What Does a JavaScript Developer Do?
A JavaScript developer designs, builds, and maintains the interactive and dynamic elements of websites and web applications using JavaScript. This role is essential for front-end development, though many JavaScript developers also work on server-side logic using environments like Node.js. Their work enables seamless user experiences through components such as navigation menus, real-time updates, animations, and form validation.
JavaScript developers often collaborate with UI/UX designers, back-end engineers, and product managers to deliver responsive, scalable applications. They use modern frameworks and libraries, such as React, Angular, or Vue.js, to streamline development and manage complex interfaces. Testing, debugging, and performance optimization are critical parts of the role, ensuring web apps are accessible, fast, and reliable across devices.
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JavaScript Developer Core Responsibilities
- Develop, test, and maintain responsive web components using JavaScript and related frameworks
- Integrate APIs and handle asynchronous data requests using AJAX or fetch
- Collaborate with design and back-end teams to align functionality and user experience
- Optimize applications for speed, performance, and accessibility
- Troubleshoot, debug, and refactor code across browsers and platforms
- Participate in code reviews, agile sprints, and documentation efforts
- Implement security best practices and data handling protocols
- Stay current on emerging JavaScript standards and best practices
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Proficiency in vanilla JavaScript, ES6+, HTML5, and CSS3
- Experience with one or more frameworks (e.g., React, Angular, Vue.js)
- Familiarity with version control systems like Git
- Working knowledge of Node.js, Express, or RESTful APIs
- Debugging tools (Chrome DevTools, ESLint, etc.) and performance testing
Soft skills
- Strong collaboration and communication in cross-functional teams
- Detail-oriented with a user-first mindset
- Problem-solving and iterative development skills
- Ability to work in agile or SCRUM environments
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field preferred
- Relevant experience or portfolio may substitute formal education
Certifications
- None required
- Optional certifications from freeCodeCamp, Coursera, or W3C can enhance a candidate’s profile
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with CI/CD pipelines and automated testing (e.g., Jest, Mocha)
- Familiarity with TypeScript, Webpack, or GraphQL
- Contributions to open-source JavaScript projects or GitHub portfolio
- Experience developing SPAs (Single Page Applications) or PWAs (Progressive Web Apps)
- Background in accessibility, SEO, or cross-browser compatibility tuning
National Average Salary
JavaScript developer salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for a Javascript Developer is:
$110,643
Sample Job Description Templates for JavaScript Developers
Front-End JavaScript Developer
Position Overview
We are hiring a Front-End JavaScript Developer to build dynamic, responsive web interfaces that deliver exceptional user experiences. This role is focused on client-side development using modern JavaScript frameworks and close collaboration with designers and back-end teams. The ideal candidate has a strong eye for detail and a passion for usability and performance.
Responsibilities
- Develop interactive front-end features using JavaScript, HTML5, and CSS3
- Work with frameworks like React, Vue, or Angular to manage application state and render logic
- Collaborate with designers to translate UI/UX wireframes into functional code
- Ensure cross-browser compatibility and responsive behavior on all devices
- Integrate APIs and manage asynchronous data with fetch or Axios
- Optimize front-end performance and accessibility
- Conduct code reviews and maintain clear documentation
Requirements
Hard skills
- Strong proficiency in vanilla JavaScript and ES6+ standards
- Experience with at least one major front-end framework (React, Vue, or Angular)
- Knowledge of CSS preprocessors (SASS, LESS) and responsive design principles
- Familiarity with front-end build tools (Webpack, Vite, npm/yarn)
Soft skills
- Team-oriented mindset and effective communication
- Attention to design detail and UX sensibility
- Ability to problem-solve layout or rendering challenges
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field preferred
Certifications
- None required
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with accessibility (WCAG), animation libraries, or CMS integrations
- Familiarity with Figma, Adobe XD, or design collaboration tools
Full-Stack JavaScript Developer
Position Overview
We are seeking a Full-Stack JavaScript Developer to build and maintain web applications across both front-end and back-end environments. This role requires deep knowledge of JavaScript from browser to server, with the ability to manage API logic, data handling, and interactive UI components.
Responsibilities
- Design, develop, and maintain front-end interfaces using React, Vue, or Angular
- Build server-side logic using Node.js and Express
- Connect applications to databases (e.g., MongoDB, PostgreSQL) and third-party services
- Write and consume RESTful APIs and manage authentication
- Deploy and monitor applications using CI/CD pipelines and cloud services
- Maintain code quality through testing, documentation, and refactoring
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency in full-stack JavaScript (ES6+, Node.js, Express, React/Vue)
- Experience with front-end state management (Redux, Pinia, etc.)
- Familiarity with database queries and schemas (SQL or NoSQL)
- Knowledge of Git workflows and containerization (Docker is a plus)
Soft skills
- Strong problem-solving and time management
- Effective collaboration across dev, design, and product teams
- Ability to manage both independent and team-based tasks
Education
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in software development
Certifications
- None required
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience deploying to cloud platforms (AWS, Vercel, Netlify)
- Familiarity with GraphQL and serverless architecture
React.js Developer
Position Overview
We are looking for a React.js Developer to design and build performant, reusable web application components using the React framework. This role plays a central part in modernizing web interfaces and ensuring seamless user interaction across platforms.
Responsibilities
- Develop high-quality React components and manage app state
- Use hooks, context, and React Router for feature logic and navigation
- Integrate REST APIs and handle asynchronous data with Axios or fetch
- Ensure responsive and accessible designs using modern HTML/CSS
- Participate in code reviews, unit testing, and optimization initiatives
- Collaborate with UI/UX teams on component design and usability
Requirements
Hard skills
- Advanced knowledge of React.js and JSX syntax
- Experience with React hooks, lifecycle methods, and component-based architecture
- Familiarity with state management tools (Redux, Context API, Zustand)
- Proficiency in JavaScript, HTML5, and CSS3
Soft skills
- Strong focus on clean, maintainable code
- Collaborative approach to agile development
- Curiosity to stay current on React updates and best practices
Education
- Bachelor’s degree preferred
Certifications
- None required
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with testing libraries like Jest or React Testing Library
- Familiarity with TypeScript in React environments
Node.js Developer
Position Overview
We are seeking a Node.js Developer to build scalable server-side applications using JavaScript and the Node.js runtime environment. This role focuses on backend development, API creation, data handling, and application performance tuning.
Responsibilities
- Develop backend services, APIs, and business logic using Node.js and Express
- Design database models and integrate with SQL or NoSQL systems
- Write unit and integration tests for APIs and middleware
- Monitor and optimize server performance and scalability
- Implement security best practices and authentication protocols
- Collaborate with front-end developers to align data flow and endpoints
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency in JavaScript and the Node.js ecosystem
- Experience with Express.js and API design patterns
- Familiarity with MongoDB, PostgreSQL, or other databases
- Knowledge of authentication methods (OAuth, JWT)
Soft skills
- Independent thinker with strong debugging skills
- Solid communication and teamwork across tech stacks
- Comfort working with deployment pipelines and version control
Education
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent technical experience
Certifications
- None required
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with cloud services (AWS Lambda, Google Cloud Functions)
- Familiarity with serverless architecture and GraphQL APIs
Vue.js Developer
Position Overview
We are hiring a Vue.js Developer to build responsive web apps and user interfaces using Vue and its ecosystem. This role involves component-based development, state management, and front-end optimization in modern JavaScript environments.
Responsibilities
- Create reusable Vue components using the Options or Composition API
- Manage application state with Vuex or Pinia
- Integrate APIs and handle asynchronous data in single-page applications
- Optimize performance and handle cross-browser rendering issues
- Collaborate with designers and backend developers on user-facing functionality
- Participate in agile development sprints and testing
Requirements
Hard skills
- Deep understanding of Vue.js, Vue Router, and state libraries
- Strong skills in HTML, CSS, and modern JavaScript
- Experience with Vite or Webpack-based project structures
- Familiarity with RESTful services and API integration
Soft skills
- Organized and efficient coder with a user-first mindset
- Open to collaboration and feedback
- Detail-oriented in layout, responsiveness, and usability
Education
- Bachelor’s degree preferred
Certifications
- None required
Preferred Qualifications
- Exposure to Nuxt.js or SSR (server-side rendering)
- Experience building component libraries or design systems in Vue