Hello, I'm Jacob.

I'm a detail-oriented designer & front-end developer that specializes in website design, brand identity, and digital illustrations.

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I like to create beautiful, usable, professional websites using best practice accessibility and the latest W3C web standards guidelines, resulting in SEO friendly XHTML and CSS.

I love learning new and better ways to create seamless user experiences with clean, efficient code. I consider work an ongoing learning experience with each ongoing project, and I'm always looking for opportunities to work with those who are willing to share their knowledge as much as I want to learn. At the end of the day, my primary goal is to create something amazing with people that bring out the best in me.

When I'm not in front of a computer screen, I'm probably playing ice hockey, playing with my daughter, or working a comic convention.

What I Do

Web Development

Using HTML, CSS, C#, .Net, and JavaScript, I have developed pixel-perfect websites and apps while maintaining a semantic, modular, W3C web standards and clean code base.

Responsive Design

"A user interface is like a joke. If you have to explain it, it's not that good." I strive to develop and implement responsive and aesthetically pleasing interfaces for websites and apps that adapt to any type of device, platform, or browser.

Graphic Design

"A project starts with a great design in mind." Not only do I develop and implement a layout, I can also design it along with the branding materials. Including, web design, advertising, brand identity, and any misc print collateral.

Business Strategy

Beyond coding, I am an expert at understanding what my customers need. I listen in depth to your needs then, I formulate the best strategy possible... I always go above and beyond.

Skills

Development

  • JavaScript
  • HTML5
  • CSS3
  • Sass
  • Jekyll
  • jQuery
  • .net
  • C#

Software

  • adobe-photoshop
  • adobe-indesign
  • adobe-illustrator
  • adobe-dreamweaver
  • atom
  • visual-studio

Tools

  • Git + Github
  • Command Line
  • Chrome DevTools
  • Gulp
  • Node.js
  • Bootstrap

Knowledge

  • CSS Detangling
  • CMS
  • UI/UX Design
  • SEO
  • Concept Development
  • Art Direction
  • Social Media Marketing

Experience

Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design

The Art Institute Of Pittsburgh

Emphasis on print design, design theory, concept building, HTML development. Additional coursework in collateral design, package design, corporate branding, photography, and illustration techniques.

2001 - June 2004

Freelance Graphic Illustrator

Semantic Compaction Systems

Created over a hundred digital illustrations and icons for application programs.

June - October 2004

Graphic Designer

Stonewall Marketing Group

Created professional, award winning marketing campaigns for various companies in the financial, healthcare and tourism sectors. In addition, worked on-site with print vendors press runs and oversaw quality control. Collaborated closely with other designers to meet strict deadlines for clients including Peoples Bank, St. Josephs Hospital, Simonton Window, Suddenlink Communications, and more.

2004 - March 2007

Art Director - Senior Graphic Designer

PM Systems Corporation (Acquired by Fiserv 2016)

Successfully manage and coordinate graphic design projects from concept through completion. Work closely with clients to create a vision, conceive designs, and consistently meet deadlines and requirements. Conducted a lucrative marketing campaign, which led to a rapid increase in the number of customers.

2007 - Present

Front-End Developer

Fiserv

Tasked to develop a fully functional responsive websites into a .net based CMS for end-user customization. Improved the efficiency of the CMS by retooling many of the C# components into simpler forms. As a result, many of the websites now load 20% faster with improved custom options that can be controlled through CSS. The end product made it possible to create the very first W3C standard site in the company. Developed a front-end framework to the flagship platform by CSS restructuring and the interjection of unique variables to create a fully working custom user interface within 40 hours.

2010 - Present
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Get In Touch

Have a project in mind or just want to say hi? Feel free to send me a message!