030, which is well above the overall average of 8 percent for all jobs.

Benefits of being a Front End Engineer

The demand and flexibility of this position mean that there are many career opportunities available across various industries and locations. Whether that means working with a non-profit organization, starting your own freelance business, or being an in-house engineer for a company, you’ll likely have the chance to find a role that fits your interests.

The computer-heavy nature of the job also means plenty of opportunities to work remotely. Being a front-end engineer can mean being able to work for companies across the country—or even the globe—from the comfort of your home.

A career as a front-end web engineer can flex your creativity and problem-solving skills. As a field that is constantly evolving to incorporate new technology, front-end development can reward those who like to learn new things and face challenges.