Back-End Web Developer with Express Salary in 2024
How statistics are calculated
We count how many offers each candidate received and for what salary. For example, if a Back-End Web developer with Express with a salary of $4,500 received 10 offers, then we would count him 10 times. If there were no offers, then he would not get into the statistics either.
The graph column is the total number of offers. This is not the number of vacancies, but an indicator of the level of demand. The more offers there are, the more companies try to hire such a specialist. 5k+ includes candidates with salaries >= $5,000 and < $5,500.
Median Salary Expectation – the weighted average of the market offer in the selected specialization, that is, the most frequent job offers for the selected specialization received by candidates. We do not count accepted or rejected offers.
Trending Back-End Web tech & tools in 2024
Back-End Web
What does a back-end developer do?
A back-end developer is in the back end of a more or less invisible system of unseen work, but vital all the same to web development. Back-end developers make sure the website or application works how it should. They have to deal with servers, databases, and application logic. They develop systems and processes. They maintain databases. They deal with bugs. They interface with APIs. They make security systems work correctly.
Specifics differ from firm to firm, but on the back end a back-end developer might oversee some, most, or all of the following:
- Developing the systems and processes to meet the application’s specified requirements
- Maintaining databases, including data storage and retrieval, organization, backups, and security
- Finding and fixing bugs in the back-end code
- Managing any APIs the company uses to integrate applications, both externally and internally
- Conducting performance optimization to increase efficiency and improve the user experience
- Building and managing libraries of code for reuse by developers across the business
- Helping develop the overall architecture of the application’s back-end
- Securing the application from cyberattacks
Back-end developers also work together with front-end developers to transform their function into user-facing content in the app interface. Back-end developers often deal with managers, architects, designers, researchers, IT security and so many others to make web applications work.
In the end, front-end developers aim to make the interface fun, playful, and interactive while back-end teams build up the invisible structures that power the front-end.
Back-end Developer Skills
Ok, so we now know what a back-end developer does (mostly). But what does she need to know in order to do it? In this part, we’ll be looking at the primary skills to look for if you’re hiring a back-end developer, or if you’re hell-bent on becoming one.
Programming Languages
Web developers use a multitude of languages to build the servers, databases, and application logic on servers. Here is the list:
Python
Python is a general-purpose programming language, commonly used for building the non-public, or ‘back-end’, part of software programs and web applications currently charging you for breakfast, dinner, or that retro toy you ordered on a whim on a marketplace site last night. It is a powerful language that is enjoyable to write in, and able to operate well for any purpose you throw at it. Every back-end programmer should at least have a basic level of knowledge about it.
Java
Java, another general-purpose language, is often used in the back-end of application development for the same reason. It’s deployable across many environments and flexible enough to power very large, complex, high-performance software projects.
PHP
PHP is a so-called server-side programming language – this basically means, you create a website using PHP which dynamically loads content at the demand of the user (or the browser requesting the page). PHP dynamically builds the page on the server from content of housed databases. The opposite of this is a static website – which means you create a website, and it’s stored completely on the servers and therefore presented exactly the same to all visitors – even if, in PHP, the display can be different.
Other Languages
True, there are many other programming languages that back-end developers might prefer. There’s Ruby, a high-level language that allows one to build both web and mobile applications in a quick and effective manner, there’s C, a lower-level language (and the most popular language in the world), and there’s .NET, a framework provided by Microsoft to build websites and web apps.
Furthermore, a back-end developer might write code in SQL (Structured Query Language) or JSON (JavaScript Object Notation), programming languages that are geared towards database management.
Front-End Languages
Although it’s often the case that the back-end developer works almost exclusively on the server-side in a language like PHP or Java, some basic knowledge of front-end languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript will still come in handy when you work on a web-based project. In general, there are three technical languages that you learn on the front end:
- HTML (HyperText Markup Language): Codes content (text and links) and structure of a web page. All web pages are built with HTML, and its file names always end in .html.
- CSS (Cascading Style Sheets): Because Cascading Style Sheets are a programming language that describes how pages should look – without it, the web would be filled mostly with seas of block text and images with no layout or style. CSS is also the reason that web page content adapts to fit different browser sizes and devices.
- JavaScript: Often abbreviated as JS, developers use it to change animations, dynamically update page content, and on websites run scripts without having to ask the back-end.
These languages will make it easier for you to work with front-end developers and designers and, if there is a bug that uses both front-end and back-end resources, it will help you to diagnose it faster. They are also good skills to learn in general, especially if you want to learn design or become a full-stack developer.
Database Management
Moving data in or out of the application database, a significant part of the back-end developer’s work, comes under the scope of modern database technologies.
Databases can be divided into two types: relational databases and non-relational databases. Relational databases store related data points like a customer such as name, and email or account ID. Relational Databases are data arranged in a tabular manner with relata in the same row and the language used to interact with it is SQL.
Then, in contrast to relational databases, non-relational databases (or NoSQL databases) don’t typically store data points based on their relatedness (though they might relate the data nonetheless). Instead of rows in tables, non-relational databases store their information in Extensible Markup Language (XML) and/or JavaScript Object Notation (JSON). Useful knowledge about NoSQL database programmes, such as Redis and MongoDB, can go hand-in-hand with SQL on the back-end.
Server-Side Software
Back-end developers get process versions in server systems. You should be familiar with standard server software such as Apache, Nginx, Microsoft IIS, and Linux-based operating systems. You should know how web servers receive and handle requests for web pages on websites, how they store the data they get, and the basics of keeping them scalable and safe.
APIs
An API – an application programming interface – is a set of definitions and protocols that allows two applications (or pieces of software) to talk to and share data with each other. An API goes out and listens for incoming requests from another application, and then responds by carrying out that request (which could be requesting or modifying some chunk of data in the database of the other app). Every time you see one piece of software reused in another, APIs made it possible. Apps such as Facebook, YouTube, Google and Spotify make tons of their data available through public APIs.
There are plenty of APIs in existence today, the most prominent of which are REST APIs. If you want to be a web developer, you’ll need to have a working knowledge of REST APIs (and possibly SOAP ones), a technology that ties together not only different applications owned by different vendors, but also individual back-end services.
Data Structures and Algorithms
In contrast to other, more concrete technologies that will be discussed below, data structures and algorithms are highly conceptual but still incredibly important. A competent back-end developer must have a decent understanding of these areas to perform his or her job, which is why they appear in the academic curriculum of computer science.
Making a picture in the mind: a data structure is a pattern we use in a computer to organise data. The above examples were arrays, linked lists, trees, and tries; hash tables, heaps, stacks, and queues – the back-end developer will run into most or all of these at some point in their career.
Broadly, an algorithm is a defined process to solve a problem. Every back-end developer is familiar with the foundational algorithms of computer software: you’ll use some form of sorting algorithm; you’ll write some kind of search algorithm for searching texts or databases; you’ll parse and compare strings; you’ll hash stuff to make comparisons between string lengths easier; you’ll use recursive algorithms, or code that’s essentially a textual expression of how a function repeats itself.
Other Important Skills
There is also much more that you can learn in the domain of back-end programming than just those core skills, as listed above. Here are some more skills that you will find useful as a back-end programmer:
- Experience with a version control system — likely Git, as well as familiarity with GitHub
- Knowledge of orexperience with server management
- Communication skills, and an ability to explain complex technical topics to non-experts
- Time management skills, as you’ll likely be balancing several responsibilities at once
- Understanding of cloud computing and hosting
- Understanding web accessibility best practices
- Understanding cybersecurity best practices
Where is Express used?
API Creation Extravaganza
- Imagine painting with code. That's building RESTful APIs with Express. It's like wielding an artist's brush, crafting endpoints as masterful strokes on the canvas of the web.
Real-time Chat Riot
- With Express twinned with Socket.IO, you can whip up a buzzing bee hive of a chat app that’s livelier than a caffeine-fueled squirrel.
Middlewares Rodeo
- Yee-haw! Saddle up your app with middleware layers. Authentication, body-parsing, logging - it's the rodeo of the server-side world where Express lassos 'em all.
Custom Web Server BBQ
- Ever wanted to grill your own server? Throw some Node.js on the flame, spice it with Express, and voilà! A sizzling, custom web server cooked to perfection.
Express Alternatives
Koa
Koa, created by the original team behind Express, offers a robust foundation for web applications. It leverages async functions for a simpler and more powerful middleware framework.
Example:
const Koa = require('koa');
const app = new Koa();
app.use(async ctx => {
ctx.body = 'Hello World';
});
app.listen(3000);
Pros:
- Lighter, more modular structure
- Improved error handling through try/catch
- Enables use of ES2017 async functions
Cons:
- Smaller community, fewer resources
- Relatively new, less mature than Express
- Requires understanding of modern JavaScript features
Hapi
Hapi is a rich framework for building applications and services, known for its powerful plugin system which allows developers to extend its capabilities.
Example:
const Hapi = require('@hapi/hapi');
const init = async () => {
const server = Hapi.server({
port: 3000,
host: 'localhost'
});
server.route({
method: 'GET',
path: '/',
handler: (request, h) => {
return 'Hello World';
}
});
await server.start();
console.log('Server running on %s', server.info.uri);
};
init();
Pros:
- Extensive plugin ecosystem
- Built-in input validation
- Rich configuration options
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve
- Bulky for smaller projects
- Can feel overly structured for simple tasks
Fastify
Fastify is a fast and low-overhead web framework, highly focused on providing good performance through its efficient request/response lifecycle.
Example:
const fastify = require('fastify')({
logger: true
});
fastify.get('/', async (request, reply) => {
return { hello: 'world' }
});
fastify.listen(3000, err => {
if (err) throw err;
console.log(`server listening on ${fastify.server.address().port}`)
});
Pros:
- Emphasis on speed and performance
- Schema-based validation built-in
- High extensibility with hooks, plugins, and decorators
Cons:
- Less mainstream than Express
- Not as many middleware options natively
- APIs can be too low-level for beginners
Quick Facts about Express
The Birth of Express: Speedy Delivery in Node.js Land!
Imagine hopping on the back of a supercharged JavaScript cheetah in 2010; that's when TJ Holowaychuk decided we all deserved to write web apps with more pep in our step! Express.js shot out like a rocket, making Node.js web development a breezy ride. It's the Sinatra of Node, but you know, without the singing and old-timey microphone.
Version Fun: Playing the Numbers Game
Buckle up! The Express version timeline is like a wild rollercoaster, without the annoying loops. Starting with 0.x released in the wild-west days of Node.js, it hustled to 4.x, promising unicorns and rainbows... Okay, not really, but it did bring us a more modular structure that had developers doing the happy dance. It's like your grandma's lasagna recipe: it just keeps getting better with time.
The Middleware Melody: A Symphony of Functions
Want to hear a secret? The magic of Express lies in its middleware, which is like a fancy assembly line for requests, where each worker is a piece of code that adds a sprinkle of functionality. One piece is logging, another could be parsing, and before you know it, your request is ready to serve – chef's kiss!
app.use('/user/:id', function(req, res, next) {
console.log('Request Type:', req.method);
next();
});
What is the difference between Junior, Middle, Senior and Expert Express developer?
| Seniority Name | Years of Experience | Average Salary (USD/year) | Responsibilities & Activities | Quality-Wise |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 | 50,000 - 70,000 |
| Requires guidance |
| Middle | 2-5 | 70,000 - 100,000 |
| Work independently |
| Senior | 5-10 | 100,000 - 140,000 |
| High-quality deliverables |
| Expert/Team Lead | 10+ | 140,000 - 180,000 |
| Expert level output |
Top 10 Express Related Tech
JavaScript (Node.js)
Oh, the bedrock of Express—the illustrious JavaScript running on Node.js! It’s like the peanut butter to your jelly; without it, you can’t whip up anything in Express. Node.js allows JavaScript to break free from the browser and take a joyride on the server side. Make sure you're cozy with asynchronous programming; Promises, callbacks, and async/await are your new BFFs.
// An async function in JavaScript
async function getTheGoods() {
let result = await fetch('https://api.example.com/data');
let data = await result.json();
console.log(data);
}
getTheGoods();
Express.js Framework
The star of the show, naturally! Express.js is the minimalist web framework that doesn't boss you around. It's more like a Swiss Army knife for building web applications—it gives you the tools, but it’s up to you to use them wisely. It handles routing, middleware, and it’s got more options than a buffet. Dig in!
const express = require('express');
const app = express();
// A simple route in Express
app.get('/', (req, res) => res.send('Hello World!'));
app.listen(3000, () => console.log('App listening on port 3000!'));
MongoDB & Mongoose
Welcome to the no-SQL-zone! It’s MongoDB paired with the ODM (Object Document Mapper) charm of Mongoose. Together, they’re like Batman and Robin for your database needs. With MongoDB’s flexible schema and Mongoose’s ability to translate back and forth between objects in code and the representation of those objects in MongoDB, you're set for an adventure.
const mongoose = require('mongoose');
mongoose.connect('mongodb://localhost/my_database');
// Simple Mongoose schema
const Cat = mongoose.model('Cat', { name: String });
const kitty = new Cat({ name: 'Zildjian' });
kitty.save().then(() => console.log('meow'));
RESTful API Design
Designing APIs like you’re drafting up blueprints for a spaceship. Creating endpoints should be like writing poetry, not a tax return. HTTP methods (GET, POST, PUT, DELETE) are your verbs, and URIs are the nouns. Keep it intuitive, predictable, and REST assured, your API users will thank you for making their lives easier.
// Express.js REST API example
app.get('/api/v1/resources', (req, res) => {
// Get list of resources
});
app.post('/api/v1/resources', (req, res) => {
// Create a new resource
});
Testing with Mocha & Chai
Your code needs a safety net, a buddy that yells "I got you!"—that's Mocha with a dash of Chai. Writing tests is less about ensuring you don't fall, and more about knowing you can fly through your code with style. Mocha sets the stage and Chai brings the flavor with BDD/TDD assertion libraries that will make testing a treat, not a chore.
// Example of a test with Mocha and Chai
const expect = require('chai').expect;
describe('Array', () => {
it('should start empty', () => {
const arr = [];
expect(arr).to.be.empty;
});
});
Authentication with Passport.js
Guarding the realm from unwelcome visitors is Passport.js, your trusty gatekeeper. It’s like a bouncer for your web app, checking IDs and granting access with a nod. Local, Twitter, Facebook, or Google—just pick an identity strategy, and Passport will handle the nitty-gritty of user authentication.
const passport = require('passport');
const LocalStrategy = require('passport-local').Strategy;
passport.use(new LocalStrategy(
(username, password, done) => {
Users.findOne({ username: username }, (err, user) => {
// Authentication logic here
});
}
));
Real-time Communication with Socket.IO
When your app needs to chat in real time, Socket.IO is like the chatty taxi driver who always has one more story. It keeps the conversation flowing smoothly between client and server, with WebSockets under the hood for those clients with a need for speed.
const io = require('socket.io')(httpServer);
io.on('connection', (socket) => {
console.log('a user connected');
socket.on('disconnect', () => {
console.log('user disconnected');
});
});
Containerization with Docker
Think of Docker as Tupperware for your app. It keeps everything contained and fresh, regardless of where you take it. No more "works on my machine" excuses—you can define your app's environment down to the last semicolon and share it with others, knowing it won’t go bad.
# Example Dockerfile content for Node.js app
FROM node:14
WORKDIR /usr/src/app
COPY package*.json ./
RUN npm install
COPY . .
EXPOSE 8080
CMD [ "node", "server.js" ]
Logging with Morgan & Winston
Logs are the breadcrumbs you leave behind for your future self. Morgan tells you who came by, and Winston records their stories. With these two on duty, your debugging sessions will feel like watching reality TV, you’ll follow the drama as it unfolds, and figure out who’s causing the mess.
const morgan = require('morgan');
const winston = require('winston');
app.use(morgan('combined')); // For HTTP request logging
// Winston for more substantial logging needs
const logger = winston.createLogger({
// Winston configuration
});
Environment Management with dotenv
Secrets, secrets are no fun unless you share with .env! Dotenv is your app's diary, holding all the little secrets it doesn't want to shout to the world. API keys, database passwords—dotenv keeps them safe and sound, tucked away in environment variables. Just remember, don’t commit it. 😅
require('dotenv').config();
// Using an environment variable
const dbPassword = process.env.DB_PASSWORD;