We surveyed 1,109 back-end developers to better understand the work environment and required skills of a typical back-end developer. Here are the results.

How much intelligence is required as a back-end developer?

Low

High

Working as a back-end developer typically doesn’t require the use of high levels of intelligence in daily tasks.

Can I learn to become a back-end developer?

Intrinsic Talent

Acquired Talent

A career as a back-end developer typically depends predominantly on qualities you’re born with, with a small aspect of skills you can learn.

Is it easy to get a job as a back-end developer?

Easy

Hard

It’s typically difficult to find a job as a back-end developer.

Info

Do back-end developers work full-time or part-time?

83% of back-end developers work in full-time roles while 17% work part-time.

Is being a back-end developer stressful?

Low

High

Back-End developers tend not to find their jobs stressful, which likely contributes positively to career satisfaction.

Is being organized important as a back-end developer?

Low

High

Organization is not considered a particuarly important part of being a back-end developer.

How competitive is the workplace for back-end developers?

Low

High

Back-End developers see mild competition in their workplace.

Does being a back-end developer require frequent time pressure to complete tasks?

Low

High

Time pressure tends not to be a major contributor of stress for back-end developers.

Are back-end developers allowed to express themselves creatively?

Low

High

Back-End developers rarely get a chance to express themselves creatively.

Do back-end developers have control over the direction of their work?

Low

High

While sometimes the direction is set, occasionally back-end developers will have some flexibility over the direction of their work.

Is being a back-end developer physically demanding?

Low

High

Work as a back-end developers is rarely physically demanding, making it a suitable option for those unable to perform physically strenuous tasks.

Are back-end developers exposed to a wide variety of work?

Low

High

Back-End developers tend to have a monotonous work routine, with little variety in their day-to-day tasks.

Does being a back-end developer require attention to detail?

Low

High

Attention to detail isn't necessarily required to be successful as a back-end developer.

Does being a good back-end developer require compassion and empathy?

Low

High

The ability to be compassion and empathetic isn't considered fundamental to success as a back-end developer.