Website Specialist

Salary $62,000.00 - $70,000.00 Annually
Location  Dallas, NC
Job Type Full-Time Regular Staff
Job Number 2022-00679
Division Administration
Department Marketing and Communications
Opening Date 10/01/2025

SUMMARY

Open until filled-

The Website Specialist will use both technical and creative skills to develop and maintain website content and will be the lead project manager coordinating with internal and external partners for the redesign and ongoing administration and updates of the College’s main website. This position is also responsible for supporting content updates and maintenance of other College websites, including those for the Foundation, Athletics, Library, WSGE, and the Textile Technology & Fiber Innovation Centers. The Website Specialist is part of the Marketing and Communications team and reports to the Executive Director of Marketing and Communications.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Work with the Executive Director of Marketing and Communications to lead a full website redesign project for the College’s main website and other organizational websites. This will include developing a request for proposals, selecting vendors, researching needs, developing and managing action plans/timelines, monitoring budgets, etc.
2. Manage the maintenance of the College websites, including receiving, facilitating, and/or resolving internal service requests (e.g., managing content, uploading documents, fixing broken URLs, etc.). This also includes maintaining the existing sites during the redesign project.
3. Oversee and manage the college’s website search tool, web-based form development, and user administration.
4. Test websites across browsers, operating systems, and devices. Monitor online lead generation forms to ensure they work correctly with Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems.
5. Manage content optimization strategies, including search engine and generative engine/AI optimization. Provide strategic, actionable insights for improving search rankings and results with AI-driven search. Work with external partners as needed.
6. Provide regular reports on the overall activity and success of website engagement. Identify trends and insights and recommend strategies for continuous improvement. 
7. Ensure all existing and new website content meets the College’s standards of quality and brand guidelines. Collaborate with other internal and external content editors, developers, and designers to create, edit, and publish online content (articles, photos, video, etc.) that supports the College’s brand and strategic marketing objectives.
8. Assist in the maintenance and development of website standards and guidelines for content managers. Train content managers on the use of the CMS. Develop training materials, monitor usage and provide basic technical assistance when necessary. 
9. Collaborate with the Technology Services (Information Technology and Office of Security) departments to ensure compliance and appropriate security measures align with college policies and industry standards. Ensure the business continuity plan is current and ready to implement if needed.
10. Ensure the College’s digital content and web presence meet current Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) standards. Review and respond to website accessibility reports and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to maintain accessibility standards.
11. Work with the appropriate people to enforce guidelines, standards, board policies, and state and federal laws as they pertain to all college websites. Ensure compliance with all policies and procedures of the College, NC Community College System, and applicable State and Federal Agencies.
12. Manage copyright and data protection matters as it relates to college websites and ensure compliance with applicable copyright and other relevant laws. 
13. Stay current on emerging technologies/best practices and regularly evaluate and update website strategies to elevate the College’s online presence. 
14. Assist in managing relationships with external vendors to ensure deadlines are met and work is performed satisfactorily. Review and process applicable purchase orders and expenses per the established budget and guidelines.
15. Assist with special college projects and events as needed and perform other duties as assigned.
16. Maintain a high standard of professional and ethical practice in representing the College. Maintain confidentiality of applicable information. Demonstrate a thorough knowledge of the field or discipline with continued adherence to professional accountability. Accept responsibility for managing situations and problems. Provide a high level of service to customers by establishing and maintaining effective working relationships and partnerships. Work cooperatively with team members and colleagues, contributing positively and constructively to the achievement of team and College objectives. Adhere to the College’s policies, procedures, and other established guidelines. 

MINIMUM EDUCATION QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in web design, marketing (or a related field) from a nationally accredited institution.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE QUALIFICATIONS

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE QUALIFICATIONS (Required)

• Three years of relevant web content experience 
• Knowledge of web content management systems 
• Experience interpreting website analytics
• Strong organizational skills with a high degree of detail orientation with the ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment, work independently, and communicate effectively 
• Excellent time-management skills and the ability to prioritize and meet tight deadlines 
• Valid driver’s license 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Higher Education experience
• Knowledge of WCAG 2.1 accessibility standards and guidelines
• Project management experience
• Experience with Wordpress or Higher-Education SaaS CMS platforms such as Omni CMS or Pantheon.
• Knowledge of coding languages (PHP, Java Script, HTML/CSS) 
• Experience troubleshooting websites

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• This position is on-site and based in Dallas, NC. Must be able to travel between the main campus and other campuses and college events.
• Generally works in a traditional climate-controlled office environment and requires the ability to sit for extended periods.
• Some walking, standing, and bending required, and the ability to lift and maneuver items weighing up to 35 pounds. 
• Work environment can be stressful at times when dealing with a wide variety of challenges and deadlines.
• This position may require work to occasionally be done outside normal business hours, including evenings and weekends.

BENEFITS

Gaston College provides a comprehensive, affordable insurance and benefits program.  We are continuously investigating new benefit offerings that are responsive to the needs of our regular** employees.

• State Health Plan
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Health Care and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Additional Supplemental Insurances
• NC State Retirement Plan
• Supplemental Retirement Plans
• Disability Benefits, Long- and Short-Term
• Longevity Pay
• State Employees' Credit Union Eligibility
• Leave (Vacation, Sick, FMLA, Civil and Military, Child/Student Involvement, Education, and Voluntary Shared)
• Paid Holidays
• Educational Advancement Compensation
• Tuition Assistance
• Employee Discount Program
• Benefits Overview Booklet

**Please note:   Temporary (part-time) employees do not earn benefits.

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