UNPAID VOLUNTEER - Web Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Web Designer (Unpaid Volunteer) Company: Blockchain & Climate Institute / BCI America Inc. Location: Remote (United Kingdom-based preferred) Job Type: Volunteer (Unpaid) Category: Creative & Media / Environmental & Sustainability / Technology Date Posted: November 13, 2025 Experience Level: Entry to Mid-Level (0-2 years implied) Remote Status: Remote Solely

🚀 Role Summary

• This volunteer role focuses on the visual design and user experience of the Blockchain & Climate Institute's (BCI) WordPress-based website, emphasizing storytelling and content layout.
• The position requires creating dynamic, visually compelling webpages for events, campaigns, research publications, and blog features, ensuring mobile-friendliness and accessibility.
• Candidates will develop wireframes and mockups, translating communication briefs into engaging visual experiences while maintaining brand consistency.
• This is a design-centric role, requiring close collaboration with web developers to implement designs and troubleshoot visual aspects, rather than direct coding.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role is unpaid and volunteer, the emphasis on "ownership of BCI's digital interface" and "experience collaborating with senior communicators, editorial teams, and international leadership" suggests a significant level of responsibility and potential for valuable professional development, akin to an entry-level paid position in terms of scope. The target audience is likely individuals seeking to build their portfolio and gain experience in a mission-driven organization.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design new modules and layouts for BCI’s WordPress-based website, enhancing user navigation and aesthetic appeal.
• Create dynamic, visually compelling webpages for specific events, ongoing campaigns, and timely announcements, ensuring alignment with strategic communication goals.
• Develop wireframes and mockups that effectively translate complex communication briefs into engaging and intuitive visual experiences for target audiences.
• Ensure strict consistency in style, typography, color palette, and tone across all web content to reinforce BCI's brand identity and credibility.
• Collaborate closely with web developers to translate design concepts into functional web pages, providing clear specifications and troubleshooting visual implementation issues.
• Propose and implement design improvements that enhance website accessibility, responsiveness across devices, and overall visual clarity.
• Participate in regular briefings with the Head of Communications and editorial team to ensure visual narratives effectively support and amplify strategic messaging.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities outline a clear design process, from conceptualization (wireframes, mockups) to execution (collaboration with developers) and refinement (accessibility, responsiveness). The emphasis on aligning visual narratives with strategic messaging highlights the importance of understanding BCI's mission and communication objectives.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: No specific educational requirements are listed, but a background in Graphic Design, Web Design, Digital Media, or a related field is implied.

Experience:

• Demonstrated experience in web design, with a preference for work within nonprofit, policy, or advocacy settings to understand mission-driven communication nuances.
• Proven ability to interpret communication briefs and translate them into effective visual designs.

Required Skills:

• Strong portfolio showcasing a range of web design projects, particularly those demonstrating visual storytelling and content layout.
• Proficiency in industry-standard design tools such as Figma, Adobe XD, or Canva Pro for creating mockups and wireframes.
• Solid understanding of User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) principles, with a focus on creating intuitive and engaging digital interactions.
• Expertise in mobile-first design principles and responsive design techniques to ensure optimal viewing across all devices.
• Exceptional attention to detail concerning layout, typography, branding consistency, and visual hierarchy.
• Familiarity with content management systems (CMS), with a strong preference for WordPress.
• Excellent collaborative attitude, capable of taking direction while contributing original and innovative design ideas.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience working directly with WordPress themes and page builders.
• Knowledge of web accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG).
• Basic understanding of SEO principles as they relate to web design and content structure.
• Familiarity with the intersection of blockchain technology, climate change, and policy.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a "strong portfolio" and proficiency in specific design tools (Figma, Adobe XD, Canva Pro) are critical. The preference for nonprofit/policy experience suggests candidates with an understanding of mission-driven communication will be highly valued.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated portfolio demonstrating a range of web design projects, with a focus on visual storytelling, user experience, and content layout.
• Specific examples showcasing the design of dynamic webpages for events, campaigns, or announcements.
• Mockups or wireframes that illustrate the process of translating a communication brief into a visual design.
• Evidence of designing for different screen sizes (desktop, tablet, mobile) and an understanding of responsive design principles.

Process Documentation:

• Case studies or project descriptions that detail the design process, from initial concept and wireframing to final implementation and any design iterations.
• Examples of how design choices were made to enhance user experience, accessibility, or to align with specific communication objectives.
• Demonstration of how branding guidelines were applied consistently across web design projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a volunteer web design role, the portfolio is paramount. It serves as the primary evidence of skill and aesthetic alignment. Candidates should highlight projects that best represent the responsibilities listed, especially those involving CMS platforms like WordPress and a focus on clear, impactful communication.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: This is an unpaid volunteer position. No financial compensation is provided.

Benefits:

• Portfolio Enhancement: Opportunity to build a professional portfolio with tangible work tied to global policy, sustainability, and emerging technology initiatives.
• Professional Experience: Gain experience collaborating with senior communicators, editorial teams, and international leadership within a recognized think-tank.
• Impactful Contribution: Play a meaningful role in shaping how global stakeholders engage with climate innovation and technology for environmental good.
• Networking Opportunities: Potential to connect with professionals in the climate tech, policy, and communications sectors.
• Skill Development: Opportunity to hone UI/UX, web design, and CMS skills in a practical, project-driven environment.

Working Hours: While specific hours are not defined, volunteer roles often require a commitment of approximately 10-20 hours per week, to be agreed upon with the hiring team. Flexibility is expected, aligning with the remote nature of the role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "benefits" listed are professional development and experience-based, which are the primary value propositions for this unpaid role. Candidates should view this as an opportunity to gain experience and build their professional network.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Think-tank, advocacy, environmental policy, technology (specifically blockchain applications for climate action). Company Size: The provided data does not specify exact employee numbers but indicates a structure with roles like Head of Communications, Senior Communications Manager, and collaborations with international organizations, suggesting a moderately sized, professionally staffed organization. LinkedIn data indicates a company size of 11-50 employees. Founded: Information regarding the founding date of Blockchain & Climate Institute is not provided in the input data.

Team Structure:

• The Web Designer will report to the Head of Communications, with oversight from a Senior Communications Manager, indicating a structured communications department.
• Close collaboration is expected with Web Developers and the Editorial Team, highlighting a cross-functional approach to content creation and digital presence.
• The organization focuses on research and analysis of emerging technologies for environmental good, implying a data-driven and intellectually rigorous culture.

Methodology:

• BCI's methodology involves researching, identifying, and analyzing the applications of emerging technologies to inform decisions by global stakeholders in climate change and action.
• The Communications team's approach emphasizes telling the BCI story and its role in driving innovation, with a focus on credibility, research-driven approaches, and expert advisory capacity.
• The design of digital interfaces is crucial for effectively communicating this research and impact to governments, inter-governmental organizations, and corporations.

Company Website: https://blockchainclimateinstitute.org/

📝 Enhancement Note: BCI operates at the intersection of technology and environmental policy, aiming to be a credible expert and advisor. The culture likely values innovation, research, data integrity, and impactful communication. The volunteer role is positioned as a key contributor to shaping the organization's external image.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at an entry to mid-level for web design, suitable for individuals looking to gain practical experience and portfolio pieces. While unpaid, the responsibilities are substantial, offering a learning curve comparable to an intern or junior designer role.

Reporting Structure: The Web Designer will report to the Head of Communications, with potential day-to-day guidance from a Senior Communications Manager. This structure provides clear lines of communication and mentorship opportunities within the communications team.

Operations Impact: The Web Designer's impact is directly tied to the effectiveness of BCI's digital presence. By creating compelling and user-friendly webpages, they will enhance BCI's ability to communicate its research, advocate for its mission, attract stakeholders, and ultimately influence decisions regarding technology and climate action. Their work directly supports the organization's goal of driving innovation for a cleaner future.

Growth Opportunities:

• Portfolio Development: A significant opportunity to add high-impact projects related to global policy, sustainability, and emerging tech to one's professional portfolio.
• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in UI/UX design, WordPress customization, and visual storytelling within a mission-driven context.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Gain experience working alongside senior communications professionals, editorial teams, and potentially international leadership, enhancing collaboration and communication skills.
• Industry Exposure: Exposure to the critical fields of climate change, emerging technologies, and international policy, opening doors to future roles in these sectors.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary "growth" for this role is experiential and portfolio-based. Candidates should leverage this opportunity to develop their design skills and gain exposure to critical global issues.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Fully remote. This role is designated as TELECOMMUTE, meaning work is performed from a remote location.

Office Location(s): While the role is remote, the listing mentions "London, England, United Kingdom" and the derived location is "United Kingdom." This suggests a preference or requirement for candidates based within the UK, possibly for administrative or timezone alignment purposes, though the role itself is remote.

Workspace Context:

• Flexibility: As a remote, volunteer role, there is significant flexibility in terms of work location.
• Technology Access: Candidates will need reliable internet access and a suitable workstation equipped with the necessary design software.
• Collaboration Tools: Expect to use digital collaboration tools (e.g., email, Slack, project management software) for communication and project management with the BCI team.

Work Schedule: While not explicitly stated, volunteer roles typically require a commitment of 10-20 hours per week, to be negotiated. The remote nature allows for flexible scheduling, provided deadlines are met and collaboration with the team is maintained.

📝 Enhancement Note: The remote nature offers flexibility, but candidates should be prepared to align with UK time zones for collaborative activities if based there. The emphasis on "mobile-friendly, accessible design" implies a focus on user-centric design principles within the digital workspace.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process: The exact interview process is not detailed, but typically for volunteer roles involving design, it would include:

• Initial Application Review: Screening of resumes and cover letters (if applicable).
• Portfolio Submission & Review: A critical phase where candidates submit their design portfolio for evaluation against the role's requirements.
• Interview(s): Likely one or more interviews with the Head of Communications and/or Senior Communications Manager to assess skills, experience, understanding of BCI's mission, and cultural fit. This may include discussing portfolio pieces and design approaches.
• Potential Design Challenge: A small, focused design task related to BCI's work might be assigned to assess practical skills and problem-solving abilities.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Showcase 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects that best align with the responsibilities of this role (web design, visual storytelling, content layout, WordPress experience).
• Highlight Process: For each project, briefly explain the brief/objective, your role, the design process (wireframing, mockups, iterations), the tools used, and the outcome or impact.
• Visual Clarity: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate. Use high-quality images and clear descriptions.
• Showcase WordPress Experience: If possible, include examples of websites built or significantly designed using WordPress.
• Address Mission Alignment: Briefly explain why you are interested in volunteering for BCI and how your design skills can support their mission.

Challenge Preparation:

• If a design challenge is provided, focus on understanding the brief thoroughly.
• Prioritize creating a clear, well-reasoned design solution that addresses the core requirements.
• Be prepared to explain your design choices and rationale, linking them back to user experience and communication goals.
• Practice presenting your work concisely and effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is the most critical component of the application. Candidates should invest significant time in curating and presenting it effectively, focusing on projects that demonstrate the specific skills and experience outlined in the job description.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design Software: Proficiency is required in at least one of the following:
  • Figma: A popular collaborative interface design tool.
  • Adobe XD: A comprehensive tool for designing and prototyping user experiences.
  • Canva Pro: A user-friendly graphic design platform suitable for various visual content, including web elements.
• Content Management System (CMS):
  • WordPress: Essential experience or strong familiarity is preferred for designing and managing website content and layouts.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly responsible for analytics, an understanding of how design choices impact user engagement metrics (e.g., bounce rate, time on page) is beneficial. Familiarity with tools like Google Analytics could be a plus.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly relevant to this design role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirement is proficiency in specific design tools and familiarity with WordPress. Candidates should explicitly mention their experience with these tools and provide examples in their portfolio.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Mission-Driven: A strong commitment to BCI's mission of leveraging technology for environmental good.
• Credibility & Expertise: Emphasis on research-driven approaches and providing expert, informed advice.
• Innovation: Encouragement of new ideas and applications of emerging technologies.
• Collaboration: Working effectively across teams (communications, editorial, development) to achieve common goals.
• Impact-Oriented: Focus on making a tangible difference in mitigating climate change and promoting sustainability.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role requires seamless collaboration with developers and the editorial team to ensure designs are technically feasible and strategically aligned.
• Feedback-Driven: Expect a culture where design feedback is provided and received constructively to refine visual assets and web experiences.
• Communication: Clear and proactive communication is essential for remote collaboration, especially when translating design concepts and troubleshooting issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: Volunteers are expected to embody the organization's values and contribute positively to the collaborative environment, even in a remote capacity. Understanding BCI's mission is key to successful integration.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Remote Collaboration: Effectively communicating design ideas and receiving feedback without in-person interaction requires strong digital communication skills.
• Balancing Design & Technical Constraints: Translating creative visions into functional designs within the limitations of a WordPress CMS and developer capabilities.
• Mission Alignment: Ensuring all design choices effectively support BCI's complex mission and communicate nuanced technical and policy information clearly to diverse audiences.
• Volunteer Management: Effectively managing time and deliverables as a volunteer alongside other personal or professional commitments.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Portfolio Expansion: Gain substantial, real-world work experience for your professional portfolio.
• Industry Insight: Deepen understanding of climate tech, policy, and the role of organizations like BCI.
• Technical Skill Refinement: Enhance proficiency in design software and WordPress, potentially exploring new plugins or themes.
• Cross-functional Experience: Learn to work effectively within a communications and editorial team structure.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should view challenges as opportunities for growth, demonstrating adaptability and problem-solving skills that are valuable in any professional setting.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a web design project from your portfolio that best illustrates your ability to create visually compelling content for a specific campaign or event. What was the brief, and how did your design address it?" (Focus on visual storytelling, user experience, and strategic alignment.)
• "How do you approach ensuring brand consistency and accessibility in your web designs, especially when working with a CMS like WordPress?" (Prepare to discuss your process for maintaining visual identity and adhering to accessibility standards.)
• "Imagine you need to design a new landing page for a BCI research report on blockchain's role in carbon markets. Walk us through your design process, from initial concept to delivering mockups to a developer." (Practice articulating your design thinking, wireframing, and collaboration steps.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about volunteering with the Blockchain & Climate Institute, and how do you see your design skills contributing to our mission?" (Research BCI's work thoroughly and connect your passion and skills to their objectives.)
• "How do you approach collaboration with developers and content creators in a remote environment?" (Highlight experience with clear communication, constructive feedback, and using digital tools effectively.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: For each portfolio piece, tell a concise story about the project's goals, your creative process, the challenges you overcame, and the results or impact achieved.
• Visual Focus: Use high-quality visuals (screenshots, mockups, wireframes) and keep text descriptions brief and to the point.
• Demonstrate Process: Clearly show your workflow, from initial sketches or wireframes to final designs, highlighting key decision points.
• Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasize projects that showcase your ability to design for WordPress, create engaging content layouts, and ensure mobile responsiveness and accessibility.
• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your portfolio within a set time limit, focusing on the most impactful projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should heavily focus on portfolio walkthroughs and articulating design decisions in the context of BCI's mission and communication goals. Understanding the organization's work in climate tech and policy is crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this volunteer Web Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Workable.
• Curate Your Portfolio: Select your strongest 3-5 web design projects that best align with the requirements, focusing on visual storytelling, content layout, and WordPress experience. Ensure it is easily accessible online (e.g., personal website, Behance, Figma share link).
• Tailor Your Resume/Profile: Highlight relevant design software proficiency (Figma, Adobe XD, Canva Pro), CMS experience (WordPress), and any experience in nonprofit, policy, or sustainability sectors. Quantify achievements where possible, even for volunteer work.
• Prepare Your Narrative: Be ready to articulate your passion for BCI's mission and how your design skills can contribute. Practice discussing your portfolio projects and design process concisely.
• Research BCI: Thoroughly understand Blockchain & Climate Institute's work, mission, and current campaigns to demonstrate genuine interest and alignment during the interview process.

⚠️ 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.