WordPress Developer

About the Job

Position Overview

We are seeking a WordPress Developer to join our team and help launch polished WordPress sites for our clients. This role focuses on identifying the right templates and extensions, customizing them to meet client requirements, and deploying professional websites. You'll work with existing WordPress themes and plugins to create tailored solutions without building from scratch, then provide ongoing maintenance and support.

Key Responsibilities

Site Development & Customization

• Research and select appropriate WordPress themes that match client requirements.
• Identify and integrate suitable plugins and extensions for specific functionality.
• Customize existing themes through child themes, CSS modifications, and configuration.
• Implement client branding, content, and design preferences.
• Configure and optimize chosen plugins for optimal performance.

Project Implementation

• Work with multiple client projects simultaneously.
• Translate client requirements into technical implementations.
• Configure WordPress settings and user permissions.
• Set up and customize contact forms, galleries, and other standard features.
• Ensure sites are mobile-responsive and cross-browser compatible.

Specialized Site Types

• Ecommerce Sites: Configure WooCommerce stores using existing themes, set up payment gateways, product catalogs, and shopping functionality.
• Booking Systems: Implement booking/reservation systems using appropriate plugins and themes.
• Landing Pages: Create high-converting landing pages using page builders and optimized templates.
• Business Websites: Deploy professional business sites with appropriate themes and functionality.

Deployment & Launch

• Set up WordPress installations on hosting platforms.
• Configure domain settings and SSL certificates.
• Perform site launches and go-live procedures.
• Conduct pre-launch testing and quality assurance.
• Handle site migrations from staging to production environments.

Ongoing Maintenance & Support

• Provide regular WordPress core, theme, and plugin updates.
• Monitor site performance and security.
• Troubleshoot issues and provide technical support.
• Implement backup and security protocols.
• Train clients on content management and basic site administration.

Required Skills & Experience

WordPress Expertise

• 2+ years of experience working with WordPress sites and administration.
• Strong understanding of WordPress themes, plugins, and customization options.
• Experience with popular page builders (Elementor, Gutenberg, Divi, etc.).
• Knowledge of child theme creation and CSS customization.
• Familiarity with WordPress hosting environments and deployment processes.

Technical Skills

• Frontend Technologies: HTML, CSS, and basic JavaScript for customizations.
• WordPress Plugins: Experience with popular plugins for various functionalities.
• Site Optimization: Understanding of performance optimization and SEO basics.
• Domain & Hosting: Knowledge of domain management, hosting setup, and DNS configuration.

Specialized Knowledge

• WooCommerce: Experience setting up and configuring WooCommerce stores
• Booking Systems: Familiarity with booking/appointment plugins and configuration
• Page Builders: Proficiency with drag-and-drop page builders and their ecosystems
• Extensions: Knowledge of WordPress plugin ecosystem and extension integration

Template & Theme Skills

• Theme Evaluation: Ability to evaluate and select appropriate themes for different use cases
• Theme Customization: Experience customizing premium and free WordPress themes
• Theme Compatibility: Understanding of theme compatibility with various plugins
• Responsive Design: Knowledge of responsive design principles and mobile optimization

Preferred Qualifications

• Theme Marketplaces: Experience with popular WordPress theme marketplaces (ThemeForest, etc.)
• Staging Environments: Familiarity with staging environments and development workflows
• Web Analytics: Basic understanding of web analytics and conversion optimization
• Email Marketing: Experience with email marketing integrations and CRM connections
• Website Security: Knowledge of website security best practices

Soft Skills

• Research Skills: Strong research skills for identifying the right tools and templates
• Problem-Solving: Excellent problem-solving abilities for configuration challenges
• Communication Skills: Clear communication skills for client interaction and requirement gathering
• Independence: Ability to work independently and manage multiple client projects
• Detail-Oriented: Detail-oriented approach to ensure polished final deliverables
• Time Management: Time management skills to meet project deadlines

Day-to-Day Activities

• Client Requirements: Evaluate client requirements and recommend appropriate themes/plugins
• Site Customization: Customize WordPress sites using existing templates and extensions
• Website Testing: Configure and test website functionality before launch
• Client Coordination: Coordinate with clients on content, design preferences, and functionality
• Site Launches: Perform site launches and post-launch support
• Website Maintenance: Maintain and update existing client websites
• Troubleshooting: Troubleshoot technical issues and provide solutions

Work Environment

• Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
• Work Model: Hybrid role with flexible working arrangements
• Collaboration: Regular check-ins with team members and management
• Client Interaction: Occasional physical meetings with staff and clients as needed
• Team Integration: Participate in team meetings and collaborative project sessions

What We Offer

• Competitive Salary: Competitive salary based on experience
• Diverse Clients: Opportunity to work with diverse clients and project types
• Supportive Environment: Collaborative and supportive team environment
• Hybrid Model: Hybrid working model with office flexibility