RESPONSIBILITIES

• Design, develop, and maintain websites for multiple clients across a range of industries, primarily using WordPress.
• Build and customize front end interfaces using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript that align with each client's brand and goals.
• Develop, troubleshoot, and maintain backend functionality using PHP, resolving issues promptly to minimize downtime and disruption to client business.
• Manage e-commerce site builds and ongoing maintenance on platforms such as WooCommerce, Shopify, or ThriveCart.
• Execute website migrations, domain transfers, and hosting changes with minimal disruption to client operations.
• Configure and maintain website security measures to protect client sites from vulnerabilities, downtime, and unauthorized access.
• Build landing pages and set up automations and system integrations, using tools such as Zapier, Make, or n8n, and email marketing platforms such as ConvertKit or Klaviyo, when a client's project calls for it.
• Monitor website analytics and traffic, and optimize client sites for search engines and answer engines using current SEO and AEO practices, reporting on client-defined performance metrics.
• Use AI tools such as Claude or ChatGPT to support development work, troubleshoot issues, and build custom workflows for clients, staying current on emerging web development tools and AI-assisted practices.
• Collaborate with designers, including VaVa contractors supporting brand, graphic design, or content writing needs, when a project calls for additional creative support.
• Gather and refine project requirements directly from clients, and communicate timelines, progress, and technical concepts in accessible, non-technical language.
• Provide ongoing maintenance and ad hoc support for existing client sites, managing multiple concurrent projects and balancing routine work with new builds and migrations.
• Maintain clear documentation of site structure, credentials, and technical decisions for each client project.
• Complete additional web development tasks as requested, within the scope of the contractor engagement.

GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS

• Must reside and be authorized to work in the United States.
• At least 3 years of demonstrated experience in front end and backend web development.
• At least 2 years of experience working full-time in a virtual or remote capacity.
• Demonstrated experience supporting multiple clients across different industries; candidates who are actively running their own web development practice or taking on independent freelance engagements are strongly preferred.
• Available a minimum of 10 hours per week, with flexibility to take on additional ad hoc client projects as they arise.

TECHNICAL QUALIFICATIONS

Must Have

• Proficiency in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, with backend development experience in PHP.
• Proficiency in WordPress, including theme customization, plugin management, site migrations, and troubleshooting, along with experience on at least one ecommerce platform such as WooCommerce, Shopify, or ThriveCart.
• Experience with SEO and answer engine optimization (AEO), including Google Analytics, Search Console, and Tag Manager.
• Experience with automation and systems integration tools such as Zapier, Make, or n8n, and email marketing or landing page platforms such as ConvertKit or Klaviyo.
• Experience implementing website security best practices to protect client sites from vulnerabilities and downtime.
• AI literacy, including experience using tools such as Claude or ChatGPT to support development work and improve workflow efficiency.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, Slack, and Zoom.
• Experience with at least one project management tool and one CRM tool.

Preferred

• Experience with alternate website builder platforms such as Webflow, Wix, or Squarespace, or with AI-assisted builders such as Showit, Loveable, or Durable.
• Graphic design and UX/UI experience, including wireframing in Figma or Adobe Illustrator.
• Familiarity with Git/GitHub, SQL, or Python.

EDUCATION

A degree is not required. Demonstrated competency and a strong portfolio of front end work always outweigh credentials.

A degree or certificate in web development, computer science, or a related field is a plus, but not required.

Candidates without a degree should hold at least one relevant certification. Examples include: WordPress certification, AWS Certified Developer, a Google Analytics certification, or a foundational security certification like CompTIA Security+.

A commitment to continued learning is an expectation of this role. New technology and software capabilities shift regularly; staying current is part of the job.

Originally posted on Himalayas