Web developer job description template
The Web Developer designs, builds, tests, and maintains [ORGANIZATION_NAME]'s public-facing websites, web applications, and integrated digital tools. A free, ready-to-edit job description for Canadian employers: duties, qualifications, skills, working conditions and performance measures.
Use our web developer interview questions with a 1 to 5 scoring guide.
Table 1: Position Identification
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Job title | Web Developer |
| Reports to | [REPORTS_TO_TITLE] |
| Direct reports | None |
| Employment type | [EMPLOYMENT_TYPE] |
| Work schedule | [WORK_SCHEDULE] |
| Location | [WORK_LOCATION] |
| Overtime eligibility | [OVERTIME_ELIGIBILITY] |
| NOC code | [NOC_CODE] |
| Salary range | [SALARY_RANGE_MIN] to [SALARY_RANGE_MAX] |
| Effective date | [EFFECTIVE_DATE] |
| Last reviewed | [LAST_REVIEWED_DATE] |
1. Position Summary
The Web Developer designs, builds, tests, and maintains [ORGANIZATION_NAME]'s public-facing websites, web applications, and integrated digital tools. This role serves as the primary technical specialist for web operations, translating business, marketing, and operational needs into responsive, accessible, and secure digital experiences. Working closely with internal teams and external service vendors, the incumbent ensures maximum site uptime, fast page performance, clean code architecture, and structured data integrity across all digital channels. The primary outcome of this position is the continuous delivery of stable, high-performing web platforms that support business growth, protect digital assets, and deliver an intuitive user experience.
2. Key Responsibilities
2.1 Front-End Development and Interface Implementation (25%)
- Writes clean, structured, and standards-compliant HyperText Markup Language (HTML), Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), and JavaScript to produce responsive user interfaces across mobile, tablet, and desktop viewports.
- Implements user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) wireframes, mockups, and prototypes into production-ready web templates.
- Applies Canadian web accessibility standards and principles to ensure web content is accessible to users with disabilities.
- Optimizes front-end assets, styling sheets, scripts, and media files to achieve target page load speeds and search engine performance scores.
2.2 Back-End Integration and Data Management (20%)
- Builds and maintains server-side logic, custom themes, modules, plugins, and Application Programming Interface (API) integrations connecting the website to [ORGANIZATION_NAME]'s customer relationship, marketing, or operational systems.
- Configures and manages database queries, content management system (CMS) data structures, and form submission workflows to ensure reliable data capture and retrieval.
- Manages secure data transmission protocols across web forms and transactional endpoints, ensuring user data is handled in compliance with applicable Canadian privacy legislation.
2.3 Site Maintenance, Security, and Infrastructure (15%)
- Executes scheduled software, plugin, core CMS, and library updates within a staging environment before deploying to production.
- Monitors website uptime, Domain Name System (DNS) records, Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) certificates, and hosting server resource utilization, escalating hosting infrastructure outages to [OWNER_OR_MANAGER] or hosting providers immediately.
- Performs routine security scans, implements web application firewalls, patches vulnerabilities, and enforces backup protocols to safeguard digital properties against unauthorized access and data loss.
2.4 Quality Assurance, Testing, and Troubleshooting (15%)
- Conducts cross-browser and cross-device testing to identify and correct visual regressions, script errors, broken links, and rendering anomalies.
- Troubleshoots reported user errors, broken workflows, and performance bottlenecks, documenting root causes and deploying fixes within agreed service timeframes.
- Maintains separate development, staging, and production environments to test code changes safely prior to general release.
2.5 Analytics, Search Optimization, and Tag Management (10%)
- Configures and manages web analytics tracking tags, conversion events, and digital marketing tracking scripts in accordance with privacy requirements.
- Implements on-page technical Search Engine Optimization (SEO) factors, including structured metadata, Open Graph tags, canonical Uniform Resource Locators (URLs), and XML sitemaps.
- Generates monthly website traffic, health, and performance summaries for [OWNER_OR_MANAGER] to identify conversion bottlenecks and technical improvement opportunities.
2.6 Version Control and Technical Documentation (10%)
- Maintains organized code repositories using version control tools, adhering to structured branching, commit, and release management conventions.
- Authors clear technical documentation, standard operating procedures, and system architecture summaries for all custom scripts, integrations, and deployment workflows.
- Maintains an accurate inventory of domain registrations, third-party software licences, API keys, and vendor access credentials in [FILE_LOCATION].
2.7 Stakeholder Support and Vendor Coordination (5%)
- Provides technical guidance and operational support to non-technical staff publishing digital content or troubleshooting form issues.
- Coordinates with external web agencies, hosting providers, software-as-a-service (SaaS) vendors, and technical contractors to resolve infrastructure and platform issues.
3. Qualifications & Experience
Table 2: Role Qualifications
| Category | Required Qualifications | Preferred Qualifications |
|---|---|---|
| Education | Post-secondary diploma or degree in Computer Science, Web Development, Software Engineering, or equivalent practical experience. | Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related quantitative field; specialized certificates in web development or UX design. |
| Experience | Minimum 2 to 4 years of professional web development experience building and maintaining production websites and web applications. | Experience working in a small-business or multi-disciplinary operational environment; experience managing website migrations. |
| Technical Skills | Demonstrated proficiency with HTML5, CSS3, modern JavaScript, and responsive CSS frameworks. Demonstrated experience with content management systems (such as WordPress, Drupal, or headless CMS platforms). Proficiency with Git version control systems. Solid understanding of web security, SSL/TLS, DNS, and RESTful APIs. |
Experience with front-end frameworks (e.g., React, Vue); experience with back-end languages (e.g., PHP, Node.js, Python); experience with database design (SQL). |
| Accessibility & Standards | Working knowledge of Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA standards. | Formal training or certification in digital accessibility and inclusive design. |
| Privacy & Compliance | Understanding of Canadian commercial electronic messaging and privacy compliance principles related to data capture on digital platforms. | Practical experience configuring cookie consent banners and privacy compliance tools. |
| Language & Communication | Professional working proficiency in English, both verbal and written, with the ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical colleagues. | Bilingualism in English and French. |
4. Competencies
Table 3: Core Competencies and Behavioural Indicators
| Competency | Definition | Behavioural Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| Technical Problem Solving | Identifies system bugs, performance bottlenecks, and architectural issues using structured diagnostic methods. | 1. Diagnoses root causes of website failures rather than applying superficial fixes. 2. Tests solutions systematically across staging environments before production deployment. 3. Anticipates technical risks before deploying structural code changes. |
| Attention to Detail & Quality | Maintains high standards of accuracy in visual presentation, code cleanliness, and system security. | 1. Reviews code for syntax errors, formatting consistency, and security vulnerabilities. 2. Verifies responsive rendering across multiple browser engines and mobile screen sizes. 3. Validates that all links, forms, and tracking scripts function as designed before publication. |
| Priority & Time Management | Plans and organizes technical tasks independently to meet operational deadlines in a small-business setting. | 1. Prioritizes critical security patches and site outages over routine feature requests. 2. Estimates development timelines accurately and communicates progress proactively. 3. Manages multiple concurrent website support tickets without missing critical deliverables. |
| Communication & Collaboration | Translates technical requirements and constraints into clear, actionable language for business owners and team members. | 1. Explains technical limitations and trade-offs in plain language to non-technical staff. 2. Documents code and maintenance procedures clearly for team continuity. 3. Listens actively to internal user feedback to refine web workflows and interfaces. |
| Continuous Learning | Keeps technical skills current with evolving web technologies, security standards, and industry best practices. | 1. Self-directs professional development to master updated programming languages and frameworks. 2. Monitors web security advisories and applies relevant updates proactively. 3. Evaluates new digital tools and plugins for operational efficiency before recommendation. |
| Security & Privacy Mindset | Safeguards organizational digital assets, customer data, and server integrity through rigorous security practices. | 1. Enforces least-privilege access rules across administrative accounts and API keys. 2. Adheres strictly to data encryption and secure transmission protocols. 3. Refuses to implement quick workarounds that compromise system security or compliance. |
5. Working Conditions & Performance Measures
5.1 Working Conditions and Physical Demands
Table 4: Working Conditions and Physical Demands
| Demand / Condition | Frequency | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Sitting / Desk Work | Continuous | Prolonged periods of seated or standing computer work at a standard workstation. |
| Visual Strain / Screen Focus | Continuous | Sustained visual focus on high-resolution computer monitors, text editors, and code debuggers. |
| Keyboard and Mouse Input | Continuous | Repetitive fine-motor movements for software coding, testing, and digital asset manipulation. |
| Lifting and Material Handling | Rare | Moving standard desktop hardware, monitors, or peripheral equipment up to [MAX_LIFT_WEIGHT_KG]. |
| Work Environment | Continuous | Indoor office or home office environment with moderate noise levels and climate control. |
| Travel Requirements | Rare | Occasional local travel to organization meetings, training sessions, or vendor facilities. |
| Non-Standard Hours & On-Call | Occasional | Periodic scheduled work outside standard business hours for server maintenance, deployments, or emergency site outage resolution. |
| Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) | Rare | None routinely required; standard office safety equipment applies during site visits. |
Note: [ORGANIZATION_NAME] is committed to providing reasonable workplace accommodation up to the point of undue hardship in accordance with applicable human rights legislation. Incumbents requiring accommodation should contact [OWNER_OR_MANAGER].
5.2 Performance Measures
Table 5: Key Performance Indicators
| Measure | Definition | Target | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Website Uptime & Availability | Percentage of time core web properties are fully operational and accessible to public users. | 99.5% or higher | Monthly |
| Page Load Performance | Core Web Vitals and page speed index scores across primary landing pages and mobile viewports. | Meet or exceed industry benchmark targets | Quarterly |
| Incident Resolution Time | Elapsed time from notification of a high-severity website error or security vulnerability to full resolution. | Within [N_BUSINESS_DAYS] of detection | Ongoing |
| Deployment Quality | Percentage of code releases and system updates deployed to production without critical rollbacks or unplanned outages. | 95% or higher | Quarterly |
| Accessibility Compliance | Resolution of identified WCAG accessibility barriers across public-facing digital templates. | Zero critical accessibility violations | Bi-annually |
| Documentation & Asset Currency | Up-to-date maintenance of domain inventories, API credentials, plugin logs, and standard operating procedures in [FILE_LOCATION]. | 100% current and documented | Quarterly |
5.3 Career Path Context
- Typical Prior Roles: Junior Web Developer, Front-End Developer, WordPress Developer, Webmaster, Digital Marketing Specialist, or Computer Science / Web Design Graduate.
- Typical Next Roles: Senior Web Developer, Full-Stack Developer, Lead Developer, Technical Project Manager, Digital Systems Manager, or Application Architect.
5.4 Position Acknowledgement and Sign-Off
This job description outlines the primary duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required for the Web Developer position. It is not designed to contain a comprehensive inventory of all activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee. Operational requirements may necessitate the amendment of this document, and duties may be assigned or adjusted by management with reasonable notice.
Employee Name: [EMPLOYEE_NAME]
Signature: ___________
Date: [DD-MMM-YYYY]
Manager Name: [MANAGER_NAME]
Signature: ___________
Date: [DD-MMM-YYYY]
What to fill in
| Placeholder | What to enter | Who provides it | Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| [EFFECTIVE_DATE] | Date this job description takes operational effect | Hiring Manager / Owner | Yes |
| [EMPLOYEE_NAME] | Full legal name of the employee filling the position | Hiring Manager / Employee | Yes |
| [EMPLOYMENT_TYPE] | Employment status (e.g., Full-Time, Part-Time, Permanent, Fixed-Term) | Hiring Manager / Owner | Yes |
| [FILE_LOCATION] | Secure directory or storage system where technical documentation and credentials reside | System Administrator / Owner | Yes |
| [LAST_REVIEWED_DATE] | Date this position description was last evaluated and updated | Hiring Manager / Owner | Yes |
| [MANAGER_NAME] | Full name of the direct supervisor or business owner | Hiring Manager / Owner | Yes |
| [MAX_LIFT_WEIGHT_KG] | Maximum weight in kilograms the role may occasionally lift (e.g., 10 kg) | Operations / Safety Lead | Yes |
| [N_BUSINESS_DAYS] | Maximum business days allowed to resolve high-severity site defects | Operations / Owner | Yes |
| [NOC_CODE] | 5-digit National Occupational Classification (NOC 2021) code | HR / Hiring Manager | Yes |
| [ORGANIZATION_NAME] | Operating business name of the employer | Owner / Office Manager | Yes |
| [OVERTIME_ELIGIBILITY] | Overtime status under [PROVINCE] employment standards (e.g., Eligible, or Not eligible under a managerial or other exclusion) | HR / Owner | Yes |
| [REPORTS_TO_TITLE] | Exact title of the direct supervisor (e.g., Operations Manager, Owner) | Hiring Manager / Owner | Yes |
| [SALARY_RANGE_MAX] | Maximum gross annual salary or hourly rate for the role | Owner / Finance | Yes |
| [SALARY_RANGE_MIN] | Minimum gross annual salary or hourly rate for the role | Owner / Finance | Yes |
| [WORK_LOCATION] | Primary physical location or remote arrangement (e.g., Calgary Office / Hybrid) | Hiring Manager / Owner | Yes |
| [WORK_SCHEDULE] | Standard working hours and days (e.g., Monday to Friday, 37.5 hours per week) | Hiring Manager / Owner | Yes |
Official sources
Government and professional sources this template was checked against.
- Government of Canada — Inclusive Workplace
- National Occupational Classification
- Canadian Human Rights Commission — Duty to Accommodate
- CPHR Canada
This template is general information for Canadian employers, not legal advice. Employment standards, human rights and privacy rules differ by province. Check them before you use it.
Questions
What does a web developer do?
The Web Developer designs, builds, tests, and maintains [ORGANIZATION_NAME]'s public-facing websites, web applications, and integrated digital tools. This role serves as the primary technical specialist for web operations, translating business, marketing, and operational needs into responsive, accessible, and secure digital experiences. Working closely with internal teams and external service vendors, the incumbent ensures maximum site uptime, fast page performance, clean code architecture, and structured data integrity across all digital channels. The primary outcome of this position is the continuous delivery of stable, high-performing web platforms that support business growth, protect digital assets, and deliver an intuitive user experience.
What should a web developer job description include?
A short summary of the role, the main duties with a rough share of time, required and preferred qualifications, the skills you'll assess, working conditions and physical demands, and how performance is measured. State the pay range and who the person reports to. This template covers all of it; fill in the highlighted blanks and remove anything that doesn't apply.
Can I use this template for free?
Yes. Download it as a Word file, copy the text, or print it. Staffkin can also turn it into a prescreen and interview guide for the same role.
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