Web Designer - Contract-to-Hire

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Web Designer - Contract-to-Hire

Company: Optic Marketing Group

Location: Tampa, Florida (Remote)

Job Type: Contract-to-Hire

Category: Creative & Design / Web Design Operations

Date Posted: March 11, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-level (1-3 years)

Remote Status: Fully Remote

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is crucial for the visual representation and user experience of client websites and digital assets, focusing on design execution and WordPress implementation.

• The Web Designer will be responsible for creating visually appealing and functional designs for digital publications, e-newsletters, advertisements, and website themes.

• A strong emphasis will be placed on translating client brand guidelines into effective web designs, ensuring optimal UX/UI across various platforms and devices.

• This position requires a blend of creative conceptualization, technical proficiency in WordPress, and adherence to web design best practices for client success.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Web Designer," the responsibilities heavily involve production, coding, and system-specific application (WordPress), suggesting this role touches upon aspects of operations within a creative agency context, particularly in the production and delivery of digital marketing assets. The "Contract-to-Hire" nature implies a performance-based evaluation for long-term integration.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and code monthly digital publications and e-newsletters, ensuring brand consistency and reader engagement.

• Develop, maintain, and update client websites, focusing on aesthetic appeal, user experience (UX), and user interface (UI) functionality.

• Create new digital advertisements, including programmatic and animated ads, optimized for various online platforms.

• Design and update WordPress themes and templates to align with client branding and evolving web design trends.

• Produce UX/UI designs for internal Optic applications and future product developments, ensuring intuitive user flows.

• Design and develop various collateral materials, including print, trade show, and social media assets for both Optic Marketing Group and its clients.

• Collaborate with the production team to ensure timely and high-quality delivery of all design projects.

• Translate client brand identities and requirements into cohesive and effective web design solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed go beyond standard graphic design, encompassing coding, theme development, and UX/UI design for applications, indicating a more integrated role within the digital production workflow. The focus on "client's overall brand" and "Home Services websites" suggests specialization within the agency's client portfolio.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• 1-3 years of hands-on experience working with WordPress.

• 1-3 years of experience in web development and design.

Required Skills:

• Intermediate proficiency in WordPress for theme design, customization, and content management.

• Outstanding skills in design software such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Adobe XD.

• Strong knowledge of web design best practices, including responsive design principles and user experience (UX).

• Proficiency in HTML and CSS for front-end development and styling.

• Experience creating effective online advertisements, including animated ads.

• Understanding of UI/UX basic principles for creating intuitive interfaces.

• Familiarity with responsive web design frameworks like Bootstrap or FLEX.

• Knowledge of website development standards and cross-platform, cross-browser compatibility issues.

• Experience in developing and testing across multiple browsers and devices.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in the home service industry (e.g., HVAC, plumbing).

• Previous experience in e-commerce website design and development.

• Familiarity with 3rd-party search marketing tools for campaign management.

• Expert-level Excel skills for data analysis or reporting, if applicable to design asset management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for "intermediate understanding level of using WordPress" and "1-3 years working with WordPress" suggests that while not a senior role, practical, hands-on experience with the platform is essential for daily tasks. The inclusion of specific design tools like XD and frameworks like Bootstrap/FLEX indicates a need for modern design and development skills.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated portfolio showcasing a range of digital design projects, with a strong emphasis on WordPress implementations.

• Demonstrations of conceptual web design abilities and visual problem-solving.

• Examples of responsive design across various devices (desktop, tablet, mobile).

• Case studies or project examples that highlight UX/UI design considerations and implementation.

Process Documentation:

• While not explicitly stated as a requirement for submission, candidates should be prepared to discuss their design process, workflow optimization strategies, and how they approach project execution from concept to final delivery.

• Ability to articulate how they manage design tasks, incorporate feedback, and ensure adherence to project timelines and client specifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a design role with production responsibilities, the portfolio is paramount. It serves as the primary evidence of skills in WordPress, conceptual design, and technical execution. The interviewer will likely assess the candidate's ability to understand and implement client brand guidelines, requiring portfolio pieces that demonstrate this.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $34,000 - $55,000 per year (Contract-to-Hire)

Benefits:

• Medical, dental, vision, and insurance coverage.

• Work from home flexibility.

• Flexible work schedule.

• Commission opportunity for all employees.

• Annual education budget for professional development.

• Quarterly paid volunteer days.

• Monthly health and wellness benefit.

• Christmas Bonus.

• Paid Vacations and 17 Paid Holidays.

• Paid Birthday Off.

Working Hours:

• Approximately 40 hours per week, with flexibility offered. The ½ day Fridays suggest a compressed work week or a focus on productivity within standard hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range of $34K-$55K for a Mid-level Web Designer in Tampa, Florida (even remote) aligns with industry benchmarks for roles requiring 1-3 years of experience and specific platform knowledge (WordPress). The extensive benefits package, especially the "Commission opportunity for all employees," "½ day Fridays," and "Annual education budget," points to a company culture that values employee well-being, professional growth, and a results-oriented environment.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Marketing and Advertising, specifically serving the Home Services sector.

Company Size: The provided data does not specify company size, but the range of services (publications, newsletters, ads, videos, websites, collateral) suggests a moderately sized agency capable of handling diverse client needs.

Founded: Not specified, but the company offers a comprehensive suite of marketing services, indicating established operations.

Team Structure:

• The role falls under the "Production" department, suggesting it's part of a team responsible for the creation and delivery of marketing assets.

• Collaboration is expected across various functions, including client management, strategy, and potentially other design or development specialists.

Methodology:

• The company emphasizes a data-driven approach to marketing, focusing on client success within the home services industry.

• The hiring process values skillsets, potential, and alignment with company values, indicating a structured but people-centric approach.

• Focus on producing high-quality, visually appealing, and effective digital assets that directly support client marketing campaigns.

Company Website: opticmarketinggroup.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Optic Marketing Group appears to specialize in providing comprehensive marketing solutions, with a particular focus on the Home Services industry. This specialization suggests that an understanding of that sector’s marketing challenges and consumer behavior would be a significant advantage, as noted in the "bonus" skills.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-level Designer. This role is positioned for someone who can execute design tasks independently and has a solid understanding of core web design principles and WordPress. It’s a production-focused role with potential for growth based on performance and contribution.

Reporting Structure:

• The role is within the "Production" department. The exact reporting manager is not specified but is likely a Production Manager, Creative Director, or Lead Designer.

Operations Impact:

• The Web Designer directly impacts client satisfaction and campaign effectiveness through high-quality visual design and functional website elements.

• Successful design execution contributes to client lead generation, brand perception, and overall marketing ROI.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Deepen expertise in WordPress theme development, UX/UI design, and advanced animation techniques.

• Specialization: Focus further on specific areas like e-commerce design, interactive web experiences, or brand collateral development.

• Leadership Track: Potential to move into a Senior Web Designer, Lead Designer, or Creative Lead role, managing projects and mentoring junior designers, especially if the contract-to-hire transition is successful and performance is strong.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Opportunity to learn about other aspects of digital marketing and agency operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Contract-to-Hire" nature is a significant factor, meaning exceptional performance during the contract period is the primary driver for long-term growth and career progression within Optic Marketing Group. The "Annual education budget" directly supports skill development and career advancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Remote-first culture with in-person team-building events.

Office Location(s): While the role is remote, the company is based in Tampa, Florida, and hosts "Quarterly whole-office team-building events." This suggests a hybrid approach where remote employees are expected to participate in occasional in-person gatherings.

Workspace Context:

• The "Work from home" benefit and "Flexible work schedule" indicate an environment that values employee autonomy and work-life balance.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time hours (approximately 40 hours/week) are expected, but the mention of "Flexible work schedule" and "½ day Fridays" allows for some autonomy in managing work hours, provided deadlines are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The remote nature combined with occasional in-person events creates an environment that balances flexibility with team cohesion. This model is common in modern agencies and requires strong self-discipline and communication skills from remote employees.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a review of resume and portfolio to assess basic qualifications and design aesthetic.

• Skills Assessment: A practical design challenge or a detailed review of portfolio pieces, focusing on WordPress proficiency, conceptual design, and technical execution. This phase will likely evaluate skills in Photoshop, Illustrator, XD, HTML, CSS, and WordPress.

• Behavioral/Cultural Fit Interview: Discussion about work style, collaboration, problem-solving under pressure ("cool head under pressure"), and alignment with Optic's values.

• Contract-to-Hire Evaluation: Performance during the initial contract period will be assessed for potential full-time conversion.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase WordPress Expertise: Include projects that clearly demonstrate your ability to design and build within WordPress, including custom themes or significant customizations.

• Highlight Conceptual Thinking: Present projects that show your ability to solve design problems and create unique visual concepts, not just execute visually.

• Detail Your Process: Be prepared to walk through your design process for key projects, explaining your rationale behind design decisions, tool choices, and problem-solving steps.

• Quantify Impact (if possible): If any past projects led to measurable results (e.g., improved engagement, conversion rates from a website redesign), highlight these.

• Tailor to Home Services: If you have relevant experience in the home services industry or e-commerce, ensure those examples are prominent.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready for a design task that might involve creating a webpage mockup, an email newsletter template, or a set of social media graphics, potentially with a WordPress component.

• Prepare to discuss your approach to the challenge, including how you'd incorporate branding, optimize for different devices, and ensure a good user experience.

• Practice articulating your design decisions clearly and concisely, as if explaining them to a client or a project manager.

📝 Enhancement Note: The agency's emphasis on a thorough, "cumbersome and even lengthy" process underscores the importance they place on finding the right fit. Candidates should expect multiple stages and be prepared to demonstrate both technical skills and cultural alignment. The portfolio is the most critical element for this role.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Design & Development Tools:

• WordPress: Core platform for website creation and theme development.

• Adobe Creative Suite: Photoshop, Illustrator for graphic design and asset creation.

• Adobe XD: For UI/UX design, wireframing, and prototyping.

• HTML & CSS: For front-end coding and styling.

• Bootstrap/FLEX: For responsive web design framework implementation.

Potential Supporting Tools (Implied):

• Version Control (e.g., Git): For managing code changes, though not explicitly mentioned, it's standard for web development.

• Project Management Software (e.g., Asana, Trello, Jira): To manage tasks, deadlines, and collaboration within the production team.

• File Transfer/Asset Management Tools: For sharing design assets.

• Cross-browser/Device Testing Tools: To ensure compatibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in WordPress is a non-negotiable requirement. The explicit mention of Photoshop, Illustrator, XD, HTML, and CSS indicates a need for a well-rounded designer with both creative and front-end development skills. Familiarity with responsive frameworks is also key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Detail Orientation & Conceptual Skills: A core value, as stated in the job description, emphasizing precision in design and the ability to generate creative ideas.

• Client-Centricity: Focus on translating "individual client's overall brand" and serving client needs effectively.

• Quality & Efficiency: Producing high-quality work ("look and feel," "functional designs") within production timelines.

• Adaptability & Continuous Learning: Implied through the need for updated skills in WordPress, responsive design, and evolving digital trends. The "Annual education budget" reinforces this.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Essential for agency work, especially in a production department.

Collaboration Style:

• Expected to be collaborative, working closely with account managers, strategists, and potentially other designers and developers.

• Openness to feedback and revisions is implied, as is the ability to work under pressure.

• The team-building events suggest an effort to foster a connected and cohesive work environment, even with remote employees.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's hiring process emphasizes aligning personal values with company values. Candidates should research Optic Marketing Group’s stated values (if available on their website) and prepare to articulate how their own values align, especially regarding creativity, client service, and work ethic.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Clients/Projects: Juggling design and production tasks for various clients with different brand guidelines and deadlines.

• Meeting Tight Deadlines: The fast-paced agency environment often requires quick turnarounds.

• Translating Complex Requirements: Effectively interpreting client needs and translating them into functional and aesthetically pleasing designs.

• Staying Current: Keeping up with the latest design trends, WordPress updates, and web development best practices.

• Remote Collaboration: Maintaining strong communication and collaboration while working remotely.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deepen WordPress Expertise: Become a go-to person for WordPress theme development and customization.

• Master UX/UI Design: Develop advanced skills in user flow mapping, wireframing, and prototyping for internal and external applications.

• Expand Animation/Video Skills: Gain proficiency in creating web/email videos and animated ads.

• Industry Specialization: Become an expert in marketing design for the home services industry.

• Formal Training: Utilize the "Annual education budget" for courses, workshops, or certifications in relevant design or development areas.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Contract-to-Hire" structure itself presents a challenge: proving oneself during the initial contract period. This requires consistent high performance, proactive communication, and a demonstrated ability to integrate seamlessly into the team and workflow.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Process: "Walk me through your process for designing a new website for a client, from initial brief to final handover." (Focus on conceptualization, wireframing, design iteration, and WordPress implementation).

• Problem-Solving: "Describe a time you faced a challenging design constraint or client feedback. How did you handle it, and what was the outcome?" (Highlight problem-solving skills, communication, and adaptability).

• WordPress Application: "How do you approach customizing WordPress themes? What are some common challenges you encounter, and how do you overcome them?" (Demonstrate practical WordPress knowledge).

• Client Branding: "How do you ensure a design effectively represents a client's brand identity, especially when working with specific brand guidelines?" (Focus on brand adherence and strategic design).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Optic Marketing Group, and why are you drawn to working with home services clients?" (Show research and genuine interest).

• "How do you manage your time and prioritize tasks when working remotely with multiple projects?" (Assess self-management and organizational skills).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or client. Start with your strongest, most relevant pieces.

• Narrative: For each project, clearly state the client's objective, your role, the challenges, your design process, the tools used, and the final outcome/impact.

• WordPress Focus: Ensure several key projects prominently feature your work within WordPress, detailing theme customization, plugin integration, or custom development.

• Visuals: Use high-quality mockups and screenshots. If possible, provide links to live sites.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your portfolio efficiently, focusing on the most impactful aspects relevant to the role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the agency's emphasis on thoroughness, expect interviewers to probe deeply into your portfolio and past projects. Be prepared to discuss technical details of your WordPress implementations and the strategic thinking behind your design choices.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Web Designer - Contract-to-Hire position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Optic Marketing Group BambooHR careers page.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio prominently features your WordPress design and development work. Include examples that demonstrate conceptualization, responsive design, and adherence to client branding. Tailor your portfolio to highlight your strengths in creating digital publications, newsletters, and advertisements.

• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to clearly articulate your 1-3 years of experience in web design and development, specifically highlighting your WordPress proficiency, skills in Photoshop, Illustrator, XD, HTML, and CSS. Quantify achievements where possible and emphasize any agency or home services industry experience.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, problem-solving approaches, and how you manage remote work and client collaborations. Prepare to thoroughly discuss your portfolio pieces and be ready for potential design challenges.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Optic Marketing Group's services, client base (especially in home services), and any stated company values or mission to demonstrate your genuine interest and cultural fit.

⚠️ 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.