WordPress Developer Job Description Template - 2025 Guide

Position Overview

We are seeking a skilled WordPress Developer to join our web development team. You will design, develop, and maintain WordPress websites and applications, creating custom themes, plugins, and solutions that deliver exceptional user experiences. This role offers the opportunity to work with diverse clients, implement cutting-edge WordPress technologies, and contribute to projects that drive digital transformation.

Key Highlights

• Work with WordPress core, custom themes, and plugin development
• Collaborate with designers and content creators on diverse projects
• Opportunity to lead WordPress architecture and optimization initiatives
• Competitive compensation with performance bonuses
• Remote-friendly work environment with flexible schedules
• Direct impact on client success and digital presence

Why This Role Matters

WordPress powers over 40% of all websites globally, making WordPress Developers essential to the modern web ecosystem. You'll be responsible for creating robust, scalable WordPress solutions that enable businesses to establish their digital presence, engage users effectively, and achieve their online objectives. This position offers significant technical challenges, creative problem-solving opportunities, and the chance to work across various industries and project types.

About the Role

As a WordPress Developer, you will be responsible for the complete WordPress development lifecycle, from initial planning and custom theme development through deployment, optimization, and ongoing maintenance. You'll work closely with designers, content strategists, and project managers to deliver WordPress solutions that meet both technical requirements and business goals.

This role requires deep WordPress expertise, strong PHP development skills, and the ability to create custom solutions that extend WordPress functionality. You'll contribute to technical architecture decisions, implement best practices for performance and security, and help establish development workflows that ensure code quality and project efficiency.

We value developers who are passionate about the WordPress ecosystem, stay current with platform updates and best practices, and can balance custom development with the strategic use of existing plugins and themes.

Key Responsibilities

WordPress Development & Customization

• Develop custom WordPress themes from scratch using modern PHP, HTML5, CSS3, and JavaScript
• Create and maintain custom WordPress plugins to extend site functionality and meet specific business requirements
• Implement responsive designs that work seamlessly across all devices and browsers
• Customize existing themes and plugins while maintaining upgrade compatibility and code quality

Technical Implementation & Integration

• Integrate WordPress with third-party APIs, payment systems, and external services
• Implement custom post types, fields, and taxonomies to support complex content structures
• Develop custom Gutenberg blocks and maintain compatibility with the block editor
• Configure and optimize WordPress multisite installations for enterprise clients

Performance & Security Optimization

• Optimize WordPress sites for speed, SEO, and user experience through caching, image optimization, and code minification
• Implement security best practices including regular updates, vulnerability scanning, and access controls
• Monitor site performance using tools like GTmetrix, PageSpeed Insights, and Google Analytics
• Establish backup strategies and disaster recovery procedures for client websites

Collaboration & Project Management

• Work closely with designers to translate mockups and wireframes into functional WordPress sites
• Collaborate with content creators to develop user-friendly admin interfaces and content workflows
• Participate in client meetings to understand requirements and provide technical guidance
• Document code, create technical specifications, and maintain project documentation

Required Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Web Development, or related field, or equivalent practical experience
• 2-4 years of professional WordPress development experience
• Proven portfolio demonstrating custom WordPress theme and plugin development
• Experience with WordPress best practices, coding standards, and development workflows

Technical Skills

• Expert-level PHP programming skills with understanding of object-oriented programming principles
• Strong proficiency in WordPress core functions, hooks, filters, and the WordPress REST API
• Advanced knowledge of HTML5, CSS3, SASS/LESS, and responsive design frameworks
• JavaScript proficiency including jQuery, modern ES6+, and experience with build tools (Webpack, Gulp)
• MySQL database management and optimization skills
• Git version control and collaborative development workflows

Core Competencies

• Strong problem-solving abilities with attention to detail and code quality
• Excellent communication skills for client interaction and team collaboration
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines
• Self-motivated with ability to work independently and in team environments

Preferred Qualifications

Advanced WordPress Skills

• Experience with WordPress VIP, enterprise-level WordPress hosting, and scalability considerations
• Knowledge of WordPress CLI (WP-CLI) for development automation and site management
• Familiarity with headless WordPress implementations and JAMstack architectures
• Experience with WooCommerce development and e-commerce integrations
• Understanding of WordPress security frameworks and compliance requirements (GDPR, accessibility)

Additional Technical Experience

• Experience with modern JavaScript frameworks (React, Vue.js) for advanced frontend development
• Knowledge of server management, Linux, and web server configurations (Apache, Nginx)
• Familiarity with cloud platforms (AWS, Google Cloud) and CDN implementations
• Experience with automated testing and continuous integration/deployment pipelines
• Background in UX/UI design principles and user experience optimization

Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range

Experience Level	Annual Salary Range
Entry Level (0-2 years)	$45,000 - $65,000
Mid-Level (2-5 years)	$60,000 - $85,000
Senior Level (5+ years)	$80,000 - $120,000
Lead/Architect (7+ years)	$100,000 - $150,000

Benefits Package

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching
• Flexible PTO and paid holidays
• Professional development budget for conferences, courses, and certifications
• Home office stipend for remote work equipment
• Annual technology allowance for software licenses and tools

Context Variations

Corporate Environment

Large enterprise organizations typically require WordPress developers with experience in enterprise-grade hosting, compliance requirements, and integration with existing corporate systems. Focus on scalability, security protocols, and ability to work within established IT governance frameworks.

Agency Environment

Digital agencies need versatile WordPress developers who can work on multiple client projects simultaneously, adapt to different brand requirements, and deliver high-quality work under tight deadlines. Emphasis on client communication skills, project management abilities, and expertise across various WordPress use cases.

Freelance/Consulting Context

Independent WordPress developers should demonstrate strong business acumen, client relationship management skills, and the ability to handle all aspects of project delivery from initial consultation through ongoing maintenance. Focus on portfolio diversity, technical expertise, and proven client satisfaction record.

Industry Considerations

Industry	Key Requirements	Compliance/Certifications
E-commerce	WooCommerce expertise, payment gateway integration, inventory management	PCI DSS compliance, secure payment processing
Healthcare	HIPAA compliance, secure data handling, patient portal integration	HIPAA certification, healthcare security protocols
Education	LMS integration, student management systems, accessibility compliance	WCAG 2.1 AA compliance, FERPA requirements
Financial Services	High security standards, regulatory compliance, data encryption	SOC 2 compliance, financial data security
Non-Profit	Donation systems, volunteer management, grant reporting	Fundraising compliance, transparency requirements
Media/Publishing	High-traffic optimization, content delivery networks, advertising integration	GDPR compliance, content management workflows

Compensation Guide

National Average Salary Data

The national average salary for WordPress Developers ranges from $45,000 to $120,000 annually, with significant variation based on experience, location, and specialization.

Major Metropolitan Areas

City	Salary Range	Cost of Living Factor
San Francisco, CA	$70,000 - $140,000	High (+35%)
New York, NY	$65,000 - $130,000	High (+30%)
Seattle, WA	$60,000 - $120,000	High (+20%)
Austin, TX	$55,000 - $110,000	Moderate (+10%)
Denver, CO	$55,000 - $105,000	Moderate (+5%)
Atlanta, GA	$50,000 - $95,000	Average
Phoenix, AZ	$48,000 - $90,000	Below Average (-5%)
Remote	$50,000 - $110,000	Variable

Factors Affecting Compensation

• Specialization: E-commerce, enterprise, or security specializations command premium salaries
• Portfolio Quality: Demonstrated expertise through high-quality project examples significantly impacts earning potential
• Client Base: Long-term client relationships and recurring revenue streams increase compensation stability

Salary data sourced from PayScale, Glassdoor, and industry surveys conducted in Q4 2024

Interview Questions

Technical WordPress Questions

1. Explain the WordPress hook system and provide examples of when you would use actions vs. filters. Evaluation: Tests fundamental WordPress knowledge and ability to extend functionality properly

2. How would you optimize a WordPress site that's loading slowly? Walk me through your diagnostic and optimization process. Evaluation: Assesses performance optimization skills and systematic problem-solving approach

3. Describe the differences between custom post types and custom fields. When would you use each? Evaluation: Tests understanding of WordPress content architecture and data modeling

4. How do you ensure WordPress security in your development process? What are the most critical vulnerabilities to address? Evaluation: Evaluates security awareness and implementation of best practices

5. Explain the WordPress REST API and provide an example of how you've used it in a project. Evaluation: Tests knowledge of modern WordPress development and API integration

6. How would you approach migrating a large WordPress multisite installation with minimal downtime? Evaluation: Assesses experience with complex WordPress deployments and risk management

7. Describe your process for creating a custom Gutenberg block. What are the key considerations? Evaluation: Tests familiarity with modern WordPress editor and block development

8. How do you handle version control and deployment for WordPress projects? What's your workflow? Evaluation: Evaluates development workflow, collaboration skills, and deployment practices

Behavioral Questions

1. Tell me about a challenging WordPress project you worked on. What made it difficult and how did you overcome the obstacles? Evaluation: Problem-solving skills, persistence, and ability to learn from challenges

2. Describe a time when you had to explain a technical WordPress concept to a non-technical client or stakeholder. Evaluation: Communication skills and ability to translate technical concepts

3. How do you stay current with WordPress updates, security patches, and new development practices? Evaluation: Commitment to continuous learning and professional development

4. Tell me about a time when you had to work with a poorly coded WordPress site. How did you approach improving it? Evaluation: Code quality standards, refactoring skills, and diplomatic problem-solving

5. Describe your experience working with designers or content creators on WordPress projects. How do you ensure effective collaboration? Evaluation: Teamwork, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills

Culture Fit Questions

1. What aspects of WordPress development do you find most rewarding and why? Evaluation: Passion for the role and alignment with WordPress ecosystem values

2. How do you balance using existing plugins versus developing custom solutions? Evaluation: Practical decision-making and understanding of development efficiency

3. Describe your ideal WordPress development environment and workflow. Evaluation: Work style preferences and technical setup requirements

4. What role do you think WordPress plays in the broader web development landscape? Evaluation: Industry awareness and strategic thinking about platform positioning

Hiring Tips

Quick Sourcing Guide

• WordPress.org Job Board: Primary community resource for experienced WordPress developers
• WP Jobs: Specialized job board focused exclusively on WordPress opportunities
• GitHub: Search for WordPress contributors and examine code quality in repositories
• WordCamp Events: Network at local and international WordPress conferences and meetups
• Upwork/Freelancer: Source experienced freelancers for contract-to-hire opportunities

Portfolio Evaluation Tips

• Look for diverse project types demonstrating versatility and problem-solving skills
• Evaluate code quality through GitHub repositories or code samples
• Assess mobile responsiveness and cross-browser compatibility
• Check site performance and loading speeds of portfolio examples

Red Flags to Avoid

• Plugin Overreliance: Candidates who solve every problem with plugins without considering performance impact
• Outdated Practices: Using deprecated functions, ignoring security best practices, or outdated development methods
• Poor Communication: Inability to explain technical concepts clearly or dismissive attitude toward non-technical team members
• No Testing Process: Lack of systematic approach to testing functionality across different environments
• Security Ignorance: Minimal awareness of WordPress security vulnerabilities and mitigation strategies
• Version Control Unfamiliarity: Limited experience with Git or collaborative development workflows

FAQ Section