What does a back-end developer do? This is one of the questions that are asked very often so we will try to cover it in this post and hope to give you a clear concept about this.
Just attend any tech events and this subject will likely come up: What does a back-end developer do, anyway?
Generally, folks who ask that question are expecting to hear something along the lines of “A back-end developer is responsible for all the stuff that runs in the background, maintaining and running databases, servers, and websites.”
We speak to computer programmers every day so we should probably be able to give you a better answer than that. So, whether you are a CTO, hiring manager, startup founder, a beginner programmer, or just wondering how the world of programming works, there should be something here for everyone.
Understanding back-end development?
Think of a back-end development like the superstructure of a house. Once you’ve made that solid base, everything on top will sit steady and strong. The house will be able to withstand a hurricane, wind, or any other external force. If the foundation is weak, nothing can be strong. That is exactly why every web application needs strong back-end development. And this is the responsibility of the back-end developer.
In this guide, we’re going to cover the basic duties and responsibilities of a backend developer. This job description is based on our experience of working with many companies and interviewing candidates as well as from reading the job descriptions of other back-end developers.
A day in the life of a back-end developer
The tasks of the average back-end developer are very varied: They can be involved in the development of completely new online shops, migrate existing systems, and are also responsible for the continuous maintenance and further development of websites, applications, and software platforms.
As a backend developer, you will also be busy every day keeping your customers’ systems running. For example, if an online shop has performance problems, you investigate the causes and develop solutions to improve page load times. A typical task would also include the connection of third-party systems to the existing web applications.
If you are looking to hire a top backend developer you also review freelance platforms like Toptal, Upwork or Hiremotely.com
What are the tasks of a back-end developer?
The area of activity of a back-end developer depends heavily on their specialization, but can generally include the following tasks:
- The analysis of the requirements, the development, conception, implementation, and maintenance of a system or an application
- Consultation with front-end developers, function designers, and other specialists in the design of a system or an application.
- Build integrations between different systems so they can talk to each other
- Build databases and a structure where company data can be stored
- Write code using language and framework
- Make sure that payment solutions work and that data is stored securely
- Create and develop APIs
- Testing and improving existing backend applications
- Implementation of the functional requirements of the customers in concrete technical solutions
- Implementing and programming systems and applications
Final Thoughts: What does a back-end developer do?
The answer would invariably depend on whom you ask. Some say they make applications for websites or apps and are responsible for the underlying technology. Others say they write code for business applications and require the expertise of a programming language like PHP or Node.js in order to complete projects. Regardless of whom you ask, one thing is apparent: back-end developers are indispensable in today’s IT space, and hiring the best-fit with the skills perfect for your needs is vital for your success.
