Job Purpose/Summary

We are seeking an early career UI/UX Design Specialist with a strong set of graphic design skills to join our team. This entry- to mid-level role will primarily focus on defining and refining both traditional (e.g., web interfaces, mobile) and novel (e.g., 3D augmented and mixed reality, haptics) human-machine interfaces (HMI) for applied Defense R&D programs. The ideal candidate will have the ability to quickly learn and adapt to different technical domains to the degree necessary to inform contextualized designs, such as space domain awareness and electronic warfare, and will actively participate in and lead end-user discussions to capture valuable feedback on HMI concepts and prototypes.

This role primarily will support a portfolio of R&D programs, meaning there is a real opportunity for the right candidate to take ownership and design the UI/UX for new and novel technology based solutions to challenging end-user problems. The role will have a unique opportunity to engage with the end users and champion their UI/UX concepts to validate them. Due to the nature of R&D, the role also includes supporting R&D programmatic deliverables, primarily monthly program status summary reports and customer briefings. As this is R&D work, there is also ample opportunity to publish research and evaluation results in academic and industry journals and conferences to build or extend a track record of publications.

Duties and Responsibilities

Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to design and develop user-friendly human-machine interfaces for a variety of Defense R&D programs.
Utilize graphic design tools (e.g., Adobe Illustrator) to create visually appealing interface designs.
Develop dynamic functional “code-free” prototypes using tools like Axure and Adobe Aero to visualize and test interface concepts.
Conduct user research to understand end-user needs, preferences, and behaviors.
Facilitate and lead discussions with end users to gather feedback on HMI concepts and prototypes.
Analyze user feedback to inform iterative design improvements and ensure interfaces meet user requirements.
Work closely with engineers, developers, and project managers to ensure successful integration of HMI designs into broader system architectures.
Utilize project and engineering management tools (e.g., JIRA) to track progress, manage tasks, and collaborate effectively with team members.
Assist in the preparation of R&D programmatic deliverables, including program status reports and customer briefings.
Compile and present data, findings, and updates in a clear and professional manner to support program objectives and maintain stakeholder engagement.

Qualifications

Due to the design heavy nature of this role, a portfolio of past design efforts (professional and academic are acceptable) is required for applications to be considered.
Bachelor’s degree in Human Factors, Graphic Design, Industrial Design, Psychology, or relevant experienced.
Experience with graphic design tools such as Adobe Illustrator or others for UI design.
Familiarity with dynamic prototyping tools like Axure and Adobe Aero.
Strong graphic design skills, with an eye for aesthetics and detail.
Ability to create dynamic and interactive prototypes to test and validate interface concepts.
Familiarity with engineering project management tools such as JIRA or similar.
Excellent communication skills, with the ability to articulate design concepts at varying fidelities and user feedback clearly.
Strong collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team environment.
Enthusiasm for learning new technical domains and applying that knowledge to interface design.
Ability to conduct user research (e.g., heuristic evaluations, usability studies, ethnographic studies) and analyze feedback to inform design decisions.
Experience publishing UI/UX or other work in peer-reviewed publications.
Ability to obtain a US Security Clearance

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience or coursework in human factors engineering or user experience (UX) design.
Familiarity with 3D design and visualization
Knowledge of augmented and mixed reality technologies and their applications in interface design.
Experience with 3D CAD and rapid prototyping (ex 3D printing, CNC)
Prior military experience / service

Working conditions

This position is eligible for full remote.
Candidates located in the Greater Boston, MA area, Wichita, KS, Round Rock, TX, or Alexandria, VA are preferred.
Occasional travel will be required to conduct user research, participate in field tests and customer meetings, and attend industry events.

Physical requirements

Ability to work at a computer for extended periods.
Ability to travel as needed.
Ability to lift equipment up to 40lbs (eg for 3D monitors)
Stable work environment (for remote consideration) to safely house company equipment

Direct reports

None

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UI/UX Design Specialist