SUMMARY:

The Director of User Experience defines, builds and manages the user interface(s) of the University of Richmond's web/mobile platform and integrated online communications. The manager co- defines and executes user interface application development for University Web sites/mobile web/apps, conceptualizes and architects user interfaces, and develops client-side and server- side code. The manager performs their role within the strategic vision, technology constraints, infrastructure design, guidelines, best practices and architectures defined both by University Communications and Web Services.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Lead Programmer

• Serve as lead programmer for the front end of the web ecosystem, utilizing expertise in PHP, JavaScript, HTML, CSS, XML, etc., to conceptualize, architect, program, and develop the university's integrated and responsive web/mobile user interfaces
• Ensure the day-to-day work of the University Communications design/development team integrates with technical aspects of the university's user interface, ensuring online designs support technical goals
• Conceptualize, design, and architect key corresponding client-side code and server-side code (PHP) in coordination with Web Services
• Co-lead the conceptualization and delivery of future state Web infrastructure to support next-generation web platforms
• Co-lead the initiative to better utilize emerging best practices and technologies throughout the University's web platform
• Work with the AVP for Communications and the Director of Web Services to ensure agreement on all technical decisions, designs, and development so that work that spans Communications and Web Services meets all standards, best practices, security and risk parameters, and other attributes

Web Application Development

• Lead the definition, development, implementation and maintenance of custom web applications and immersive, leading-edge experiences (such as augmented reality and/or virtual reality), particularly for key constituent touch points such as student recruitment, alumni relations,
• Define software objectives by analyzing user requirements; envision system features and functionality
• Identify and incorporate leading edge approaches and best practices, including the adoption and usage of data visualization and immersive technologies
• Responsible for prototyping, coding, testing, debugging, documenting, implementing, and maintaining moderate to complex web-based applications
• Co-define and lead the execution of the University's mobile and app development strategy

Marketing/Brand Optimization

• Work with the AVP of Communications to identify ways web/digital technology can drive communications- and marketing-related goals around key university initiatives
• Utilize Google Analytics data to make recommendations to the AVP of Communications and the Director of Digital Engagement to increase content visibility and impact
• Partner with the AVP of Communications and the Director of Digital Engagement to optimize website content according to Search Engine Optimization (SEO) best practices

Testing, Standards and Policies

• Co-manage user testing and analytics processes to continually improve the University's overall online presence
• Co-manage the University's web and online media standards, ensuring they adhere to industry best practices
• Partner with Web Services to develop, implement and maintain the University's web- based technical, development, and usability standards

Miscellaneous

• Manage technical contractors, vendors, and student workers as necessary by assigning projects and providing guidance
• Other duties as determined by the AVP of Communications

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Comprehensive knowledge of JavaScript, PHP, XML, HTML/XHTML, CSS,
• Comprehensive knowledge of best practices in Web site design, including responsive design, search engine optimization, W3C compliance, WCAG 2.0 Section 508 accessibility standards, social media optimization
• Comprehensive knowledge of RESTful/AJAX programming best practices, including web data storage, retrieval, and mash-up techniques (i.e. RSS, JSON)
• Thorough knowledge of source code versioning techniques (GIT preferred) and software development environments including virtual machines
• Thorough knowledge of data APIs (Google, Facebook, Salesforce, Brightcove, Twitter, Blackbaud, etc.), social networking systems and other modern web communication technologies
• Thorough knowledge of server security and secure coding practices
• Thorough knowledge of Adobe Photoshop and basic audio/visual software packages
• Thorough knowledge of native app development, debugging and deployment, with specific program knowledge including Xcode, iOS SDK, and Android SDK
• Thorough knowledge of data visualization approaches and tools. Angular and React knowledge/experience preferred.
• Demonstrated knowledge of immersive web technologies, including leading 3D animation tools and WebGL components
• Ability to develop for and in iOS and Android environments
• Demonstrated understanding of utilizing web-based infrastructure to facilitate business process

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, communications, marketing or related field
• Minimum of five years of web development and programming experience
• Equivalent combination of education and related work experience

WORK HOURS:

• Full-time, exempt position
• Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; 38.75 hrs./week

SALARY STRUCTURE:
Pay Grade 9 (Hiring Range $68,671.00 to $94,423.00 annually)