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CareerOneStop, U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration

CAREER PROFILE

Web Designers and Developers

Web designers and developers create and build websites that are useful, attractive, and easy to use. They work with clients to understand what a site needs, plan its layout, make mock-ups, write and test code, and check that everything works properly. This career blends creativity with technical problem-solving, so school subjects like computer courses, math, business, and industrial arts can all help you prepare for it.

EDUCATION ROUTEMultiple pathways
WORK STYLEVaries by role
CAREER FIELDScience, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics

HOW TO GET THERE

Typical pathway

A typical path is to finish secondary school and take courses in computers, math, business, art, or industrial arts. Many students then build skills through a college or university program in web design, computer studies, graphic design, or a related field, though some learn through self-study, short courses, or work experience. Early on, it helps to create sample websites, practise coding, and learn about layout, content, and testing. Some employers may prefer formal training, while others focus on a strong portfolio and practical experience. Requirements can vary by employer, province, or the kind of web work.

THE WORK

What you may do

Legacy duties

  • Consult with clients to develop and document Web site requirements
  • Prepare mock-ups and storyboards
  • Develop Web site architecture and determine hardware and software requirements
  • Source, select and organize information for inclusion and design the appearance, layout and flow of the Web site
  • Create and optimize content for the Web site using a variety of graphics, database, animation and other software
  • Plan, design, write, modify, integrate and test Web-site related code
  • Conduct tests and perform security and quality controls
  • May lead and co-ordinate multidisciplinary teams to develop Web site graphics, content, capacity and interactivity
  • May research and evaluate a variety of interactive media software products

SKILLS TO BUILD

Skills used in this Career

Financial ManagementMaking presentationsProject ManagementProposal writingTeam project work

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