Lead Wordpress Developer

Role: Lead Wordpress DeveloperLocation: will be hybrid-NJ based(3x/week in-office)Mandatory SkillsWordPress CMS, JavaScript, Node.js, PHP (LAMP stack), and MySQL/PostgresSeeking an experienced and hands-on Manager / Technical Lead to oversee the development and evolution of our high-traffic web platforms, powered by WordPress VIP. This role combines strong technical skills with team leadership and architectural oversight. You will lead a team of engineers focused on delivering performant, secure, and scalable web experiences while closely collaborating with cross-functional teams in product, design, editorial, and infrastructure. You’ll help set technical direction, contribute directly to the codebase, and shape the long-term maturity of our CMS and front-end systems. The ideal candidate has deep experience with WordPress in enterprise environments and is passionate about building world-class publishing platforms. Qualifications & Requirements7+ years of professional experience in software development with at least 3 years in a technical leadership or management capacityProven experience managing large-scale WordPress-powered websites and CMS platforms, including WordPress VIP, Gutenberg, and REST APIsStrong hands-on experience with JavaScript, Node.js, PHP (LAMP stack), and MySQL/PostgresExpertise in building and maintaining custom themes and plugins in enterprise WordPress environmentsStrong knowledge of system design, architecture patterns, security, and performance optimizationExperience working with GraphQL, RESTful APIs, JSON, XML, and modern config formats like YAMLFamiliarity with DevOps practices, CI/CD pipelines, Docker, and cloud-native infrastructureUnderstanding of front-end performance tuning, SEO, caching, and deployment strategiesExperience using tools like Yoast, Sailthru, and analytics/personalization pluginsExcellent communication and collaboration skills with a strong ability to bridge technical and business discussions Preferred QualificationsExperience with CDNs such as Akamai or FastlyContributions to the WordPress open-source community or plugin developmentExperience with high-traffic media or publishing platformsUnderstanding of web accessibility standards (WCAG) and cross-platform consistency Key Responsibilities Technical LeadershipDefine platform architecture and evolve best practices around WordPress development and web application performanceDrive architectural decisions that ensure scalable, secure, and reliable systemsLead technical spikes, proof-of-concepts, and evaluation of emerging technologies and toolsProvide hands-on guidance in WordPress theme and plugin development, system integration, and code standards Team Guidance & MentorshipManage, coach, and grow a team of engineers—fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and technical excellenceConduct regular code and design reviews, delivering thoughtful and actionable feedbackCollaborate with product managers, designers, and editorial leads to ensure alignment across initiativesChampion team learning through design presentations, knowledge-sharing, and internal documentation