Entry-Level Jobs in Web Design & Development – What You Need to Know

If you’ve just finished a bootcamp, a short course, or even taught yourself HTML and CSS, the next step is finding that first web job. It can feel overwhelming, but the good news is there are clear paths if you know where to look and what to show.

Where to Find Real Entry-Level Opportunities

Start with job boards that focus on tech beginners. Sites like Indeed, Reed, and LinkedIn let you filter for "junior" or "entry-level" titles. Don’t skip niche boards such as JuniorDev Jobs or local university career pages – they often list small agencies looking for fresh talent.

Another goldmine is freelance platforms. Even a short gig on Upwork or Fiverr can give you a portfolio piece and a client reference. Treat each tiny project like a real job: set deadlines, communicate clearly, and ask for a testimonial.

Skills That Actually Get You Hired

Employers aren’t after a laundry list of buzzwords; they want proof you can get a site online. Make sure you can:

• Build a responsive page using HTML, CSS, and a bit of JavaScript.
• Deploy a static site to a free host like GitHub Pages or Netlify.
• Read a simple API and display data – think fetching weather info with fetch().
• Use a CMS or site builder (WordPress, Webflow) to create a functional site in a day.

Show these skills in a small portfolio: a personal site, a mock business page, or a redesign of a local shop’s site. Keep the code on GitHub and include a link on every resume you send.

Soft skills matter too. Show you can explain technical stuff to a non‑tech client, meet deadlines, and take feedback. A short line on your resume like "Communicated design changes to client and delivered on time" goes a long way.

When you land an interview, be ready with stories. Instead of saying "I know CSS Grid," tell how you used it to fix a layout problem for a friend's bakery site. Real examples beat abstract claims every time.

Finally, keep learning. The web moves fast – a quick weekend project with the newest JavaScript framework (React, Vue, or Svelte) shows you can adapt. You don’t need mastery; just a working demo to prove curiosity.Getting that first entry-level web job is mostly about visibility and proof. Post your portfolio on social, network in local meetups, and apply with a tailored cover letter that mentions the company’s recent project. Follow up politely after a week – it signals genuine interest.

Remember, every senior developer once stood where you are now. Focus on building real stuff, share it openly, and the right opportunity will show up. Good luck!