Ballotpedia exists to build the encyclopedia of American politics. We build that encyclopedia by researching and writing about our areas of coverage, generating an unbiased resource for scholars, journalists, voters and interested citizens.
Ballotpedia employees exemplify self-awareness and strive for constant improvement, allowing Ballotpedia to grow in new directions and constantly improve our current content. Ballotpedia employees are passionate about creating a delightful experience for anyone who interacts with Ballotpedia, refining themselves by developing expertise and cultivating professionalism, and creating structures that are elegant and adaptable to get the job done.
If you exemplify these qualities and wish to strive toward Ballotpedia's ends, please consider applying for a position with us.
Web Developer
The Web Developer must be experienced with both frontend and backend web development and possess strong database knowledge. The Web Developer will support the Tech Manager with various projects targeted at extending the functionality of the website and creating special programs to make the work of the rest of the staff easier. The ideal candidate will possess the potential to assume new responsibilities over time. We expect that the Web Developer will learn on the job; as such, a positive, proactive attitude and willingness to learn new skills are as important as experience.
This is a full-time position that will involve occasional nights and weekends.
Assignments
Develop MediaWiki extensions for creating custom reports on Ballotpedia
Develop stand-alone software to help automate complex tasks on the website
Test software in a development environment and understand performance impacts prior to deployment
Manage site and extension software including discovering, testing and implementation of new features (MediaWiki); analyze and report on and resolve performance issues
Assist in the development, documentation and maintenance of an API
Assist in the development and maintenance of a responsive skin for the website
Respond to technical suggestions and requests, provide technical assistance and troubleshooting to staff
Skills and Qualifications
Knowledge of HTML, CSS, Javascript, PHP, and MySQL
Advanced communication, project management and organizational skills
Ability to implement technical objectives with understanding of impacts on application performance
Demonstrated ability to design and implement professional-level systems and structures for server incident reports and analysis and software enhancement recommendations
Ability to distill complex ideas into understandable terms for non-technical people
Ability to stay current with trends in the industry and web technologies in general
Experience with MediaWiki a plus
Experience with large websites in a multi-server environment a plus
Experience with mobile/responsive website development a plus
Experience with a versioning system like GIT a plus
A bachelor's degree in a relevant field (IS/IT/CET) or 3-5 years of experience is preferred
Environment
The Web Developer will work remotely from their home location. All Ballotpedia staff work remotely. Ballotpedia uses Google Applications (Gmail, Google Calendar, Drive and more) to accomplish our goals. Some familiarity with Google Applications is helpful.
Ballotpedia is a results-only work environment (ROWE). A ROWE is a workplace in which every employee is 100% accountable to the results and 100% autonomous over their time. ROWE workplaces have been shown to provide better service to the ultimate customer of the business while also improving employee engagement and work satisfaction. Each employee will be oriented to the principles of a ROWE during new employee training.
Compensation
Ballotpedia’s compensation package is competitive. In addition to your salary, Ballotpedia offers bonuses based on performance and a $6,000 annual benefits stipend, which may be used to pay for a full benefits package, including health, vision, and dental insurance; life insurance; and more. If benefits are not elected, the $6,000 stipend is taxed as regular income and added to your regular compensation.
Additional information can be found in the Ballotpedia Guidebook.
To Apply
Please attach or complete:
résumé, including the contact information for two professional references
cover letter detailing your sincere interest in this position and the mission of the organization, including your salary requirements
A web developer questionnaire, which can be filled out here: bit.ly/BPWebDevSurvey
Please note: PDF files are preferred, though other file types such as .doc and .docx are also accepted.
No phone calls, please.