Web Developer

We are seeking a creative, detail-oriented Web Developer to oversee the design, maintenance, and day-to-day management of our website and related digital content. In this role, you will lead the visual design, user experience (UX), and frontend development of our website and related digital products, turning complex research and digital content into beautiful, intuitive, and highly engaging web experiences., * Design and execute engaging, responsive, and accessible web layouts and interactive content

• Manage website content, including publishing and editing text, images, videos, content sliders, landing pages, and other multimedia assets
• Collaborate with research and editorial teams to transform complex policy reports into engaging digital experiences and multimedia assets
• Collaborate with marketing, publicity, sales, and events teams to prototype and build high-conversion online campaigns and product launches
• Ensure content aligns with organizational branding, messaging, and accessibility standards
• Optimize content and structure for SEO, AI, usability, and mobile responsiveness
• Monitor website analytics and provide recommendations to improve user engagement and site performance
• Maintain frontend website functionality, integrations, and performance optimization
• Troubleshoot website issues, bugs, and technical errors, Qualified candidates should submit the following application materials (in order) in one PDF document:
• Cover letter including

• An introductory paragraph describing three distinct reasons you are drawn to the Independent Institute's mission and how you came to those beliefs
• Salary requirements

• Your resume
• Portfolio demonstrating web layout, UI/UX design principles, and live frontend execution

This role combines technical web development responsibilities with content creation, publishing, and website administration to ensure an engaging, user-friendly, and high-performing online presence. The ideal candidate is technically skilled, well organized, and creative, with the ability to manage website functionality while maintaining accurate, compelling, and brand-consistent digital content., * 3+ years of web development or relevant experience

• Strong portfolio demonstrating beautiful web layout, UI/UX design principles with intuitive user journeys, and live frontend execution
• Experience with HTML, CSS, PHP, and publishing content on WordPress sites
• Graphic design or multimedia editing experience, including familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite/Cloud
• Understanding of SEO/GEO best practices and website optimization
• Strong organizational, communication, and project management skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines independently
• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving abilities
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Communications, Marketing, or related field preferred (additional coursework or a certificate in Web Development or Digital Media is a plus)

Preferred Skills

• Familiarity with Shopify, Foxycart, Woocommerce, or similar online sales platforms
• Familiarity with Google Analytics or other analytics platforms
• Familiarity with WordPress page builder plugins like Avada
• Knowledge of website hosting, security, and maintenance

This is a full-time role that can be based in Independent's Oakland, CA office or anywhere in the US. The estimated salary range for this role is $85,000-95,000, depending on skills and experience.

For 40 years, The Independent Institute has shaped ideas into lasting impact through publications, conferences, and effective multimedia programs. We are a nonprofit, nonpartisan, public-policy research and educational organization with a mission to boldly advance peaceful, prosperous, and free societies grounded in a commitment to human worth and dignity. Applying independent thinking to issues that matter, we create transformational ideas for today's most pressing social and economic challenges.