Web Specialist

Type: Independent Contractor (1099) or W2 Contract About the Role ESP is seeking a hands‑on WordPress specialist to modernize website into a secure, scalable, and easy‑to‑update platform. You’ll lead the rebuild using modern WordPress architecture (block editor), improve SEO and performance, refresh the look/feel, and ensure the site is optimized for social sharing and future enhancements (including optional AI chatbot integration). This is a practical, build‑focused role for someone who can work independently, communicate clearly, and deliver production‑grade outcomes. What You’ll Do (Core Responsibilities) Audit + plan: Review current site, content structure, performance, and SEO. Recommend a streamlined sitemap and page/template plan. Modern WordPress rebuild: Implement a clean, maintainable WordPress build using Gutenberg/block editor (no heavy legacy builders unless justified). Theme & components: Configure or build a modern theme approach, ensuring reusable sections and editor‑friendly page building. UI/UX refresh: Improve layouts, navigation, page hierarchy, typography, and overall polish (mobile‑first). Technical SEO: Implement best‑practice metadata, schema markup, redirects, indexation controls, image optimization, and internal linking. Performance: Optimize Core Web Vitals (caching strategy, asset loading, image formats, script management). Analytics: Set up GA4 + key conversion/event tracking (form submits, CTA clicks, call‑to‑actions). Forms & workflows: Build/optimize contact and intake forms with routing/notifications (and CRM integration if applicable). Security & stability: Ensure plugin hygiene, hardening, backups, and a clean update strategy. Documentation + training: Provide a short admin guide and handoff so ESP can manage content without dev support. Nice‑to‑Have (Bonus Skills) Managed WP hosting experience (WP Engine, Kinsta, Flywheel, etc.) Accessibility (WCAG 2.1 AA) implementation/testing Experience optimizing sites for AI discoverability (structured content, schema, FAQ patterns) Optional: AI chatbot integration (website widget, knowledge base ingestion, safe logging/PII controls) Required Experience 3+ years building and maintaining WordPress sites (modern best practices) Strong grasp of: SEO fundamentals + technical SEO execution Performance optimization (Core Web Vitals) Security and plugin governance Portfolio of 3+ relevant sites (please include links and what you owned) Deliverables (What “Done” Looks Like) Modernized WordPress site (block‑editor friendly) Improved navigation + page templates (service lines, about, insights/news, contact, careers) Technical SEO foundation + redirect plan implemented Performance improvements validated (CWV‑friendly) Analytics + event tracking working Documentation + training handoff completed Engagement Structure Fixed‑fee base build preferred (with milestone payments) Add‑ons priced separately (SEO rewrite, extra landing pages, AI chatbot, etc.) Optional monthly retainer for ongoing updates and optimization Option B — W2 Contract Hourly contract (rate DOE) for a defined project window Clear weekly capacity expectations To Apply Please send: Portfolio links (3–7) and what you specifically did Your recommended approach (theme strategy, plugin stack, build process) Estimate for timeline + cost (fixed fee or hourly) Availability to start Optional: examples of SEO wins (before/after metrics) or AI chatbot. #J-18808-Ljbffr