Overview: The web developer is responsible for managing and maintaining the organization’s website to ensure its functionality, usability, and alignment with the non-profit’s mission and goals. The web developer report directly to the publisher, with a dotted line reporting relationship with the editor and managing editor.

Key Responsibilities

  1. Website Management:
    • Implement design changes, navigation improvements, and user experience enhancements to enhance website usability and engagement.
    • Monitor and troubleshoot website issues, such as broken links, loading errors, and compatibility problems across different browsers and devices.
    • Regularly review and analyze website analytics to identify opportunities for improvement and optimize website performance.
  2. Content Development and Updates:
    • Optimize (SEO) to improve organic traffic and online visibility.
    • Incorporate multimedia elements, such as images, videos, audio, and interactive features, to enhance the user experience.
  3. Online Marketing and Fundraising Support:
    • Assist in the development and execution of online marketing strategies to promote The Watchdog’s programs, events, and initiatives.
    • Implement tracking tools, to monitor website performance, measure marketing campaign effectiveness, and generate reports for stakeholders.
    • Collaborate with The Watchdog’s marketing team to optimize website content for lead generation and conversion.
    • Support online fundraising efforts by integrating donation platforms, creating compelling donation pages, and ensuring a seamless donation process.
  4. Website Security and Maintenance:
    • Implement and maintain necessary security measures to protect the website from malware, hacking attempts, and other cyber threats.
    • Perform regular backups of website data and ensure disaster recovery procedures are in place.
    • Stay up to date with the latest web technologies, trends, and best practices, and recommend improvements or upgrades as needed.

Qualifications and Skills

  • Bachelor’s degree in web development, computer science, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
  • Proven experience in website management, including content updates, design changes, and troubleshooting.
  • Proficiency in web technologies such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and content management systems (CMS). Asheville Watchdog’s current host is WordPress.com, and its CMS is the Newspack platform on WordPress. Email marketing is outsourced to Blue Lena, which uses Active Campaign. We use Woo Commerce, Stripe, JetPack, Yoast, and related plug-ins.
  • Strong understanding of UX/UI principles and web design best practices.
  • Familiarity with SEO techniques and tools.
  • Experience with website analytics platforms (e.g., Google Analytics) and ability to interpret data to drive improvements.
  • Knowledge of online marketing strategies, including email marketing, social media, and digital advertising.
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with internal teams and external partners.
  • Attention to detail and ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.
  • Basic knowledge of cybersecurity principles and practices.
  • Passion for the nonprofit sector and alignment with the organization’s mission.

Note: This job description serves as a general overview of the typical responsibilities and qualifications for a nonprofit webmaster position. Actual job descriptions may vary depending on the specific needs and requirements of The Watchdog.

To apply: Please send your resume with the job title in the subject line to bark@avlwatchdog.com.