Principal Frontend Developer, Web & Data Architecture

ABOUT VIRGA LABS

Virga Labs is a women-owned, mission-driven water and natural resource consulting firm based in Tucson, Arizona. We build integrated modeling, analysis, and data visualization tools that demystify complex problems at the intersection of water, climate, and society. We believe that the democratization of data, paired with artful design, inspires creativity and empowers change agents to build a resilient future. We develop interactive decision support tools and immersive storytelling mediums that create actionable data experiences for our clients and collaborators.

Our expertise lies in transforming complex climate, hydrogeologic, and water resource data into intuitive, accessible tools for decision-makers. We work with governments, non-profits, and universities to address water and climate issues across the U.S., driving engagement and collaboration. Our solutions have translated complex data and legal frameworks into intuitive, actionable tools and maps that enhance stakeholder understanding and facilitate productive dialogue, both online and in-person.

ABOUT THE ROLE

We are seeking a Principal Frontend Developer who will serve as a key technical and consultative partner in our project-based working environment. Our priority is pragmatic, high-impact delivery and independent problem-solving. We seek a developer who understands established software development principles but can flexibly prioritize and implement solutions based on practical project needs rather than rigid adherence to all methodologies. You will engage directly with clients, listening to deeply understand their unique technical and data requirements, and help design and build solutions that precisely meet their needs.

The work typically involves building Vercel-deployed front-ends. Existing projects are primarily Next.js or SvelteKit and tie directly to databases or consume data from Django REST Framework. A core aspect of this role is creating compelling data and/or map visualizations and structuring client-managed content within our chosen headless CMS, Sanity.io. This includes expertly configuring Sanity Studio to provide an intuitive content management interface for our clients.

You will be responsible for all aspects of developing a site, including implementing user-facing controls for SEO elements like favicons, page titles, meta descriptions, and social meta tags, and ensuring full adherence to WCAG Accessibility Standards. This work demands exceptional communication skills, deep technical expertise, and a high degree of autonomy in delivery.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Engage directly with clients to deeply understand their unique technical and data requirements, translating these into actionable development plans
• Collaborate in Figma with our Creative Director to design and prototype user interfaces that support client needs and feedback
• Architect, implement, and optimize data structures within headless CMS platforms (e.g., Sanity) to support dynamic content and data visualization needs, ensuring clarity and flexibility for client content management.
• Lead the entire frontend development lifecycle for client websites and web applications, ensuring exceptional responsive UI/UX and performant solutions
• Ensure all applications are optimized for SEO and performance across different client requirements
• Demonstrate a high degree of autonomy and initiative, taking primary responsibility for technical problem-solving and solution delivery
• Create and maintain clear, thorough technical documentation for all developed applications, data models, and features to ensure long-term maintainability and client understanding

QUALIFICATIONS & TECHNICAL SKILLS

• 3+ years of lead frontend or highly autonomous full stack development experience, with a proven track record of independently owning and delivering projects.
• Expert proficiency in JavaScript/TypeScript, with deep experience in Next.js, SvelteKit, or similar modern frontend frameworks that support mobile responsive applications.
• Experience with Content Management Systems (CMS), including an understanding of content modeling concepts. While Sanity CMS experience is highly preferred, we primarily seek candidates with a strong aptitude for quickly learning and effectively applying new headless CMS technologies.
• Proficiency in direct database interaction (SQL or NoSQL) from a frontend environment, or strong experience with ORMs.
• Strong understanding and application of WCAG Accessibility Standards.
• Familiarity with version control (Git) and modern development workflows (e.g., Vercel deployment).

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Background in environmental, water, or climate-related projects
• Familiarity with GIS technologies and mapping applications

LOCATION & WORK ARRANGEMENT

• Preferred location: Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, or other western US.
• Remote work with occasional travel for team meetings and conferences
• We are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. Applicants must have permanent, unrestricted work authorization in the U.S.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

• Salary: $120,000 annually, commensurate with experience
• Health, dental, and vision insurance (individual premiums paid by Virga Labs)
• 401(k) plan
• 16 paid holidays per year
• Flexible vacation policy
• Professional development opportunities

START DATE

As soon as August 2025

WHY YOU'LL LOVE WORKING HERE

• Take ownership of impactful projects from conception to completion
• Make a real impact on critical water and climate challenges
• Work with cutting-edge technology in the environmental sector
• Collaborative, mission-driven team environment
• Opportunity for professional growth in a rapidly expanding field
• Flexible work arrangements and strong work-life balance

TO APPLY

Please submit a custom cover letter and your resume as a single PDF to team@virgalabs.io, with the subject line "Principal Frontend Developer, Web & Data Architecture".

Your cover letter should articulate why you are a strong cultural and technical fit for this specific role at Virga Labs, highlighting how your experience and approach align with the nature of the position as described. Applications are due by 5pm PT on Monday, July 21st.

Virga Labs is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination against applicants and employees on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, or any other legally protected status.