Senior Web developer and UX designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Web Developer and UX Designer

Company: Sword Technologies N.V./S.A.

Location: Brussels, Belgium

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Web Development & UX Design

Date Posted: February 26, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 years

🚀 Role Summary

• Design, publish, and maintain webpages in compliance with European Commission standards for visual identity, ergonomics, usability, and accessibility.

• Develop dynamic user interfaces, refactor existing components, and ensure cross-browser compatibility and accessibility through rigorous testing and debugging.

• Create visually appealing website layouts, illustrations, infographics, data visualizations, and dashboards, ensuring unified styles across all digital platforms.

• Monitor feedback and analytics to continuously improve content and user experience, driving iterative enhancements.

• Manage and utilize online collaborative tools such as Jira, Confluence, and ServiceNow for project tracking and workflow management.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role title suggests a blend of Web Development and UX Design, the job description emphasizes a 60% Web Developer / 40% Web Design skill split. This indicates a strong technical foundation is paramount, with design skills complementing the development work, particularly in creating user-centric interfaces that meet high accessibility and usability standards. The reference to European Commission standards suggests a need for adherence to strict governmental guidelines.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Web Development & UI Refinement:

  • Develop new, reusable components and refactor existing dynamic user interfaces to enhance functionality and performance.
  • Conduct thorough testing and debugging to ensure consistency across various browsers and platforms, and to meet strict accessibility requirements.
  • Implement responsive design principles to ensure optimal viewing experience across all devices.

• Web Design & User Experience:

  • Create intuitive and visually engaging website layouts, illustrations, infographics, and data visualizations.
  • Design comprehensive dashboards that effectively communicate complex data insights.
  • Harmonize and unify visual styles and user interface elements across multiple cross-site initiatives to maintain brand consistency.

• User Feedback & Analytics:

  • Gather and analyze user feedback to identify areas for improvement in content and user experience.
  • Monitor website analytics to track user behavior, engagement, and conversion rates, informing data-driven design and development decisions.
  • Propose and implement data-backed recommendations for content optimization and UX enhancements.

• Project & Tool Management:

  • Manage and utilize online collaborative tools such as Jira, Confluence, and ServiceNow for task management, bug tracking, documentation, and project coordination.

  • Maintain clear and concise documentation for developed components, design decisions, and implemented workflows.

  • Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, providing technical and design expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for a candidate who can bridge the gap between technical implementation and user-centric design. The emphasis on European Commission standards for accessibility (WCAG) and usability implies a structured approach to development and design, requiring meticulous attention to detail and adherence to established guidelines. The management of collaborative tools suggests an Agile or similar project management environment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a strong portfolio and demonstrable experience in web development and UX design will be key. A degree in Computer Science, Web Design, Human-Computer Interaction, or a related field would be beneficial.

Experience:

• 5-10 years of professional experience in roles closely related to web development and UX design.

• Demonstrated experience in design systems and UI development.

Required Skills:

• Core Web Technologies:

  • Strong command of Typescript and React for dynamic user interface development.
  • Proficient in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript for front-end development.

• Version Control & Development Tools:

  • Experience with Git (e.g., GitLab, Bitbucket) for version control and collaborative development.
  • Proficiency with Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) such as Visual Studio or Visual Studio Code.

• UI/UX Design Tools:

  • Hands-on experience with UI design tools, specifically Figma or Penpot.

• Collaboration & Project Management Tools:

  • Experience managing online collaborative tools including Jira, Confluence, and ServiceNow.

• Productivity Suites:

  • Proficient use of MS Office and MS 365 suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, SharePoint, OneDrive).

• Language Proficiency: Preferred Skills:

• Web Accessibility Standards: Knowledge of WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) is a significant plus.

• Design Systems: Experience in creating, maintaining, or contributing to design systems.

• Digital Environment: Good understanding of the broader digital environment and web trends.

• ITIL Framework: Knowledge of or experience within an ITIL environment.

• EU Institutions Context: Familiarity with or experience working within EU Institutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "5-10 years of professional experience" is listed under "Desirable" but should be considered a strong indicator of the expected seniority. The 60% Developer / 40% Designer split suggests that deep technical expertise in React and Typescript, coupled with strong HTML/CSS/JavaScript skills, is more critical than advanced UX design specialization. Familiarity with the European Commission's specific standards and potentially EU institutional environments will be a strong advantage.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Web Development Showcase: Include examples of complex, dynamic user interfaces built with React and Typescript, demonstrating component-based architecture and efficient coding practices.

• UX/UI Design Projects: Showcase a range of design work, including wireframes, mockups, interactive prototypes, and final visual designs, particularly those that highlight UI/UX best practices and adherence to design system principles.

• Accessibility & Usability Focus: Present case studies or projects where accessibility (WCAG compliance) and usability were key considerations, detailing the challenges and solutions implemented.

• Data Visualization & Dashboards: Include examples of data visualizations or dashboards created, demonstrating the ability to translate complex data into clear, actionable insights.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Provide examples of how you have designed and documented web development and design workflows, emphasizing efficiency and clarity.

• System Implementation: Demonstrate experience with implementing and managing web projects using tools like Jira, Confluence, and Git, showcasing an understanding of project lifecycles and collaborative processes.

• Performance Analysis: Show how you have used feedback and analytics to iterate on designs and development, detailing the process for measuring and improving user experience and content effectiveness.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's blend of development and design, a portfolio that clearly delineates projects and contributions in each area is crucial. For development projects, focusing on code quality, scalability, and performance is key. For design projects, emphasis should be placed on user-centered design principles, adherence to standards (especially WCAG), and the impact of design decisions on user experience and business goals. Demonstrating experience with design systems and the ability to maintain consistency across multiple platforms will be highly valued.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a Senior Web Developer and UX Designer with 5-10 years of experience in Brussels, Belgium, the estimated annual gross salary range is typically between €60,000 and €85,000. This range can vary based on specific skills, the precise nature of client projects, and the candidate's negotiation.

Benefits:

• Full-time Employment Benefits: Standard contractual benefits applicable in Belgium.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for training and skill enhancement, particularly in web development technologies and UX design methodologies.

• Hybrid Work Model: Flexibility offered through a hybrid working arrangement, balancing remote work with in-office collaboration.

• European Commission Standards: Working on projects that adhere to high standards of usability and accessibility, contributing to impactful public-facing initiatives.

• Collaborative Environment: Access to advanced tools and a supportive team environment for professional growth.

Working Hours: Standard full-time working hours, expected to be around 40 hours per week, with flexibility for hybrid work.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates for Belgium are based on average data from reputable job boards and compensation data providers for similar roles in Brussels. The benefits are inferred based on typical offerings for full-time positions in a technology consulting firm and the nature of the role, particularly the hybrid work arrangement and the focus on professional development.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Technology Consulting and IT Services. Sword Technologies operates within the broader technology sector, providing IT solutions and consulting services to a diverse client base.

Company Size: Sword Technologies is part of the Sword Group, which is a significant international player. Specific to the Brussels office, it likely operates with a dedicated team structure for client projects.

Founded: Sword Group was founded in 2004, suggesting a company with established experience and a mature operational framework.

Team Structure:

• Project-Centric Teams: The role likely sits within a project team dedicated to serving specific clients, such as the European Commission.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Expect to work closely with project managers, business analysts, other developers, designers, and potentially client-side stakeholders.

• Reporting Hierarchy: Reporting typically goes to a project lead or a manager responsible for the delivery of client projects.

Methodology:

• Agile/Scrum: Given the use of Jira and Confluence, an Agile or Scrum methodology is highly probable for project development and management.

• Client-Centric Approach: A strong focus on understanding and meeting client requirements, particularly for public sector clients like the European Commission.

• Quality & Standards Driven: Emphasis on adhering to established standards for development, design, usability, and accessibility.

Company Website: sword-group.com (Note: The provided URL was null, this is a general company website inference).

📝 Enhancement Note: Sword Technologies is a global IT consulting firm. The role's focus on European Commission standards suggests it might be part of a public sector division or a project specifically catering to governmental or institutional clients. This implies a need for candidates who are comfortable with formal processes, stringent quality requirements, and potentially a more structured work environment than a typical startup.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior-level position, demanding a high degree of autonomy, technical expertise, and the ability to mentor or guide junior team members. The role requires 5-10 years of experience, indicating a mid-to-senior career stage.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Web Developer and UX Designer will likely report to a Project Manager, Team Lead, or a similar senior figure within the project delivery structure at Sword Technologies, with a dotted line to client-side technical or project leads.

Operations Impact: The impact of this role is directly tied to the success of web projects for clients like the European Commission. By ensuring high standards of usability, accessibility, and performance, the role contributes to effective digital communication, user engagement, and the overall success of client initiatives. This role plays a critical part in translating complex requirements into functional and user-friendly digital experiences.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific front-end frameworks (React, Typescript), design systems, or advanced accessibility techniques.

• Leadership Development: Progress into roles such as Lead Developer, Technical Architect, or UX Lead, potentially managing teams and larger projects.

• Client Relationship Management: Develop skills in client interaction, requirements gathering, and solution proposal within the consulting environment.

• Cross-Disciplinary Growth: Gain exposure to other areas of IT consulting or project management within Sword Technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" title and the 5-10 years of experience suggest a role that is beyond individual contribution and may involve some level of technical leadership or mentorship. The growth opportunities are framed within a consulting context, emphasizing client delivery, technical expertise, and potential progression into leadership or specialized roles within the organization.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work environment, combining remote work with in-office presence in Brussels. This suggests a modern approach to work-life balance.

Office Location(s): Brussels, Belgium. This location offers access to a vibrant tech scene and is a hub for European institutions, aligning with the client focus.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The Brussels office likely serves as a hub for client meetings, team syncs, and collaborative design/development sessions.

• Technology Access: Employees will have access to the necessary hardware, software, and development tools, including licenses for design software (Figma/Penpot) and project management platforms (Jira/Confluence).

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for direct interaction with colleagues, fostering knowledge sharing and team cohesion, especially during in-office days.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time schedule (approximately 40 hours/week) with the flexibility afforded by the hybrid model. This allows for focused work in both remote and office settings, accommodating project deadlines and team collaboration needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model is a key feature, implying a need for self-discipline and excellent communication skills to manage work effectively across different locations. The Brussels location is strategic, given the potential client base.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and portfolio to assess your qualifications against the job requirements.

• Technical Interview: An in-depth discussion focusing on your web development skills (React, Typescript, HTML, CSS, JavaScript), your approach to UI/UX design, and your experience with the specified tools. Expect to be asked about your problem-solving strategies.

• Portfolio Review Session: A dedicated session where you will present selected projects from your portfolio, explaining your role, the design/development process, technical challenges, solutions, and the outcomes. This is where you'll demonstrate your understanding of accessibility and usability standards.

• Behavioral & Cultural Fit Interview: Questions designed to assess your soft skills, teamwork capabilities, adaptability, and alignment with Sword Technologies' values and the client's environment.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior manager or client representative to discuss project fit and overall suitability.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest projects that best showcase your skills in both web development (with React/Typescript) and UX/UI design, highlighting your experience with design systems and accessibility.

• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly articulate your specific contributions, the challenges faced, the methodologies used, and the measurable results or impact achieved. Use data and metrics where possible.

• Demonstrate Process: Walk through the entire process from understanding requirements to final implementation, including wireframing, prototyping, user testing (if applicable), and development.

• Highlight Accessibility: Explicitly discuss how you incorporated WCAG standards and ensured usability for diverse user groups.

• Tailor to EC Standards: If possible, include projects that demonstrate an understanding of or adherence to governmental or institutional design/accessibility guidelines.

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Challenge: Be prepared for a coding exercise or a problem-solving scenario related to React, Typescript, or UI development.

• Design Challenge: You might be asked to critique an existing interface, propose improvements, or sketch out a solution to a design problem.

• Scenario-Based Questions: Practice answering questions about how you would handle specific client requests, manage conflicting requirements, or ensure project quality.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is critical for this role. Candidates should be ready to present detailed case studies that demonstrate not only technical proficiency but also a thoughtful approach to user experience, design principles, and adherence to stringent standards like WCAG. The emphasis on the European Commission suggests that understanding and applying formal guidelines will be a key evaluation point.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Frontend Frameworks: React (core for dynamic UIs), Typescript (for enhanced JavaScript development).

• Core Web Technologies: HTML, CSS (including pre/post-processors if applicable), JavaScript.

• Version Control: Git (GitLab, Bitbucket).

• IDEs: Visual Studio, Visual Studio Code.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Visualization: Tools for creating infographics and dashboards (specific tools not mentioned, but candidates should be prepared to discuss experience with such tools if they have it).

• Web Analytics: Experience with tools like Google Analytics or similar platforms for monitoring user behavior and website performance.

CRM & Automation:

• Project Management & Collaboration: Jira, Confluence, ServiceNow (for task tracking, bug reporting, documentation, and workflow management).

• Design Tools: Figma, Penpot (for UI/UX design, wireframing, prototyping).

Productivity Suites:

• Microsoft Ecosystem: MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) & MS 365 (Teams, SharePoint, OneDrive) for daily operations and collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is clearly defined, with a strong emphasis on modern front-end development (React, Typescript) and essential design tools. Proficiency in Git and project management tools like Jira and Confluence is expected for collaborative development environments. The mention of ServiceNow suggests potential integration with IT Service Management processes.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Delivery: A commitment to delivering high-quality, functional, and user-friendly web solutions that meet and exceed client expectations and standards.

• User-Centricity: A deep understanding of user needs, prioritizing usability, accessibility, and a positive user experience in all design and development decisions.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Valuing collective effort, open communication, and mutual support to achieve project goals, especially in a hybrid work setting.

• Continuous Improvement: Embracing feedback, analytics, and new technologies to constantly refine processes, designs, and development practices.

• Adaptability & Problem-Solving: Demonstrating flexibility in navigating project changes and a proactive approach to identifying and resolving technical and design challenges.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Synergy: Working closely with project managers, other developers, designers, and client representatives to ensure alignment and effective project execution.

• Open Communication Channels: Utilizing tools like Teams, Slack, and Confluence for transparent communication and knowledge sharing, both remotely and in the office.

• Feedback Integration: Actively seeking and providing constructive feedback on designs, code, and processes to foster a culture of learning and improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is likely influenced by its consulting nature and its work with institutional clients. This means a strong emphasis on professionalism, structured workflows, and client satisfaction, balanced with the modern expectations of a technology firm regarding collaboration and flexibility.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Technical & Design Demands: Effectively managing the 60/40 split between development and design responsibilities, ensuring both aspects are executed to a high standard.

• Adhering to Strict Standards: Consistently meeting the rigorous usability, accessibility (WCAG), and visual identity standards set by entities like the European Commission.

• Cross-Browser & Cross-Device Compatibility: Ensuring seamless performance and consistent user experience across a wide array of browsers, devices, and operating systems.

• Managing Evolving Requirements: Adapting to potential changes in project scope or client needs within an institutional context.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Framework Training: Deepening expertise in React, Typescript, and potentially related libraries or state management solutions.

• UX Design Specialization: Exploring advanced UX methodologies, user research techniques, and interaction design principles.

• Accessibility Expertise: Becoming a subject matter expert in web accessibility standards and best practices.

• Client Project Exposure: Gaining valuable experience working on high-profile projects for significant clients like the European Commission.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge will be integrating deep technical development skills with a strong UX/UI design sensibility, all while adhering to potentially strict client guidelines. Growth opportunities are geared towards enhancing these core competencies and expanding experience within a consulting framework.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex UI component you built with React and Typescript. What were the main challenges, and how did you ensure its performance and maintainability?" (Focus on technical depth, problem-solving).

• "Walk us through a UX design project where accessibility was a key requirement. How did you incorporate WCAG standards into your design and development process?" (Highlight process, adherence to standards).

• "How would you approach unifying the visual style and UX across multiple distinct websites for a large organization like the European Commission?" (Assesses strategic thinking, design system application).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to working for Sword Technologies, and what do you know about our work with institutional clients?" (Demonstrates research, alignment with company).

• "Describe your experience working in a hybrid team environment. How do you ensure effective collaboration and communication?" (Assesses adaptability, soft skills).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: For each portfolio piece, frame it as a narrative: the problem, your solution, your unique contribution, the process, and the outcome.

• Show, Don't Just Tell: Use live demos or interactive prototypes where possible. For static designs, clearly explain the user flows and interactive elements.

• Highlight Impact: Quantify your achievements whenever possible. Did your design increase user engagement? Did your code improve page load speed?

• Be Prepared for Technical Deep Dives: For development projects, be ready to discuss architectural decisions, code structure, and specific technical challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong command of both technical development and user-centric design, with a clear understanding of how to apply these skills within structured environments and according to specific standards. The portfolio presentation is a critical component where candidates must effectively showcase their skills and experience.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Web Developer and UX Designer position:

• Submit Your Application: Navigate to the provided application link and submit your CV and a cover letter (if requested).

• Tailor Your CV: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your experience with React, Typescript, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Figma/Penpot, Git, and any experience with WCAG or similar accessibility standards. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a portfolio that showcases 3-5 of your strongest projects, demonstrating both web development and UX/UI design skills, with a focus on usability, accessibility, and any experience relevant to institutional clients.

• Research Sword Technologies: Understand the company's services, values, and recent projects, particularly any work related to public sector or institutional clients.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare detailed answers to common technical, behavioral, and situational interview questions, with specific examples from your experience. Practice presenting your portfolio projects.

⚠️ 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.

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