Web Designer

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Are you a website expert with a passion for full-stack web development? Do you geek out on APIs and MySQL coding and constantly have dozens of tabs open while you navigate CMS and web applications? If so, Irvine Ranch Water District needs your expertise. We are looking for a Web Designer who cannot only speak the language of web technologies but implement them while working directly with the Communications Department. The right candidate will be able to multi-task, troubleshoot, and improve IRWD.com and Yardtopia.com. IRWD.com is undergoing a major redesign. You will play an integral role in the testing, transition and maintenance phases. Working with the Digital Communications Analyst, you will help IRWD continue and expand its digital outreach plans using the best tools available. IRWD offers excellent benefits and a 4/10 work schedule with Friday-Sunday off.

The District:

Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD) is a progressive, values-driven agency, with an international reputation for its leading-edge financial management practices, water recycling program, water use efficiency practices, water banking, urban runoff treatment, and energy generation and storage. Established in 1961 as a California Water District under the provisions of the California Water Code, IRWD is an independent special district serving central Orange County. IRWD provides high-quality drinking water, reliable sewage collection and treatment, ground-breaking recycled water programs, and environmentally sound urban runoff treatment to its customers. As an independent, not-for-profit public agency, IRWD is governed by a publicly elected five-member Board of Directors. The Board is responsible for the District's policies and decision-making. Day-to-day operations are supervised by the General Manager. Additional information can be found at the District's website: www.IRWD.com.

IRWD Values

Irvine Ranch Water District believes that its values drive the character, culture, and capacity of our organization. IRWD was built on values, and we weave them into the fabric of everything we do. Values are the ingredients in our recipe for both institutional and individual success. They are a code of conduct to promote positive outcomes for others and ourselves. They are more than words on a wall or a website. We live by them every day. We pledge to keep them relevant in an ever-changing world.

IRWD's employees enjoy working in a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment where they form strong bonds with fellow employees. To ensure effective communication and promote a collaborative team environment, employees report to work each day in the office or in the field, depending on their positions.

The Position

Under general direction, the Web Designer will serve as a full-stack web developer, and apply their creative vision and technical skills to bring the District’s digital strategy to life on all the District-owned or controlled web domains. The incumbent is responsible for developing, maintaining, and monitoring the performance of the District websites. This includes designing and creating digital content, building and deploying front-end features, integrating plugins, developing creative website plans, executing the digital communications plan to bring those sites to life, developing complementary technology solutions, supporting software systems for customer- and employee-facing websites, and making IRWD websites the hub of District messaging and digital marketing campaigns.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Employees in this class report to the Communications Manager or the Senior Communications Analyst and do not exercise any supervision.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

The Web Designer performs professional duties focused on the design, development, and maintenance of all District-owned websites while also executing the digital communications strategy. This role requires a blend of creativity and technical expertise, ensuring that web content is visually engaging, user-friendly, and aligned with IRWD's branding and communication goals. The role requires independent judgment and discretion, and the incumbent must be able to troubleshoot, identify and respond independently to fix technical problems. The Web Designer is expected to stay current with industry trends, employ best practices for web development, and collaborate across departments to meet department and District objectives.

For the full job description and responsibilities of the position, please click here.

This position is 100% in-office, meaning employees are expected to work from our Sand Canyon Headquarters, full-time, without the option for remote work.

Applications will be accepted on a continuous basis until a sufficient number of qualified applications have been received or until filled. The deadline for the first review of applications is 8:00 AM on Tuesday, August 12, 2025. Qualified candidates are encouraged to submit applications early. Candidates who submit applications after the first review deadline are not guaranteed to be considered for this recruitment. This recruitment may close at any time without notice after the first review deadline.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Understands and implements IRWD and the Communications Department’s strategic goals and design standards. Ensuring all websites maintain a clear content connection to digital campaigns in the market.

Ensures that web pages are adaptable to all screen sizes and platforms, including multiple browsers, phones, tablets and computers.

Ensures that web pages and IRWD controlled domains meet all current federal and state requirements placed on local government websites and meet and exceed industry cybersecurity standards and accessibility standards.

Creates or rewrites content to adhere to platforms’ best practices.

Coordinates with District-wide departments to ensure accurate and timely information.

Enhances communication platforms to effectively present the Communications Department messages and work with Communications staff to maximize their potential.

Directs and check the work of any external contractors.

Writes well-designed, testable, efficient code using web development and SEO best practices.

Creates website layouts and user interfaces that are compatible with current systems.

Integrates data from various back-end web services and databases.

Works with stakeholders to gather and refine specifications and requirements based on technical needs.

Creates and maintains software documentation.

Ensures cross-browser compatibility of new features.

Expands and scales websites as needed.

Stays updated on emerging technologies and design trends and incorporates them into IRWD’s platforms.

Collaborates with colleagues to realize visual design intent; ensures all webpages convey the proper look and feel and adhere to IRWD quality standards.

Troubleshoots website problems.

Provides technical and creative advice on complex projects.

Supports existing applications; plans and performs upgrades; and applies regulatory year-end updates and critical environment and application fixes.

Performs design, content development, testing, deployment, and user training.

Executes program design, coding, testing, debugging, and documentation, using development tools according to IT standards.

Writes, designs and develops user interfaces.

Prepares estimates of schedule, cost, and resource requirements for projects.

Determines opportunities to improve and automate processes and functions.

Complies with safety work-related practices and attends relevant safety training.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

The incumbent will occasionally work late hours or early hours, weekdays, Saturdays, and Sundays as required for events, emergencies, and other District needs. The incumbent will be part of a small Communications Department and will contribute as needed on a variety of tasks and projects. This may include leading or assisting with events and other outreach to community members or serving as a department representative on inter-departmental teams.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:

Education:

Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, computer science, web development, software development, or related field is required.

Experience:

Four (4) years of experience in the duties and responsibilities described above, including at least four (4) years of experience with content management systems (CMSs) such as WordPress and Joomla. Experience working with HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and/or PHP is also required.

Water-industry experience is desired.

Licenses/Certifications:
A valid Class ‘C’ California Driver’s License is required.

Knowledge of:

• Principles, methods and techniques used in analysis, design, development, testing and implementation of software solutions.
• Principles of graphic design.
• Agile and test-driven development best practices.
• AP Style for writing and editing.
• UI/UX best practices.
• Microsoft operating systems.
• Social media outreach programs.

Ability to:

• Communicate proficiently best practices and standards.
• Think creatively and execute a vision.
• Closely follow brand and style guidelines.
• Develop and troubleshoot REST API.
• Create and implement responsive designs.
• Perform complex analytical tasks.
• Identify, recommend, and implement improvements to application systems.
• Effectively communicate technical information to Communications staff and other users.
• Work well independently and as part of a team.
• Determine user needs and write website requirements, test procedures and user manuals.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with customers, co-workers, vendors, and management at all organizational levels.
• Write and speak at a high level.
• Effectively and professionally represent the District with outside professionals and the public.
• Pay attention to detail.
• Respond effectively to sensitive inquiries or complaints.
• Multi-task and make decisions independently.
• Add, subtract, multiply, divide, and calculate percentages, decimals, and fractions.
• Work with advanced proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
• Use the internet to conduct research.
• Exercise good judgment in decision making and in all job functions.
• Remain calm in crisis and emergency situations.
• Use discretion while performing duties that involve highly sensitive data and access to confidential decision processes.
• Independently and effectively manage and organize projects.
• Work with relational databases such as MySQL is desired.
• Work with front-end JavaScript frameworks such as Vue, React, and Angular is desired.
• Work with back-end frameworks such as Ruby on Rails, Node.js, and ASP.NET is desired.
• Write and/or speak Mandarin Chinese or Korean is desired.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Regularly required to sit, walk, bend, stoop, and stand. Occasionally required to lift up to 25 lbs. Must be able to sit for extended periods of time while performing tasks at a desk or workstation. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard, typewriter keyboard, or calculator and to operate standard office equipment. This may involve repetitive hand movements for extended periods. Ability to reach for documents, supplies, or equipment at varying heights (within a standard office environment) and grasp them, including the use of filing cabinets or shelves. This is primarily a sedentary office classification, although standing and walking between work areas may be required. Occasional standing is required, such as when presenting. Some bending or stooping may be necessary to retrieve files or materials from lower shelves or desks. Some lifting is required, such as when setting up and taking down displays for special events, or when moving supplies onto and off of storage shelves. Good vision is necessary for reading documents, working with computer screens, and performing tasks that require fine detail. Ability to hear in a standard office environment for communication, phone calls, and meetings. Frequent verbal communication with team members, clients, and other stakeholders, including both in-person and virtual meetings, requiring clear speech and hearing. Occasional travel may be required to other worksites or conferences for meetings, training, or other work-related activities. The job may require sustained concentration, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Ability to walk long distances over uneven terrain. The employee should be able to manage work-related stress in a fast-paced environment.

These physical demands may vary depending on the specific duties and expectations of the position.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

Noise level is generally equivalent to a typical office environment. The office is maintained at a comfortable room temperature. The office is equipped with air conditioning and ventilation systems designed to maintain comfortable indoor air quality. The work area is equipped with adequate artificial lighting, supplemented by natural daylight from windows where available. The employee will work primarily at a desk, using a computer and other office equipment. The office complies with standard safety regulations, including the use of fire exits, first aid kits, and emergency procedures. Employees are expected to adhere to safety guidelines. The office environment is free from significant environmental hazards such as chemicals, heavy machinery, or extreme weather conditions. Ability to work in an environment which may expose employee to hazardous materials and environments when conducting tours or responding to emergencies in the field. Occasional visits to construction sites where noise level may be higher than typical office environment.

IMPORTANT APPLICATION INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTIONS

All applicants are required to complete and submit a District application form online and answer the supplemental questionnaire. Stating "See Resume" is not an acceptable substitute for a completed application. Resumes or faxed copies will not be accepted in lieu of the District online application. To apply, click on the "Apply" link located at the top of this page.

New users must create an account first. Click on this link for instructions on how to set up your account and apply for the first time: Online Employment Application Guide .

Applications will be reviewed by the Human Resources Department and the subject matter expert. Those applicants possessing the most pertinent qualifications will be invited to continue in the selection process, which will include:

Spark Hire Assessment (tentatively scheduled for August 19 , 2025) : As part of our interview process, candidates will participate in a one-way video interview conductedthrough Spark Hire. This interview allows candidates to showcase their ability to communicate clearly and confidently in a recorded format. During the interview, candidates will respond to a series of pre-recorded questions, demonstrating their verbal communication skills, professionalism, and ability to articulate their qualifications efficiently.

Oral Interview Examination (tentatively scheduled for September 2 , 2025) : Will assess candidates’ experiences, qualifications, and abilities that are crucial for success in this role. During this examination, candidates will have the opportunity to discuss their background, including education, training, and relevant professional experiences. This in-person interview will allow evaluators to assess the candidate’s interpersonal communication skills and evaluate their overall qualification for the position.

Communication regarding your application and/or status will be sent to the email address listed on your application. Please check your email regularly throughout the recruitment process as you will not receive communications by any other method.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Irvine Ranch Water District is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you consider yourself a person with a disability, you may contact the Human Resources Department for a reasonable accommodation.

IRWD offers a comprehensive benefits package for eligible employees and their eligible dependents. These benefits include the following: retirement benefits; medical, dental, vision, and life insurance; anda variety of other benefits. Benefits may vary based on employment status. This benefits overview is intended to be a summary, is not intended to be all-inclusive,and may not be applicable to all employees.

Retirement
Employees hired on or after January 1, 2013:
The District, in compliance with the California Public Employees' Pension Reform Act of 2012 (PEPRA), implemented a third tier for new employees hired on or after January 1, 2013. New employees hired on or after January 1, 2013 who have not been in PERS membership or in membership with a reciprocal retirement system within 6 months of hire date will receive benefits under the California Public Employees Retirement System at a 2 percent at age 62 formula. This formula gradually increases to a maximum benefits of 2.5 percent at age 67. Final compensation calculations will be based on the highest three-year average of regular recurring pay. The District pays the employer's share of these costs. The employee share of the pension cost of 7.50% is paid in full by the employees hired under this formula.

Employees hired on or after September 29, 2012 or "Classic" PERS members hired on or after January 1, 2013:
On September 24, 2012, the IRWD Board of Directors approved the addition of a second tier to the CalPERS retirement benefits. New employees hired on or after September 29th through December 31, 2012, and employees hired on or after January 1, 2013 who have been in PERS membership or in membership with a reciprocal retirement system, will receive benefits under the California Public Employees Retirement System at 2 percent at age 60 formula. This formula gradually increases to a maximum benefit of 2.418% at age 63. The District pays the employer share of these costs and the employee share of the pension cost of 7% is paid in full by the employees hired under this formula. Final retirement compensation calculations are based on the highest three-year average of regular, recurring pay.

IRWDdoes not participate or pay into Social Security except for the Medicare portion.

Medical Insurance
IRWD contracts with CalPERS for medical insurance coverage. Employees may elect coverage from a variety of PPO and HMO plans. The employee and District contribution for health insurance varies by plan.Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.

Dental Insurance
IRWD contracts with Delta Dental for dental coverage.IRWD pays 100% of the premium for dental coverage for eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.

Vision Insurance
IRWD contracts with the EyeMed for vision coverage. IRWD pays 100% of the premium for vision coverage for eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.

Life Insurance
Elgible employees are provided with life insurance coverage equal to three or four times their annual salary, depending on their level of compensation. Eligible dependents are also covered for a flat benefit amount. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.

Deferred Compensation
Participation in adeferred compensation plan is available through Empower Retirement. Enrollment is voluntary and contributions are employee-paid and subject to IRS limits. The District matches employee contributions up to 3% of base pay after 1 year of employment.

Paid Vacation
Eligible employees begin accruing vacation benefits at the rate of 80 hours per year for the first 5 years of employment. Employees accrue 120 hours per year after 5 years of employment and 160 hours per year after 10 years of employment.

Paid Holidays
The District offers 11 scheduled paid holidaysplus one personal holiday per year.

Sick Leave
Eligible employees accrue 96 hours of sick leave annually.

Flexible Spending Accounts
Eligible employees may elect to participate in the District's Flex Advantage program. This program allows employees to deposit pre-tax dollars into special accounts to be used for a variety of purposes, including paying for qualified miscellaneous health care expenses and dependent care expenses. IRWD contracts with a third party administer to process payments from employee accounts using claim forms or a Flex Spending debit card.

Educational Assistance
The District will share in the pre-approved educational costs of tuition and books for employees who wish to attend college or take certification classes.

Closing Date/Time: Continuous

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• Irvine Ranch Water District

• (949) 453-5360

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