Government agencies require well-structured, user-friendly, and accessible websites to communicate effectively with the public and employees. A Web Designer plays a key role in ensuring these websites are visually appealing, functional, and compliant with federal accessibility and security regulations.
What does a Web Designer do on Government Contracts?
A Web Designer working on government contracts is responsible for designing, updating, and maintaining websites that serve public and internal audiences. Their work focuses on creating intuitive user interfaces, improving user experience (UX), and ensuring compliance with government standards. Key responsibilities include:
- User Interface (UI) & User Experience (UX) Design: Developing visually appealing and easy-to-navigate website layouts.
- Accessibility & Compliance: Ensuring websites meet Section 508 and WCAG accessibility guidelines.
- Collaboration with Developers & Content Teams: Working with IT teams and content administrators to maintain functional and engaging websites.
- Branding & Government Standards: Ensuring designs align with agency branding and federal digital guidelines.
- Optimization for Performance & Mobile Responsiveness: Ensuring websites load quickly and function well across all devices.
Web Designer Job Description
A Web Designer on government contracts is responsible for creating visually engaging and user-friendly web designs that meet government accessibility, security, and branding requirements. The role requires a combination of creativity, technical expertise, and knowledge of federal digital standards.
- Designing modern, accessible, and responsive websites for government agencies.
- Ensuring compliance with Section 508 and WCAG accessibility standards.
- Creating wireframes, mockups, and prototypes to guide web development.
- Working with developers to implement and refine web designs.
- Testing websites for usability, performance, and compatibility across different devices and browsers.
Job Requirements for a Web Designer
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
- Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, XD, Figma, or Sketch).
- Strong understanding of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript for front-end design.
- Knowledge of Section 508 accessibility standards and WCAG 2.1 compliance.
- Experience designing responsive and mobile-friendly websites.
- Familiarity with content management systems (CMS) like WordPress, Drupal, or SharePoint.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills to work with developers, content teams, and government stakeholders.
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND AND EXPERIENCE:
- Bachelor’s degree in Web Design, Graphic Design, Computer Science, or a related field.
- 3-5 years of experience designing government or corporate websites.
- Experience working with government digital standards and guidelines is a plus.
- Certifications in UX/UI Design, Google UX Design, or Adobe Certified Expert (ACE) are beneficial.
WORKSPACE/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Primarily office-based or remote work with extended screen time for design and testing.
- Occasional collaboration with IT teams, content creators, and government agencies.
What does a typical job posting look like for a Web Designer?
Job Posting Example:
“We are seeking a Web Designer to create user-friendly and accessible websites for a government agency. The ideal candidate will have experience in UI/UX design, web accessibility, and front-end development.“
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
- Design and develop responsive, accessible, and visually appealing web pages.
- Ensure all designs comply with Section 508 and WCAG 2.1 accessibility standards.
- Work with developers to implement web designs in Drupal, WordPress, or SharePoint.
- Conduct usability testing and improve site performance.
- Collaborate with content teams to maintain consistency and compliance with agency branding.
Salary Range
The salary for a Web Designer on government contracts typically ranges from $75,000 to $115,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and agency requirements.