In its simplest term, HagePlex defines Webmasters are responsible for managing one or more websites. This title can be used to refer to web architects and web developers, site authors or website administrators.
It also may include website owners, coordinators, website publishers, webmasters, and website authors. Webmasters are responsible for maintaining the website’s functionality, including designing and updating web pages, responding to user comments and monitoring traffic. E-commerce software is also required for webmasters of commercial websites.
What does it mean to be a webmaster?
Webmasters are computer specialists who ensure that websites run smoothly and are maintained in a timely manner. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics states that webmasters decide which software to use for building a website and approve any content.
They also troubleshoot technical issues. For a quick overview, see the table below.
A webmaster is an ICT expert who keeps tabs on everything related to a website. They monitor every aspect of a website’s performance with search engines. Webmasters also manage all aspects of a website’s functionality, speed and design.
Asides from the above functions, Webmasters keep track of content, campaigns and marketing efforts on websites. Additionally, a good webmaster has the capacity to dabble in other aspects of information technology, like server setup and administration.
What does a webmaster do?
Webmasters are responsible for every aspect of a website. They solve technical issues, approve site content, and work with designers to ensure that the site looks great. For more information about the webmaster role, including career information and job descriptions, click here.
Skills required by a webmaster
Webmasters are responsible for many aspects of web maintenance and optimization. This means that there are many skills that can be useful. Our experts were asked to share their opinions on which skills are the most important.
WordPress and HTML
Webmasters are responsible for a lot of web development. Cardenas states, “I would recommend learning basic HTML and learning plugins that you enjoy using if you use WordPress.” Cardenas adds that you can spend your time doing deeper, more meaningful work by finding shortcuts, platforms, or tools that make it easier.
Graphic design
Webmasters do a lot of web design. Cardenas says that while you can learn the basics by just diving in, graphic design will improve the quality and speed with which your work is produced.
Search engine optimization (SEO), for technical search engines
Cardenas states that technical SEO is important for webmasters. It is crucial to understand how Google ranks websites and what content is penalized.
Clients often have high expectations of this part of the job. Cardenas states that the worst part of my job is having to deal with clients who have unreasonable expectations. For example, they want to rank immediately on Google for keywords related to their website.
You will understand SEO technicalities and be able to explain some aspects to clients, as well as provide meaningful results for their websites.
Writing
Many webmasters work in organizations that don’t have the resources or staff to hire niche experts. Writing skills can be an asset. Demetrian said that it is quite common to provide light copywriting support for campaigns, including website copy and social media campaigns.
Content strategy
According to Ponder, webmasters should have a good understanding of content strategy. Your clients will rely on your marketing expertise. It is important to explain or be able advise them in content strategy.
Ponder states, “Clients will ask you for information. It will be up to them to find out what it is or research it to assist them in finding a vendor to help with their needs.”
What does a webmaster do?
(1) Website maintenance
Maintaining a website often take up a lot of webmasters’ time. Website maintenance involves updating content, fixing broken images and links, and making sure that the code works with all browsers.
The webmaster is responsible for making any changes to the website, whether the owner or the graphic designer. A good understanding of HTML and Javascript is helpful in building a website. However, a solid knowledge of SEO will help you rank higher in search engines. It is especially important for retail websites to maintain their website.
(2) Troubleshooting
Webmasters test websites regularly for speed, functionality, and ease-of-use. Webmasters make sure all content on the website is easy to understand. Webmasters will respond to any complaints regarding a website.
(3) Server and Release Maintenance
Maintaining the server is an important part of webmasters’ jobs. This is where all information about the website is stored. Webmasters are responsible for monitoring the server in order to ensure it runs smoothly. They may also write and execute script programs to move files from a development server into an online production server.
Education Requirements
A lot of entry-level webmasters are able to perform their job duties by taking technical classes, or by learning by doing and building websites. A associate’s in computer science can help broaden a webmaster’s skill set and increase job opportunities.
A Bachelor of Science mostly in Computer Science , or similar degree in computer science or web design, could help you become a webmaster that works with more complicated websites.
What is the Salary of Webmasters:
According to our research on the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, webmasters are one type of web developer. According to the BLS, all web developers are expected to see a 15% increase in employment between 2016 and 2026. Of course, this is much higher than the average growth rate for all occupations. As of 2018, these professionals had a median salary of $69,430.
Webmaster Job Description:
The ideal job description of a Webmasters is to develop and manage websites according to a clients’ needs. Webmasters ensure that developed websites are secure, user-friendly, visually appealing and functional.
Webmaster Responsibilities:
The basic responsibility of a webmaster are as follows;
(a) Determining every aspect of a client’s website needs and requirements.
(b) Building and testing user-friendly and functional websites.
(c) Coordinating with designers, content providers, and management or business owners.
(d) Implementing every aspect of website security and data protection.
(e) Administering, Maintaining, optimizing and updating servers.
(f) Monitoring and analyzing site performance.
(g) Updating website content and reviewing SEO.
(h) Addressing and responding to user comments and complaints.
(i) Webmaster Requirements:
(j) Degree in computer science or a related field preferred.
(k) Working knowledge of programming languages and operating systems.
(l) Knowledge of website management tools.
(m) Online marketing and SEO skills.
(n) Knowledge of IT security.
(o) Good collaboration skills.
(p) Reliable and detail-oriented.
(q) Good communication and problem-solving skills.
What experience and education do webmasters require?
Webmasters can work for themselves or start their own businesses in order to take on clients. Larger companies may employ webmasters in-house to manage their websites.
Anyone who is interested in becoming webmaster should consider programs that are focused on web programming and development. Clients and employers often require a certain level of experience to fill these positions. Ponder suggests that coding camps and programs such as 3-Day Start are great ways to gain experience.
Ponder adds, “Additionally, the gig economy has many sites where you can get a small freelance job and make some side income while at school.” There are many opportunities to enhance your resume and learn new skills while job-hunting.
Steps to become a webmaster
Step 1: Start Training
To maintain a website’s integrity, webmasters who use a content management software only need to be familiar with the software and have basic programming skills. Some HTML and software courses are taught over the course of a semester.
For more complicated websites, webmasters must be proficient in multiple programming languages. A certificate in web programming may suffice. A certificate program will cover programming languages like HTML5, CSS, Javascript and XHTML. It will also include introductory coursework in web design software. A few certificate programs offer basic instruction in web design, usability, and other topics.
Step 2: Gain Experience
Employers expect webmaster candidates with at least one year experience in webmaster work to be considered for a job. To demonstrate knowledge and skills in content creation, programming skills and web design best practices, individuals create their own blog or website. Webmasters may also volunteer to manage websites for churches, social groups, and other non-profits.
Many websites use social media to drive customers to their website. Webmasters need to be familiar with the most popular social media tools and applications that can integrate social media into a website.
Step 3: Continue education for career advancement
Websites and webmasters must adapt to technology and change with organizations. Webmasters can improve the quality of their websites and find new ways to attract visitors with associate and bachelor’s degrees in web marketing, computer science, and web design. The 4-year program covers technology to create attractive designs and protect information. Information technology degrees allow students to specialize in areas like information security.
Aspiring Webmasters require at least one year of experience, as well as training and certification in programming languages and content-management systems. These can be found at colleges or universities through courses and certificates.
Example Webmaster Job Description
This Webmaster job description example will give you a clear idea of the qualifications every employer look for when they hire for this position. No doubt, every employer is unique and will require different qualifications to hire Webmasters.
Webmaster Job Summary
We are looking for a webmaster who is highly skilled and experienced to join our expanding technology team. You will manage our company’s website, making sure it is up-to-date and user-friendly.
As part of our technology team, you will be responsible for expanding our web presence by designing and implementing new web-based apps that will improve our customers’ experiences. You will also need to be proficient in all aspects of server management, online security, content management, and coding.
Responsibilities and Duties
- Regular meetings with management are a good way to discuss future and current functionality.
- Keep your security up-to-date and monitor it.
- All web traffic can be monitored and reported
- All necessary updates should be made to the site in order to minimize downtime
- Current SEO trends require that you update your content
- Fix any reported bugs and repair any broken links
- Optimize speed by maintaining virtual and cloud-based servers
- Participate in discussions about ways to improve functionality or usability
- To meet your needs and increase efficiency, work with technology and business teams
- Users can get prompt responses to their queries and comments
- Backup servers and failover management
- Analyze and gather requirements
Qualifications and Requirements
- A bachelor or masters degree, mostly in computer science, or a related field, is required. Master’s degrees are an advantage.
- A certification or proof of continuing education is a plus
- Expertise in technology for 5+ years
- Experience in leadership and/or management is an asset
- Problem-solving and strategic thinking are two of the most important skills.
- Ability to manage multiple websites
- Solid working knowledge of all relevant programming languages (PHP/Javascript, HTML).
- Capable of using web content management system, e.g. Sitefinity, WordPress
- Excellent communicator, especially when it comes to abstract concepts
Salary for webmasters is an average annual salary
The national average salary for webmasters is $48,882 annually. While salaries can vary, webmasters can still earn higher salaries if they have more technical experience or are certified. Webmasters will benefit from understanding the salary scales of companies and the job market to help them find a job in this field.
The benefits of being a webmaster
You can have both computer science and web design jobs by becoming a webmaster. This career path offers many benefits, including:
- Technology experience: You can learn more about the technology behind websites, mobile devices and computers. This will help you to understand how they work and provide opportunities for learning.
- Cybersecurity experience: Being a webmaster will help you learn the basics of cybersecurity as well as how to protect your digital or online assets from hackers. Cyberattacks can be mitigated by prevention and detection.
- Experience in teamwork: Being a webmaster will allow you to gain the basics of collaboration and teamwork in a technology environment. Every day, webmasters collaborate with network administrators, developers, and other professionals in technology.
- Competitive salary: Webmasters often earn a competitive salary, with the possibility to earn more if they complete higher education programs, accumulate more experience, or have more professional credentials.
EndNote:
A webmaster is a professional who can fulfill a wide range of website needs. This job requires technical knowledge as well as creative thinking. You might consider working as a webmaster or any other job title that falls under this umbrella if you like the idea of mixing right-brain and left-brain work.
Webmasters must be able to code and design websites. This is a fundamental part of their work. You should read our article ” Everything you Need to Know about Becoming a Web Developer” if you are interested in getting started in web development. Thanks for reading HagePlex Webmaster Guide.
