About the Role
Privatenode is looking for a creative, detail-driven Web Designer to join us on a project-based contract—with a optional path toward becoming our full-time Creative Lead. If you love modern, clean design and enjoy seeing your ideas come to life in WordPress (without having to mess with plugins or hosting), this could be a perfect fit.
We build custom marketing websites (typically 10–20 pages) for small businesses in wellness, construction, coaching, and female-led ventures. You’ll own the design from start to finish—starting in Figma (if you prefer) and implementing your designs directly in WordPress. You’ll work alongside a developer who handles the technical details: theme setup, plugin configuration, CPTs, and third-party integrations.
What You’ll Do
- Design and implement custom WordPress websites—using either Figma or the WordPress Site Editor (block themes)
- Build core site elements like headers, footers, templates, and key pages directly in WordPress
- Create a growing library of versatile, reusable block patterns to speed up production and maintain consistency across projects
- Help shape and maintain a lightweight base theme used across client sites
- Ensure visual fidelity between mockups and live site implementation
- Collaborate with a developer who handles plugin setup, CPTs, and technical integrations
- Present your work to clients, gather feedback, and refine based on input
Our Workflow
We keep things focused and friction-free:
- You design and build the visual experience—homepage, page templates, header/footer—either in Figma or directly in the WordPress Site Editor
- You’ll contribute to our shared base theme and develop reusable design patterns to improve efficiency over time
- Our developer handles plugin setup, custom post types, performance tuning, and advanced hosting or third-party integrations
- We use a lean stack: block themes, full site editing (FSE), and zero page builders (no Elementor, no Divi)
- Projects are managed in Basecamp with clear milestones
- We communicate via email, Basecamp, and occasional video check-ins—no Slack, no chaos
A Day in the Life
You’ll start with a brief and sitemap, then design the homepage and templates in Figma or directly in WordPress. Once approved, you’ll implement the design in the Site Editor—styling blocks, setting up templates, and applying your design system across the site. You’ll post updates in Basecamp, check in via Zoom when needed, and collaborate with the developer who handles plugin setup and final site prep.
What We’re Looking For
Must-Haves
- A strong portfolio of clean, modern, responsive WordPress websites (block themes preferred)
- Experience building directly in the WordPress Site Editor, with a focus on usability and consistency
- A commitment to thoughtful, efficient design—built with a minimal, maintainable tech stack
- Ability to create reusable block patterns and implement design systems within WordPress
- Clear, professional communication and confidence presenting design decisions to clients
- U.S.-based and authorized to work in the U.S.
- Availability during U.S. business hours for key milestones
Nice-to-Haves
- Comfortable designing in Figma (especially for early concepts and client presentations)
- Familiarity with global styles, pattern libraries, and lightweight base theme structures
- Light working knowledge of HTML/CSS
- Interest in mentoring, creative direction, or even light client strategy down the line
How We Work Together
We’re a small, experienced team that values clarity, ownership, and craftsmanship. You’ll collaborate directly with our founder (a web veteran with 20+ years in the field) and a small group of developers who handle the technical layer.
You lead the design—both creatively and in the WordPress build. Our developers handle configuration, performance, and technical execution. We keep the loop short, the process human, and the expectations clear.
Contract Details
- Type: Project-based contract
- Pay: $250–$750 per project, based on scope (most are 10–15 pages, averaging $500)
- Volume: Expect 2–4 projects per month, based on client demand
- Timeline: 6-month contract with an optional path to full-time Creative Lead
- Time Commitment: 10–15 hours per project, typically over 1–2 weeks
- Schedule: Flexible, with availability for key milestones and check-ins
What Happens After 6 Months?
If it’s a great fit, you’ll have the option of stepping into a Creative Lead role—owning design direction across projects, mentoring designers, and helping shape the future of our agency’s visual identity.
Growth & Professional Development
We’re committed to your long-term growth. Whether it’s attending WordCamps, investing in design courses, or deepening your knowledge of accessibility and UX—we’ll support professional development that sharpens your skills and keeps you inspired.
Why Work With Us
Privatenode is a small web agency that crafts sharp, strategic websites for service-driven businesses—think wellness pros, coaches, builders, and local groups. We build with intention, blending clean design with fast performance, clear messaging, and sites that last.
No bloated code or trendy gimmicks here. We create custom WordPress sites using block themes and a lean tech stack—simple, speedy, and built to work. Our process is hands-on yet laid-back, with structured timelines that don’t feel like a grind. We’re all about purpose, giving our team room to own their work and flex their skills.
You’d join a tight-knit crew led by a founder who’s been at this since 2000. We value your time, your ideas, and your drive to level up—whether you’re crafting reusable design systems or steering our creative vibe. We’re in it for quality, not quick turnover.
If you want a gig where clarity beats chaos, craft matters more than volume, and you’re not just another cog—let’s talk. Apply by April 15, 2025, to jump the line.
