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What does a freelance WordPress developer do?

A freelance WordPress developer is a professional who specializes in the creation of websites, blogs, and other online destinations within the WordPress ecosystem. By using the WordPress platform, a freelance WordPress developer can utilize templates and themes, along with other programming languages such as HTML, to build online solutions for clients relatively quickly.

What skills do I need to become a freelance WordPress developer?

Freelance WordPress developers possess a variety of skills enabling them to build and deliver online projects for individuals and organizations. While there is overlap in skills possessed by WordPress developers and developers who are well versed in other programming languages, such as Python, HTML, and Ruby on Rails, specializing in WordPress provides a competitive edge.

As a result, a WordPress developer might not only provide expertise related to templates and themes pertaining to the WordPress platform but may also be able to expand significantly on the limitations of WordPress by incorporating other languages and capabilities.

Common skills a freelance WordPress developer should possess include:

• Knowledge of HTML and CSS. HTML is a markup language used to display content on a webpage. CSS, or Cascading Style Sheets, controls the design elements and web-related elements appearing on the page. Using both HTML and CSS is important to getting the most out of WordPress development.
• Experience in Adobe Photoshop. WordPress developers must also know how to use features associated with Photoshop, such as auto select, trim, and layer. This knowledge allows any WordPress developer worth their salt to maximize elements within WordPress themes.
• An understanding of SEO. Since incorporating search engine optimization into a website to increase traffic is essential, a WordPress developer needs to be able to implement SEO capabilities.
• Proficient use of web frameworks. Writing original code is part of a WordPress developer’s responsibilities. A freelance WordPress developer can integrate web frameworks into sites to speed the web development process. This results in high-performing websites with cleaner code. It’s also worth noting that HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and PHP frameworks are all compatible with WordPress, allowing developers to use front-end frameworks such as Bootstrap, React, and Laravel to maximize the effectiveness of WordPress sites.
• Online security. It’s important for developers to understand online security and how to set up a website so that cybercriminals and hackers can’t get access to important information. Incorporating off-the-shelf security plugins and knowing how to test for vulnerabilities are key components of a freelance WordPress developer’s skill set.

What are the core freelance WordPress developer job responsibilities?

When working with different clients, freelance WordPress developers will be offered projects of varying objectives. Some clients may want a simple website that is quick to complete with little creativity required. Others may be looking for more complex work.

Although no two projects are the same, there are key responsibilities a freelance WordPress developer will be asked to handle, including:

• Lead back-end and front-end web development projects for the company, including custom theme development and plugins
• Oversee performance tests for websites
• Build and implement new web features on existing WordPress websites
• Collaborate with other team members during the concepting and building phase of websites
• Research and test new WordPress plugins and scripts
• Ensure a high level of security for all websites developed and deployed
• Communicate regularly with the executive creative team and provide updates and progress on all in-process projects

Should I get a degree or certification to be a freelance WordPress developer?

While a two- or four-year degree from an accredited university is not a requirement to becoming a freelance WordPress developer, obtaining a degree in computer science, computer programming, or a related field can help set you apart from other freelancers. Although there are no official WordPress certifications available, you can gain additional training by taking courses related to WordPress development.

Popular WordPress training courses include:

• Becoming a WordPress Developer: Unlocking Power with Code—offered by Udemy
• WordPress (Essential Training, SEO, Workflows, Ecommerce and More)—offered by LinkedIn Learning