An HTML programmer specializes in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to create websites. The separation of HTML programming into structural and design components has become the norm. Despite the rise of WYSIWYG software, demand for HTML programmers has increased due to businesses going online. HTML programmers may merge their skills with other relevant skill sets, and larger companies may hire several HTML programmers on staff. However, HTML programmers earn less than PHP programmers and software developers.
An HTML programmer is a web developer who specializes in HTML (HyperText Markup Language) or XHTML (eXtensible HyperText markup Language). Generally, an HTML programmer will also have a comprehensive knowledge of CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) and a working knowledge of JavaScript. Different programmers may use different tools, but most professional HTML programmers work in some variant of a text editing program, avoiding What You See What You Get (WYSIWYG) software packages for precise hand coding.
The actual HTML specification has changed little since its initial development in 1993, but the philosophy and best practices have changed immensely. Perhaps the biggest change has been the separation of HTML programming into a structural component and a design component, with HTML dealing with the content and body structure of a web page and CSS dealing with layout and appearance. This semantic approach to web design has become the most common form, and any new HTML programmer is likely to learn to code with this philosophy.
Although many programmers fear that as WYSIWYG software becomes more functional and accessible, the demand for their services would decline, recent years have seen an increase in demand for programmers. This is likely due to the fact that while more people are creating their own websites with software or online toolkits, even more people are taking their businesses online and want a professional to build their website from scratch. At the same time, there are many more programmers available today than there were even five years ago, making competition for customers somewhat fierce.
Many people who want to become an HTML programmer decide to merge it with other relevant skill sets. For example, someone who studies HTML might also choose to study PHP and SQL so that they can create dynamic websites based on databases. Another person may choose to study graphic design and become skilled with graphic design tools so that they can offer a complete web design package. Still others can learn a proprietary software template such as Flash to supplement building more basic HTML websites.
Many larger companies may also hire several HTML programmers on their staff to make updates and create new sites as needed. These programmers are usually salaried, although in some cases they may be paid a flat rate per job in addition to a retainer. For those considering a career, however, it’s good to remember that while an HTML programmer may earn a living, on average, they earn less than a PHP programmer, and significantly less than an actual software developer.
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