Senior User Experience (UX/UI) Designer (NSF)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior User Experience (UX/UI) Designer (NSF)

Company: Ripple Effect

Location: Rockville, Maryland, United States

Job Type: PART_TIME

Category: User Experience / Web Design

Date Posted: 2026-01-23

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid (Ad-hoc telework at client discretion)

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on designing and implementing user-centric web solutions for government clients, specifically supporting the National Science Foundation (NSF) Web Team.

• The position requires expertise in creating compelling, accessible, and compliant web content using the Drupal Content Management System (CMS).

• Responsibilities include end-to-end user experience design, from research and wireframing to usability testing and final implementation.

• Candidates will manage publishing and editing requests, ensuring adherence to web design best practices, WCAG 2.0/Section 508 requirements, and federal plain language guidelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role is listed as "PART_TIME," the description indicates "On-Call/Part-time Ad-hoc" and "Telework: Ad hoc at discretion of client," suggesting a flexible, project-based engagement rather than a standard part-time schedule. The "Hybrid" work arrangement implies that some on-site presence may be required, particularly at the client site in Virginia or NSF headquarters.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and develop clear, engaging, and user-friendly webpage layouts that align with modern web design best practices.

• Ensure all web content and design elements strictly adhere to WCAG 2.0 and Section 508 accessibility standards, as well as federal plain language requirements.

• Manage and process a high volume of publishing and editing requests from NSF staff, utilizing a ticketing system (ServiceNow and Microsoft Lists) for tracking and resolution.

• Conduct comprehensive user experience (UX) research, including developing user personas, creating wireframes, building interactive prototypes, and mapping task flows to guide design decisions.

• Lead and execute usability testing sessions, including developing test plans, facilitating tests, analyzing user feedback, and presenting actionable insights and recommendations.

• Provide expert advice on web design best practices, focusing on consistent layouts, visual enhancements for engagement, and clear communication of complex information.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders to translate technical requirements and business goals into effective user interface (UI) designs.

• Participate in special projects, contributing UX/UI expertise to enhance existing platforms or develop new web features.

• Troubleshoot and resolve user-reported issues related to web content and functionality, ensuring a high level of customer satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities emphasize a blend of creative design, technical implementation (Drupal CMS), and rigorous adherence to government accessibility standards (WCAG 2.0, Section 508). The role demands strong problem-solving skills for customer support and a data-driven approach to UX research and testing.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

Required Skills:

• Proven expertise in user experience (UX) research methodologies and user interface (UI) design principles.

• Advanced proficiency in creating and documenting information design concepts, including wireframes, high-fidelity prototypes, and task flow diagrams.

• Advanced experience conducting usability testing, including test plan development, session facilitation, data analysis, and comprehensive reporting.

• Demonstrated ability to manage user experience and feedback activities such as surveys and interviews.

• Strong understanding and practical application of web design best practices, focusing on consistency, clarity, and user engagement.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to professionally articulate design recommendations, consider technical feasibility, and align with business objectives.

• Experience with the Drupal Content Management System (CMS).

Preferred Skills:

• Intermediate experience with Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, understanding their capabilities, limitations, and potential applications in project management and design workflows.

• Prior experience supporting UX/UI design projects for the National Science Foundation (NSF) or other federal health agencies.

• Hands-on experience integrating Section 508 compliance and Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) into the design and development lifecycle of web projects.

• Ability to report to NSF headquarters location on a daily basis if requested, demonstrating flexibility and commitment to client needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Six or more years of experience" coupled with a Bachelor's degree suggests a Senior-level role, requiring a deep understanding of UX/UI principles and practical application. The emphasis on government standards (508, WCAG, Plain Language) is critical for federal projects.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A robust portfolio showcasing a minimum of six years of UX/UI design work, with a strong emphasis on web-based projects.

• Demonstrated experience in creating practical, user-centered design solutions for complex requirements.

• Evidence of process documentation, including wireframes, prototypes, user flow diagrams, and usability test reports.

• Case studies highlighting how user research and testing informed design decisions and led to measurable improvements in user experience or task completion rates.

Process Documentation:

• Detailed documentation of UX research methodologies employed, from planning to analysis and reporting.

• Comprehensive wireframes and interactive prototypes that illustrate user journeys and interface functionality.

• Usability test plans, participant recruitment materials, raw data, and synthesized findings.

• Workflow diagrams depicting user task flows and system interactions.

• Documentation of how feedback from stakeholders and users was incorporated into design iterations.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior UX/UI Designer role, particularly in a government context, the portfolio should not only display visual design skills but also a deep understanding of the UX process, research methodologies, and the ability to articulate the rationale behind design choices. Demonstrating experience with Drupal CMS and accessibility compliance is crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $44.50 - $51.17 per hour

Estimated Annual Salary (based on 20 hours/week): $46,280 - $53,216

Benefits:

• Competitive hourly rate reflecting experience and qualifications.

• Potential for ad-hoc telework, offering flexibility for work-life balance.

• Eligibility for participation in special projects, providing diverse work experiences.

• Access to a supportive team environment within an award-winning company.

Working Hours:

• Part-time, on-call, ad-hoc basis.

• Estimated 20 hours per week, with flexibility based on project needs and client requests.

• Telework is ad-hoc at the discretion of the client; potential requirement to report to NSF headquarters or client site in Virginia.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is provided per hour. The estimated annual salary is calculated based on a 20-hour work week, aligning with the "PART_TIME" employment type. While specific benefits are not detailed, Ripple Effect is described as an "award-winning woman-owned" company that "rewards its employees for their contributions" with a "comprehensive total rewards package," suggesting a robust benefits offering for regular employees. For an "On-Call/Part-time Ad-hoc" role, benefits may differ.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Consulting Services, Technology, Government Contracting, Communications, Science & Research.

Company Size: 200 employees.

Founded: 2003.

Team Structure:

• The role supports the National Science Foundation (NSF) Web Team, indicating integration within a government client's internal structure.

• Collaboration likely involves working closely with NSF staff, content creators, web developers, and potentially other contractors.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on user-centered design principles, adhering to federal guidelines for accessibility (WCAG 2.0, Section 508) and plain language.

• Agile or iterative development processes are common in government web projects, requiring adaptability and responsiveness to feedback.

• Strong reliance on data from UX research and usability testing to inform design decisions.

• Efficient request management through ticketing systems (ServiceNow, Microsoft Lists) is a key operational process.

Company Website: https://rippleeffect.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Ripple Effect's description as an "award-winning women-owned" company suggests a focus on diversity, inclusion, and employee recognition. The company culture likely values collaboration, innovation, and delivering high-quality consulting services. The "Best and Brightest Companies to Work For" recognition since 2020 points to a positive employee experience.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior UX/UI Designer. This level implies significant autonomy, expertise, and the ability to guide projects and influence design strategy.

Reporting Structure: The role supports the NSF Web Team, so reporting will likely be to a project manager or a lead within Ripple Effect, with direct interaction and client-facing responsibilities to NSF stakeholders.

Operations Impact: The UX/UI Designer directly influences the usability, accessibility, and effectiveness of the NSF's external web presence (NSF.gov) and internal employee portal. This impacts public perception, information dissemination, user engagement, and compliance with federal mandates.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in government web accessibility standards (Section 508, WCAG) and federal plain language communication.

• AI Integration: Develop skills in leveraging AI tools for design assistance, content generation, and project management, a noted preferred skill.

• Project Leadership: Potential to lead UX/UI efforts on specific NSF projects or contribute to broader Ripple Effect initiatives.

• Client Relationship Management: Enhance skills in managing client expectations and providing strategic design consultation within a federal agency context.

• Cross-functional Exposure: Gain experience working with diverse teams of communicators, scientists, and analysts within Ripple Effect and NSF.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" title suggests opportunities for mentorship and leadership. The focus on government clients and specific technologies like Drupal and accessibility standards provides a clear path for specialization within the federal contracting domain.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid role with potential for ad-hoc telework and on-site requirements at client locations (Rockville, MD / Client site in Virginia / NSF headquarters).

Office Location(s): Primarily based in Rockville, Maryland, with client-facing duties potentially requiring presence in Virginia or Washington D.C. metro area.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative environment working with both Ripple Effect colleagues and NSF client staff.

• Access to standard office technologies and potentially specialized design software and collaboration platforms.

• The nature of government projects often involves structured processes and adherence to specific client protocols.

Work Schedule:

• Flexible, part-time, on-call schedule, estimated at 20 hours per week.

• Telework is available on an ad-hoc basis at the client's discretion, implying a need for flexibility and potential on-site presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature and potential client-site requirements mean candidates should be prepared for a mix of remote and in-office work, emphasizing adaptability and strong self-management skills.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess alignment with job requirements and essential skills.

• Technical Interview: Likely involves discussing your UX/UI design process, showcasing your portfolio, and answering questions about your experience with Drupal, accessibility standards (WCAG, Section 508), and user research methodologies.

• Scenario-Based Questions: You may be asked to walk through how you would approach specific design challenges or handle customer support requests related to web content.

• Client Interaction/Fit Assessment: Potential for an interview with NSF stakeholders to assess your communication style, ability to understand client needs, and cultural fit within a government environment.

• Final Offer: Based on the assessment of skills, experience, and cultural fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Relevant Projects: Prioritize projects that demonstrate experience with government websites, accessibility standards (WCAG 2.0, Section 508), Drupal CMS, and user research/usability testing.

• Showcase the Process: For each project, clearly articulate your role, the problem you were solving, your design process (research, wireframes, prototypes, testing), and the outcomes or impact.

• Emphasize Accessibility: Explicitly detail how you incorporated accessibility best practices and ensured compliance with relevant standards.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate the success of your designs (e.g., improved task completion rates, reduced error rates, increased user satisfaction).

• Visual Clarity: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your approach to handling challenging client requests or complex design problems.

• Practice articulating your design rationale clearly and concisely, especially when explaining technical or accessibility considerations.

• Familiarize yourself with the National Science Foundation's mission and its public-facing website (NSF.gov) to understand their content and user base.

• Review common usability testing scenarios and how you would analyze and report on findings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on government clients means that demonstrating an understanding of compliance, accessibility, and clear communication will be paramount. Your portfolio should serve as tangible proof of your ability to meet these specific requirements.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Content Management System (CMS): Drupal (Required). Proficiency in creating, editing, and managing content within Drupal is essential.

• Design & Prototyping Tools: Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD, InVision, or similar tools for wireframing, prototyping, and visual design.

• Usability Testing Platforms: UserTesting.com, Optimal Workshop, Lookback, or internal tools for conducting remote or in-person usability studies.

• Ticketing Systems: ServiceNow, Microsoft Lists, or similar platforms for managing customer support requests and tracking issues.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Web Analytics: Google Analytics or similar tools to understand user behavior and website performance.

• Data Analysis Tools: Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets for analyzing usability test data and survey results.

• Reporting Tools: Ability to create clear, concise reports and presentations for stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• While not explicitly a CRM role, understanding how web content integrates with broader user journeys or customer relationship management within a federal context may be beneficial.

• Familiarity with workflow automation concepts as they apply to content publishing and request management.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Drupal is a mandatory requirement. Experience with government-specific ticketing systems like ServiceNow is a strong plus. The ability to translate data from analytics and testing into actionable design improvements is key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• User-Centricity: A deep commitment to understanding and serving user needs through thoughtful design.

• Accessibility & Inclusivity: Dedication to creating web experiences that are usable by everyone, regardless of ability.

• Clarity & Precision: Ensuring all web content is clear, concise, and easy for the public to understand, adhering to federal plain language standards.

• Collaboration & Partnership: Working effectively with clients (NSF staff) and internal teams to achieve shared goals.

• Reliability & Responsiveness: Providing timely and high-quality support for content publishing requests.

• Continuous Improvement: Embracing feedback and data to iterate and enhance designs and processes.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive and communicative, especially when working with client stakeholders and managing requests.

• Team-oriented, with an ability to integrate into existing client teams and contribute positively.

• Open to feedback and constructive criticism, using it as an opportunity for growth and design refinement.

• Focused on problem-solving and finding solutions that balance user needs with technical and business constraints.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values align with the public service nature of government work, emphasizing user needs, compliance, and clear communication. A collaborative and responsive approach will be crucial for success in this client-facing role.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing diverse stakeholder needs and feedback from various NSF departments.

• Ensuring strict adherence to evolving federal accessibility standards and government regulations.

• Managing a high volume of ad-hoc content requests efficiently within a part-time, on-call structure.

• Adapting to client-specific processes and technologies (e.g., ServiceNow, Drupal configurations).

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Accessibility Training: Opportunities to become an expert in WCAG 2.0 and Section 508 compliance.

• Drupal Specialization: Deepen expertise in Drupal theming, module usage, and content architecture.

• AI in Design: Explore and implement AI tools for design ideation, content drafting, and workflow optimization.

• Federal Project Experience: Gain valuable experience working within the federal government sector, understanding its unique requirements and operational nuances.

• Mentorship: Learn from senior team members at Ripple Effect and potentially from experienced government IT professionals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path to specializing in government UX/UI design, a niche with consistent demand. The emphasis on AI integration aligns with current industry trends, providing an opportunity to develop future-proof skills.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for designing a webpage from initial concept to final launch, focusing on how you incorporate user research and accessibility."

• "Walk me through a project where you had to balance conflicting stakeholder requirements or technical limitations with user needs."

• "How would you approach creating a wireframe or prototype for a new funding announcement page for the NSF?"

• "What are your strategies for ensuring Section 508 compliance throughout the design process?"

• "How have you used usability testing to inform design decisions, and what was the impact?"

• "Describe your experience with Drupal CMS and how you've used it to create or manage web content."

• "How do you stay updated on the latest web design trends and accessibility guidelines?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working with the National Science Foundation?"

• "How do you approach collaboration with clients and cross-functional teams?"

• "Describe a time you had to advocate for a user-centered design decision."

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your presentation logically, starting with an overview of the project, the problem, your role, and the solution.

• Process Focus: Clearly articulate your design process for each selected project, highlighting research, ideation, prototyping, testing, and iteration.

• Accessibility Emphasis: Dedicate specific slides or talking points to how you ensured WCAG and Section 508 compliance.

• Drupal Experience: If applicable, showcase projects built or managed within Drupal, explaining your contributions.

• Quantifiable Results: Present metrics or user feedback that demonstrate the success of your designs.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present key highlights efficiently, as interview times are often limited.

📝 Enhancement Note: Be ready to demonstrate not just design skills but also a deep understanding of government requirements, including accessibility and plain language. Your ability to articulate your process and justify design decisions will be critical.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior User Experience (UX/UI) Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workable link.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your submitted portfolio prominently features projects that demonstrate your experience with web design, UX research, Drupal CMS, and adherence to accessibility standards (WCAG 2.0, Section 508). Tailor your portfolio to highlight government or complex web projects.

• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to clearly showcase your 6+ years of relevant experience, emphasizing keywords such as "User Experience," "UI Design," "Drupal," "WCAG," "Section 508," "Usability Testing," "Wireframing," "Prototyping," and "Federal Plain Language." Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, preparing specific examples for behavioral and technical questions, and rehearsing your portfolio presentation. Familiarize yourself with Ripple Effect and the NSF's mission.

• Company Research: Investigate Ripple Effect's company culture, values, and recent projects. Understand the NSF's role and its public-facing digital presence to demonstrate your interest and suitability.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.