Web Developer (Communications)

Staff Career•La Jolla, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Web Developer plays a key role in developing and maintaining the Salk Institute’s websites and web-based applications. Working collaboratively with the digital communications manager, graphic designers, vendors, and internal stakeholders. This individual ensures the delivery of high-quality, responsive, and accessible digital experiences. Primary responsibilities include engineering websites using HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and PHP; maintaining custom database-driven applications (PHP/MySQL); customizing WordPress themes and plugins; and developing digital tools and registration systems to support laboratories, events, and core facilities. This role requires strong technical skills, a keen eye for design and usability, and the ability to manage multiple projects with attention to detail. The Web Developer also supports IT with security updates and server/database-related needs and plays a key role in ensuring Salk’s digital properties adhere to accessibility and branding standards.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree (BA) from four-year college or university, or one to two years of related experience and/or training, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Minimum 4 years of experience in web development, preferably in a communications/marketing or similar environment.
Proficiency in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and PHP.
Experience with WordPress and custom PHP/MySQL content management systems.
Strong organizational and project management skills.
Strong understanding of HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, PHP, REST APIs.
Working knowledge of Photoshop and multimedia integration.
Familiarity with web accessibility guidelines and usability best practices.
Ability to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues independently.
Excellent communication skills—written, verbal, and interpersonal.
Proven ability to manage multiple tasks under pressure with precision.
Strong collaborative skills and a customer-focused mindset.
Experience gathering user requirements and translating them into development solutions.
High degree of integrity and ability to maintain confidentiality.

Nice To Haves

Experience in a large (500+ employees) nonprofit or academic institution.
Working knowledge of cloud-based server with test environments.
Experience with ticketing, booking, and event management software customizations.

Responsibilities

Serve as a primary point of contact for updating and troubleshooting the Institute’s websites and web applications.
Build, test, and maintain responsive, cross-browser compatible websites and web apps.
Update and manage content using WordPress and custom PHP/MySQL applications.
Create specialty tools such as email signature generators, lab asset databases, and event registration systems.
Ensure ADA compliance and accessibility across web properties.
Support internal communications by managing multimedia content (videos, photos, text).
Collaborate with Advancement/Communications to align web content with Salk branding.
Conduct usability testing and implement analytics to assess website effectiveness.
Troubleshoot and resolve web-related issues including functionality, server-side issues, and content accuracy.
Develop web forms, interactive features, and backend systems to streamline processes.
Monitor and implement web security measures and system updates.
Evaluate new web technologies for integration into Salk's digital infrastructure.
Contribute to the strategic planning of web and application development.
Recommend performance and design enhancements for existing systems.
Maintain documentation of best practices and ensure software license compliance.
Consult with faculty and staff to assess web development needs and define project scopes.
Translate client requirements into functional and aesthetic web solutions.
Communicate timelines, development processes, and technical constraints effectively.
Performs other related duties as assigned by management.