PHP / WordPress Designer–Developer (Independent Contractor)

About the Role

On Demand Innovation is seeking a dependable PHP / WordPress Designer–Developer to support continuous website development, design improvements, and maintenance across internal ODI websites and a select portfolio of client sites. This role is intended for a long-term contractor who can act as a reliable extension of our team, ensuring our web properties remain visually polished, technically sound, secure, and optimized for performance. The position involves collaborating with ODI leadership and project managers to implement updates, troubleshoot issues, and enhance overall user experience across multiple websites.

Key Responsibilities

WordPress Development & Maintenance

Develop, update, and maintain WordPress websites using PHP, HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.

Customize and extend WordPress themes and plugins to meet functional and design requirements.

Implement ongoing site updates including new pages, layout changes, content updates, forms, and feature enhancements.

Diagnose and resolve WordPress issues related to plugins, themes, and core functionality.

Design & UX Support

Execute design-focused updates that improve website usability, visual consistency, and responsiveness.

Translate Figma designs or high-level design guidance into clean, functional WordPress implementations.

Ensure websites are mobile-responsive and compatible across modern browsers.

Performance, Security & Best Practices

Optimize website performance through improvements to page speed, caching, image handling, and plugin efficiency.

Maintain WordPress security best practices including updates, monitoring, and preventative maintenance.

Ensure code quality, maintainability, and reliable backup procedures across websites.

Client & Internal Collaboration

Work closely with ODI leadership and project managers to scope, estimate, and execute website tasks.

Manage multiple website updates and improvement tasks across different projects simultaneously.

Occasionally communicate with clients to clarify requirements or present completed work.

Required Qualifications

3+ years of hands-on WordPress development experience

Strong PHP development experience specifically within WordPress

Solid understanding of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript

Experience with WooCommerce and MySQL

Demonstrated experience customizing WordPress themes and plugins beyond page builders

Strong attention to design details including layout, spacing, and UX best practices

Experience implementing responsive design and mobile optimization

Familiarity with common WordPress tools and plugins such as ACF, Elementor or Gutenberg, security plugins, caching tools, and form builders

Ability to work independently while managing priorities across multiple websites

Nice to Have

Experience working within agencies or supporting multiple client websites simultaneously

Experience managing hosting environments such as WP Engine, SiteGround, or AWS

Basic knowledge of SEO and website performance optimization

Familiarity with Git or other version control systems

What We’re Looking For

A dependable and responsive professional who consistently follows through on commitments

Strong attention to detail and pride in delivering clean, high-quality work

Comfortable working with direction while also proactively suggesting improvements

Interested in building a long-term working relationship rather than short-term project work

Interested in this position?

Apply