TECHNICAL UI DESIGNER - 12 Month Contract

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: TECHNICAL UI DESIGNER - 12 Month Contract

Company: Keywords Studios (d3t Studio)

Location: Daresbury, England, United Kingdom

Job Type: CONTRACTOR

Category: Technical UI/UX Design (Game Development)

Date Posted: 2026-09-15

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 Years)

Remote Status: Hybrid (3 days in-office)

🚀 Role Summary

• Implement and optimize complex UI features, including 2D/3D layouts, menu logic, animations, AR elements, and HUDs, within a game development context.

• Utilize text-based scripting languages (Python, JavaScript, C++) and/or visual scripting (Unreal Blueprints, Unity Visual Scripting) to create dynamic UI functionalities.

• Collaborate closely with engineers, scripters, UX designers, and UI artists to ensure seamless integration and adherence to game design and technical standards.

• Develop and maintain tools and workflows to enhance the efficiency and capabilities of the UI art team, contributing to pipeline development.

• Ensure UI interfaces are responsive, scale correctly across various platforms and screen resolutions, and maintain optimal performance without frame rate drops.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Technical UI Designer," the responsibilities and required skills clearly indicate a role focused on the technical implementation and tool development aspects of UI/UX within game development, often referred to as a Technical UI Artist or Technical UI Engineer. This role bridges the gap between UI design and programming.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Structure, plan, estimate, and implement UI features in alignment with project goals, accessibility standards, and technical requirements.

• Integrate UI elements, including 2D and 3D layouts, menu logical flows, animations, AR components, and HUDs, by working with cross-functional teams.

• Write and debug code using Python, JavaScript, C++, or visual scripting languages to drive UI logic and interactivity.

• Refine UI implementations based on feedback from design, art, engineering, and creative direction to achieve AAA quality.

• Guarantee that user interfaces scale appropriately across diverse platforms and screen resolutions, maintaining peak performance and frame rates.

• Author custom tools and workflows that empower other UI artists, improving overall team efficiency and output.

• Develop and implement UI shaders and materials for visual effects such as health bars, holographic displays, and screen transitions.

• Collaborate with Technical Directors and Project Managers, providing regular updates and technical insights.

• Maintain a high standard of detail and typography in all UI elements.

• Foster a collaborative and inclusive team environment, actively participating in knowledge sharing and problem-solving.

• Debug and resolve complex system issues within the UI framework, ensuring stability and optimal functionality.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus: direct UI implementation and the creation of supporting tools/systems for the UI team. This suggests a need for both strong technical implementation skills and an understanding of pipeline efficiency and artist enablement, characteristic of a senior or mid-level technical artist role within UI.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a background in Computer Science, Game Design, Digital Art, or a related field is highly beneficial. Equivalent practical experience will be considered.

Experience: 3+ years of professional game development experience, with a proven track record of working with game engines and implementing UI systems.

Required Skills:

• 3+ years of professional game development experience with game engines (e.g., Unreal Engine, Unity).

• Proven experience implementing UI screens, widgets, logic, and data flows in collaboration with other game disciplines.

• Expertise in rapid prototyping to test UI concept feasibility, demonstrating full ownership from idea to implementation.

• Demonstrated ability to polish features to AAA quality and maintain them throughout the production cycle, advocating for best practices.

• Proficiency in text-based scripting languages such as Python, JavaScript, or C++.

• Experience with visual scripting languages like Unreal Blueprints or Unity Visual Scripting.

• Strong understanding of UI/UX principles, accessibility standards, and user-centered design.

• Knowledge of shader and material creation for UI elements.

• Excellent debugging skills for complex systems.

• A keen eye for detail, especially in typography and visual consistency.

• Collaborative and inclusive attitude, with strong interpersonal skills.

• Problem-solving mentality and a proactive approach to challenges. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with other UI systems such as Unity UI, Unreal UI, ImGui, WPF, or Qt.

• Familiarity with other game engines like Frostbite.

• Experience in tool authoring and pipeline development for UI workflows.

• Understanding of cross-platform optimization techniques for UI performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Essential Skills + Experience" section is quite robust, indicating a need for hands-on technical implementation and engine experience. The "Desirable Skills + Experience" points towards specific engine familiarity and tool-building capabilities, which are valuable but not strictly mandatory.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrations of implemented UI screens, widgets, and logical data flows within a game engine context.

• Case studies showcasing rapid prototyping of UI concepts from inception to functional testing.

• Examples of polished UI features that meet AAA quality standards, with explanations of the implementation process.

• Evidence of tool or workflow development that improved efficiency for a UI team.

• Visual examples of UI shaders, materials, or complex visual effects integrated into functional interfaces.

• Projects highlighting cross-platform UI scaling and performance optimization. Process Documentation:

• Clear documentation of your approach to implementing UI features, detailing the steps from concept to integration.

• Examples of how you've refined UI implementations based on feedback and creative direction.

• Documentation of any tools or workflows you have authored, explaining their functionality and benefits.

• Case studies that illustrate your problem-solving process for debugging and optimizing UI systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the technical nature of the role, a portfolio is crucial. It should not only showcase visual design but also the technical implementation, scripting, tool development, and problem-solving aspects of the candidate's work. Demonstrating process and efficiency gains will be key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As this is a 12-month contract position, the salary will be competitive and commensurate with experience for a Technical UI Designer in the UK gaming industry. Based on industry benchmarks for mid-level technical UI roles in the North West England region, a range of £45,000 - £65,000 per annum (pro-rata) is estimated.

Benefits:

• 22 days holiday + 3 Festive Studio Closure days + Bank Holidays (pro-rata for contract duration).

• Company Pension Scheme (subject to contract terms).

• Flexible Working Hours.

• Private Medical Insurance Scheme - BUPA (subject to contract terms).

• Anti-crunch ethos and supportive working environment.

• Free Parking at studio sites.

• Company Socials, Monthly Lunches & Annual d3t Events.

• Well-equipped Breakout Areas with games, BBQ area, and complimentary snacks.

Working Hours: Standard full-time hours, likely around 40 hours per week, with flexible working hours available. The hybrid model requires 3 days in the studio (Wednesday, Thursday, and one other chosen day).

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on typical contract rates for technical UI roles in the UK gaming sector, considering the stated experience level and location. Contract roles may have different benefits eligibility compared to permanent positions; candidates should clarify this with the hiring team.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Video Game Co-development and Art Services. d3t, part of the global Keywords Studios Group, specializes in providing experienced co-development services to major AAA clients.

Company Size: Keywords Studios is a large global entity. d3t operates as a significant studio within this group, with multiple UK sites (Daresbury, Newcastle) and an international presence (Madrid). The art team is a specialized unit within d3t.

Founded: d3t has a history of working on notable AAA titles. Keywords Studios was founded in 1998, signifying a well-established and experienced organization.

Team Structure:

• The role sits within the d3t Art Team, which is described as blending technical excellence with a passion for game development craft.

• This team delivers world-class content across Environment, Character, VFX, UI/UX, and Animation.

• The Technical UI Designer will report to Technical Directors and Project Managers.

• Close collaboration is expected with engineers, scripters, UX designers, and UI artists. Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: While not explicitly detailed for UI, the company emphasizes technical excellence and delivering high-quality content, implying data-informed decisions regarding performance and user experience.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: A core part of the role involves building tools and workflows to improve UI artist efficiency.

• Automation & Efficiency: The creation of tools and shaders points to a drive for automation and efficiency in the UI development process.

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

Studio Specific Website: https://www.d3t.co.uk/

📝 Enhancement Note: d3t's emphasis on being "at the forefront of videogame technology and creativity," their "anti-crunch mentality," and "mentoring ethos" suggests a culture that values professional development, work-life balance, and high-quality output. Being part of Keywords Studios provides stability and access to a wide range of projects.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Mid-Level Technical UI Designer/Artist on a 12-month contract. It offers a significant opportunity to gain experience in AAA game development, working on high-profile titles with a focus on technical implementation and tool development.

Reporting Structure: The Technical UI Designer reports to Technical Directors and Project Managers, indicating a structured project management approach. They will also work very closely with UI Artists, UX Designers, Engineers, and Scripters.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts the player's experience by ensuring intuitive, visually appealing, and performant user interfaces. It contributes to the overall quality and technical success of game projects by building efficient tools and robust UI systems.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Deepen expertise in game engine UI systems (Unreal, Unity), scripting languages (Python, C++), visual scripting, and shader development.

• Technical Art Specialization: Develop a strong specialization in technical UI, becoming a go-to expert for complex UI implementation and tool creation.

• Project Exposure: Gain experience on a variety of AAA titles, working with different clients and genres.

• Pipeline Development: Contribute to and potentially lead the development of UI pipelines and tools, a highly valued skill in the industry.

• Potential for Extension/Permanent Roles: While a contract, successful performance could lead to contract extension or opportunities within Keywords Studios/d3t.

📝 Enhancement Note: The contract nature of the role means growth is primarily focused on skill acquisition and project experience rather than traditional linear career progression within one company. However, the skills gained are highly transferable and in demand.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid working model, with a requirement for 3 days per week in the studio. The studio environment is described as professional, supportive, and fun, with a strong anti-crunch mentality.

Office Location(s): Daresbury (Cheshire) or Newcastle (Tyne & Wear), UK. Remote working within the UK is considered for this role.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Emphasizes in-person collaboration on specific days, fostering teamwork and idea exchange.

• Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard game engines and development tools. The role itself involves utilizing and creating tools within these engines.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities to work closely with diverse disciplines (engineering, art, design) on a daily basis.

• Amenities: Breakout areas equipped with games, a BBQ area, and complimentary snacks suggest a focus on employee well-being and a relaxed atmosphere during downtime.

Work Schedule: Flexible working hours are offered, but the hybrid model requires specific in-office days (Wednesday, Thursday, and one other chosen day). This balance aims to facilitate both focused individual work and collaborative team sessions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model is clearly defined, indicating a preference for in-person collaboration on core days while allowing for remote flexibility. This structure is common in creative industries to balance focused work with team synergy.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Video Call (First Interview): Likely to assess technical skills, experience, and cultural fit through initial questioning and potentially a brief technical overview.

• On-site Interview (Second Interview): If relevant, this stage would involve deeper technical discussions, potentially a portfolio review, and meeting more team members.

• Portfolio Review: A critical component. Candidates will be expected to walk through their portfolio, detailing their contributions, technical challenges overcome, and problem-solving approaches.

• Technical Assessment/Challenge: Candidates may be given a practical task or case study related to UI implementation, scripting, or tool development to assess their hands-on skills.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Technical Depth: Showcase not just the final UI but the underlying code, scripting, shaders, and any tools/workflows developed. Explain how you built it.

• Problem-Solving: Highlight specific challenges faced (e.g., performance bottlenecks, complex interactions, cross-platform issues) and how you resolved them.

• Process & Efficiency: If you built tools or improved workflows, clearly articulate the impact on efficiency and team productivity. Quantify where possible.

• Collaboration: Be prepared to discuss how you collaborated with other disciplines and incorporated feedback.

• AAA Quality: Demonstrate an understanding of polish, attention to detail, and the standards required for high-end game development.

Challenge Preparation:

• Engine Familiarity: Brush up on Unreal Engine (Blueprints, UMG) and/or Unity (UI Toolkit, Visual Scripting) depending on your primary experience.

• Scripting Logic: Be ready to write or discuss UI logic using Python, JavaScript, or C++.

• Shader Concepts: Understand basic shader principles for UI effects.

• Problem Decomposition: Practice breaking down complex UI requirements into manageable technical tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes practical application and portfolio demonstration. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their technical process and problem-solving skills in detail, rather than just presenting polished visuals.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Game Engines: Unreal Engine (preferred for Blueprints, UMG) and Unity (UI Toolkit, Visual Scripting).

• Scripting Languages: Python, JavaScript, C++ (for UI logic and tool development).

• Visual Scripting: Unreal Engine Blueprints, Unity Visual Scripting.

• UI Systems: Unity UI, Unreal UI, ImGui, WPF, Qt (experience with any of these is a plus).

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly listed as direct responsibilities, understanding how UI impacts player engagement and performance metrics is crucial. Experience with analytics integration for UI feedback would be beneficial. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this role's core function, but understanding project management tools and version control systems (e.g., Perforce, Git) is assumed for game development environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in at least one major game engine's UI system and associated scripting is essential. Experience with multiple engines and UI frameworks broadens the candidate's appeal. Tool development experience is a significant differentiator.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Technical Excellence: A strong focus on robust, efficient, and high-quality technical implementation.

• Collaboration: Valuing teamwork and cross-functional cooperation to achieve project goals.

• Passion for Craft: A genuine enthusiasm for game development and the art of creating engaging user experiences.

• Work-Life Balance: Commitment to an "anti-crunch" ethos, promoting sustainable working practices.

• Mentoring & Support: A culture that fosters learning and professional development.

• Problem-Solving: Encouraging a proactive and analytical approach to overcoming technical challenges.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role is inherently collaborative, requiring close liaison with engineers, designers, and artists.

• Process Improvement: A culture that encourages building tools and workflows to optimize team output and efficiency.

• Feedback Exchange: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback to ensure the highest quality UI.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging team members to share expertise, particularly in technical areas and tool development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to be a significant selling point, emphasizing a positive and productive work environment alongside high professional standards. This is particularly attractive for contract roles where work-life balance can sometimes be compromised.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• AAA Quality Standards: Meeting the high bar for polish, performance, and user experience expected in AAA game titles.

• Cross-Platform Complexity: Ensuring UI consistency and optimal performance across diverse platforms, screen sizes, and input methods.

• Technical Integration: Seamlessly integrating UI elements with game logic, engine systems, and backend services.

• Tool Development Scope: Balancing direct UI implementation tasks with the time and effort required for robust tool creation.

• Contract Duration: Working within a defined 12-month timeframe, requiring efficient task management and prioritization.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Engine Specialization: Deepening expertise in Unreal Engine or Unity's UI and scripting systems.

• Shader & Material Proficiency: Expanding knowledge in creating advanced visual effects for UI.

• Pipeline & Tool Development: Gaining experience in building scalable and efficient tools for creative teams.

• AAA Project Exposure: Contributing to high-profile game titles, enhancing the candidate's resume and industry network.

• Mentorship: Access to senior technical artists and directors for guidance and skill development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for high-end game development roles, offering significant learning opportunities. The contract nature presents a challenge in terms of project longevity but also offers the potential for varied experiences across different projects if opportunities arise.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex UI feature you implemented from scratch. What were the technical challenges, and how did you overcome them using scripting or visual tools?"

• "How do you approach ensuring UI scalability and performance across different screen resolutions and platforms?"

• "Walk me through a tool or workflow you developed for a UI team. What problem did it solve, and what was its impact?"

• "How do you balance the demands of direct UI implementation with the need for tool development and pipeline improvement?"

• "Discuss a time you had to incorporate critical feedback from engineers or designers on a UI implementation. How did you manage the changes?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to working at d3t and Keywords Studios, particularly in a co-development environment?"

• "How do you align with our 'anti-crunch' ethos and commitment to work-life balance?"

• "Describe your experience working in a hybrid or collaborative team environment."

• "How do you stay updated on the latest UI/UX trends and technical advancements in game development?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project, clearly stating your role and contributions.

• Technical Deep Dive: For each relevant project, be prepared to show code snippets, explain scripting logic, and discuss engine-specific implementation details.

• Problem/Solution Focus: Frame your work around the problems you solved and the solutions you engineered, especially for tools or complex features.

• Metrics: If possible, quantify the impact of your work (e.g., performance improvements, time saved by tools).

• Conciseness: Be ready to present your most impactful work efficiently, allowing time for Q&A.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview will likely probe deeply into the candidate's technical process, problem-solving abilities, and collaborative skills, with the portfolio serving as the primary evidence.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Technical UI Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Workable.

• Tailor your CV: Highlight your 3+ years of game development experience, specific UI implementation projects, proficiency in relevant scripting languages (Python, JavaScript, C++), and experience with game engines (Unreal, Unity). Emphasize any tool development or pipeline optimization work.

• Prepare your Portfolio: Curate your best work, focusing on technical implementation, scripting, visual scripting, shaders, and any tools/workflows you've created. Be ready to discuss your process and problem-solving approach in detail.

• Research d3t & Keywords Studios: Familiarize yourself with their projects, company values (especially the anti-crunch ethos), and their position in the co-development market.

• Practice your Pitch: Be ready to articulate your skills, experience, and suitability for the role, focusing on how you can contribute to their technical UI/UX efforts.

⚠️ 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.