Data Engineer vs. Web Developer: What Are the Differences?

Data engineering and web development are both in-demand careers with exciting growth potential. If you’re interested in working with data or building websites, these may be two roles you’re considering. In this article, we compare and contrast data engineering and web development, including job duties, skills required and average salaries. We also provide helpful tips for those interested in pursuing either of these careers.

What is a Data Engineer?

Data Engineers design, build, maintain and troubleshoot data processing systems. They work with Data Architects to design data models and flows that meet business needs. Data Engineers develop, test and deploy data processing solutions using big data technologies. They also monitor and optimize data processing systems to ensure they are running smoothly and efficiently. Data Engineers typically have a strong background in computer science and experience with programming languages, big data technologies and database systems.

What is a Web Developer?

Web Developers design, build and maintain websites. They work in a variety of industries and are responsible for the coding, programming and layout of websites. Web Developers typically have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field, and they must be skilled in programming languages and web development software. In some cases, Web Developers may also create and design the graphical elements of websites. They work closely with web designers to ensure that the website meets the client’s vision and is user-friendly.

Data Engineer vs. Web Developer

Here are the main differences between a data engineer and a web developer.

Job Duties

Both data engineers and web developers have duties that involve coding. However, the type of coding they do differs. Web developers use coding languages like JavaScript to write code that allows users to interact with a website. Data engineers use coding languages like Python or SQL to extract, process and store data for later analysis.

Another difference between these two professions is the type of software they use. Web developers typically use graphic design software, such as Adobe Photoshop or Adobe Illustrator, to create attractive websites that appeal to users. Data engineers don’t use this type of software because their job is to provide an objective analysis of data without adding subjective elements.

Job Requirements

Data engineers and web developers typically need a bachelor’s degree in computer science or another related field. However, some employers may be willing to hire candidates with an associate degree or no degree at all if they have the necessary skills and experience. Additionally, data engineers and web developers can pursue certifications to improve their job prospects and earn higher salaries. For example, the Certified Web Developer (CWD) credential is offered by the Institute for Certification of Computing Professionals (ICCP). To earn this credential, candidates must pass an exam that covers topics like HTML, CSS and JavaScript.

Work Environment

Data engineers and web developers typically work in different environments. Web developers often work in offices or other locations where they can access the internet to test their websites. They may also travel to meet with clients, attend conferences or collaborate with teams on projects.

Data engineers usually work in an office environment, but they may also visit clients’ sites to install equipment or perform maintenance. They may also spend time working remotely from home.

Skills

Both data engineers and web developers need to have strong technical skills. Data engineers need to be able to work with large data sets and understand how to store, process and analyze data. They also need to be familiar with different types of databases and know how to write code in languages like Java, Python and SQL.

Web developers need to have a strong understanding of HTML, CSS and JavaScript. They also need to be familiar with different types of web development frameworks and know how to use server-side scripting languages like PHP and Ruby on Rails. In addition, web developers need to have good problem-solving skills as they often need to debug code and find solutions to complex issues.

Salary

Data engineers can earn an average salary of $113,717 per year, while web developers can earn an average salary of $78,677 per year. Both of these average salaries may vary depending on the size of the company at which you work, location of your job and the level of experience you have prior to pursuing either position.