what is a full stack developer?
A full stack developer is a developer who works with the entire scope of a computer system application, from the back end to the front end. You most commonly work in web development, but your skills also apply to locally-deployed software solutions. As you cover both ends of the development process, you have a good grasp of multiple programming languages.
You take care of designing the web pages visitors to the website see, but also the underlying processes that work behind the scenes. That gives you the advantage of knowing your system front-to-back, making it easier to deal with problems when they arise. It also means you are a well-rounded developer with experience in different types of development, as well as the tools and languages needed for each.
In addition to the technical knowledge needed to meet your organisation's needs, you also have up-to-date knowledge of relevant guidelines and laws. These include such things as accessibility requirements in web design and laws regarding user data. You will stay informed about changes in these areas so that your organisation does not face any problems due to its website design.
Does a career in IT—specifically, a well-rounded career covering many areas of software development—appeal to you? If so, read on to find out what you need in terms of education and competencies.
view jobsaverage salary of a full stack developer
The average salary of a full stack developer in India is around ₹7,97,300 per year. This amount falls centrally between the upper and lower limits of full stack developer earnings in India. At the lower entry-level end of the scale, average salaries are around ₹4,80,000 per year. At the other end, the most experienced developers can earn as much as ₹9,60,000 per year.
factors that affect full stack developer pay
As a full stack developer, your salary depends on several factors and the stage you are currently at in your career. When first starting out, qualifications and certifications will play the largest role in your potential salary. As you work in the role and gain experience, that experience will be the driving force in your earning potential. Having successful websites to evidence your skills also helps you during the salary negotiations process.
Beyond qualifications and experience, the location where your employer is based is also a factor. For example, full stack developers in Hyderabad, Telangana, can earn, on average, twice as much as developers in Mohali, Punjab.
types of full stack developer
Given the nature of the role, there aren't different types of full stack developers. Essentially, the point of the role is that the developer covers all bases themselves. However, the role divides into two main types that are professions in their own right:
- back end developer: back end developers take care of aspects of a website or service that are behind the scenes. This aspect of the job involves database interfacing and management, website functionality, and ensuring the smooth operation of anything executed on the server.
- front end developer: a front end developer handles the aspects of a website that users see and interact with when they visit. For the front end developer, design plays a significant part in the job. Front end developers are responsible for ensuring a website is accessible to users and that the interface with the back end works smoothly.
working as a full stack developer
Full stack developers work with a number of different coding languages to provide a seamless experience for the end user. This role involves several smaller duties, which you can explore below.
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duties and responsibilities
The specific duties of a full stack developer include:
- keeping up to date with emerging technologies: the world of technology is fast-moving, and you are responsible for staying up to date with advances in various fields. These include laws and regulations regarding user data and accessibility, as well as new technologies and methodologies.
- incorporating new features: organisations understand the advantages their website can give them and are often looking to leverage new features. You are responsible for implementing those features in a way that does not disrupt functionality and ensuring that any necessary testing is conducted.
- developing software components: you provide input during planning sessions for new features and functionalities and then work to implement those features. You may be working as the lone coder on a project or part of a team.
- developing and maintaining functional databases: the back end of an organisation's website is crucial to its success. Part of your role is to develop the back end—from the databases to the applications—and ensure it remains properly maintained.
- informing decision-makers: new technologies and features that could benefit your organisation typically have to be given the green light by the decision-makers in the company. You communicate the advantages of anything you believe would be beneficial to gain approval for implementation.
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work environment
As you might expect from a job working in IT, your environment is primarily office-based, working at a computer. There is unlikely to be much—if any—travelling involved, other than an occasional seminar or conference. It is possible to find remote work in this field. However, many employers prefer their full stack developers to work on premises.
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who are your colleagues?
The people you work with will largely depend on the size of the organisation you work for. In a smaller organisation, you may be the only developer on staff or part of a very small team. In such a case, your colleagues will be the decision-makers you deal with on a regular basis. If you are employed in a larger organisation, you work alongside project managers and may also work with specialist developers such as software developers, backend developers, full stack developers, front-end developers, UX designers, data engineers and cloud engineers.
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work schedule
Full stack developers work a typical work week of around 9:30 am to 5:30 pm, Monday to Friday. Overtime is not uncommon, particularly when approaching tight project deadlines. You may find yourself working evenings or even weekends. Part-time work is also available for full stack developers, and the option to become a freelancer is also viable.
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job outlook
A full stack developer is a "jack of all trades" in web development. This makes you valuable to your employer but also leaves the door open for you to move into a specialisation, such as becoming a purely front end developer. Leadership positions are also attainable in this profession, such as lead programmer, though you will likely need additional qualifications to move into that particular role.
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advantages of finding a full stack developer job through randstad
Finding your full stack 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 on a monthly basis
- temporary and permanent contracts
Want a permanent contract? A temporary job as a full stack 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
Becoming a full stack developer in India is not as straightforward as some roles. You will have at least a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related technical field, though you may be able to substitute that qualification for equivalent practical experience. Things are a little more complex when it comes to coding. You need to be competent in any relevant coding languages and able to demonstrate that competence to your employers. Certifications are available in most cases. The languages you need to be familiar with can differ depending on the systems an organisation uses, but below are some that are universally required:
- HTML/CSS
- Python
- Java and Javascript
- PHP
- Ruby
skills and competencies
Some of the qualities of a full stack developer include:
- programming skills: programming skills are central to your success as a full stack developer. In addition to being familiar with any relevant programming languages, the ability to easily pick up new languages is also beneficial in this line of work.
- problem-solving ability: as with any job that involves coding, problem-solving skills are important. Being able to logically think your way around a problem should ensure you can deal with any of the issues you are likely to face.
- creative thinking: the front end development side of your job requires more creative skills than the back end. You design the user interfaces that people visiting the website use, and that interface must be both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
FAQs about working as a full stack developer
FAQs about working as a full stack developer:
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how much does a full stack developer earn in India?
The average salary of a full stack developer in India is roughly ₹7,97,300, with the overall range being around ₹3,00,000 on either side of that figure.
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are full stack developers in demand in India?
Full stack developers are in demand in India, with the role expected to see as much as 27% growth over the next few years.
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what is a full stack developer in India?
A full stack developer is a developer who works on both the front and back end of a website or application, including things like user interface design and database management.
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do full stack developers require coding skills?
To be a full stack developer, you must be fully competent in several coding languages, including HTML, CSS, Javascript, and relevant server-side languages like Java and PHP.
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how do I apply for a full stack developer vacancy?
Applying for a full stack 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!
