Lead Full-Stack WordPress Developer (Pantheon Specialist)

Role Summary

The Lead Developer is responsible for the architectural integrity, performance, security, and deployment reliability of MassArt.edu. This role maintains and evolves the custom WordPress theme, reusable components, integrations, and multienvironment deployment workflows within Pantheon. The developer ensures the site remains secure, accessible, highperforming, and aligned with MassArt's longterm digital sustainability goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain and enhance custom WordPress themes, Gutenberg components, PHP templates, and plugins.
• Oversee Git-based branching, multidev environments, automated testing, and rollback procedures.
• Apply core, theme, and plugin updates; perform vulnerability reviews; execute malware scanning.
• Manage Redis object caching, Pantheon caching layers, image optimization, code refactoring, and Core Web Vitals improvements.
• Support integrations with Localist, Slate, Mailchimp, analytics tools, and other institutional systems.
• Resolve layout conflicts, script regressions, and responsive design issues.
• Provide tactical support for Drupal, Modern Campus, or other platforms when authorized.

Required Qualifications

• Expert-level proficiency in PHP, HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript (ES6+), and database querying.
• Extensive experience managing Pantheon-hosted WordPress environments, including multidev workflows and caching layers.
• Deep familiarity with Git-based deployment, continuous integration, automated testing, and rollback procedures.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot cross-browser, cross-device, and responsive design issues.
• Experience developing and maintaining custom WordPress themes, plugins, reusable components, and API integrations.
• Demonstrated capabilities in security hardening, performance optimization, technical debt reduction, and Core Web Vitals improvements.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting higher education digital ecosystems with complex integrations and admissions workflows.
• Familiarity with Localist, Slate, Mailchimp, Modern Campus, or similar platforms.
• Experience with Drupal or other CMS platforms used by academic institutions.
• Background supporting visually driven institutions, especially art and design colleges.