Sr. UX Designer I (6101)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Sr. UX Designer I (6101)
Company: MetroStar
Location: Washington, DC
Job Type: Full-Time
Category: User Experience (UX) Design / Product Design
Date Posted: 2025-10-07T12:50:59
Experience Level: 5-10 Years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on applying user-centered design principles to enhance digital products, including websites and mobile applications, aiming for improved workflow, expanded functionality, and aesthetic appeal.
• It involves close collaboration with clients, users, and internal teams to deliver high-quality, user-friendly interfaces.
• The position requires a strong understanding of modern design principles, including branding, responsive web design, typography, and color theory, with a fluid and adaptive approach to UI design.
• A passion for creating modern, usable, and inspiring interfaces is essential, complemented by excellent communication and collaboration skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the original posting is for a UX Designer, this enhancement frames the role within the broader context of product operations and design systems, highlighting how UX directly impacts operational efficiency and user adoption of technology. The focus on "improving workflow" and "expanding functionality" aligns with operational goals.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the design of digital experiences that effectively solve agency missions by applying user-centered design principles.
• Own the Interface and Interaction Design process, encompassing user experience strategy, improvement assessments, information architecture, wireframe creation, and user research activities.
• Strategize and implement the integration of web, mobile, data, and emerging platforms to create seamlessly interconnected digital ecosystems.
• Actively participate in the Agile development process, contributing to solution grooming and problem-solving for various project challenges.
• Conduct user research and usability testing, facilitating focus groups to gather insights and translate findings into feature enhancements and improvements.
• Translate complex information into intuitive User Interfaces (UIs) and engaging Interactions.
• Ensure designs adhere to Section 508 compliance standards, guaranteeing accessibility for all users.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities have been expanded to emphasize the strategic and ownership aspects of the role, aligning with senior-level expectations. The inclusion of "agency missions" and "interconnected ecosystems" provides context for the federal/government sector often associated with MetroStar.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's Degree in Graphic Design, Human-Computer Interaction, or a related design or technical concentration.

Experience: 5-7 years of progressive experience in User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) design, with a strong foundation in standard User-Centered Design (UCD) methodologies.

Required Skills:

• Proven ability to gather and interpret requirements from users and stakeholders to inform design decisions.
• Expertise in defining information architecture, creating user personas, and documenting user workflows to map out user journeys.
• Demonstrated experience in performing user research and usability testing, including facilitating focus groups and applying research outcomes to product improvements.
• Proficient in translating complex information and user needs into intuitive UIs and engaging interactions.
• Solid understanding of common software development lifecycles and Agile development practices.
• Experience creating detailed User Stories and collaborating with business analysts to define acceptance criteria.
• Familiarity with various graphic design software packages and visual design principles.
• Proficiency in designing wireframes, mockups, and prototypes, as well as creating visual design comps.
• Knowledge of visual design principles, including typography, color theory, and layout.
• Working knowledge of design patterns and the creation/utilization of pattern libraries to ensure consistency and efficiency.
• Experience ensuring Section 508 compliance for digital products.
• Active Secret security clearance or higher.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with emerging technologies and platforms for innovative digital solutions.
• Familiarity with design thinking methodologies and their application in problem-solving.
• Experience working within government or defense sector projects.
• Proficiency in advanced prototyping tools for complex interactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Required Skills" section has been detailed to reflect the practical application of UX methodologies. The distinction between required and preferred skills clarifies candidate expectations. The mention of Section 508 compliance is critical for government-contracting roles.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a range of UX/UI design projects, demonstrating a strong command of user-centered design principles and modern aesthetics.
• Case studies that highlight your role in defining information architecture, user flows, wireframes, and interactive prototypes.
• Examples of user research and usability testing conducted, with clear articulation of how findings informed design iterations and improvements.
• Visual design comps and mockups that illustrate your ability to translate concepts into polished, functional interfaces.
• Projects that demonstrate an understanding of responsive design principles and cross-platform consistency.

Process Documentation:

• Evidence of documenting user workflows and creating user personas to represent target audiences.
• Examples of how you have applied UCD methodologies and design patterns to solve complex design challenges.
• Documentation supporting your experience with Agile development processes and collaboration with development teams.
• Proof of ensuring accessibility standards, such as Section 508 compliance, are integrated into the design process.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is crucial for UX roles. It details the expected content and focus of a candidate's portfolio, emphasizing practical application, research, and adherence to standards, which are key for operations and efficiency.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $108,000 - $140,000 annually.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with a company match, supporting long-term financial planning.
• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid Holidays to promote work-life balance.
• Parental Leave and support for dependent care.
• Flexible Work Arrangements to accommodate diverse working styles and needs.
• Robust Professional Development Opportunities, including company-paid training and certifications.
• Employee Assistance Programs and Wellness Programs to support employee well-being.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses and referral bonuses, recognizing individual and team contributions.

Working Hours: Standard 40-hour work week, with potential for flexible arrangements depending on project needs and team coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is explicitly stated. The benefits are detailed to highlight their value to operations professionals, emphasizing professional development and work-life balance. The "working hours" note addresses the potential for flexibility within a structured framework, relevant to operational efficiency.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Technology Services, Government & Public Sector, and Creative & Media. MetroStar operates at the intersection of these sectors, providing innovative technology solutions often for government agencies.

Company Size: MetroStar is a growing company, implying a dynamic environment where individual contributions are visible and impactful. This size often fosters a culture of agility and direct communication.

Founded: MetroStar has a two-decade legacy, suggesting stability, established processes, and a deep understanding of its market and client needs. This history implies a culture that values both experience and adaptation.

Team Structure:

• The UX team likely operates within larger project teams, collaborating closely with developers, project managers, and business analysts.
• Reporting structures are expected to be clear, with senior designers guiding junior team members and reporting to design or project leadership.
• Cross-functional collaboration is paramount, as UX designers bridge the gap between user needs and technical implementation, requiring constant interaction with various departments.

Methodology:

• The team likely employs a data-driven approach to design, leveraging user research, analytics, and A/B testing to inform decisions and measure impact.
• Workflow planning and optimization are core to UX, focusing on creating efficient and intuitive user journeys.
• Automation and efficiency practices are encouraged, particularly in design workflows, pattern library management, and tool adoption.

Company Website: https://www.metrostar.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: This section contextualizes MetroStar's operations within its industry, emphasizing the importance of UX in government contracting and technology services, and how company size and history influence the work environment for operations-focused roles.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a "Senior" level position, indicating significant autonomy, responsibility for mentoring, and the ability to lead design initiatives. It signifies a move beyond individual contribution to strategic influence within design operations.

Reporting Structure: The Sr. UX Designer I will likely report to a Design Lead, Director of UX, or a Project Manager, depending on the project structure. This role is expected to provide guidance and mentorship to more junior designers.

Operations Impact: The UX Designer's work directly impacts operational efficiency by creating intuitive interfaces that reduce user error, training time, and support requests. Effective UX design can lead to higher adoption rates of new technologies and improved user satisfaction, contributing to the overall success and effectiveness of client missions.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like user research, interaction design, accessibility, or design systems.
• Leadership: Transition into a Lead UX Designer, UX Manager, or Design Operations role, overseeing teams and strategic design initiatives.
• Skill Development: Continuous learning in new design tools, methodologies, and emerging technologies, supported by company-provided training and certifications.
• Cross-functional Exposure: Gain experience in project management, product strategy, and client relations through involvement in diverse projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: This analysis frames the Sr. UX Designer role within an operational career path, highlighting its contribution to efficiency and user adoption, and outlining clear growth trajectories within design operations and leadership.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, suggesting a traditional office environment that fosters in-person collaboration and team synergy.

Office Location(s): Washington, DC. This location places the role within a hub of government contracting and technology innovation, offering opportunities for networking and exposure to significant projects.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is designed for collaboration, encouraging direct interaction with colleagues, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas essential for complex design challenges.
• Access to essential operations tools and technology, including design software, collaboration platforms, and potentially government-specific secure systems, will be provided.
• Opportunities for frequent interaction with the broader design team, development teams, and client stakeholders are integral to the role, promoting a well-integrated project lifecycle.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is expected, with potential for some flexibility to accommodate project deadlines and team needs, enabling effective execution of design processes and data analysis tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of the role is highlighted, along with the strategic advantage of the Washington, DC location for government-focused operations. The workspace description emphasizes collaboration and the tools necessary for efficient design operations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess fundamental qualifications and design experience.
• Technical Interview: Discussion focused on UX/UI principles, UCD methodologies, and your approach to problem-solving. Be prepared to walk through specific case studies from your portfolio.
• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session where you present 1-2 key projects, detailing your process, challenges, solutions, and outcomes. Emphasize your role and the impact of your design decisions.
• Team/Culture Fit Interview: Conversation with potential team members and leadership to assess collaboration style, communication skills, and alignment with MetroStar's values.
• Final Interview: May involve a senior leader to discuss strategic fit and overall candidacy.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose projects that best demonstrate your end-to-end UX process, problem-solving skills, and impact, tailored to the responsibilities of this role.
• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your approach, the tools and methodologies used, your specific contributions, the challenges faced, and the measurable results or impact.
• Highlight Process: Emphasize your research, ideation, wireframing, prototyping, testing, and iteration phases. Show how you translated user needs into design solutions.
• Demonstrate Collaboration: Showcase instances where you collaborated effectively with developers, product managers, and stakeholders, and how this collaboration influenced the design outcome.
• Accessibility Focus: If applicable, highlight projects where you ensured Section 508 compliance or other accessibility standards.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready for potential design exercises or case studies that assess your ability to quickly understand a problem, ideate solutions, and articulate your design rationale.
• Practice presenting your work concisely and effectively, focusing on key takeaways and operational impact.
• Prepare questions that demonstrate your understanding of user-centered design, Agile methodologies, and the specific challenges of designing for government agencies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides actionable advice for candidates, focusing on portfolio presentation and interview strategies specifically relevant to a senior UX role with government sector implications, emphasizing process and measurable outcomes.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design & Prototyping: Figma, Sketch, Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop), Axure RP, InVision. Proficiency in at least one major design and prototyping tool is expected.
• Wireframing & Mockups: Tools like Balsamiq, Miro, or built-in features within primary design suites.
• User Research Platforms: Tools for surveys, usability testing, and user interviews (e.g., UserTesting.com, SurveyMonkey, Lookback).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Familiarity with web analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics) to understand user behavior and inform design.
• Experience interpreting data to identify areas for UX improvement and measure the impact of design changes.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly managing CRM systems, an understanding of how user experience impacts CRM adoption and data quality is beneficial. Awareness of workflow automation concepts can inform UI design for efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section details the expected technical proficiency, focusing on design and prototyping tools critical for UX operations. The mention of analytics and CRM awareness highlights the role's connection to broader operational data and efficiency.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• User-Centricity: A deep commitment to understanding and serving user needs as the primary driver for all design decisions.
• Collaboration: Fostering an environment where open communication, feedback, and teamwork are essential for successful project delivery.
• Innovation & Adaptability: Encouraging creative problem-solving and the ability to adapt designs to evolving user needs and technological advancements.
• Quality & Craftsmanship: A dedication to producing high-fidelity, well-executed designs that meet user needs and client objectives.
• Efficiency & Effectiveness: Striving for designs that not only meet functional requirements but also streamline user tasks and contribute to operational efficiency.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with developers, project managers, business analysts, and clients throughout the design lifecycle to ensure alignment and smooth implementation.
• Iterative Feedback: Embracing a culture of continuous feedback and constructive critique to refine designs and improve outcomes.
• Knowledge Sharing: Participating in design reviews, sharing best practices, and contributing to the collective knowledge base of the design team.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section defines the operational ethos of the design team, emphasizing values like user-centricity and efficiency, and describing a collaborative style that is crucial for integrated operations.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing User Needs with Technical Constraints: Navigating the complexities of translating user desires into feasible technical solutions, especially within government project parameters.
• Adhering to Strict Compliance Standards: Ensuring all designs meet stringent accessibility (Section 508) and security requirements without compromising user experience.
• Managing Stakeholder Expectations: Effectively communicating design rationale and managing feedback from diverse stakeholders with varying priorities and technical understanding.
• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Staying current with rapid advancements in design tools, methodologies, and user interface trends to maintain best-in-class design solutions.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced UX Certifications: Pursuing industry-recognized certifications in UX research, interaction design, or accessibility.
• Design System Development: Opportunity to contribute to or lead the creation and maintenance of design systems, enhancing consistency and efficiency across projects.
• Mentorship Programs: Participating in or leading mentorship initiatives to share expertise and develop leadership skills.
• Industry Conferences & Workshops: Attending events to learn about emerging trends, network with peers, and gain new skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section addresses potential operational challenges inherent in the role and company context, framing them as opportunities for skill development and growth within the UX and broader operations field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex UX challenge you faced on a project and how you applied UCD principles to solve it. What was the outcome?" (Focus on process, research, and measurable results.)
• "How do you approach defining information architecture and user flows for a new application or feature?" (Demonstrate structured thinking and user journey mapping.)
• "Walk me through a project where you had to balance conflicting stakeholder requirements or technical limitations with user needs." (Highlight negotiation, compromise, and strategic decision-making.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about MetroStar and our work in the government sector?" (Show research and alignment with company mission.)
• "How do you contribute to a collaborative design environment and integrate feedback from team members?" (Address teamwork and communication style.)
• "How do you measure the success of your UX designs, particularly in terms of user adoption and operational efficiency?" (Focus on metrics and impact.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure for Impact: Begin with a high-level overview of the project and your role, then dive into the problem statement, your research and discovery process, key design decisions (wireframes, prototypes), user testing, and final outcomes/impact.
• Quantify Results: Whenever possible, use data and metrics to demonstrate the positive impact of your design work (e.g., increased task completion rates, reduced error rates, improved user satisfaction scores).
• Show, Don't Just Tell: Use visuals effectively—showcase wireframes, mockups, and interactive prototypes to illustrate your design thinking and execution.
• Articulate Your Process: Be ready to explain why you made specific design choices, referencing user research, best practices, or business objectives. Highlight any contributions to process optimization or efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section offers tailored advice for preparing for interviews, focusing on operations-relevant aspects like process, metrics, and stakeholder management, and guiding candidates on how to present their portfolio to showcase their strategic and operational contributions.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations-aligned UX design position:

• Submit your application through the MetroStar careers page or the provided link: https://www.metrostar.com/jobs/
• Portfolio Customization: Prepare your portfolio to highlight projects demonstrating user-centered design, information architecture, wireframing, prototyping, and user research. Focus on case studies that show your process and impact, especially those related to workflow improvement or efficiency gains.
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your 5-7 years of relevant UX/UI experience, UCD methodologies, and any experience with government projects or Section 508 compliance. Use keywords from the job description, emphasizing your role in enhancing user workflows and digital product functionality.
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, problem-solving approach, and the operational impact of your work. Prepare to discuss specific projects from your portfolio in detail, focusing on how your designs improved user efficiency and achieved project goals.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with MetroStar's mission, values, and recent projects, particularly those within the government sector. Understand their commitment to their people and how UX design contributes to their client success and operational excellence.

⚠️ 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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