Specialist, Web Designer (Chicago/Hybrid)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Specialist, Web Designer

Company: Feeding America

Location: Chicago, Illinois, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Marketing & Design Operations

Date Posted: October 8, 2025

Experience Level: Mid-Level (3-5 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Designs and develops user-centered, visually compelling web experiences that align with brand standards to enhance user engagement and drive digital impact.

• Translates donor personas and journey mapping into thoughtful interaction designs, optimizing information architecture and ease of use for donor conversion.

• Applies graphic design principles (typography, color, motion, visual hierarchy) to create cohesive, aesthetically pleasing web assets and interactive prototypes.

• Ensures WCAG 2.1 accessibility compliance through semantic HTML, keyboard navigation, alt text, and motion control, continuously testing and revising designs.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Web Designer," the responsibilities heavily lean into User Experience (UX) and User Interface (UI) design, with a strong emphasis on donor-centricity and conversion. This role sits at the intersection of creative design and digital marketing operations, focusing on optimizing the digital touchpoints for fundraising and engagement.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Craft intuitive, user-centered layouts, wireframes, mockups, and interactive prototypes that optimize information architecture and ease of use.

• Translate donor personas and journey mapping into thoughtful interaction designs that foster engagement and conversion for the Feeding America website.

• Apply graphic design fundamentals—typography, color, motion, and visual hierarchy—to create cohesive, aesthetically compelling web assets and ensure brand consistency.

• Utilize Figma, Adobe XD, or Sketch to produce clickable prototypes, wireframes, and style guides that effectively guide development teams.

• Embed WCAG 2.1 inclusive design principles, including semantic HTML, keyboard navigation, alt text, and motion control, into all digital assets.

• Continuously test and revise designs to ensure accessibility compliance and enhance usability based on user feedback and testing.

• Employ A/B testing methodologies and analyze user feedback to refine design decisions and improve website conversion rates.

• Partner closely with front-end developers to build scalable design systems and reusable components, maintaining detailed design specifications for technical implementation.

• Collaborate cross-functionally with Brand, Communications, Advocacy, and Development teams to align creative vision with organizational goals and digital strategy.

• Maintain and evolve a comprehensive digital style guide, providing CMS authors with templates and guidance to ensure consistency and usability across platforms.

• Stay current on digital trends, UX methodologies, and emerging technologies to continuously enhance the web experience and donor engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a focus on "donor-centric" design and driving "digital impact," indicating this role is crucial for Feeding America's fundraising and outreach efforts. The emphasis on A/B testing and user feedback suggests a data-driven approach to design optimization, common in digital marketing operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• While no specific degree is mandated, a Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Web Design, Human-Computer Interaction, or a related field is often preferred for roles of this nature.

Experience:

• 3–5 years of professional experience in web and digital design, with a demonstrated strong foundation in User Experience (UX) and User Interface (UI) principles.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in industry-standard design and prototyping tools such as Figma, Adobe XD, or Sketch.

• Solid understanding of responsive design principles, information architecture, and typography best practices.

• Experience with A/B testing, prototyping, and user testing tools (e.g., Maze, InVision).

• Deep knowledge of WCAG 2.1 accessibility standards and inclusive design patterns.

• Strong grasp of user-centered design thinking, visual design principles, and interactive design concepts.

• Excellent communication and project management skills, with the ability to prioritize workflows and collaborate effectively across diverse teams.

• Ability to translate complex organizational goals into clear, engaging digital experiences.

Preferred Skills:

• Accessibility credentials such as IAAP CPACC or similar.

• Familiarity with Content Management System (CMS) authoring workflows, tools, analytics tracking (e.g., Google Analytics), and fundamental SEO principles.

• Exposure to front-end development languages (HTML/CSS/JavaScript) or experience collaborating closely with developers to understand implementation constraints and possibilities.

• Experience with motion design or creating interactive elements like animations and micro-interactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The detailed list of required and preferred skills, particularly the emphasis on design tools, accessibility standards, and A/B testing, points towards a role that requires both creative talent and analytical rigor, common in operations-focused design roles. The inclusion of "donor-centric" design and nonprofit experience suggests a need for empathy and understanding of mission-driven communication.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive online portfolio is a mandatory requirement for all applicants, serving as the primary demonstration of design capabilities and experience.

• The portfolio should clearly showcase a range of UX/UI design projects, highlighting the design process from ideation to final execution.

• Case studies within the portfolio must detail problem statements, user research, design decisions, wireframes, mockups, prototypes, and final outcomes.

• Emphasis should be placed on projects that demonstrate donor-centric design, user engagement, and conversion optimization.

Process Documentation:

• Portfolio projects should illustrate the candidate's ability to translate user personas and journey maps into actionable design solutions.

• Demonstrate experience in applying A/B testing and user feedback to iterate and improve designs, showcasing a data-informed design process.

• Include examples of collaboration with developers, outlining the handoff process and how design specifications were communicated for implementation.

• Showcase the creation or maintenance of design systems, style guides, or component libraries to ensure consistency and scalability.

• Highlight experience in working within a Content Management System (CMS) environment, if applicable to portfolio projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit requirement for an online portfolio with detailed case studies is critical for this role. Candidates should prepare to present projects that not only showcase visual design skills but also demonstrate a robust understanding of user-centered design processes, accessibility, and the impact of design on conversion metrics, particularly in a nonprofit context.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $79,000 - $84,000 per year, based on experience and location.

Benefits:

• Feeding America offers a comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees, which typically includes:
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Retirement Savings Plan (e.g., 401(k) with potential company match)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays
  • Life Insurance and Disability Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Professional Development opportunities, including training and certifications

Working Hours:

• This is a full-time position, typically expected to involve a standard 40-hour work week.

• The role is hybrid, requiring an average of 2 days per week in the Chicago office when not traveling for work, with the remaining days available for remote work.

• Flexibility is offered through the "work anywhere" program and standard PTO policies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is specific to the Chicago, Illinois location and the mid-level experience required. The "work anywhere" program is a significant benefit for a hybrid role, offering enhanced flexibility. The company's transparent compensation policy suggests that the stated range is firm, with limited negotiation room unless exceptional experience justifies it.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Social Services / Hunger Relief

Company Size: Feeding America's national organization is a significant entity within the nonprofit sector, employing several hundred individuals. The exact number can be found on their LinkedIn profile or website.

Founded: Feeding America was founded in 1979, growing into the nation's largest domestic hunger-relief charity. This long history signifies stability and deep expertise in its mission.

Team Structure:

• The Web Designer likely belongs to a Digital or Marketing department, which would be composed of various specialists.

• This department would collaborate closely with Brand, Communications, Advocacy, and Development teams to ensure cohesive messaging and digital strategy.

• Reporting structure would likely be to a Digital Director or Marketing Manager, with direct collaboration with web developers and content strategists.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: The emphasis on A/B testing and user feedback indicates a data-informed approach to design optimization.

• User-Centered Approach: Designs are crafted with the user (donor) in mind, focusing on engagement and conversion.

• Collaborative Workflow: Close partnership with developers and other departments ensures alignment and efficient project execution.

• Accessibility First: Commitment to WCAG 2.1 standards ensures inclusivity and reaches a broader audience.

Company Website: https://www.feedingamerica.org/

📝 Enhancement Note: Feeding America's mission-driven nature shapes its culture, attracting individuals passionate about ending hunger. The "Work. Serve. Thrive." slogan suggests a focus on meaningful work, employee well-being, and professional growth within a supportive environment. The emphasis on diversity and inclusion is also a core cultural tenet.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This "Specialist" role is positioned at a mid-career level, suitable for individuals with 3-5 years of experience. It signifies a level of independent contribution and expertise in specialized design areas.

Reporting Structure: The Web Designer will likely report to a manager within the digital or marketing team, overseeing specific digital initiatives. This role requires significant collaboration with developers, content creators, and stakeholders from fundraising and advocacy departments.

Operations Impact: The Web Designer's impact is directly tied to the organization's ability to engage donors and drive digital contributions. By creating intuitive, compelling, and accessible web experiences, this role directly influences user engagement, conversion rates, and ultimately, the organization's capacity to fulfill its mission of feeding America's hungry. Optimized digital experiences are crucial for fundraising campaigns and broader public awareness efforts.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in UX/UI design, accessibility, or specific design tools.

• Leadership: Transition into a Senior Web Designer, UX/UI Lead, or Design Manager role, overseeing projects and mentoring junior designers.

• Cross-Functional Movement: Leverage design skills to move into roles within Digital Marketing, Product Management, or User Research.

• Skill Development: Opportunities for further certifications (e.g., advanced accessibility credentials, UX certifications) and training in emerging design technologies and methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an operations-focused role like this, growth often involves not just design seniority but also the ability to influence digital strategy and process improvement. Demonstrating how design decisions impact key business metrics (donations, engagement) will be crucial for career advancement within Feeding America.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Feeding America operates a hybrid work model, balancing in-office collaboration with remote flexibility.

Office Location(s): The primary office for this role is in Chicago, Illinois. The company also has other office locations across the United States.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The Chicago office serves as a central point for hybrid teams to connect, brainstorm, and foster team cohesion, particularly for design and development work.

• Technology-Enabled: Employees are expected to have access to and proficiency with necessary design software and collaboration tools. Remote work setups are supported.

• Mission-Driven Atmosphere: The work environment is infused with the organization's mission, fostering a sense of purpose and collective impact among employees.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work week is 40 hours, with a hybrid arrangement allowing for an average of 2 days per week in the Chicago office.

• Employees benefit from a "work anywhere" program for 30 days annually, offering significant flexibility for personal or professional travel.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role implies a need for strong self-management and communication skills, especially for remote work days. The office days are likely structured for collaborative sessions, team meetings, and strategic planning, while remote days can be dedicated to focused design work.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of resumes and, crucially, the online portfolio to assess fundamental design skills, experience, and adherence to requirements.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion focusing on relevant experience, design philosophy, understanding of UX/UI principles, and alignment with the role's responsibilities.

• Design Challenge/Portfolio Presentation: Candidates will likely be asked to present their portfolio, walk through key case studies, and potentially complete a design exercise to assess problem-solving skills, design thinking, and communication. This may involve a real-world scenario relevant to Feeding America's mission.

• Team/Cross-Functional Interviews: Meetings with potential team members (developers, marketers) to evaluate collaboration style, communication effectiveness, and cultural fit.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership to discuss overall fit, strategic thinking, and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Process: Clearly articulate your design process for each project, from problem definition and research to iteration and final solution.

• Showcase Impact: Quantify results where possible. For this role, focus on metrics related to user engagement, conversion rates, or accessibility improvements.

• Donor-Centricity: Select projects that demonstrate your ability to design for specific user needs and organizational goals, particularly in a nonprofit or mission-driven context.

• Accessibility Emphasis: Feature projects that explicitly address and adhere to WCAG 2.1 standards, explaining the specific considerations made.

• Tool Proficiency: Briefly mention the tools used (Figma, Adobe XD, etc.) within each project description.

• Storytelling: Frame your case studies as compelling narratives that showcase your problem-solving skills and creative solutions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Mission: Familiarize yourself with Feeding America's mission, target audience (donors, volunteers, partners), and current digital presence.

• Practice Presentation: Rehearse presenting your portfolio and case studies concisely and engagingly. Be prepared to answer "why" behind your design choices.

• Anticipate UX/UI Scenarios: Be ready to discuss how you would approach common web design challenges, such as improving navigation, increasing donation conversion, or enhancing mobile responsiveness.

• Accessibility in Practice: Be prepared to discuss how you would ensure accessibility in a given design scenario.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is paramount. Candidates must prepare to not only show their work but to critically discuss their decision-making process, the impact of their designs, and their understanding of user-centered and accessibility principles within the context of a mission-driven organization.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design & Prototyping: Figma, Adobe XD, Sketch (Proficiency in at least one is required).

• User Testing & Prototyping Platforms: InVision, Maze, or similar tools for interactive prototyping and user feedback.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Web Analytics: Familiarity with tools like Google Analytics is preferred for understanding user behavior and conversion data.

• A/B Testing Tools: Experience with platforms that facilitate A/B testing for design optimization.

CRM & Automation:

• Content Management System (CMS): Familiarity with CMS authoring workflows (e.g., WordPress, Drupal, or similar used by Feeding America) is preferred.

Other Potential Tools:

• Design Systems: Experience with building or contributing to design systems and component libraries.

• Collaboration Tools: Slack, Microsoft Teams, Asana, Jira for cross-functional communication and project management.

• Basic Front-End Understanding: While not a coding role, an understanding of HTML/CSS/JavaScript principles aids collaboration with developers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core requirement is proficiency in industry-standard UX/UI design software. Familiarity with analytics and CMS platforms enhances the candidate's ability to contribute to data-driven optimization and content management workflows, making them more valuable in a digital operations context.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Mission-Driven: A deep commitment to Feeding America's mission to end hunger, influencing design decisions and project prioritization.

• User-Centricity: Designing with empathy for the user, particularly donors, ensuring intuitive and engaging digital experiences.

• Collaboration: A strong emphasis on teamwork, cross-functional partnerships, and open communication to achieve shared goals.

• Inclusivity & Accessibility: A commitment to designing for all users, adhering to WCAG 2.1 standards and promoting equitable access to information and engagement.

• Continuous Improvement: Embracing data, feedback, and new technologies to constantly refine and enhance the web experience.

• Accountability: Taking ownership of projects and delivering high-quality work that contributes to organizational objectives.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively partners with developers, marketers, brand managers, and fundraising teams to ensure design aligns with broader organizational strategies and technical feasibility.

• Feedback Loops: Engages in constructive feedback sessions, both giving and receiving, to refine designs and processes.

• Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to share design best practices, insights from user testing, and updates on digital trends with the wider team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values reflect a blend of creative passion and operational rigor. The emphasis on collaboration and inclusivity suggests an environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and teamwork is essential for success, aligning with modern digital operations best practices.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Donor Needs with Brand Consistency: Ensuring donor-centric design elements do not conflict with established brand guidelines and overall organizational messaging.

• Accessibility Implementation: Continuously ensuring that all web designs meet stringent accessibility standards across diverse digital platforms and devices.

• Cross-Departmental Alignment: Navigating the needs and priorities of various departments (Development, Communications, Advocacy) to create a cohesive digital experience.

• Rapidly Evolving Digital Landscape: Staying abreast of new design trends, technologies, and user expectations to keep the Feeding America website relevant and effective.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced UX/UI Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specialized areas of UX research, interaction design, or visual design.

• Accessibility Certifications: Pursuing professional certifications in web accessibility to become a subject matter expert.

• Nonprofit Sector Insights: Gaining a deeper understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within the nonprofit and hunger-relief sectors.

• Design System Development: Contributing to or leading the evolution of Feeding America's digital design system, enhancing scalability and consistency.

• Mentorship: Potential to mentor junior designers or be mentored by senior leaders in digital strategy.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the dynamic nature of digital design and the specific complexities of working within a large, mission-driven organization. Growth opportunities are tied to both technical skill enhancement and strategic influence within the organization's digital operations.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you designed a user-centered web experience that significantly improved user engagement or conversion rates. What was your process, and what were the results?" (Focus on donor-centricity and impact).

• "How do you approach ensuring accessibility (WCAG 2.1) in your design process, especially when working with tight deadlines or complex requirements?" (Highlight practical application of standards).

• "Walk us through a challenging cross-functional collaboration on a web design project. How did you manage stakeholder expectations and drive consensus?" (Demonstrate communication and collaboration skills).

• "How do you balance creative design vision with technical constraints and the needs of a Content Management System?" (Show understanding of implementation realities).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you most about Feeding America's mission, and how do you see your design skills contributing to it?" (Connect your passion to the organization's purpose).

• "How do you approach working in a hybrid environment, and what are your strategies for effective collaboration with remote and in-office team members?" (Show adaptability and proactive communication).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-4 of your strongest, most relevant projects that showcase UX/UI, accessibility, and donor-centric design.

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly outline: the problem, your role, the process (research, ideation, design, testing), the solution, and the impact/results.

• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, use data (e.g., "increased click-through rates by X%", "improved form completion time by Y seconds") to demonstrate the effectiveness of your designs.

• Emphasize Accessibility: Specifically call out how you incorporated accessibility principles and standards into your work.

• Be Prepared for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your design choices, challenges faced, and how you would adapt your solutions to Feeding America's specific context.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of creative design expertise, a strong understanding of user-centered and accessibility principles, and the ability to collaborate effectively within a mission-driven organization. The portfolio presentation is the most critical component.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Specialist, Web Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Feeding America careers page.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your online portfolio is up-to-date and prominently features projects that align with the job description's emphasis on UX/UI, donor-centric design, and accessibility. Tailor your project descriptions to highlight relevant skills.

• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to clearly articulate your 3-5 years of experience in web design, UX/UI, and any relevant software proficiency. Use keywords from the job description (e.g., Figma, WCAG 2.1, responsive design, user-centered design). Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Thoroughly review your portfolio and prepare to discuss your design process, decision-making rationale, and project outcomes. Practice articulating your skills in relation to Feeding America's mission.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Feeding America's mission, values, recent campaigns, and their current website. Understand their target audience and how digital design supports their fundraising and advocacy efforts.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.