Website Developer & Visual Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Website Developer & Visual Designer

Company: Institute of Foundation Models (IFM)

Location: Sunnyvale, California, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Marketing Operations / Creative Operations

Date Posted: September 16, 2026

Experience Level: 7-10 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Manage the day-to-day performance, technical health, and optimization of the IFM website, ensuring high availability and user experience.

• Develop and maintain a strong, consistent visual identity for the Institute, producing compelling graphics, diagrams, and short-form video content that translates complex AI research into accessible visuals.

• Collaborate closely with Content Marketing, Editorial, and Social Media teams to provide essential visual design support for owned channel content and external communications.

• Monitor and report on key website analytics (traffic, engagement, conversion) using tools like Google Analytics or Plausible, and implement SEO and accessibility best practices.

• Bridge the gap between technical web development and creative visual design, demonstrating comfort and proficiency in both domains to drive impactful external perceptions of IFM's work.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned at the intersection of technical website management and creative content production, requiring a unique blend of skills. While not a direct Revenue Operations or Sales Operations role, it is crucial for GTM (Go-To-Market) strategy by shaping external perception, driving lead generation through website engagement, and supporting content marketing efforts with high-quality visual assets. The emphasis on translating complex research into clear visuals and managing website analytics directly supports GTM objectives by improving brand visibility and user engagement.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily operational performance and technical integrity of the Institute of Foundation Models website, addressing any issues related to speed, security, or uptime.

• Design and produce a range of visual assets, including infographics, diagrams, and presentation templates, that effectively communicate complex AI research concepts to diverse audiences.

• Create and edit short-form video content, including motion graphics and social media clips, to enhance IFM's digital storytelling and outreach efforts.

• Implement and monitor SEO best practices to improve organic search visibility and website traffic, working in conjunction with content strategy.

• Track, analyze, and report on website analytics using tools such as Google Analytics or Plausible, providing actionable insights to inform content and marketing strategies.

• Ensure adherence to web accessibility standards (WCAG) to make the IFM website usable for all individuals.

• Collaborate with external design agencies, ensuring continuity and alignment with IFM's visual language and brand guidelines throughout their engagement.

• Develop and maintain IFM's visual identity and design systems, ensuring consistency across all digital platforms and communications.

• Partner with the Social Media Manager and Content Marketing/Editorial Manager to align visual content with broader communication goals and campaigns.

• Proactively identify opportunities for creative innovation, proposing new visual formats and staying abreast of emerging social media and design trends.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a critical role in shaping the external perception of a leading AI research institute. The ability to translate complex technical information into digestible visual content is paramount for effective GTM communication. Responsibilities like SEO monitoring, analytics reporting, and accessibility implementation directly contribute to lead generation and audience engagement, which are key GTM objectives.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Graphic Design, Web Development, Digital Media, or a related field is often preferred for roles requiring this depth of technical and creative expertise. Equivalent practical experience will also be strongly considered.

Experience: 7-10 years of hands-on professional experience in both web development and visual design is required.

Required Skills:

• Web Development: Proven experience in front-end development (HTML, CSS, JavaScript) and familiarity with back-end technologies or Content Management Systems (CMS) for website maintenance and updates.

• Visual Design Proficiency: Strong command of design principles and advanced skills in graphic design software, with a particular emphasis on Figma for creating interfaces, design systems, components, and interactive prototypes.

• Creative Production: Demonstrated experience in creating visual assets such as diagrams, infographics, and presentation templates that simplify complex technical information.

• Video & Motion Graphics: Experience with short-form video editing and motion graphics for creating engaging social media content and promotional clips.

• Web Analytics: Proficiency in implementing and utilizing web analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics, Plausible) for tracking website performance, engagement, and conversion metrics.

• SEO & Accessibility: Solid understanding of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) best practices and web accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG) to ensure discoverability and inclusivity.

• Cross-Platform Experience: Experience with various social media platforms including X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube, understanding their unique visual and content requirements.

• Data Interpretation: Strong ability to interpret data from analytics tools and translate insights into actionable recommendations for website and content improvements.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with design systems, components, and prototyping within Figma.

• Familiarity with back-end development or specific CMS platforms relevant to enterprise websites.

• Understanding of AI, Foundation Models, or deep learning concepts to better inform visual communication.

• Experience managing relationships with external creative or development agencies.

• Knowledge of UX/UI principles to enhance user journeys on the website.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for 7-10 years of experience suggests this is a mid-to-senior level role where the individual is expected to operate with significant autonomy. The emphasis on Figma, design systems, and prototyping points towards a need for building scalable and maintainable design assets, which is crucial for a growing research institute. The blend of technical and creative skills is essential for a GTM role that impacts brand perception and digital presence.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Web Development Projects: Showcase examples of websites you have developed or significantly contributed to, detailing your role, technologies used, and any performance improvements achieved.

• Visual Design Case Studies: Present detailed case studies of visual design projects, particularly those involving the translation of complex technical information (e.g., research findings, data) into clear and compelling graphics, diagrams, or infographics.

• Figma Design System/Prototyping Examples: Include examples demonstrating your proficiency with Figma, such as a well-structured design system, reusable components, or interactive prototypes that illustrate user flows.

• Video/Motion Graphics Demonstrations: Provide links to or examples of short-form video content or motion graphics you have produced, highlighting creativity and technical execution.

• Analytics & Reporting Samples: If possible, include anonymized examples of website analytics reports you have generated, demonstrating your ability to interpret data and derive actionable insights.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Be prepared to discuss your process for managing website updates, content creation workflows, and how you approach optimizing site performance and user experience.

• System Implementation & Maintenance: Articulate your approach to maintaining website security, implementing SEO best practices, and ensuring accessibility standards are met.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Demonstrate your methodology for tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) related to website traffic, engagement, and conversions, and how you use this data to drive strategy.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role requiring both development and design skills, a comprehensive portfolio is critical. It should not only showcase the final output but also the thought process, technical execution, and impact. For GTM-focused roles, demonstrating how design and web presence contribute to business objectives (like lead generation or brand awareness) is key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $185,000 - $220,000 per year This salary range is based on the provided information and industry benchmarks for experienced professionals in similar roles within the technology and research sectors in the Sunnyvale, California area. Factors such as specific experience, skill set, and interview performance may influence the final offer.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits.

• Performance-based bonus opportunities.

• 401K retirement savings plan.

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

• Paid Parental Leave.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential support.

• Life insurance and disability coverage.

Working Hours: Standard full-time hours are expected, typically around 40 hours per week. Flexibility may be available depending on project needs and team collaboration, but the role is primarily on-site.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range reflects the high cost of living and competitive market for skilled professionals in the Sunnyvale, California area, especially for roles demanding a dual skillset in web development and visual design within a cutting-edge research environment. The benefits package is comprehensive, typical for mid-to-senior level positions in the tech and research sectors, supporting employee well-being and long-term financial security.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Science & Research (Artificial Intelligence, Foundation Models, High-Performance Computing)

Company Size: The provided data does not specify the exact size of the Institute of Foundation Models (IFM). However, as a research lab focused on AI, it likely operates within a dynamic, intellectually driven environment, potentially ranging from a specialized team within a larger institution to a dedicated, growing research entity. The mention of an external design agency suggests a need for structured operational support.

Founded: Information on the founding date of IFM is not provided.

Team Structure:

• Core Operations Team: This role will likely be part of a broader operations or marketing/communications team, working closely with Content Marketing, Editorial, and Social Media Managers.

• Reporting Structure: The Website Developer & Visual Designer will likely report to a Marketing Director, Head of Communications, or a similar leadership role overseeing external relations and digital presence.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Expected to collaborate extensively with researchers, data scientists, and engineers to understand and visually represent their work, as well as with marketing and communications professionals to ensure brand consistency and effective outreach.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Insights: Emphasis on using website analytics and user data to inform design and development decisions, optimizing for engagement and conversions.

• Agile Development & Design: Likely employs agile methodologies for website updates, content deployment, and visual asset creation to maintain responsiveness to research advancements and market trends.

• Collaboration & Iteration: A culture that values collaborative brainstorming, iterative design processes, and open feedback loops to refine visual communication and technical solutions.

Company Website: https://ifm.mbzuai.ac.ae/

📝 Enhancement Note: The Institute of Foundation Models is positioned at the forefront of AI research. This implies a culture that values intellectual curiosity, innovation, rigorous analysis, and a commitment to advancing knowledge. For a marketing/operations role, this means translating highly technical concepts into accessible and engaging content that highlights the institute's groundbreaking work and attracts talent, collaborators, and funding.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-to-senior level individual contributor, requiring significant autonomy and expertise. It bridges technical web development with creative visual design, offering a unique career path for professionals skilled in both domains. The expectation is to "own" the website's performance and visual identity.

Reporting Structure: The role likely reports into a Marketing or Communications department, working closely with content and social media specialists. This structure allows for direct contribution to the institute's external facing GTM strategy.

Operations Impact: The impact of this role is significant in shaping the external perception of IFM. By ensuring a high-performing, visually appealing, and informative website, the role directly supports:

• Brand Authority: Elevating IFM as a leader in foundation model research.

• Talent Acquisition: Attracting top researchers and engineers through a professional and inspiring digital presence.

• Partnership Development: Facilitating collaborations by clearly communicating research impact and capabilities.

• Knowledge Dissemination: Making complex AI concepts accessible to a broader audience.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in AI-specific visual communication, advanced web technologies, or UX/UI design for research platforms.

• Leadership: Potential to lead small project teams, manage external vendor relationships, or become a subject matter expert in digital presence for research institutions.

• Skill Expansion: Opportunity to learn about cutting-edge AI research, which can inform more impactful visual storytelling and content creation.

• Cross-functional Exposure: Gain deeper insights into the research lifecycle, enabling more effective support for scientific communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a unique blend of technical and creative growth, uncommon in many operations functions. The "impact" is less about direct revenue generation and more about building brand equity, attracting top talent, and facilitating strategic partnerships – all critical components of a successful GTM strategy for a research institute.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is on-site, suggesting a collaborative office environment within the Institute of Foundation Models. This likely fosters direct interaction with researchers and other team members.

Office Location(s): Sunnyvale, California. This location places IFM within a hub of technological innovation, offering access to a vibrant ecosystem of tech companies and research institutions.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The on-site nature promotes direct interaction and collaboration with colleagues across research, marketing, and operations teams, facilitating the understanding and visual representation of complex AI work.

• Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard design and development tools, likely including high-performance computing resources for rendering or testing, and robust IT support.

• Intellectual Stimulation: Working alongside world-class researchers and engineers provides a stimulating environment where cutting-edge AI concepts are a daily part of the discourse.

Work Schedule: A standard full-time work schedule is expected, with an emphasis on on-site presence to facilitate collaboration. While core hours will likely be maintained, there may be some flexibility to accommodate project deadlines and creative workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Sunnyvale location is a significant advantage, placing the institute in close proximity to leading tech companies and a pool of highly skilled talent. The on-site requirement is crucial for fostering the close collaboration needed to effectively translate complex AI research into compelling visual narratives for external audiences.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess your combined web development and visual design skills, as well as your experience with relevant tools and platforms.

• Technical/Creative Assessment: This may involve a practical exercise or a deep dive into your portfolio to evaluate your proficiency in Figma, web development capabilities, and your approach to creating visual assets for technical content.

• Behavioral & Situational Interviews: Questions designed to assess your problem-solving skills, collaboration style, ability to handle ambiguity, and how you approach translating complex ideas. You'll likely be asked about how you've handled similar challenges in the past.

• Team/Manager Interviews: Meetings with potential team members and the hiring manager to evaluate cultural fit, communication skills, and overall suitability for the role and the institute's mission.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Showcase 3-5 of your strongest projects that best represent your combined web development and visual design expertise, with a clear emphasis on projects that involved translating complex information.

• Highlight Process: For each project, clearly articulate your role, the problem you were solving, your design/development process, the tools you used (especially Figma), and the outcome or impact of your work. Quantify results where possible (e.g., website speed improvements, engagement metrics).

• Demonstrate Versatility: Include examples that show your ability to adapt your style and voice across different formats (web, graphics, video) and for different audiences.

• Technical Showcase: For web projects, be ready to discuss your technical approach, coding practices, and any challenges overcome. For design, emphasize your use of design systems and prototyping.

• AI/Tech Relevance: If you have projects related to technology, AI, or research communication, make them prominent, as this demonstrates your understanding of the institute's domain.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Challenge: Be prepared for a potential design task that requires you to create a visual asset (e.g., an infographic, a diagram) from a piece of technical text or research abstract provided by IFM. Focus on clarity, accuracy, and aesthetic appeal.

• Website Audit/Improvement: You might be asked to audit a hypothetical website or a section of the IFM site, identifying areas for technical improvement (speed, SEO, accessibility) and visual enhancement.

• Storytelling: Practice articulating how your visual and development work supports broader communication goals and contributes to the institute's mission.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this hybrid role will likely assess both technical competence and creative aptitude. A strong portfolio that clearly demonstrates proficiency in both areas, especially with Figma and translating complex technical information, will be crucial for advancing. Preparing for practical exercises in design and potentially website analysis is highly recommended.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Web Development: HTML, CSS, JavaScript. Familiarity with at least one CMS (e.g., WordPress, Drupal, or a headless CMS) is essential for website management. Experience with front-end frameworks (e.g., React, Vue.js) may be beneficial.

• Design Software: Figma is explicitly required for interface design, design systems, component creation, and prototyping. Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects) will likely be used for graphic design and motion graphics.

• Video Editing Software: Tools such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or DaVinci Resolve for editing short-form video content and creating motion graphics.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Web Analytics: Google Analytics and/or Plausible are mentioned for tracking website traffic, user engagement, and conversion metrics.

• SEO Tools: Familiarity with tools like Google Search Console, SEMrush, or Ahrefs for SEO monitoring and optimization.

• Data Visualization: While not explicitly stated, experience with tools for creating clear and impactful data visualizations within presentations or reports (e.g., Tableau, Power BI, or advanced features within design tools) would be advantageous.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM: While not directly managing leads, understanding how website engagement contributes to CRM data (e.g., contact form submissions) is important. Experience with common CRMs like Salesforce or HubSpot might be helpful for context.

• Project Management: Tools like Asana, Trello, or Jira are likely used for managing tasks, workflows, and collaboration within the marketing and operations teams.

• Collaboration Tools: Slack, Microsoft Teams, or similar platforms for daily communication and team coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Figma, Google Analytics, and Plausible indicates these are critical tools for this role. Proficiency in these, along with a strong foundation in web development and general graphic/video design tools, is essential. The ability to integrate these tools to support GTM objectives (e.g., using analytics to inform design choices that drive engagement) is key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Intellectual Curiosity & Innovation: A deep interest in technology, AI, and a drive for continuous learning and pushing creative boundaries. This aligns with the cutting-edge nature of foundation model research.

• Excellence & Precision: A commitment to high-quality work, whether in code, design, or data analysis, ensuring the institute's external representation is professional and accurate.

• Collaboration & Communication: Valuing teamwork and clear, effective communication, especially when translating complex technical concepts for diverse audiences.

• Data-Driven Approach: A belief in using data to inform decisions, measure impact, and optimize performance across website and visual content strategies.

• Efficiency & Impact: Striving for efficient workflows and creating visual and web assets that have a measurable impact on the institute's goals, such as brand awareness, talent attraction, and knowledge dissemination.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Expect a highly collaborative environment where close working relationships with researchers, data scientists, and marketing professionals are essential for success.

• Process Improvement Culture: An openness to feedback and iterative improvements in both design and development processes to enhance effectiveness and efficiency.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that encourages sharing insights, best practices, and learnings across teams, particularly regarding the communication of complex scientific information.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at IFM likely mirrors that of leading research and tech organizations, prioritizing intellectual rigor, innovation, and impact. For this role, understanding how to visually represent groundbreaking research while maintaining a professional and accessible online presence is key. The collaborative style will be crucial for bridging the gap between the technical research world and the external audience.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Complexity: The primary challenge will be to effectively translate highly technical and abstract AI research concepts into clear, engaging visuals and web content that resonates with diverse audiences (from fellow researchers to the general public).

• Balancing Technical & Creative Demands: Juggling the responsibilities of maintaining a high-performance website with the demands of creative asset production requires strong time management and prioritization skills.

• Maintaining Brand Consistency: Ensuring a coherent and evolving visual identity across a growing institute and diverse communication channels, especially while partnering with external agencies.

• Staying Ahead of Trends: Keeping pace with rapid advancements in AI research, web technologies, and design trends to ensure IFM's digital presence remains cutting-edge and relevant.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• AI Research Immersion: Direct exposure to the latest advancements in foundation models and AI, providing unique insights that can inform creative and technical work.

• Advanced Tool Proficiency: Opportunities to deepen expertise in Figma, motion graphics, and potentially new web development technologies or CMS platforms.

• Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Gaining a deeper understanding of marketing strategy, content creation, and scientific communication principles through close collaboration.

• Portfolio Growth: Building a unique portfolio showcasing expertise at the intersection of advanced technology, web development, and visual storytelling for a world-leading AI research institute.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a significant opportunity to grow in a niche area where technical development, creative design, and scientific communication converge. The challenges are substantial but come with the reward of contributing to the visibility and impact of pioneering AI research.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to translate a highly technical concept into a visual format. What was your process, what tools did you use, and what was the outcome?" (Preparation: Have a specific example ready, detailing your approach to understanding the technical details, choosing the right visual medium, and measuring its effectiveness.)

• "How do you balance the demands of website maintenance and development with creative design projects? How do you prioritize when faced with competing deadlines?" (Preparation: Discuss your time management strategies, prioritization frameworks, and how you communicate potential conflicts or delays.)

• "Imagine IFM is launching a new breakthrough in foundation models. How would you approach creating the visual assets and website content to communicate this to both technical and non-technical audiences?" (Preparation: Outline a strategic approach, considering different platforms, visual styles, and messaging nuances for each audience.)

• "What are your go-to resources for staying current with web development best practices, design trends, and AI advancements?" (Preparation: Be ready to name specific blogs, publications, conferences, or online communities you follow.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What excites you most about the Institute of Foundation Models and its mission?" (Preparation: Research IFM's recent publications, research areas, and leadership. Connect their mission to your own interests and career goals.)

• "How do you see your role contributing to the overall success and visibility of a leading AI research institute?" (Preparation: Frame your responsibilities in terms of impact on brand authority, talent acquisition, and knowledge dissemination.)

• "Describe a situation where you had to collaborate with subject matter experts (like researchers or engineers) who have different communication styles than yours." (Preparation: Highlight your adaptability, active listening skills, and ability to find common ground to achieve project goals.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative Arc: For each project presented, establish a clear narrative: the problem, your solution (development and design), the execution, and the impact.

• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the success of your work – e.g., website performance improvements, increased engagement rates from visual content, or positive feedback received.

• Showcase Figma Mastery: Highlight your use of design systems, components, and prototyping features within Figma to demonstrate efficiency and scalability in your design process.

• Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss the technical aspects of your web development projects, including the challenges you faced and how you overcame them.

• Visual Clarity: Ensure your presentation is visually appealing and easy to follow, mirroring the quality you would produce for IFM.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating your unique ability to excel in both technical development and creative design, with a strong emphasis on translating complex information. Highlighting your understanding of IFM's mission and how your skills will directly contribute to its GTM objectives will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Website Developer & Visual Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on jobs.lever.co.

• Tailor Your Resume: Emphasize your 7-10 years of experience, highlighting specific achievements in both web development and visual design. Use keywords from the job description, such as "Figma," "web development," "visual design," "motion graphics," "Google Analytics," and "SEO."

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 3-5 of your strongest projects that best showcase your combined skills. Ensure clear descriptions of your role, process, and impact, with a particular focus on translating complex technical information into accessible visuals. Include examples of your Figma work and any website analytics reporting.

• Prepare Your Narrative: Practice articulating how your unique blend of technical and creative skills will contribute to IFM's mission of advancing foundation model research and shaping its external perception. Be ready to discuss your approach to website performance, visual identity, and data analysis.

• Research IFM: Thoroughly explore the Institute of Foundation Models website and any recent news or publications. Understand their research focus, current projects, and overall mission 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.