Web Developer vs. Software Engineer: Creating Solutions for the Digital Age

We use websites, operating systems, mobile apps, and other digital solutions every day. Most of us know we’re relying on millions of software developers (some 27.7 million in 2023) to create these solutions. But who, exactly, is creating what? Although they’re commonly confused, web developers and software engineers have different roles.

So, who does what? And if you’re figuring out which professional to hire—web developer vs. software engineer—what’s the best choice?

Responsibilities

In a nutshell, software engineers develop software solutions, while web developers create web solutions. But their responsibilities are a bit more nuanced.

Web Developers

Web developers build websites and web applications that run within internet browsers from start to finish. They are responsible for how these solutions function and perform.

Web developers are usually separated into front-end, back-end, or full-stack developers. 

• Front-end developers work primarily on the user-facing elements of the website, including interactions, navigations, widgets, text, and portals.
• Back-end developers build the underlying structure and logic of the solution, the basis of the website. 
• Full-stack developers create comprehensive solutions, building both the client side and server side. 

In addition to these responsibilities, all web developers optimize, maintain, and upgrade web solutions. They also ensure compatibility with different browsers and devices, bolster their security, troubleshoot, and debug websites and web apps. 

Software Engineers

Software engineers work on the full software development lifecycle, from evaluating requirements to continuing to provide maintenance and support. In a nutshell, their goal is to translate user requirements into functional and performant software.

These engineers architect and build complex computer programs and systems for mobile and desktop devices. They often specialize in certain products or types of development, such as enterprise systems, mobile apps, desktop apps, games, or databases. Web developers are actually a type of software engineer; in other words, all web developers are software developers or engineers, but not all software developers are web developers. 

As with web developers, software developers are often front-end, back-end, or full-stack engineers. Responsibilities include ensuring compatibility with existing systems, writing documentation about the design, making recommendations about upgrades, testing and debugging code, and providing maintenance and support.

Skills

Web developers and software engineers need a variety of overlapping skills, including programming, version control systems, documentation, Agile methodologies, and knowledge of cybersecurity principles. 

They must also have soft skills such as: 

• Problem-solving
• Attention to detail
• Analytical skills
• Logical thinking
• Critical thinking
• Communication
• Collaboration
• Creativity 
• Adaptability
• Continuous learning mindset

There are also some skills specific to each role.

Web Developer Skills

Web developers should be proficient in using languages, frameworks, and technologies like HTML/CSS, JavaScript, PHP, Ruby, Ruby on Rails, Python, Vue, Angular, and React. They must also be adept at wireframing and web performance optimization. Often, they will need to use content management systems like WordPress or Drupal.

Front-end developers should have some knowledge of graphic design/UX design and responsive design, while back-end developers must understand database management.

Software Engineer Skills

Software engineers should have a firm grasp of several languages and technologies, such as Java, C, C#, Python, SQL, and Golang. Other important skills include object-oriented design (OOD), data structures, database architectures and management, and creating algorithms.

Engineers also need to be able to conduct debugging and unit testing, as well as collaborate with QA specialists to perform more comprehensive software testing. 

Web Developers vs. Software Engineers: Salary and Job Outlook

As digital solutions become increasingly important across industries, both web developers and software engineers are in high demand. Still, software engineers have higher earning potential, with a median salary of $123,052 and a projected growth of 17% between 2023 and 2033 in the US—much faster than average for all occupations. Meanwhile, web developers have a median salary of $82,432 and a projected growth of 8%, faster than average for all occupations. 

Businesses often need a variety of tech professionals to perform different functions, including building websites and software solutions. Considering that and other factors, such as the rapidly expanding tech landscape, both roles have a promising outlook and can lead to a lucrative and thriving career. 

Looking to hire a web developer or software engineer? Whether you need freelancers, full-timers, or an entire team, we can help. Hire pre-vetted developers in Latin America, Canada, or Europe from Terminal’s elite talent pool.