What Is a React Developer? (And How to Become One)

Key takeaways

React developers build user interfaces (UI) with JavaScript, support application performance, and benefit from strong industry demand.

• BLS projects that software developer roles will grow by 15 percent between 2024 and 2034 [1].

• React developers translate wireframes into code and ensure applications function smoothly across browsers and devices.

• You can build a competitive React career by gaining essential JavaScript and React skills and creating a portfolio of independent projects.

Learn what a React developer does, the salary potential, and how to start a career in the field. Then consider enrolling in Pearson’s Full-Stack React with Spring Boot Specialization. In as few as four weeks, you can learn how to use React techniques to build a compelling and interactive UI experience.

What is a React developer?

React is an open-source JavaScript library. It is sometimes referred to as React.js or ReactJS. In programming, libraries serve as toolkits for developers. Their contents may include configuration data, prewritten code, and message templates. A React developer uses their programming skills to create JavaScript-based applications for web or mobile environments. They typically specialize in front-end development, such as building user interfaces (UI).

What does a React developer do?

React developers are heavily involved in all stages of the interface development process. The list below outlines a few core responsibilities for React developers.

• Develop front-end features: React developers may be responsible for UI elements such as icons, images, and gesture-driven features. Examples of gesture-driven features include swiping, long-pressing, and drag-and-drop.

• Write code: A React developer translates wireframes (also known as screen blueprints) into code. They also work with and write CSS selectors and HTML tags.

• Optimize application functionality: In addition to designing and creating new features, React developers are responsible for cross-platform functionality. They ensure that different browsers and devices can efficiently run the application.

• Conduct software testing: Being involved with all stages of interface development requires React developers to test the applications they work on.

Are React developers in demand?

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), an above-average growth rate of 15 percent is projected for software developer occupations between 2024 and 2034 [1]. Regarding React's relevancy, it is the second most commonly used web framework worldwide as of 2025 [2]. If you’re interested in front-end development and web design, learning to use React can be a great way to enter this exciting industry.

Is React high paying: How much do React developers make?

A career as a React developer can be lucrative. According to Glassdoor, the estimated median total pay for a React developer in the US is $121,000 [3]. This figure includes base salary and additional pay, which may represent profit-sharing, commissions, bonuses, or other compensation.

Learn more: React Developer Salary: From Entry-Level to Senior Engineer

How to become a React developer

React is a free and open-source library, meaning anyone can use it. If you want to become a React developer to work on an independent project or bring an idea to life, you might consider learning on your own using YouTube videos and interacting with the React developer community.

However, those who want to become a React developer professionally may benefit more from online courses or certifications. These can provide structured learning with industry experts and career credentials. The sections below describe how to become a React developer step-by-step.

1. Choose your focus.

The React library is a front-end development toolkit. Developers use it to handle the view layer of an application, which only deals with the elements of a page that are visible to users. However, the React library is JavaScript-based, and JavaScript is a full-stack technology.

Full-stack technologies can be used to develop both the front-end and back-end of an application.

Although React works solely with the view layer of an application, it can be used in conjunction with back-end frameworks for server-side development. For this reason, aspiring React developers can choose to focus on front-end development or acquire full-stack development expertise. 

Front-end web development

Most React developers focus on front-end development. Front-end development includes content structurization, visual style, and interactive user experiences (UX). Earning a Professional Certificate in front-end development is an excellent way to gain the skills you need to prepare yourself for an entry-level role.

Full-stack web development

In addition to developing the UI, full-stack developers work with server-side frameworks and languages like Node.js, Django, and Python. If you’re interested in learning more about full-stack development with React, consider obtaining a relevant Specialization such as Packt’s MERN Stack Front to Back: Full Stack React, Redux & Node.js Specialization.

2. Gain the essential skills.

Although jobs in the software development field are growing at an above-average rate, a competitive skill set is crucial for React.js candidates [1]. You can use the list below to determine which essential skills to focus on.

• Programming, stylesheet, and markup languages: React is a JavaScript library. Knowledge of the programming language and its applications is crucial. Other areas of focus for React developers to study include HTML and CSS. Someone new to the web development field may consider an introductory Specialization like Web Design for Everybody: Basics of Web Development and Coding Specialization from the University of Michigan.

• Code repositories: Software developers use code repositories like GitHub and BitBucket to track and manage their source code history. You can master the Git version control system and start building your portfolio with the Introduction to Git and GitHub Google Career Certificate.

• React developer tools: With proficiency in React developer tools, you can manage your application throughout development. For example, Redux is an open-source state management library. React developers frequently use Redux for application state management and centralization. 

Consider a degree.

Many software developers begin their careers with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, a Master of Computer Science, or a degree in a related field. Some universities may offer degrees that focus on UX and UI. These areas of study can be particularly beneficial for aspiring React developers. Higher education can be advantageous, but employers do not always require it. 

3. Enhance your resume.

Entering or transitioning into a new role can be intimidating when you don’t yet have on-the-job experience. In place of experience, software developers can build portfolios of their work. These portfolios provide an opportunity to showcase specific skills and expertise. Open-source tools like React enable developers of all backgrounds to create and manage projects independently. If you’re unsure where to begin, consider using a Guided Project to help you get started.

Build your future career skills with our free resources

Join Career Chat on LinkedIn to stay current with the latest trends in your career field. You can also continue your learning journey with computer science and web development with our other free digital resources:

• Subscribe to YouTube: What Can You Do with a Computer Science Degree?

• Bookmark for later: Web Development Learning Roadmap: From Beginner to Expert

• Take the quiz: Career Test: What Career Is Right for Me Quiz?

Whether you want to get comfortable with an in-demand technology or advance your abilities, keep growing with a Coursera Plus subscription, where you’ll get access to over 10,000 flexible courses. 

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