Within the web design industry, there is responsibility for the design, layout and coding of web pages. Web designers are information architects, who plan how the content will be managed and displayed. Web designer are responsible for dealing with the more sophisticated websites that handle online enquiries, search engine optimisation and web hosting and they also account/project manager, co-ordinating all these aspects over different projects.
Web designers should be creative and imaginative and have good written and verbal skills. They should enjoy working with computers and have a good knowledge of how the internet works. Web designers enjoy solving problems and must be able to meet deadlines and work in a team.
This is still relevant and rapidly developing area of work, with growing opportunities in fields such as 'e-commerce' (e.g. online shopping). Typical employers include specialist and internet service producers, publishers, graphic design companies, private companies with in-house websites and public sector organisations.
Key assets and skills for Web Designer Jobs
Applicants for web designer jobs usually have a degree, HND or HNC. A degree requires at least two A levels/three H grades and five GCSEs/S grades (A-C/1-3). An artistic background with a relevant qualification in IT can be useful. It is important to build up a strong portfolio of experience in designing web pages and this may compensate for lack of formal qualifications. There is no upper age limit for starting in this work.
The majority of training is done on the job, with short courses (in-house or external) to cover technical training on specialist new systems and new code.
In large companies and organisations there may be opportunities for promotion to project manager level. Many internet/web designer jobs work on a freelance or contract basis.
Contact the Design Division Team
Email the Design Division at design@stafffinders.co.uk.