WordPress Web Developer: Modernization & Migration

Who Are We? 
Groundswell is a premier technology integrator resolutely committed to solving the most complex challenges facing federal agencies today. Our name, Groundswell, represents our commitment to be an unstoppable, seismic change in government. Ours is a small company culture with big company reach and results.  Are you ready to be audacious, be bold and drive change at a rapid pace?  Join us, where we’ll make a greater impact together.
 

What You'll do:

Responsibilities:

• Support the migration of AOML’s locally hosted website to AWS. Plan and execute cloud migration activities including environment coordination, content/asset transfer, DNS/hosting cutover support, testing, and post-launch validation.

• Refactor and modernize legacy codebases to improve performance, maintainability, accessibility, security, and responsiveness. Convert older page structures into scalable, standards-based patterns.

• Build and maintain WordPress themes, templates, and reusable components. Create modular page layouts and templating systems that speed publishing and ensure brand/visual consistency.

• Develop, maintain, and optimize AOML’s public-facing website and digital products to clearly communicate NOAA science to non-technical audiences. Partner with scientists and comms staff to ensure content accuracy, clarity, and usability.

• Implement web-first storytelling and interactive content such as feature pages, storytelling, embedded media, and data-driven displays, ensuring cross-browser and cross-device compatibility.

• Develop digital visualizations and web graphics (charts, maps, infographics, UI assets) for integration into articles, landing pages, and interactive modules.

• Establish and enforce front-end standards including information architecture, navigation patterns, component styling, and version-controlled workflows for consistent delivery across the site.

• Monitor, troubleshoot, and improve site health using analytics, performance tools, and engagement metrics; deliver weekly reports and recommend technical/content enhancements.

• Collaborate across agencies and teams on digital engagement initiatives, virtual exhibits, and web-based outreach campaigns.

• Stay current on NOAA/AOML programs and continuously identify opportunities to improve site UX, functionality, and the discoverability of scientific content.

Required Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in a related field from an accredited university.

• 7+ years of professional experience in web development, front-end engineering, or digital communications with substantial coding responsibilities.

• Demonstrated experience translating complex scientific/technical information into effective digital experiences for general audiences.

• Advanced proficiency with WordPress development (custom themes, templates, Gutenberg or equivalent component workflows, plugin configuration, and site management).

• Experience leading or supporting cloud migrations (local/on-prem to AWS or similar), including migration planning, QA, and launch readiness.

• Strong competency in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and modern responsive/front-end practices.

• Proven ability to refactor and maintain legacy code and build reusable template/component systems.

• Understanding of UX/information architecture principles as applied to content-heavy websites.

• Experience using data visualization tools (ArcGIS, R, Tableau, Python, etc.) to produce web-embedded graphics or interactive outputs.

• Familiarity with web analytics (Google Analytics or comparable) and using data to guide technical improvements.

• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple deliverables under shifting priorities.

• U.S. Citizen; must be able to obtain and maintain government Public Trust clearance.

Preferred Experience:

• Proficiency with Adobe Creative Cloud (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign) for creating and optimizing web assets.

• Familiarity with AWS services used in deployment/hosting (e.g., S3, CloudFront, EC2/Lightsail, Amplify, Route 53) or equivalent cloud platforms.

• Working knowledge of OAR programs, labs, and cooperative institutes is preferred

• Knowledge of NOAA systems, services, research, and/or programs is preferred

• Fellowship Experience (for example: Knauss Fellowship or AAAS Science and Technology Fellowship) is preferred

Skills:

Certification:

Why You’ll Never Want to Leave:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans 

• Flexible Spending Account 

• 4% 401K Match (immediate vesting) 

• Paid Time Off 

• Tuition reimbursement, certification programs, and professional development

• Flexible work schedule

• On-site gym and childcare option 

The salary range for this role takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to skill sets, experience and training; licensure and certifications; and other business and organizational needs. The disclosed range estimate has not been adjusted for any applicable geographic differential associated with the location at which the position may be filled. At Groundswell, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for their role, and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. A reasonable estimate of the current range is:

NOTE: Groundswell does not accept unsolicited resumes through or from search firms or staffing agencies. All unsolicited resumes will be considered the property of Groundswell, and Groundswell will not be obligated to pay a placement fee.

Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category under applicable federal, state, and local laws.

Read a copy of the Company’s Non-Discrimination Policy Statement.
Additional Resources:

• EO 13496 Notification of Employee Rights under NLRA

• Know your rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal
   

Disability Accessibility Accommodation: If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation as part of the employment selection process, please contact us at [email protected] or 703-639-1777.