In 2023 there is a digital job where the demand of companies exceeds the supply of workers: the Full Stack Developer (full stack developer). It is a professional figure capable of programming every aspect of a website, both front-end, and back-end.
Also for this reason, the earnings of a Full Stack Developer are really important, and it is rare to find figures truly worthy of the name.
How do you become a Full Stack developer? What skills should he have? A lot of passion, the right training, and experience in the field. Here is a complete guide to the profession of the Full Stack Developer.
Full Stack Developer: What does it do?
A Full Stack Developer is a programmer who has both front-end (what users see) and back-end (behind the scenes) skills in developing web applications.
In other words, a Full Stack Developer can work on all aspects of an online project, from the design and implementation of the “shown” part to the technical implementation of the “behind” part, including database management.
Full stack developer jobs
The responsibilities of a Full Stack Developer may vary depending on the needs of the project and the client, but generally include:
- Design and development of the user interface (UI) of the website or application, with the use of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript;
- Development of server-side logic using one or more programming languages, such as Python, Ruby, Java, PHP, Node.js, and similar;
- Implementation of security features (authentication, authorization and encryption);
- Using databases and developing SQL queries for data management;
- Automated testing to ensure software quality;
- I work in a team with other developers, designers, and stakeholders on application planning, development, and release.
Full stack developer or Java full stack developer?
The difference between a Full Stack Developer and a Java Full Stack Developer is mainly related to the programming languages used:
- the Full Stack Developer has general knowledge of all programming languages used for web development;
- the Java Full Stack Developer has specific skills in the Java programming language and its associated frameworks.
A Full Stack Developer can work with a variety of programming languages (and related frameworks and libraries), such as:
- Python;
- ruby;
- JavaScripts;
- PHP.
A Java Full Stack Developer, on the other hand, focuses a little more on programming with the Java programming language and its frameworks, such as:
- Spring;
- Hibernate;
- Struts.
The difference is very subtle. It can be said that a Full Stack developer has more general skills in multiple programming languages, while the Java Full Stack Developer, despite being also an expert in various languages, has more specific skills in Java and associated frameworks.
How much does a full stack developer earn?
A Full Stack Developer’s salary can vary widely based on their experience, skills, place of work, and the industry in which they operate.
Generally speaking, Full Stack Developers in Italy or Europe can earn an average annual salary ranging from 40,000 to 120,000 euros based on skills and experience.
In the United States, the average annual salary of a Full Stack Developer is a bit higher at around $75,000-120,000. That said, some Full Stack developers with lots of experience and specialized skills can earn well over 150,000 euros or dollars a year.
Note that these are only indicative values and that the earnings of a programmer can also vary according to the type of contract. A full stack developer with a VAT number, for example, has a request that starts at 40.00 euros per hour and goes up.
Much will depend on the professional’s turnover, for example, the number of clients or the type of work performed.
In any case, the full stack dev is a highly sought-after professional figure with excellent potential for professional and economic growth.
How to become a Full Stack Developer?
To become a Full Stack Developer, you need to acquire a broad range of technology skills and a thorough understanding of all web application components, from front-end to back-end. This requires adequate training and a constant commitment to ongoing training.
Theoretical training in programming
First, you need to have a solid foundation in programming, know at least one or two programming languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, and have a basic understanding of databases and servers.
Training can take place through online courses, books, and other resources dedicated to programming and web technologies.
Check out the basic programming courses if you want to get started a little more gradually and without too many irons in the fire.
Afterward, you can start deepening your knowledge by acquiring specific skills in some of the most used frameworks and technologies, such as ReactJS, AngularJS, NodeJS, Django, Ruby on Rails, and many others.
Candidates for the job
Finding work nowadays as a Full Stack developer will certainly not be a problem, believe me. Companies vie for coding experts for pay raises and benefits.
Acquire a solid preparation: take theoretical and practical courses that prepare you WELL, even if these may require a certain initial investment (fully repaid, you’ll see).
Then spread your resume or keep an eye out for offers on LinkedIn or job search portals. Consider that Italian training schools, such as Lacerba or Learnn, have a network of partner companies that can hire the most deserving students for their programs!
Continuous update
It is important to always be updated on new trends and technological evolutions taking place, by participating in conferences, meetings, and webinars dedicated to the sector.
Systemic approach
To become a true Full Stack Developer it is important to acquire a systemic approach to the design of a web application, capable of synergistically integrating all the necessary components and technologies, from the front-end to the back-end, with a good knowledge of the processes software development and best practices for code security and optimization.
What skills a full stack developer must have
Both a Full Stack Developer and a Java Full Stack Developer need to have a broad range of skills to develop full web applications.
- HTML, CSS, and JavaScript;
- Know at least one back-end language (Node.js, Python, Ruby, PHP);
- Know at least one back-end framework (Express, Flask, Ruby on Rails);
- Knowing SQL and being able to create/manage databases;
- Master at least one front-end framework (React, Angular, Vue.js);
- Be familiar with versioning tools such as Git and Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) processes.
- Know Agile development methodologies and practices.
- Communication soft skills, teamwork, time organization, compliance with deliveries, etc.
A Full Stack Developer is a professional who has expertise in both the front-end and back-end side of web application development and can work on all aspects of a web development project, from design to implementation and database management.
Becoming a Full Stack Developer requires a strong commitment to continuing education, in-depth knowledge of the most used technologies and frameworks, a systems mindset in approaching web application design, and a good command of best practices for software development and code security.
The full stack programmer is a highly sought-after job for companies and opens up interesting earning opportunities. From a more practical point of view, a Full Stack Developer must be able to adapt quickly to new technologies and programming languages, as industry trends and needs can change quickly. That’s why taking courses regularly makes all the difference.
