How much JavaScript do I need to know to get a job?

by Barry Fell Web IT Services

JavaScript is one of the most widely-used programming languages in the world and is necessary to create websites and web applications. If you’re aiming to get a job in web development, some familiarity with JavaScript is essential. But how much knowledge do you need?

In this article, we’ll discuss the different levels of JavaScript proficiency required to get a job. We’ll cover the various roles that need JavaScript proficiency, the skills that are needed to obtain those positions, and the best resources to learn the language.

Different Roles That Require JavaScript Knowledge

There are a few different positions that require a basic understanding of JavaScript. These range from entry-level positions to more advanced roles.

  • An entry-level front-end web developer needs to know HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. This role focuses on front-end development, but an understanding of how JavaScript works is necessary to create web pages.
  • An advanced front-end web developer requires a deeper knowledge of JavaScript and its libraries and frameworks. This person should be able to construct complex web applications and understand popular libraries like React and Angular.
  • A full-stack web developer needs to be proficient in both front-end and back-end development. They must understand various technologies and have a firm grasp of JavaScript and its related frameworks.
  • Server-side JavaScript requires an understanding of Node.js and related server-side technologies. This person needs to be able to write server-side applications and APIs.

Skills Needed to Land a Job

Aside from knowledge of JavaScript, there are a few other skills that are necessary to land a job in web development. These include:

  • Problem-solving: Being able to think through a problem and figure out a solution, as well as troubleshooting and debugging code.
  • Communication: Being able to effectively explain complex concepts to other developers.
  • Teamwork: Being able to collaborate with other developers to build a product.
  • Web fundamentals: Knowing the basics of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to construct web pages.
  • Best practices: Understanding security, performance, and scalability.

Best Resources for Learning JavaScript

If you want to learn JavaScript, there are a variety of resources that provide tutorials and projects. Here are some of the best:

  • FreeCodeCamp: FreeCodeCamp is great for learning JavaScript. It has free tutorials and projects to help you learn the basics.
  • Codecademy: Codecademy is a great resource for interactive tutorials and projects to learn the fundamentals of JavaScript.
  • Egghead: Egghead is a great resource for more advanced JavaScript concepts. It provides video tutorials and projects.
  • Udemy: Udemy provides a variety of courses to learn the basics and more advanced JavaScript concepts.

To get a job in web development, you need some understanding of JavaScript. Depending on the role, you’ll need to know the basics of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, or a deeper understanding of JavaScript and its libraries and frameworks. Additionally, problem-solving, communication, teamwork, web fundamentals, and knowledge of best practices are all necessary skills.

There are a variety of resources to help you learn JavaScript, such as FreeCodeCamp, Codecademy, Egghead, and Udemy. With the right knowledge and dedication, you can become an expert in JavaScript and build amazing web applications.