Web Designer I

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Web Designer I

Company: University of Florida

Location: Main Campus (Gainesville, FL)

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Creative & Media / Marketing Operations

Date Posted: April 27, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Responsible for the end-to-end design and development of web pages, ensuring a high-quality and consistent web presence across multiple university units.

• Collaborates closely with the marketing and communications team to plan and execute website architecture improvements, focusing on UI/UX best practices and search engine optimization (SEO).

• Manages the creation and distribution of digital newsletters, including content development, design, and training support for internal stakeholders.

• Adheres to established UF Web Admin and industry standards, integrating accessibility, responsiveness, and best practices into all web development projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Web Designer I," the responsibilities indicate a significant operational component, particularly in content management, cross-functional collaboration for marketing initiatives, and adherence to technical/accessibility standards. This role bridges creative design with practical, ongoing website operations and communication strategy execution. The mention of "data insights with analytics" and "supports data management systems" suggests a foundational understanding of operational data utilization, which is crucial for GTM and RevOps support.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and build visually appealing and user-friendly web pages for UFIC (University of Florida International Center) and its affiliated units, ensuring brand consistency and adherence to UF web standards.

• Develop and propose innovative design concepts for website enhancements, focusing on improving user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) to meet audience needs and institutional goals.

• Maintain and update content across UFIC's web properties, ensuring accuracy, relevance, and optimal performance for search engines through SEO best practices.

• Collaborate with the marketing and communications team to plan and develop website architecture, ensuring seamless integration of content and functionality.

• Design graphic elements for online use, enhancing the visual appeal and professional presentation of the UFIC's digital platforms.

• Produce a weekly departmental newsletter for over 4,000 subscribers, compiling announcements, events, and opportunities from various UFIC units, and provide training to staff on creating their own digital newsletters.

• Evaluate design elements for browser and device compatibility, prioritizing usability and a positive user experience across all platforms.

• Support data-driven decision-making by providing insights from web analytics and assisting with data management systems as needed.

• Review and integrate front-end web code (HTML/CSS) and Content Management System (CMS) templates, ensuring compliance with accessibility standards and responsiveness for all current and future projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative design and operational execution. The emphasis on maintaining content, adhering to standards, collaborating with multiple units, and producing regular communications (newsletters) points towards a role that requires strong organizational skills and process adherence. The mention of "support data insights with analytics" and "supports data management systems" indicates a need for an understanding of how web performance data feeds into broader operational strategies, a crucial aspect for any role supporting Go-To-Market (GTM) functions.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in User Interface (UI) design principles and wireframing techniques.

• Solid understanding and practical experience with User Experience (UX) design methodologies.

• Strong command of front-end web development languages: HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.

• Experience with Content Management Systems (CMS), specifically WordPress.

• Familiarity with Web APIs for integrating external services and data.

• Basic knowledge of SQL for data querying and management.

• Understanding of and commitment to Web Accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG).

• Ability to analyze problems, synthesize requirements, and research effective solutions.

• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, for effective team collaboration and stakeholder interaction.

Preferred Skills:

• Direct experience with TerminalFour CMS.

• Experience in developing content for Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and improving site performance.

• Proficiency in graphic design software for creating online assets.

• Experience in content development and website content strategy.

• Demonstrated ability to work independently, take initiative, and generate innovative ideas.

• Experience supporting data management systems and utilizing web analytics for insights.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Preferred" skills section is particularly important for operations-focused candidates. Proficiency in TerminalFour (a CMS often used in higher education and large organizations), SEO, and data analytics directly supports operational efficiency and GTM visibility. The emphasis on being a "self-starter" and "generating ideas" suggests that this role is not just about execution but also about contributing to operational improvements.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 diverse web design projects demonstrating proficiency in UI/UX, responsiveness, and adherence to web standards.

• Include examples of wireframes, mockups, and final implemented designs to illustrate the design process.

• Highlight projects where SEO best practices were incorporated to improve search visibility and site performance.

• Demonstrate experience with content management systems, ideally including WordPress or TerminalFour.

Process Documentation:

• Be prepared to discuss your workflow for designing and developing a web page from concept to launch, including phases for research, design, development, testing, and deployment.

• Illustrate how you ensure accessibility and responsiveness are integrated throughout the design and development lifecycle.

• Explain your approach to content maintenance, updates, and ensuring consistency across multiple web properties.

• Describe how you utilize analytics to inform design decisions and measure the effectiveness of web content and features.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role that blends creative and operational responsibilities, a portfolio is crucial for demonstrating practical application of skills. For operations-minded candidates, focusing on process efficiency, data-driven decision-making, and measurable outcomes within portfolio examples will be key. Highlighting experience with CMS platforms and accessibility standards directly aligns with the operational requirements of maintaining a robust web presence.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $61,000.00 annually.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Generous paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Retirement savings plan with employer match (e.g., 403(b) or 457(b) plan).

• Opportunities for professional development, training, and continuing education.

• Access to university resources, including libraries, recreational facilities, and employee assistance programs.

• Potential for tuition assistance for employees and dependents.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours (approximately 40 hours per week), typically Monday through Friday.

• Some flexibility may be available, but on-site presence is required for collaboration and core duties.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary is specific. For benefits, university positions typically offer robust packages that include strong retirement plans and professional development, which are attractive to operations professionals looking for stability and growth. The "on-site" requirement implies a need for structured work hours, but the nature of web design and content management can sometimes allow for project-based flexibility.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Higher Education / Public University System. The University of Florida is a major public research university, part of the State University System of Florida. This context implies a culture focused on academic excellence, research, innovation, and public service.

Company Size: Large. As a major public university, UF employs tens of thousands of individuals across its campuses and affiliated entities. This scale means established processes, diverse departments, and opportunities for collaboration within a vast network.

Founded: 1853. The University of Florida has a long and rich history, providing a stable and established environment with deep roots in its community and academic traditions.

Team Structure:

• The Web Designer will be part of UFIC's marketing and communications team, suggesting a collaborative environment focused on promoting university initiatives and programs.

• This team likely works closely with various UFIC units, requiring strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate technical and design concepts to non-technical stakeholders.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis and Insights: Utilizes web analytics to understand user behavior, track website performance, and inform design and content strategies.

• Workflow Planning and Optimization: Employs structured processes for website development, content updates, and newsletter production, with an emphasis on efficiency and adherence to standards.

• Automation and Efficiency Practices: Leverages CMS functionalities and potentially other tools to streamline content management and communication workflows, including the creation of digital newsletters.

Company Website: https://www.ufl.edu/

📝 Enhancement Note: The university environment implies a culture that values structure, compliance (especially with web standards and accessibility), and long-term impact. For operations candidates, understanding this environment is key to aligning their approach with institutional goals and collaborative norms. The "marketing and communications team" context suggests that operational efficiency directly supports broader outreach and engagement objectives.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is an entry to mid-level position within a creative and communications-focused operations framework. It sits at the intersection of design execution and ongoing web asset management. While titled "Web Designer I," the operational responsibilities suggest it's more than just pure design; it involves process adherence, content management, and supporting communication workflows, which are foundational to operational roles.

Reporting Structure: The Web Designer reports to a manager within the UFIC marketing and communications team. This structure provides oversight and guidance, with opportunities to collaborate across various UFIC units and potentially with the central UF Web Administration team for standards and compliance.

Operations Impact: The role's impact is significant in maintaining and enhancing the university's digital presence. By ensuring user-friendly, accessible, and informative websites and newsletters, the Web Designer directly contributes to UFIC's ability to communicate its mission, attract students and researchers, and engage its community. Effective web operations and content management are critical for institutional reputation and outreach effectiveness.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunity to deepen expertise in CMS management (TerminalFour), SEO implementation, web analytics interpretation, and digital accessibility standards, which are transferable operational skills.

• Specialization: Potential to specialize in areas like advanced UI/UX for specific user groups, digital content strategy, or email marketing automation through newsletter work.

• Leadership Potential: With demonstrated success in managing web projects, improving processes, and training others (e.g., on newsletter creation), there's a path towards team lead roles in web operations or digital communications within UFIC or other university departments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "I" in the title suggests an entry-level designation, but the scope of responsibilities, particularly in managing content, newsletters, and adhering to complex standards, points to growth potential. For operations professionals, this role can be a stepping stone into broader digital operations or marketing operations roles within a large institution, offering a structured environment to hone essential skills.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site position at the University of Florida's Main Campus in Gainesville, FL. This suggests a traditional university campus environment, likely with office-based work within a dedicated department.

Office Location(s): Main Campus (Gainesville, FL). This central location provides access to university amenities and facilitates in-person collaboration with colleagues and stakeholders across campus.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expected to work within a marketing and communications team, fostering an environment of shared ideas, feedback, and project coordination.

• Operations Tools and Technology: Access to standard office technology, design software, and the university's web infrastructure, including the TerminalFour CMS and potentially other digital marketing tools.

• Team Interaction: Frequent opportunities for interaction with marketing specialists, communications staff, and representatives from various UFIC units, promoting cross-functional understanding and project alignment.

Work Schedule: Typically a standard 40-hour work week, Monday to Friday. While specific hours may have some flexibility, the on-site requirement and need for consistent content updates and newsletter production necessitate regular availability during business hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is crucial for this role, emphasizing the need for in-person collaboration and adherence to typical office hours. For operations professionals, this means being part of a structured work environment where direct communication and team presence are valued, facilitating efficient workflow management and problem-solving.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of application materials (resume, cover letter) by HR and the hiring manager to assess qualifications against minimum requirements.

• Portfolio Review: Candidates will likely be asked to submit a portfolio showcasing relevant web design and development projects. This is a critical step to evaluate practical skills, design aesthetic, and understanding of UI/UX principles.

• Technical Interview/Skills Assessment: May include a practical exercise or a discussion focused on technical skills (HTML, CSS, JavaScript, CMS) and problem-solving scenarios related to web design and content management.

• Behavioral/Team Fit Interview: Discussion with the hiring manager and potentially team members to assess communication skills, collaborative approach, initiative, and cultural fit within the UFIC marketing and communications team.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a higher-level manager or key stakeholders to confirm suitability and discuss role expectations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Process: Include wireframes, user flows, and design iterations alongside final mockups to demonstrate your thought process and problem-solving approach.

• Highlight Operational Aspects: Emphasize projects where you managed content updates, ensured accessibility, optimized for SEO, or improved user experience based on data.

• Quantify Impact: If possible, include metrics on website traffic, user engagement, conversion rates, or efficiency gains resulting from your design or content work.

• Tailor to UFIC: Review UFIC's current web presence and tailor your portfolio presentation to highlight projects or skills that align with their mission and needs. For example, showcase experience with international audiences or educational content if applicable.

• Demonstrate CMS Proficiency: Include examples of sites built or managed using WordPress or TerminalFour, detailing your role and contributions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for a potential design challenge that might involve creating a mock-up for a new web feature or redesigning an existing page based on specific requirements.

• Practice articulating your design decisions, explaining the rationale behind your choices in terms of UI/UX, accessibility, and institutional goals.

• Prepare to discuss how you would approach content management and ensure consistency across multiple web properties.

• Be ready to discuss your experience with web analytics and how you use data to inform design and content strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio and potential skills assessment is crucial. For operations-minded candidates, framing portfolio pieces around process improvement, efficiency gains, and measurable outcomes will be more impactful than purely aesthetic presentations. Understanding the UFIC's mission and target audience is key to tailoring the application and interview responses.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Content Management System (CMS): TerminalFour (preferred/required), WordPress (working knowledge). Proficiency with CMS platforms is essential for content management and website structure.

• Front-End Technologies: HTML, CSS, JavaScript. Foundational for web page development and customization.

• Design & Wireframing Tools: Tools for UI/UX design, wireframing, and mockups (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite - Photoshop, Illustrator; Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD).

• Web Accessibility Tools: Knowledge of tools and best practices for ensuring WCAG compliance.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Web Analytics Platforms: Experience with tools like Google Analytics or similar platforms to track website performance, user behavior, and SEO effectiveness.

• Reporting Dashboards: Ability to interpret and present data from analytics tools, potentially using built-in CMS reporting or other dashboarding tools.

CRM & Automation:

• Email Marketing/Newsletter Tools: Experience designing and distributing digital newsletters, potentially using platforms integrated with or separate from the CMS.

• Data Management Systems: Basic understanding of how content and user data are managed within the university's systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of TerminalFour, WordPress, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and web analytics positions this role within a common operational technology stack for content-heavy organizations. Candidates with experience in these areas, especially terminal four and analytics, will have a distinct advantage.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Execution: Commitment to delivering high-quality web designs and content that meet rigorous institutional and industry standards.

• User-Centricity: Prioritizing the needs and experiences of website users, ensuring accessibility, usability, and relevance.

• Collaboration and Communication: Fostering a team-oriented approach, working effectively with colleagues, stakeholders, and third-party vendors.

• Continuous Improvement: A dedication to staying updated with web design trends, technology, and best practices, and applying this knowledge to enhance web presence and operations.

• Data-Informed Decisions: Utilizing analytics and user feedback to guide design choices and content strategy, ensuring measurable impact.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively engages with marketing, communications, and various UFIC units to understand their needs and translate them into effective web solutions.

• Process Review and Feedback: Open to constructive criticism and feedback, participating in design reviews and process discussions to refine workflows and outcomes.

• Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to share expertise, particularly in areas like content development, newsletter creation, and UI/UX best practices, potentially through training sessions or documentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values emphasize a blend of creative quality and operational rigor. For operations professionals, aligning with "Excellence in Execution," "User-Centricity," and "Data-Informed Decisions" is key. The collaborative nature of working within a large university system means strong communication and the ability to adapt to diverse stakeholder needs are paramount.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Institutional Standards: Navigating the need for innovative design while strictly adhering to UF's web guidelines, accessibility requirements, and brand identity.

• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Needs: Effectively gathering requirements and delivering web solutions for multiple UFIC units, each with potentially different priorities and audiences.

• Keeping Pace with Evolving Web Technologies: Continuously learning and adapting to new design trends, development techniques, and platform updates to maintain a modern and effective web presence.

• Data Interpretation and Application: Translating raw web analytics data into actionable insights that directly inform design and content optimization strategies.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Deepen expertise in TerminalFour CMS, advanced UI/UX principles, SEO strategies, and web analytics interpretation.

• Industry Certifications: Pursue certifications in web design, UX/UI, accessibility, or digital marketing to further professional development.

• Cross-Departmental Learning: Gain exposure to various aspects of university operations through collaboration with different UFIC units and potentially other university departments.

• Mentorship: Access to experienced professionals within the UFIC marketing team or university IT departments for guidance on career development and technical skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the need for strong problem-solving and adaptability, core strengths for operations professionals. The growth opportunities are directly aligned with building a robust skill set in digital operations and marketing technology.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for designing a new web page from initial concept to final launch, emphasizing how you incorporate UI/UX best practices and accessibility standards." (Focus on structured workflow, user research, iterative design, and compliance checks).

• "How would you approach managing content updates and ensuring consistency across multiple web properties for UFIC, given their diverse units and programs?" (Highlight experience with CMS, content governance, and stakeholder communication).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about the University of Florida and UFIC's mission? How do you see your role contributing to these goals?" (Research UFIC's specific programs and target audiences).

• "Describe your experience working in a team environment, especially when collaborating with individuals from different departments or with different technical backgrounds." (Share examples of successful cross-functional projects and conflict resolution).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each portfolio piece, clearly articulate the problem, your proposed solution, the process you followed, and the results achieved.

• Highlight Operational Relevance: Emphasize aspects like content management efficiency, SEO improvements, user engagement metrics, and accessibility compliance.

• Demonstrate Technical Proficiency: Be ready to discuss the specific technologies and tools used, and how they contributed to the project's success.

• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate questions about your design choices, challenges faced, and how you would handle similar situations in the future.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparing for strategy questions that probe process, collaboration, and data utilization is key for operations candidates. Framing portfolio examples around measurable outcomes and operational efficiency will resonate strongly with the hiring team.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the UF Careers portal, including your cover letter and resume.

• Portfolio Customization: Curate your portfolio to prominently feature projects demonstrating UI/UX design, CMS proficiency (WordPress, TerminalFour), SEO implementation, and accessibility compliance. Include case studies detailing your process and quantifiable results.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight keywords from the job description, such as "UI/UX design," "HTML/CSS/JavaScript," "CMS management," "SEO," "web analytics," and "content development." Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, problem-solving skills, and collaborative approach. Be ready to present your portfolio and discuss how your operational mindset can enhance UFIC's web presence.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research UFIC's mission, current web initiatives, and target audiences to demonstrate your understanding and alignment with the university's goals.

⚠️ 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.

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