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Who is a Full Stack Developer?

Who is a Full Stack Developer?

These days, the job title Full-stack Developer next to an individual’s name makes him/her stand out on job portals, Facebook and LinkedIn, with many looking upon these “demi-gods” with awe and admiration. Yes, the popularity is rising with many praising full-stack developers and a few others criticizing the lot. So, is it a title? Or is it something you turn into after some kind of upskilling? HiCounselor encourages you to read on and find out what exactly is a Full Stack Developer.


What is a Full Stack Developer?

Basically, full-stack developers are engineers who are able to manage all aspects of the database, server, systems engineering and clients. Full-stack developers are able to build both the front-end (the features that users see) as well as the back-end (the processes behind the scenes and data storage) for a website.


When a job listing or job title mentions "full-stack", it means that the person has both "frontend" and "backend" development knowledge. It can also refer to someone who is able to manage everything, from project management to installing an operating system on a server. It also refers to a programmer who can manage the entire implementation of a website.


Difference Between a full-stack and a web developer?

Any individual who can code is a web developer, regardless of whether they are specialized in front-end, full-stack or back-end. On the other hand, Full-stack developer is a more precise term that refers to someone who can code in both the front-end and back-end languages. A Full Stack developer works on both the client and server sides of an application's Back End. Full Stack developers must have skills in a variety of coding niches such as databases, graphic design and UI/UX administration in order to do their jobs well. 


Frontend Developers deal with the interface and user-facing systems. They develop the navigation, interface and visuals while focusing on user experience. Frontend developers utilize HTML, CSS3 and JavaScript.


Backend Developers manage the application server and database. They create the back-frame that allows frontend development to occur using Python, Ruby and PHP.


So, now you can easily figure out how full-stack developers manage the overlap between front and backend using all the coding languages from the afore-mentioned first two and additionally MySQL as well as Machine Learning.


Elements You Can Include in your Full-stack Developer Resume

Listed below are the elements that you can include in your resume for a full-stack developer. 


Project Management 

Are you able to work with clients, co-workers and designers to actually complete a project? Are you able to set timelines, manage infrastructure and gather requirements?  Then, these skills, which are often overlooked, are crucial to being a successful full-stack developer.


Frontend Development 

This is a term that refers to the programming languages that the browser can run, such as HTML, CSS and JavaScript. React is a JavaScript framework. This is often referred to as "client-side" development. If you are adept in these, make sure you mention them.


Backend Development 

All code that runs on servers such as APIs and applications that power your website comes under the backend. There are many backend languages available, including Java, Ruby and Java. A programming language like SQL is required to create and work with databases.


DevOps Knowledge 

Simply means getting your code from Github into production. Installing operating systems, for example, may be required. Setting up a Linux server to allow your app to run or manage the complicated set of dependencies (ex. As your codebase grows, installing the right version of Python) all comes under DevOps skills.


Responsibilities of a Full-stack Developer 

Full-stack Developers must meet certain requirements in order to be hired. These standards vary from one employer to the next, but given below are some of the key responsibilities you need to master.


  • Assist in the design and development of software

  • Maintain software optimization by testing and debugging it

  • Clean code to create the front and back ends of the software

  • User interactions in the web application

  • Create servers and databases to support the backend of the software

  • Ensure cross-platform compatibility

  • Maintain and test responsive design applications

  • Collaborate with graphic designers for new features

  • Develop APIs and RESTful Services

  • Optimize software and be up to date with technological advancements

  • Consider security, maintenance, scalability and other factors while developing


In order to be a successful Full-stack Developer, you must also possess the right personality and temperament. Given below are traits that a full-stack developer can develop if they are passionate about full-stack development as a career choice. 


Time Management

Full Stack developers are multitaskers who can manage time well. They are often juggling multiple tasks at once and constantly switch between the front and back ends to ensure the job gets done. To ensure everything is completed on time, it takes good time management skills as well as the ability to prioritize.


Curiosity

Web development can be interesting for the right mind. You can create complex, beautiful web applications by simply entering a series of letters on the computer screen. Users will be able to interact with them in many different ways. Full-stack developers are always curious and eager to learn about the industry as well as the user interaction with the web app.


Attention to detail

Full-stack developers are meticulous. Before they send their work out, Full Stack Developers double or triple-check to ensure that it is accurate. Full Stack Developers are meticulous about detail and this is evident in their well-written code.


There is never a dull moment in the life of a Full Stack Developer. They are more active because of their full “stackability”. They will also be more open to new techniques and products. Such an individual can always voice his / her opinion on the product or design. A full-stack developer can also help everyone in the group by reducing the time as well as technology costs for team communication and technology docking. In fact, many of them go on to become entrepreneurs or technical partners in start-up companies. On a final note, you need to lay the technical foundation, improve your core skills and continue learning for new challenges to be a successful full-stack developer.


HiCounselor has forged technical advances to transform the hiring landscape for job seekers and recruiters alike. Our career accelerator program provides job seekers with coaching and mentorship from industry leaders employed at FAANG companies while recruiters ally with HiCounselor to empower their hiring strategy and hone in on the best candidates. Learn more about HiCounselor here and reach out to us on LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube.