User Interface Designer III

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: User Interface Designer III

Company: NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory

Location: JPL Campus, Pasadena, California, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Human-Centered Design / User Experience Design

Date Posted: 2026-09-09

Experience Level: Mid to Senior (6+ years with Bachelor's, 4+ years with Master's, 2+ years with PhD)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive innovation in user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design for cutting-edge applications, including Web, Augmented Reality (AR), and Virtual Reality (VR), supporting critical NASA space exploration missions.

• Lead requirements discovery, refinement, and validation processes, ensuring user needs are at the forefront of software and workflow development.

• Design intuitive interfaces and efficient processes for mission operations engineers and scientists, enabling effective mission design, spacecraft command, and data analysis.

• Conduct rigorous UX research, from ideation to validation, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative methods to uncover unmet user needs and identify development opportunities.

• Champion the adoption of new technologies and methodologies, including AI and data science, by educating partners and developing comprehensive change management and training programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is deeply embedded within NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), specifically within the Data Science and AI Section's Human-Centered Design Group. This implies a unique focus on designing for complex scientific and engineering environments, requiring a strong understanding of mission operations, scientific data interpretation, and the integration of advanced technologies like AI, AR, and VR. The "III" in the title suggests a level of autonomy and leadership in design projects, requiring not just execution but also strategic input and problem-solving for challenging "wicked problems."

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive user research to uncover requirements, identify pain points, and validate design solutions for software and operational workflows.

• Design and prototype intuitive user interfaces and seamless workflows for Web, AR, and VR applications used in mission design, spacecraft operations, and scientific data analysis.

• Develop and refine information architecture, service design, and operational testing strategies to ensure usability and efficiency.

• Lead the discovery and definition of complex problems, translating them into actionable design requirements and development roadmaps.

• Create and present research findings, design proposals, and solution validations to diverse engineering and science teams.

• Design and implement effective training programs and internal communication products to facilitate user adoption and understanding of complex AI and data science concepts.

• Drive adoption of new technologies and processes through user education, clear demonstrations, and continuous improvement based on feedback.

• Collaborate closely with engineers, scientists, and mission stakeholders to integrate human-centered design principles into the entire product lifecycle.

• Manage change effectively, planning and executing processes that enable expert users to adopt new operating methods seamlessly.

• Educate partners on the appropriate and ethical uses of AI and data science within their specific mission contexts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of traditional UX/UI design tasks with a significant emphasis on process design, change management, and user education, particularly concerning AI and data science applications. The "solely responsible" tasks indicate a high degree of autonomy and ownership expected from the candidate in defining problems, conducting research, and driving solutions.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Interaction Design, or a closely related discipline, OR

• Master's degree in a similar discipline, OR

• PhD in a similar discipline. Experience:

• Minimum 6 years of related work experience with a Bachelor's degree.

• Minimum 4 years of related work experience with a Master's degree.

• Minimum 2 years of related work experience with a PhD. Required Skills:

• Demonstrated expertise in UX research methods, including those specifically applicable to Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) environments.

• Strong understanding of design best practices for Web, AR, and VR applications.

• Proficient in conducting and moderating individual and group research sessions.

• Solid grasp of both quantitative and qualitative data analysis techniques.

• Proficient in storytelling, wireframing, mockup creation, and prototyping.

• Understanding of AI ethical implications, common uses, underlying technologies, and potential applications.

• Excellent organizational, communication, interpersonal, and collaboration skills for effective teamwork.

• Familiarity with Agile Scrum practices and philosophies.

• Experience with software development for prototyping and front-end production purposes.

• Experience creating AI-driven science interpretation applications, agents, or related technologies.

• Experience designing training programs or content, with a strong understanding of didactic methodologies.

• A strong portfolio showcasing a human-centered design approach, research-based solutions, and the ability to simplify complex information. Preferred Skills:

• Experience in information architecture and service design.

• Experience with change management planning and execution within technical environments.

• Experience designing for complex mission operations or scientific data analysis workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualification requirements emphasize a deep understanding of research methodologies and a proven ability to translate research findings into tangible design solutions. The inclusion of AI ethics, AR/VR design, and experience with science interpretation applications points to a specialized role within a cutting-edge research and development environment. The portfolio is critical, needing to demonstrate not just aesthetic design but also problem-solving capabilities and research rigor.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A robust portfolio showcasing a minimum of 6 years (with Bachelor's) of applied human-centered design principles and UX research.

• Evidence of designing and conducting research studies (short and long-term) to answer key user and project questions.

• Case studies demonstrating the ability to discover and define complex problems, and then design, prototype, validate, and refine solutions.

• Examples of work on Web, AR, and VR applications, highlighting understanding of their unique design considerations.

• Demonstrations of quantitative and qualitative data analysis applied to design challenges.

• Clear documentation of the design process, from initial problem framing through to solution refinement.

• Projects that illustrate the ability to communicate complex information and technical concepts in clean, simple, and understandable ways. Process Documentation:

• Showcase experience in designing and documenting user workflows and operational procedures, particularly for expert users in technical domains.

• Provide examples of change management planning and processes designed to facilitate the adoption of new technologies and ways of operating.

• Demonstrate experience in designing and implementing clear training programs and content, reflecting an understanding of didactic methodologies.

• Include examples of internal communication products created to explain complex technical concepts to specialized audiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, the portfolio is not just a collection of work but a critical tool for demonstrating problem-solving capabilities. It must clearly articulate the candidate's process, from understanding the "real problem" to validating the final solution. Emphasis should be placed on research-backed designs and the ability to handle complexity, especially related to AI, AR, and VR applications within a mission-critical context.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $140,088 - $177,736 annually.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance plans.

• Wellbeing programs designed to support employee health and fulfillment.

• Robust Retirement Plans.

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) policies.

• Opportunities for Continuous Learning and professional development.

• Rideshare programs to support commuting.

• Childcare assistance and resources.

• Flexible Schedule options to promote work-life balance.

• Parental Leave for new parents.

• Additional unique JPL benefits and perks. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time workweek, typically 40 hours.

• Potential for flexible scheduling to accommodate project needs and personal well-being, within operational requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is specific to Pasadena, California, and reflects the mid-to-senior level experience required for this User Interface Designer III role at a prestigious institution like JPL. The benefits package is extensive, emphasizing work-life balance and employee well-being, which is a significant draw for candidates seeking a stable and supportive work environment.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Aerospace, Space Exploration, Research & Development, Government Agency (NASA contractor).

Company Size: JPL is a large organization, employing thousands of individuals, operating as a federally funded research and development center managed by Caltech for NASA. This scale allows for diverse projects and specialized teams.

Founded: 1936 (as the first U.S. government-sponsored research center for rocketry), becoming part of NASA in 1958. This long history signifies deep expertise and a culture of pioneering exploration.

Team Structure:

• The role is within the Data Science and AI Section, specifically the Human-Centered Design Group.

• This group likely comprises a mix of UX designers, researchers, interaction designers, and potentially specialists in AR/VR and AI.

• Collaboration is expected with engineers, scientists, project managers, and mission operations teams across JPL.

• The reporting structure will likely involve a Group Lead and Section Manager, with project-specific reporting lines. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on rigorous UX research, quantitative and qualitative analysis to inform design decisions.

• Human-Centered Approach: Prioritizing user needs, workflows, and contexts in the design of systems and interfaces.

• Agile and Iterative Development: Incorporating Agile Scrum practices for flexible and responsive project execution.

• Innovation and Exploration: A culture that encourages asking big questions, seeking novel solutions, and pushing technological boundaries.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Essential for integrating complex technical requirements with user experience needs.

Company Website: https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/

📝 Enhancement Note: JPL's culture is characterized by a deep commitment to scientific discovery, technological innovation, and collaborative problem-solving. Working here means contributing to projects with global impact and engaging with some of the brightest minds in science and engineering. The Human-Centered Design Group plays a crucial role in making complex space missions and data accessible and manageable for their intended users.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: User Interface Designer III signifies a mid-to-senior level position. The role requires significant autonomy in problem definition, research execution, and solution design. It involves leading design efforts for specific projects or features, mentoring junior designers, and influencing design strategy within the group.

Reporting Structure: The role reports into the Human-Centered Design Group within the Data Science and AI Section. This structure allows for specialized focus within a broader R&D context. Collaboration will extend across various mission teams and engineering disciplines.

Operations Impact: The work directly impacts the success of NASA's space exploration missions by ensuring that the tools used by engineers and scientists are effective, efficient, and intuitive. This leads to better mission planning, safer spacecraft operations, and more insightful scientific discoveries. By improving human-computer interaction and process design, this role contributes to the overall productivity and success rate of JPL's ambitious projects.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in AR/VR design, AI integration, specific scientific domains (e.g., remote sensing data interpretation), or advanced UX research methodologies.

• Leadership: Progress to a Lead Designer role, managing multiple projects or a small team of designers, and taking on greater strategic responsibilities.

• Cross-functional Mobility: Transition into roles focused on product management, program management, or specialized research within JPL's diverse scientific and engineering sections.

• Mentorship: Develop leadership skills by mentoring junior designers and contributing to the growth of the Human-Centered Design Group.

• Advanced Training: Access JPL's extensive learning resources, including workshops, conferences, and potentially advanced academic pursuits, to stay at the forefront of design and technology.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a unique career path within a highly specialized and impactful organization. Growth is likely to be driven by demonstrated expertise, leadership in complex projects, and a continuous commitment to learning and adapting to new technologies and mission requirements. The "wicked problems" aspect suggests opportunities to tackle highly challenging and rewarding design issues.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: JPL operates on a campus-like environment, fostering a collaborative and innovative atmosphere. While the role is on-site, the environment is designed to encourage interaction and knowledge sharing among diverse teams.

Office Location(s): JPL Campus, Pasadena, California. This location offers a unique setting in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: Access to meeting rooms, design studios, and informal gathering areas conducive to brainstorming and cross-functional teamwork.

• Technology Access: Availability of cutting-edge hardware and software for design, prototyping, research, and development, including AR/VR equipment.

• Team Interaction: Regular opportunities to engage with a diverse team of highly skilled engineers, scientists, and fellow designers, fostering a rich learning environment.

• Research Facilities: Potential access to user research labs and testing environments.

Work Schedule:

• Primarily a standard 40-hour work week.

• Flexibility may be available, subject to project demands and operational needs, allowing for a healthy work-life balance. This is particularly important for roles that involve deep focus and iterative design work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement at JPL's Pasadena campus suggests an environment that values in-person collaboration, access to specialized facilities (like AR/VR labs), and the serendipitous interactions that can spark innovation. The environment is geared towards supporting complex, long-term projects in space exploration.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess foundational qualifications and experience alignment.

• Technical/Design Interview: In-depth discussion about design process, UX research methodologies, problem-solving approaches, and specific project examples from the portfolio. This may include scenario-based questions and discussions on AI/AR/VR design.

• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session where the candidate presents 1-2 key projects from their portfolio, detailing the problem, their role, process, challenges, and outcomes. Expect questions on how research informed design decisions and how complex information was simplified.

• Behavioral/Situational Interview: Assessment of collaboration skills, communication style, ability to handle ambiguity, and cultural fit within JPL's collaborative and mission-driven environment. Questions may focus on managing stakeholders and driving adoption.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with senior leadership or key stakeholders to discuss strategic alignment and overall fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose projects that best showcase your human-centered approach, research rigor, and ability to solve complex problems relevant to JPL's work (e.g., complex data visualization, mission operations interfaces, AR/VR applications for training or analysis).

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem statement, your specific role and contributions, the research conducted, the design process, key challenges overcome, and the measurable impact or outcomes.

• Highlight Process: Emphasize your methodology – how you discovered needs, how research informed your iterations, and how you validated your solutions.

• Showcase Research: Detail your UX research methods, including quantitative and qualitative techniques used, and how you analyzed and synthesized findings.

• Demonstrate Technical Understanding: Include examples that show your understanding of Web, AR, and VR design principles, and any experience with AI applications or didactic methodologies.

• Keep it Concise: Aim for clarity and impact. Ensure prototypes and visuals are easily understandable.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for potential design exercises or case studies that might simulate real-world problems JPL faces, focusing on user research, problem framing, or interface/workflow design for complex systems.

• Practice articulating your thought process clearly and concisely, especially when discussing trade-offs, constraints, and potential solutions.

• Familiarize yourself with JPL's mission and current projects to better understand the context of the work and tailor your responses.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process at JPL, especially for a design role, will heavily rely on evaluating the candidate's practical application of design principles through their portfolio. Expect a rigorous assessment of research skills, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to work within a complex, mission-critical environment. The emphasis on "wicked problems" and AI/AR/VR suggests a need to demonstrate adaptability and forward-thinking design capabilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design & Prototyping Software: Figma, Sketch, Adobe Creative Suite (XD, Illustrator, Photoshop), InVision, Axure RP, or similar industry-standard tools for wireframing, mockups, and interactive prototyping.

• AR/VR Development Tools: Unity, Unreal Engine, or specific AR/VR SDKs and platforms, depending on the project's technology stack.

• Web Development Tools: Familiarity with front-end technologies like HTML, CSS, JavaScript frameworks (React, Angular, Vue.js) would be beneficial for prototyping and understanding implementation constraints.

Analytics & Reporting:

• UX Research Tools: UserTesting.com, Optimal Workshop, Maze, or similar platforms for remote user testing and feedback collection.

• Data Analysis Tools: Proficiency in analyzing quantitative research data (e.g., survey results, usage metrics) and qualitative data (e.g., interview transcripts, usability test findings). Tools like Excel, SPSS, or even basic Python/R for data manipulation might be relevant.

• Collaboration & Documentation: Confluence, Jira, Miro, Mural for team collaboration, knowledge sharing, and process documentation.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how user data is managed and utilized within systems (potentially custom-built JPL platforms or enterprise solutions) is advantageous.

• Familiarity with workflow automation concepts, even if not directly implementing them, is beneficial given the focus on process design and efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools can vary, the emphasis is on proficiency in standard UX/UI design and prototyping software, coupled with a strong understanding of AR/VR development environments and data analysis for research. Experience with tools supporting collaboration and documentation within Agile frameworks is also highly valued.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Dare Mighty Things: A core JPL ethos encouraging ambitious goals and innovative solutions. This translates to a culture that embraces challenging problems and pushes technological boundaries.

• Scientific Rigor: A commitment to data-driven decision-making, meticulous research, and evidence-based design.

• Collaboration and Teamwork: Emphasis on working together across diverse disciplines to achieve common goals, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.

• Excellence and Innovation: A drive to achieve the highest standards in research, engineering, and design, coupled with a continuous pursuit of novel approaches.

• Curiosity and Discovery: A fundamental value of asking questions, exploring the unknown, and seeking new knowledge.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Designers are expected to work closely with engineers, scientists, and project managers, acting as translators between user needs and technical capabilities.

• Open Communication: A culture that encourages open feedback, constructive criticism, and active listening among team members.

• Knowledge Sharing: Regular opportunities for team members to share insights, learnings, and best practices, often through brown-bag sessions, design critiques, or internal documentation.

• Iterative Design Process: Collaboration is embedded in the iterative nature of design, with frequent reviews and feedback loops to refine solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: JPL's culture is deeply rooted in its mission of space exploration and scientific discovery. The values promote a highly motivated, collaborative, and intellectually stimulating work environment. For a designer, this means being part of a team that values rigorous analysis, bold innovation, and the collective effort required to achieve extraordinary goals.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of "Wicked Problems": Tackling ill-defined, complex problems with multiple stakeholders and often conflicting requirements, which are characteristic of advanced R&D and space missions.

• Bridging Technical and User Needs: Effectively translating highly technical or scientific concepts into intuitive user interfaces and workflows that non-expert users can easily understand and operate.

• Designing for Novel Technologies: Developing user experiences for emerging technologies like AR and VR in contexts where best practices are still evolving.

• Driving Adoption of New Technologies: Convincing and enabling expert users (e.g., mission operations engineers, scientists) to adopt new tools and processes, which can involve significant change management.

• Integrating AI Ethically and Effectively: Designing AI-powered features that are not only functional but also ethical, transparent, and genuinely enhance user capabilities without creating undue complexity or bias.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Access to extensive internal and external training programs in areas like advanced UX research, AR/VR development, AI/ML principles, data visualization, and specific scientific domains.

• Industry Conferences: Opportunities to attend leading UX, AI, and technology conferences to stay abreast of the latest trends and network with peers.

• Mentorship Programs: Formal and informal mentorship opportunities with experienced designers, researchers, and technical leaders at JPL.

• Research Opportunities: Potential to contribute to cutting-edge research projects, pushing the boundaries of human-computer interaction in space exploration.

• Leadership Development: Programs designed to cultivate leadership skills for those aspiring to manage projects or teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are significant but also offer immense opportunities for professional growth. Successfully navigating these challenges will build highly sought-after skills in complex problem-solving, advanced technology design, and impactful user advocacy within a leading scientific organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to define a 'wicked problem' for a design project. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on problem framing, research, and iterative design).

• "How would you approach designing an AR interface for a mission control engineer who needs to monitor multiple spacecraft telemetry streams simultaneously?" (Focus on AR design principles, information hierarchy, and user context).

• "Imagine you need to introduce an AI-powered data interpretation tool to scientists accustomed to manual analysis. How would you plan the change management and training strategy to ensure adoption?" (Focus on change management, user education, and AI ethics communication).

• "Walk us through your process for conducting UX research for a complex scientific visualization tool. What methods would you prioritize, and how would you synthesize findings?" (Focus on research methodology, data analysis, and translating research into design). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you most about working at JPL and contributing to NASA's mission?" (Show genuine passion for space exploration and scientific advancement).

• "How do you ensure your designs are inclusive and consider the diverse needs of users from various backgrounds and expertise levels?" (Demonstrate awareness of accessibility and user diversity).

• "Describe your experience collaborating with engineers and scientists. How do you navigate technical constraints and differing perspectives?" (Highlight communication, negotiation, and teamwork skills).

• "How do you stay current with advancements in AI, AR, VR, and UX design?" (Show commitment to continuous learning). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select 2-3 Diverse Projects: Choose projects that highlight your strengths across different areas: a complex research-heavy project, an AR/VR or AI-related project, and a project demonstrating strong process/workflow design.

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, follow a clear story arc: Problem -> Your Role -> Research -> Design Process -> Challenges & Solutions -> Outcome/Impact.

• Emphasize "Why": Clearly articulate the "why" behind your design decisions, linking them back to user research, business goals, or technical constraints.

• Showcase Your Process: Don't just show final screens; explain your iterative process, including wireframes, prototypes, and user feedback loops.

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

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Prepare to answer detailed questions about any aspect of your work, from research methodology to technical implementation considerations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for this role requires a deep understanding of human-centered design principles, strong research acumen, and the ability to articulate complex design processes. Candidates must demonstrate how they can apply these skills to the unique challenges and opportunities at JPL, particularly concerning advanced technologies and mission-critical applications.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this User Interface Designer III position at NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Workday job portal.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight experience and skills that directly align with the job description, emphasizing UX research, human-centered design, AR/VR/Web design, AI/data science context, and experience with complex technical environments. Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Ensure your portfolio is easily accessible (e.g., via a link) and showcases your most relevant and impactful projects. Focus on demonstrating your end-to-end design process, research methodologies, and problem-solving capabilities.

• Prepare Your Narrative: Practice articulating your experience and project stories clearly and concisely, anticipating questions about your design process, research insights, and collaboration skills.

• Research JPL: Familiarize yourself with JPL's mission, current projects, and values to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural alignment during interviews. Understand the significance of their work in space exploration.

⚠️ 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.