1. JOB TITLE: Front-End Developer JOB DESCRIPTION 2. HRMS REFERENCE NUMBER: HR15008a 3. ROLE CODE: WEBDEVMRA 4. DEPARTMENT: Marketing Recruitment and Admissions 5. ORGANISATION CHART: See Appendix A 6. JOB PURPOSE: To support and develop the University s outward facing websites, system administration tasks and helping to support internal and external customers. You will be an integral part of a small team and will be expected to mix content and code entry with contributing to the development of a variety of exciting projects. To take design and developmental responsibility for the University s outward-facing web sites in liaison with the Web Manager. To ultimately liaise with departmental editors across the institution regarding development of their areas of the corporate site. To follow and implement the Marketing Communications Strategy and supporting relative Operational Plans, ensuring the corporate website meets marketing, recruitment and other business objectives. To be integral in generating new web-based ideas and concepts. 7. BACKGROUND INFORMATION: Marketing, Recruitment and Admissions is a central administrative department that services the whole University in support of the recruitment and admission of students to all programmes of study. The department provides the administration of all aspects of student recruitment, from marketing, initial contact and prospectus request, through to admission, and works closely with the Management Information Section in the provision of information for Senior Managers and a wide range of other clients. The admission of full-time undergraduate students remains the cornerstone of student recruitment to programmes of study across the University. In the context of increasing the number of applications, and even more stringent target intake allocations to be achieved, the successful recruitment of students is crucial in the University achieving its strategic plan objectives. With the need to provide a better on-line experience for potential applicants, and more specifically, to re-enforce our brand image, as well as meeting the University s declared aim of widening access, the role of Web Developer requires both technical skills and a market understanding, in addition to excellent communication and organisational skills. In the light of increased sector competition, this post is a major contributor to the University s annual achievement of Contracted Student Numbers.
8. WORK PERFORMED AND/OR KEY RESULT AREAS: 8.1 Communicating Effectively Intrinsic in the day-to-day development and maintenance of the University s externally facing websites, making recommendations at all levels in design, functionality, development, content and structure. Typical day-to-day responsibilities include providing support for the functionality of the sites, developing existing templates and creating new ones, analytics-based site improvements, identifying, installing and configuring modules to improve site functionality, accessibility issues, SEO maintenance, the creation of new interactive elements of the site, the creation of campaign micro sites and creating graphics for use on the sites. Working closely with the University s Marketing team to develop the University of Chester s corporate websites and other website applications that reflect the institution s marketing objectives, and to help supervise their usage by nominated University staff (Content Champions). Keeping up to date with best practice in web design and content management, while introducing new processes, tools and technologies. Working with and advising others to ensure that the development of the sites are worthwhile strategic enhancements. Also works closely with other institutional technical staff, particularly staff in Learning and Information Services (LIS) regarding technical issues to do with the site. Assists in undertaking website content transfer in collaboration with original document creators. 8.2 Leadership and Working Collaboratively Offers mutual guidance and support with team members, helping to generate a mutually supportive team experience. Works closely with Marketing colleagues in the development of the corporate websites. 8.3 Liaison and Networking Regular interaction with stakeholders both inside and outside the institution, such as academic and support colleagues across the University, in order to develop the corporate website s content management system accordingly. Liaises with partner institutions and agencies, external user groups, and a network of web designers and developers throughout the sector, to develop good working relationships, share ideas, technical innovations and best practice and to promote
the successful maintenance of the University s brand image through site developments. Liaises with colleagues across the University to aid in the development of university-wide web consistency, to communicate guidelines where necessary and ensure that they are adhered to. Liaison with academic and administrative colleagues is required in addition to advice and guidance given with respect to the development of the corporate and other websites. Acts as a point of contact for all stakeholders regarding technical and operational support relating to the development of the websites. Liaises regularly with academic and support departments in the development of all aspects of the University s websites. 8.4 Delivering a High Quality Standard of Service Ensuring that web developments sustain the University s brand image across our sites and service propositions in the context of content and coding standards. Ensure linked marketing and other information resources are kept relevant and appropriate. 8.5 Effective Decision Making Advise line managers about costs and requirements for any necessary software purchases and updates. The post holder works closely as a team with the Web Developers and Web Assistants and reports to the Web Manager and then to the Deputy Director and Director of Marketing, Recruitment and Admissions. While the Department s marketing strategy is devised by line managers, the post holder has considerable freedom in devising methodologies for development of the websites, as well as freedom to liaise with customers and introduce innovations. The post holder is integral in the processing and design of information, as well as determining technical processes, and advising on and developing procedures. Constant monitoring, review and evaluation is required in order to deliver cost-effective and informative products. As a result, considerable individual initiative is required of the post holder in this regard, particularly since published information is a crucial factor in successful recruitment. Collaborative decision making with departmental managers and on technical matters, in line with that of the Web Manager. To incorporate best practice and sound principles for Search Engine Optimisation. Advises staff across the University, including the Marketing, Recruitment and Admissions department and other members of departmental staff regarding issues relating to the development of the corporate websites, providing technical and
functional supporting documentation where required. The role holder must be able to make rapid decisions in response to changes in sector and institutional recruitment patterns and in light of technological developments in electronic communications. 8.6 Planning and Organising Self and Others Works in conjunction with the Web Manager, who is charged with overseeing all externally facing websites managed by Marketing, Recruitment and Admissions, providing support to academic departments and administrative and service departments, helping to update web-based information, as well as maintaining and monitoring the content of the University home page. The role holder must be able to prioritise and manage their own workload effectively in an organised and structured manner. The role holder has considerable freedom and authority in the processing of information, as well as determining technical processes, and advising on and developing procedures for the development of the website. The role holder must proactively help drive and inform change, based on a sound knowledge and understanding of a number of technical issues. 8.7 Innovation and Improvement (Effective Problem Solving) The management of work in this area is primarily autonomous and the role holder must show an excellent sense of initiative and the ability to solve problems quickly and competently. Problems can range from technical difficulties with the production of electronic content to advice and guidance issues for customers. Works closely as other members of the Web Team, the wider Marketing Team, the Deputy Director and Director of Marketing, Recruitment and Admissions, and other colleagues in LIS Services and other appropriate LIS staff to address and resolve technical problems as they arise, and to support and oversee new directions and strategies for successful dynamic, content managed websites. The role holder has considerable freedom and authority in the processing of information, as well as determining technical processes, and advising on and developing procedures for the development of the website. The role holder must proactively help drive and inform change, based on a sound knowledge and understanding of a number of technical issues. The role holder must be able to make rapid decisions in response to changes in sector and institutional recruitment patterns and in light of technological developments in electronic communications. 8.8 Analysis and Research Working with the Web Manager, Web Team and LIS Officers to develop existing and new systems where required by the University. Monitoring and use of statistics/analytics software for the improvement of the website.
To monitor and improve site functionality, as well as seeking lower accessibility thresholds using predetermined procedures and gathering the information from standard sources. Monitoring site statistics, improve site metadata, and maximising traffic using predetermined procedures. Data disseminated to MRA Management Team and Senior Managers on a weekly basis. Monitoring site functionality, as well as seeking lower accessibility thresholds using predetermined procedures and gathering the information from standard sources. Data disseminated to MRA Management Team and SMT. 8.9 Sensory and Physical Demands The post holder will work in a desk based situation, with a VDU. Work is often driven by tight deadlines and complicated web briefs, and can involve managing personal stress. A large proportion of the time will be computer based and using Web development software. 8.10 Work Environment The post holder will work in an open plan office environment. Physical effort is as expected for administrative work. 8.11 Pastoral Care and Welfare Work as part of a team Gives input on an advisory basis when required on issues relating to team training and development. To show basic sensitivity to colleagues and customers. 8.12 Team Development Facilitates other users to develop, own and maintain their own material where appropriate. Provides guidance, advice and training to departmental colleagues and other staff involved in web content development. Liaises with other cross institutional teams. To build a strong and collaborative working relationship with colleagues within LIS.
8.13 Teaching and Learning Support Develop and deliver training/guidance either verbally, written or within training workshops as appropriate to wider University staff and students in relation to use of the University website. 8.14 Knowledge and Experience See person specification. 8.15 General To undertake any other duties commensurate with your grade, and/or hours of work, as may reasonably be required of you. To take responsibility for upholding and complying with the University s Equality and Diversity policies and for behaving in ways that are consistent with fair and equal treatment for all. To comply with all University Health and Safety policies.
Job Title: Front-End Developer PERSON SPECIFICATION Department: MRA PERSON SPECIFICATION Criteria Qualifications: Degree level qualification, or equivalent (ideally in an IT/graphics related discipline). Advanced level ECDL, or equivalent, or a willingness to undertake. Proven Experience: High degree of computer literacy and experience in web design and authoring. Commercial experience in using Adobe Creative Suite. Relevant experience in the development of themes for Drupal or similar. Relevant experience in developing large organisational websites with Drupal or similar. Excellent skills in the use of Web Standards (including HTML5, CSS3 and Javascript) to produce accessible and engaging user experiences. Relevant experience in the latest Responsive Design methods and practices. Excellent knowledge of WAI (Web Accessbility Initiative) Guidelines in order to develop accessible and inclusive user experiences. Relevant experience with front-end frameworks such as Zurb Foundation and Twitter Bootstrap or similar. Knowledge of PHP in the context of Drupal theming. / Method of identification Application/Certificates Interview/Certificates /Test /Test /Test
Delivering academic and service excellence: Good grammatical command of written English. Strong communication skills along with a good degree of creativity and the ability to see the bigger picture. Managing self and inspiring others: Proactive by nature with a desire to learn and the confidence to come up with and develop new ideas. The ability to prioritise and manage own workload effectively in an organised and structured manner. Communication and presentation skills, and an ability to explain technical matters to a wide range of users within MRA and their clientele. The ability to work in a fast-paced environment, with frequent tight deadline pressures whilst maintaining excellent attention to detail. Good organisational skills, tact, diplomacy and a lively enthusiasm. Ability to generate fresh new ideas which, when put into practice, help to create market leading online environments. Application Interview Interview Interview /Test /Test Working together: Flexibility of approach ability to work on one s own initiative, yet capable of integrating into a close-knit team, relaying on own experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Interview/Test Organisational and stakeholder awareness: Excellent understanding of web industry, best practice and latest developments. Personal experience of higher education systems. Excellent attention to detail and passion for excellence. /Test Requirements are those, without which, a candidate would not be able to do the job. Applicants who have not clearly demonstrated in their application that they possess the essential requirements will normally be rejected at the shortlisting stage. Requirements are those that would be useful for the post holder to possess and will be considered when more than one applicant meets the essential requirements. Method of identification is where the selection panel will match the candidate s skills and abilities to the required criteria outlined (i.e. application form, interview, test).
UNIVERSITY OF CHESTER TERMS & CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT MARKETING, RECRUITMENT AND ADMISSIONS FRONT-END DEVELOPER SALARY SCALE University Scale OS7, points 23-26, 25,769-28,143 per annum payable monthly in arrears. RESIDENCE REQUIREMENT It is a requirement of this post that within 12 months of appointment, the post-holder should live within a 30 mile radius or within a one hour travelling time by public transport from the University. HOURS OF WORK Monday to Thursday 9.00am - 5.30pm Friday 9.00am - 4.30pm (less one hour lunch break each day) A flexible approach to work will be required as there may be occasions when it would be necessary for you to work additional hours as dictated by the workload. HOLIDAY ENTITLEMENT 22 days per annum (pro-rata during the commencement and cessation years), rising to 27 days after five years' continuous service. Two extra statutory days per annum during the Christmas period. MEDICAL EXAMINATION Successful candidates will be required to complete an Occupational Health questionnaire, and may be required to undergo a medical examination. ESSENTIAL CERTIFICATES Short-listed candidates will be asked to bring to interview, proof of qualifications as outlined on the Job Description and Person Specification provided. Upon appointment, copies of essential certificates will be required by HRM Services. PENSION SCHEME The University operates two pension schemes for support staff: The default scheme is the Higher Education Defined Contribution Scheme (HEDCS), which is administered by Friends Life. The Cheshire Local Government Pension Scheme, to which the University is an admitted body. All support staff are entitled to participate in one of these schemes. Some staff will be automatically enrolled into a scheme, depending on their age and earnings, but if they do not wish to remain a member of the scheme, they will be entitled to opt out after enrolment. EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES The University has a policy of equal opportunity aimed at treating all applicants for employment fairly. SMOKING POLICY The University operates a No-Smoking policy. PROBATIONARY PERIOD A nine months' probationary period applies to all University posts. CLOSING DATE Candidates should apply for this vacancy via our online recruitment website (https://jobs.chester.ac.uk/wrl/) by Tuesday 5 th January 2016 quoting reference number HR15008a