Full stack developer: what it is and what they do
Behind websites like the one you are browsing right now is this professional profile: the full stack developer. These professionals are experts in building websites, combining creative and design skills with technical and strategic knowledge to develop and maintain digital platforms. Want to learn more about one of the most in-demand careers today? Keep reading.
Professionals in web development and software engineering are among the most sought-after specialists right now, often accessing the best job opportunities. The full stack developer holds a particularly strong position. But what does this role actually involve? What is a full stack developer and what do they really do?
What is a full stack developer?
When defining a full stack developer, we are referring to a well-rounded web development expert with a multidisciplinary profile. They are responsible for designing and launching a website, from the initial concept, always keeping user experience in mind, to execution and ongoing maintenance.
Their ability to work with multiple programming languages and combine technical and soft skills is what makes them so valuable. They can consider design and usability factors while also having the tools to build a website from scratch. This is what defines what a full stack developer does, a role that has become one of the most in-demand in the market.
What does a full stack developer do?
The responsibilities of these web developers can be summarized into five key areas. These are the main tasks that define what a full stack developer does:
- Managing online projects: Launching a website is usually part of a broader project in which the site is central but involves multiple workstreams. The full stack developer must consider team members, technological resources, and all elements needed to successfully deliver the project.
- Database setup: They must understand and manage databases, data storage systems, and select efficient servers based on the needs of the website.
- Designing user interfaces for the target audience: The end user is always at the center. One of the main responsibilities of a full stack developer is to make decisions aligned with the target audience, shaping a site that is functional and engaging. This requires knowledge of programming languages and an understanding of user behavior.
- Developing the website: From concept to execution, the full stack developer builds the architecture and systems that ensure the platform functions efficiently.
- Website optimization: Before launch and once live, these professionals continuously monitor performance to ensure everything runs smoothly and implement improvements when needed. This work plays a key role in the site’s visibility and performance.
As these responsibilities show, what a full stack developer is involves combining strong technical expertise with the ability to deliver an excellent user experience on the front end, while also managing development and maintenance on the back end.
How much does a full stack developer earn?
The digital sector is becoming one of the most attractive in terms of salaries. The Prosperity Recruitment Salary Guide indicates that professionals in this field earn an average of 44,000 € per year.
In this case, when answering the question “how much does a full stack developer earn?”, the most recent figures from Glassdoor place salaries for this profile, referring to developers in general, at around 22,000 € per year for junior profiles. More experienced professionals earn significantly higher salaries. What factors influence these differences?
- Professional experience.
- Level of education.
- Location.
- Type of company they work for or have worked for.
How to become a full stack developer?
Professionals in this role typically have a technical background, usually with degrees in computer engineering or software development. Based on the characteristics mentioned above, anyone considering how to become a full stack developer should understand the importance of mastering areas such as database management, web analytics, and user experience optimization.
How can you go further and develop these specialized technical skills? By enrolling in targeted training programs that provide the competencies required to work as a full stack developer. At EAE Barcelona, there are specific programs designed for those who want to build a career in this field. One example is the Master in UX & Customer Experience, which offers a 360-degree view of customer experience (CX), helping students become experts in designing products and services.
Another program to consider is the Master in Big Data & Analytics, which focuses on the importance of data analytics in technology and how it should guide business decision-making. A full stack developer must understand how to leverage data effectively to improve usability and build user loyalty.
Those who are unsure about which training best suits their background and goals can consult with EAE professionals, who can provide guidance to help them make the best decision for their career path.
