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Web Designer

With a mix of skills from different backgrounds like IT, design and business, web designers design, test and maintain the websites and of companies and other organisations. They are familiar with programming languages such as HTML, ASP, Javascript, C++, SQL and Visual Basic.

The look and “feel” of a website is important and selecting the appropriate colours, font, layout and images creates the whole personality of the website. In addition to considering visual aspects, the ease of use of the website has to be a priority. It is important to create a page that the target market can relate to. The ever changing IT industry demands flexibility and the ability to master new technologies.

If you are interested in a career as a Web Designer, visit Qualifax (www.qualifax.ie) to search for relevant courses at all levels and entry points.

Some alternative job titles for this role

  • Interaction Designer
  • User Interface Designer
  • Web Developer

What the job involves

  • Create a website with a specific design and eye grabbing graphics and details
  • Work with the client to establish the needs or functions that the web page and the overall website must achieve
  • Work with graphics software, such as Photoshop
  • Work with languages like Javascript
  • Work with a variety of media programs to add sound or film clips to web pages
  • Edit and programme content

How your career can develop

There are currently good prospects for experienced web designers and even better career progression for those who specialise, for instance in media or animation. They may become involved in client consultancy and project management while many opt for self-employment.

Why it matters?

Web designers are responsible for creating a virtual ‘shop window’ for businesses, which means they must be brand aware and design with the customer in mind, in addition to being technically capable. 

Skills

  • Excellent web language skills for instance in HTML, WYSIWYG and CSS
  • JavaScript and Ajax skills
  • PHP, ASP, Java, Perl and C++ skills
  • Design sense – knowing what works and what doesn’t
  • Knowledge of database maintenance suites such as MySQL
  • Search engine optimisation skills
  • An artistic eye
  • Up to data familiarity with current web trends
  • Social media skills
  • Business knowledge

Typical employers

  • Software companies
  • Technical/e-commerce/web consultancies
  • Retail businesses
  • Government/state organisations
  • Airlines
  • Entertainment companies

Typical salary 

  • Graduate/Starting      €25,000
  • Senior/Potential        €65,000

Typical qualifications 

Degrees in computing/IT or web development are common gateways to the profession. 

Alternative routes to a bachelor’s degree in this area may apply to students that have a PLC qualification in a related course or general computing/IT certification or diploma. For further details on eligibility requirements for third level entry following a PLC qualification, students should visit the CAO course search at Careersportal.ie. 

Further information