Web Designer
Job Description:Web designers develop and test ideas for new websites.
Job Category:What you will do:
You could work on any kind of website, from education to shopping. You’ll often be responsible for managing the design of your client’s other online services like mobile applications, social media accounts and digital marketing campaigns.
Your day-to-day duties might include:
- meeting clients to discuss what they want their site to do
- preparing a design plan
- deciding which branding, text, colours and backgrounds to use
- laying out pages and positioning buttons, links and pictures using design software
- adding multimedia features like sound, animation and video
- testing and improving the design and site
You’ll work closely with web developers and marketing professionals.
Skills:
You’ll need:
- knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
- the ability to write computer programs
- maths knowledge
- to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications
As well as:
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- persistence and determination
- analytical thinking skills
- to be flexible and open to change (adaptable)
- the ability to use your initiative
- strong creative skills
- good problem-solving skills and a logical approach to work (organisational skills)
- an ability to work to deadlines
- good communication skills
Entry Requirements:
To become a web designer, there are no strict GCSE (General Certificate of Secondary Education) subject requirements. However, certain subjects can be beneficial in developing skills and knowledge that will be useful in this field. Here are some GCSE subjects that can be helpful for aspiring web designers:
- Computer Science or Information Technology: These subjects provide a foundation in programming, which is valuable for web development.
- Art and Design: Courses in art and design can help you develop a sense of aesthetics and design principles, which are crucial for web design.
- Mathematics: Basic math skills are important for web design, especially if you plan to work on the technical aspects of coding and scripting.
- English: Good communication skills are essential for any career, including web design. Strong written and verbal communication can help you work effectively with clients and team members.
- Graphic Design: If available as a GCSE subject, taking graphic design can provide a strong foundation in visual design principles.
- Business Studies or Economics: These subjects can be beneficial if you plan to freelance or start your web design business, as they provide insights into entrepreneurship and the business side of the industry.
Post School
You don’t always need qualifications to become a web designer, but you’ll usually need to show that you’ve got skills in:
- visual design
- UX (user experience)
- SEO (search engine optimisation), marketing and social media
- using design software like Photoshop and Figma
You may also find it useful to have basic photo editing and copywriting skills.
Some employers will expect you to have a portfolio of work to show them, like websites you’ve worked on.
Colleges offer a wide range of courses, and there are lots of free online tutorials.
You could also take a college or higher education course in web design or multimedia subjects.
You may be able to get into this role through an apprenticeship.
Working Hours and Environment:
You’ll normally work 37 hours a week, Monday to Friday. You may have to work extra hours to meet deadlines or when there are problems with a website.
If you’re self-employed, you’ll set your own working hours.
You’ll work indoors in an office or in your own home at a computer. You may spend some of your time travelling to meet clients.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience you could move into design team management or expand your skills to become a web content manager.
You might work towards a move into business management.
You could also work as a freelance web designer, or set up your own web design business.