Front End Web Developer

The Front End Web Developer is responsible for combining technology and design to the university website and various properties to attract prospective students and ensure a good user experience. The Front End Web Developer will use programming languages to code user-side applications, visual elements, and overall layout of Regent’s websites or web applications. Duties include communication with internal and external clients for needs optimizing sites for desktop, tablet, and mobile while running various tests to ensure code is functioning correctly. The developer will work with clients to develop the overall look and design of the website, enhance website experience, run optimization tests, incorporate applications, place graphics, audio and video into sites while routinely testing sites for ease of use, speed, and other factors. The Front End Web Developer also collaborates with the Digital Web & SEO Specialist on front-end and WordPress maintenance work, providing guidance on templates and structures the developer establishes, and ensures university web properties meet accessibility (WCAG) and performance standards. This position requires the ability to develop mobile-friendly websites using PHP, HTML, CSS and Javascript, including building and maintaining custom WordPress templates and page layouts beyond basic theme maintenance. 

Work Location: Virginia Beach, VA. Qualified candidates may be considered for remote work depending on location. 

Salary: $60,650-65,650 annually

Essential duties:

• Develop functional, appealing, mobile-friendly web pages and fixing issues or bugs
• Create quality mockups and prototypes on tight timelines, applying sound UX and layout judgment (hierarchy, usability, conversion paths) rather than templated drag-and-drop assembly, using Figma or a comparable tool to wireframe and communicate designs prior to development
• Assist back-end developers with coding and troubleshooting
• Create cascading style sheets (CSS) that are cross-browser compatible
• Stay up to date on emerging technologies, and promote usability best practices
• Collaborate with the Digital Web & SEO Specialist on front-end and WordPress maintenance tasks, providing guidance on templates and page structures you establish, and coordinate on technical SEO implementation to optimize and update the website, microsites and landing pages
• Code HTML emails, landing pages and micro-sites for various clients
• Update web content as needed with the overall goals of creating a better user experience and helping promote primary marketing messages
• Help define websites, microsites, and landing pages to meet best practices and ensure clear and concise engagement and communication to users
• Work with designers to select appropriate artwork for deliverables, consistent with brand guidelines and target audiences
• Improve current web processes and workflows as needed
• Co-lead creation/redesign projects of diverse and complex scope in close collaboration with the creative/design team, working directly with faculty and staff to identify areas of interest and align them with university goals
• Identify user needs, implement timelines, prepare and deliver project update to teams across university offices and departments
• Ensure web pages, templates, and applications meet university accessibility standards (WCAG 2.1 AA) and best practices for inclusive design
• Monitor and optimize Core Web Vitals, page speed, and mobile responsiveness across university web properties
• Manage and troubleshoot third-party plugins, embeds, and integrations (e.g., countdown tools, livestream embeds, student portal integrations) used across Regent web properties
• Track and manage web development tasks and projects using the university's project management system (e.g., Wrike), including stakeholder updates and deadlines
• Deliver all work on time, within budget at a quality standard for all clients
• Provide technical accuracy and thoroughness in creating deliverables
• Communicate effectively with key stakeholders across the organization

Qualifications:

• Undergraduate degree in Computer Science or Information, Corporate media, or Interactive Media
• Advanced proficiency in WordPress as front-end user and back-end admin with willingness to learn and use new CMS tools for various 3rd party platforms (e.g., Shopify, Thinkific) as needed beyond the primary WordPress environment
• Deep understanding of coding HTML emails, HTML sites, CSS markup, and intermediate-to-advanced PHP and Javascript coding knowledge, including experience building custom WordPress page templates
• Proficiency with Figma or a comparable wireframing/prototyping tool, used to communicate layout, hierarchy, and user flow decisions prior to development
• Familiar with Google Analytics and ability to monitor site traffic and use analytics to make recommendations for improved user experience
• Working knowledge of WCAG 2.1 accessibility standards and experience auditing or remediating websites for compliance
• Experience managing or troubleshooting third-party plugins, embedded tools, and web-based integrations
• Familiarity with project management platforms (e.g., Wrike) for tracking and reporting on development tasks

Candidates must have:

• Desire and willingness to stay abreast of emerging web technology trends and best web practices within the field of higher education
• Ability to handle a large volume of work and effectively multitask in a deadline-driven environment while working independently or as part of a team and delivering excellent customer service
• Excellent communication, organizational and project management skills with ability to develop project timelines, coordinate internal/external teams, track project tasks and maintain project documentation effectively across business segments and staff
• Self-motivated and disciplined with track record of successfully managing projects for diverse audiences
• Team player attitude and willingness to take constructive advice and direction of senior leadership
• Outstanding meticulous attention to detail with business, creative, and technical acumen
• Commitment to Regent’s core values of excellence, innovation, and integrity

Regent University does not discriminate in employment in its programs or activities on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, disability, age or veteran status. For full Non-Discrimination Policy click here.

Benefits

Regent offers a wide range of generous benefits including health, life and disability insurance; flexible spending accounts; tuition incentives; fully vested retirement plans; life and disability insurance options, time off, and more. All regular faculty and staff serving at Regent and working a minimum of 30 hours per week will receive an attractive benefits package.