Senior WordPress Developer

We’re looking for a senior-level WordPress Developer who can go beyond templates and page builders to create truly next-generation web experiences.

This is the role.

At Vinyl, you’ll own projects end-to-end: from Figma handoff to some custom development, from staging sites to live launches.

But this role isn’t just about maintaining WordPress sites: it’s about helping us set a new standard for what websites and web tech can be.

You’ll work alongside our creative, strategy, and marketing teams to build clean, component-based sites that are fast, accessible, and scalable.

You’ll also be part of our push into dynamic automation, AI, and experimental workflows, helping us explore what’s possible when websites, APIs, and intelligent agents work together.

If you’re curious, collaborative, and thrive on tackling challenges that don’t have an obvious answer, you’ll fit right in.

This is a senior role: you’ll lead decisions, mentor collaborators, and handle incidents as they arise.

“The work we do matters, and the best work comes from people who are fully alive.”

SCOTT WILLIAMS

Chief Executive Officer

This is what you’ll do.

  • Build advanced WordPress sites: Take design files and turn them into production-ready builds using builders with custom PHP/JS/JSON/Plugins if builders fall short.
  • Develop plugins and widgets: Write lightweight, secure code to extend WordPress functionality and streamline site editing.
  • Architect content structures: Create CPTs and taxonomies that make complex sites (programs, people, events, resources) easy for non-tech editors to manage.
  • Work with APIs, MCPs, and webhooks: Connect websites to automation platforms, third-party APIs, and AI-driven systems to unlock new capabilities that empower universities, nonprofits, and businesses to achieve more than they thought possible.
  • Ensure performance and stability: Optimize for Core Web Vitals, accessibility, backups, staging workflows, redirects, DNS/SSL, and smooth cutovers.
  • Integrate modern SEO strategies: Bake in technical SEO, but also stay ahead of AEO (AI Engine Optimization) and GEO (Generative Engine Optimization).
  • Debug and problem-solve: Use DevTools, logs, and your instincts to resolve issues quickly and communicate clear next steps.
  • Collaborate and document: Join select client calls, explain tradeoffs, and create quick Looms or editor guides so handoffs are smooth.

Here’s what you have to succeed.

Must-haves

  • 5+ years building production WordPress sites.
  • Strong front-end skills (HTML5, CSS/Sass, modern JS, responsive design).
  • Practical PHP for WordPress (templates, hooks/filters, safe snippets).
  • Comfort working with APIs, JSON, webhooks, and modern integrations.
  • Solid instincts for debugging, QA, and clear communication.
  • Experience launching on managed WordPress (staging, backups, DNS/SSL).
  • Incredible attention to detail and the ability to work independently and on a team to meet deadlines.

Bonus points (and areas you’ll grow with us)

  • Experience building or extending WordPress plugins.
  • Familiarity with automation and AI tools.
  • Knowledge of SEO, AEO, GEO best practices.
  • Solid understanding of web design principles and comfort tweaking layouts in Figma and modifying assets in Adobe programs.
  • Familiarity with multisite, schema basics, analytics/Tag Manager, Git.

Join our team and build things that really matter.

We’re a team of people energized by doing work that has impact. We’re based in Ashland, Ohio and value collaboration where the best ideas win. We try new things, pursue emerging tech, and drive the work forward so our clients get groundbreaking results.

This is step one in building out a sharper web/tech discipline at Vinyl. Your work here won’t just “keep the lights on.” You’ll be part of creating a foundation that lets us scale, experiment, and show the industry that a small, lean team can actually lead the way. You’ll have the freedom to pursue creativity, explore what’s next, and shape how we evolve our web and automation game in the age of AI. We’re not looking for someone to just execute. We’re looking for someone who’s ready to go beyond convention.

Equally important: we’re looking for someone to add to our culture. Kindness matters as much as good ideas. Pushing each other to be our best selves is what makes this team thrive. We crack jokes, share playlists and hype each other up when the work is tough. We want someone who’s not just skilled, but also brings good energy and fresh ideas.

Location and Schedule

In-person/Hybrid in Ashland, OH preferred (ET hours), but open to remote candidates who can collaborate effectively during our day.

Compensation and Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits, commensurate with experience.

Let’s get started.

We’re jazzed about the idea of partnering with you. The first step is getting to know each other and jiving with what wakes you up each morning. Reach out and let’s explore what that looks like.