UX Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UX Designer

Company: Peraton

Location: Herndon, Virginia, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: UX/Product Design (with GTM implications)

Date Posted: 2026-05-27

Experience Level: 5-10 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on the critical intersection of user experience (UX) design and government modernization initiatives, specifically within the Department of State's Consular Systems Modernization (CSM) Program.

• The UX Designer will leverage user-centered design principles and design thinking methodologies to conceptualize, design, and prototype digital products that enhance user satisfaction and operational efficiency.

• A key aspect of this position involves ensuring all digital solutions meet stringent accessibility standards (Section 508) and adhere to the U.S. Web Design System (USWDS), reflecting a strong understanding of government technology requirements.

• The role demands proficiency in modern design tools and a collaborative approach to working within an Agile software development environment, directly impacting the effectiveness and usability of enterprise software systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "UX Designer," the context of modernizing government systems and ensuring compliance with standards like Section 508 and USWDS indicates a strong need for a candidate who understands how design directly impacts operational efficiency and adoption within a large, regulated enterprise. This role bridges pure design with practical application and compliance, which is crucial for GTM success in government contracts.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive user research, including requirements elicitation, field observations, heuristic evaluations, and usability testing to deeply understand user needs and pain points within the Department of State's Consular Systems Modernization (CSM) Program.

• Apply design thinking and user-centered design (UCD) approaches to ideate, conceptualize, and develop innovative digital product solutions that address both explicit and implicit user requirements across diverse user types.

• Create adaptive and responsive product concepts and prototypes for web-based and mobile applications using industry-standard design tools such as Figma, ensuring intuitive user flows and engaging interfaces.

• Design digital solutions that strictly comply with Section 508 and other accessibility standards, ensuring inclusivity and usability for all potential users.

• Develop and maintain detailed user stories with precise and descriptive acceptance criteria, facilitating clear communication and alignment with the Agile development team and product stakeholders.

• Ensure all designed solutions are compliant with the U.S. Web Design System (USWDS), promoting consistency, usability, and a cohesive user experience across the modernized enterprise software systems.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including developers, product managers, and subject matter experts, throughout the software development lifecycle to ensure design integrity and successful implementation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a hands-on approach to user research and a deep dive into the practical application of design principles within a specific government program. The requirement to develop user stories with acceptance criteria highlights a need for a designer who can translate user needs into actionable development tasks, a common requirement in operations-adjacent design roles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• A minimum of five (5) years of progressive experience in UX design, with a focus on software development projects.

• Demonstrated experience in designing adaptive and responsive UX solutions for complex enterprise software systems, specifically for web and mobile applications.

• Proven track record of designing digital solutions that meet Section 508 and other accessibility compliance standards.

• Hands-on experience in modernizing and designing enterprise-level software systems.

• Substantial experience conducting user research methodologies, including requirements elicitation, field observations, heuristic evaluations, and usability testing.

• Proficiency in developing detailed user stories with precise and descriptive acceptance criteria to inform development teams.

• Experience working within Agile software development environments, utilizing tools such as Jira, Git, and Jenkins.

• Hands-on experience with modern design and prototyping platforms including Figma, Adobe XD, Adobe Creative Suite (CC), Sketch, ProtoPie, Mural, and Axure.

• Familiarity and experience with established Design Systems such as the U.S. Web Design System (USWDS), Apple Human Interface Guidelines (HIG), Google Material Design, or IBM Carbon Design System.

• Must be a U.S. Citizen.

Required Skills:

• Expertise in User-Centered Design (UCD) and Design Thinking methodologies.

• Proficiency in user research, usability testing, heuristic evaluation, and requirements gathering.

• Advanced skills in wireframing, prototyping, and visual design using modern tools like Figma.

• Strong understanding of Section 508 accessibility standards and implementation.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience designing for the Salesforce low-code platform.

• Advanced knowledge and practical application of the U.S. Web Design System (USWDS).

• Exceptional proficiency and advanced experience using Figma for complex design projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a Secret clearance and U.S. Citizenship points to a role within a sensitive government contract. The extensive list of required tools and design systems suggests the need for a highly skilled and adaptable UX professional who can immediately contribute to complex, multi-platform projects. The preference for Salesforce experience hints at potential integrations or specific platform focuses within the CSM program.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a portfolio showcasing a range of UX design projects, emphasizing the end-to-end design process from research to final output.

• Include case studies that highlight your approach to user research, problem-solving, and the development of user-centered solutions for web and mobile applications.

• Present examples of adaptive and responsive design implementations, illustrating how you tailored user experiences across different devices and platforms.

• Showcase projects that adhere to accessibility standards (e.g., Section 508) and/or utilize established design systems like USWDS, demonstrating compliance and consistency.

Process Documentation:

• Illustrate your process for conducting user research, including methodologies used, data collection techniques, and how insights informed design decisions.

• Detail your workflow for translating user stories and acceptance criteria into design artifacts, including wireframes, mockups, and interactive prototypes.

• Document your approach to usability testing, including test planning, execution, analysis, and how feedback was integrated to iterate on designs.

• Showcase how you ensure design compliance with standards such as Section 508 and design systems like USWDS within your design process.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role involving government modernization, a portfolio that clearly articulates the design process, demonstrates compliance with standards, and showcases experience with specific tools and systems is crucial. This demonstrates not just design capability, but also the ability to navigate complex requirements and deliver functional, accessible solutions.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $66,000 - $106,000 per year.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement savings plan with company match (e.g., 401k).

• Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Opportunities for professional development, training, and certifications.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses and overtime pay, depending on project needs and contract structure.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work schedule, typically 40 hours per week. While the role is on-site, flexibility may be offered based on project demands and team coordination, but core hours are expected for collaboration and on-site presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is based on industry benchmarks for UX Designers in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area with 5-10 years of experience, adjusted for the specific requirements of government contracting, which often includes security clearance and specialized compliance knowledge. The benefits listed are standard for a company of Peraton's size and industry.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: National Security and Government Technology Solutions. Peraton operates at the forefront of providing mission-critical capabilities to U.S. government agencies and allied nations, focusing on defense, intelligence, and public sector modernization.

Company Size: Peraton is a large enterprise, indicated by its status as a "next-generation national security company" and a "transformative enterprise IT provider." This suggests a significant employee base and a structured organizational framework.

Founded: Peraton has a history of growth through acquisitions and integration, building a substantial presence in the government contracting space. This implies a culture that values stability, expertise, and long-term mission support.

Team Structure:

• The UX Designer will be part of the Department of State (DOS) Consular Systems Modernization (CSM) Program team, likely within the Bureau of Diplomatic Technology (DT). This indicates a specialized, project-focused team.

• Reporting will likely be to a UX Lead, Design Manager, or Program Manager within the CSM initiative, with a dotted line to broader design or technology leadership within Peraton.

Methodology:

• The program employs a user-centered and design thinking approach, emphasizing iterative design and feedback loops.

• Agile software development methodologies are in use, requiring designers to integrate seamlessly with sprint cycles, backlog grooming, and development sprints.

• A strong focus on compliance with government standards (Section 508, USWDS) is integral to the program's methodology.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Peraton's focus on national security and government solutions means the company culture likely emphasizes a sense of mission, security, integrity, and technical excellence. For a UX designer, this translates to working on impactful projects with high stakes, requiring meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to delivering robust, secure, and compliant solutions.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-to-senior level UX Designer, requiring at least five years of specialized experience. It involves significant autonomy in design execution and a key role in shaping user experiences for critical government systems. The position is more than just visual design; it involves deep user research and strategic input into product direction.

Reporting Structure: The UX Designer will report into the Department of State (DOS) Consular Systems Modernization (CSM) Program, likely within the Bureau of Diplomatic Technology (DT). This structure implies direct involvement in a large-scale, ongoing modernization effort, reporting to program management or a dedicated design lead within that program.

Operations Impact: The work directly impacts the operational efficiency and effectiveness of the Department of State's consular services. By modernizing systems, the UX Designer's contributions will improve user (both internal and external) satisfaction, reduce errors, streamline processes, and ensure secure, compliant access to critical information. This role is vital for the successful adoption and utilization of new technologies, directly supporting the "missions of consequence" Peraton undertakes.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in government UX, accessibility standards (Section 508), and design systems (USWDS), becoming a go-to subject matter expert within Peraton's government sector.

• Leadership: Progress to a Senior UX Designer role, Lead UX Designer, or UX Manager position, potentially overseeing larger design teams or multiple projects within Peraton's extensive portfolio.

• Cross-Functional Development: Gain exposure to broader program management, business analysis, and technical architecture within large-scale government IT initiatives.

• Skill Expansion: Develop expertise in areas like Salesforce UX design or advanced prototyping tools, further enhancing marketability and project applicability.

• Security Clearance Advancement: Maintain and potentially upgrade security clearance levels, opening doors to more sensitive and high-impact projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth trajectory for a UX Designer within a government contracting firm like Peraton often involves deepening technical expertise, mastering compliance requirements, and moving into leadership roles that manage complex, mission-critical projects. The focus on specific government systems and standards provides a clear path for specialization.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site position, indicating a traditional office environment where face-to-face collaboration is prioritized. This setting is common for government contracting roles requiring security clearances and close team integration.

Office Location(s): Herndon, Virginia. This location is within the Northern Virginia technology corridor, offering proximity to government agencies and a strong ecosystem of tech and defense contractors.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely be a professional office setting designed for collaboration, potentially with dedicated team areas, meeting rooms, and individual workstations.

• Access to necessary design software, hardware, and potentially secure network environments will be provided, essential for working on classified or sensitive government projects.

• Opportunities for regular interaction with a dedicated program team (developers, product managers, analysts) will be abundant, fostering a collaborative design culture.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is expected. While on-site, there may be opportunities for some schedule flexibility depending on project deadlines and team needs, but consistent presence is key for collaboration and security protocols.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Herndon, VA, is typical for roles supporting federal agencies. It emphasizes the need for a candidate comfortable with a structured, collaborative office environment where physical presence is necessary for project execution and security.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will review your application and resume, focusing on experience with UX design, government projects, accessibility, and required tools.

• Portfolio Review & Technical Interview: You will likely present your portfolio, discussing specific case studies that demonstrate your UX process, problem-solving skills, and ability to meet project requirements (e.g., accessibility, USWDS). This will be followed by a technical interview assessing your design thinking, tool proficiency, and understanding of user research methodologies.

• Team/Stakeholder Interviews: Interviews with potential team members, including developers and product managers, to assess collaboration style and cultural fit. You may also meet with program leadership to discuss strategic alignment.

• Security Clearance Verification: The process will include verification and initiation of the required security clearance.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-4 projects that best showcase your experience with government modernization, accessibility, USWDS, and responsive/adaptive design.

• Detail Your Process: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the methodologies used (user research, design thinking), your design decisions, and the outcomes. Use visuals effectively.

• Highlight Compliance: Explicitly mention how you addressed Section 508 and USWDS requirements. Quantify impact where possible (e.g., "improved task completion time by X%," "reduced error rates by Y%").

• Tool Proficiency: Showcase your mastery of Figma and other relevant tools.

• Storytelling: Present your work as compelling narratives that highlight your problem-solving skills and impact.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for a design challenge that may involve a hypothetical problem related to government systems, requiring you to outline your approach to research, ideation, and solution design.

• Practice articulating your design rationale clearly and concisely, as if presenting to a mixed audience of technical and non-technical stakeholders.

• Be ready to discuss how you would integrate user feedback and iterate on designs within an Agile framework.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role will heavily weigh practical experience, demonstrated ability to work within specific frameworks (Agile, UCD), and compliance with stringent government standards. A well-prepared portfolio that directly addresses these requirements is paramount.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: Essential for wireframing, prototyping, and high-fidelity visual design. Advanced proficiency is highly valued.

• Adobe Creative Suite (CC): Likely used for image editing, graphic design, and potentially other visual asset creation (e.g., Photoshop, Illustrator).

• Prototyping Tools: Experience with tools like ProtoPie, Adobe XD, or Axure may be beneficial for creating interactive and complex prototypes.

• Collaboration Tools: Platforms like Mural are useful for remote whiteboarding, ideation sessions, and collaborative design activities.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary designer tool, understanding how to interpret data from analytics platforms (e.g., Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics) or user feedback tools can inform design decisions.

CRM & Automation:

• Experience with Salesforce, particularly its UX nuances and design considerations for low-code platforms, is a preferred skill.

• Understanding of how design integrates with broader enterprise software systems and workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Figma is a non-negotiable requirement, given its listing as a preferred advanced skill. The breadth of other tools listed indicates a need for a designer who is adaptable and experienced with a comprehensive design technology stack.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Mission Focus: A strong commitment to supporting national security missions and delivering high-impact solutions for government clients.

• Integrity & Security: Upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct and data security, given the sensitive nature of the work.

• Excellence & Innovation: Striving for technical excellence and innovative solutions within the constraints of government requirements.

• Collaboration: Valuing teamwork, open communication, and cross-functional partnership to achieve program objectives.

• Compliance & Quality: Dedication to meeting stringent quality standards, including accessibility and design system adherence.

Collaboration Style:

• Expect a highly collaborative environment where designers work closely with developers, product managers, and government stakeholders.

• Emphasis on clear communication, constructive feedback, and a shared understanding of project goals and user needs.

• Design reviews are likely a regular part of the workflow, encouraging knowledge sharing and continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Peraton, particularly within a government program, will likely be results-oriented, security-conscious, and collaborative. Designers are expected to be team players who can translate complex requirements into user-friendly solutions while adhering to strict guidelines.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Bureaucracy & Legacy Systems: Modernizing complex, often legacy, government systems presents unique challenges in terms of technical constraints, established processes, and stakeholder buy-in.

• Balancing User Needs with Strict Compliance: Ensuring that user experience is optimized while strictly adhering to Section 508, USWDS, and other government mandates requires careful design and iterative refinement.

• Security Clearance Process: Obtaining and maintaining a security clearance can be a lengthy and involved process.

• Cross-Functional Alignment: Ensuring consistent design vision and implementation across diverse development teams and multiple project components requires strong communication and advocacy.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in accessibility standards, government design systems, and relevant government IT programs.

• Mentorship: Potential to be mentored by senior designers or program leaders within Peraton's extensive network.

• Certification: Pursuing certifications related to UX, accessibility, or Agile methodologies.

• Exposure to Large-Scale Projects: Gaining invaluable experience on major government modernization initiatives that have significant national impact.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges in this role stem from the complexity of government IT environments. However, these challenges also present significant opportunities for professional growth and skill development in a highly specialized and in-demand field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for designing an accessible web application for users with disabilities, referencing Section 508."

• "How would you approach designing a new feature for a government system where user feedback is limited, but compliance with USWDS is mandatory?"

• "Walk us through a project where you had to balance conflicting stakeholder requirements with user needs in a complex enterprise environment."

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working on the Department of State's Consular Systems Modernization Program?"

• "How do you ensure your design work aligns with the mission and security requirements of a national security organization like Peraton?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Impact: For each case study, clearly articulate the problem you solved, your specific contributions, the methodologies employed, and the measurable outcomes or benefits achieved.

• Demonstrate Compliance: Be prepared to specifically discuss how you incorporated Section 508 and USWDS guidelines into your designs.

• Tool Mastery: Be ready to discuss your proficiency with Figma and how you leverage its features for efficient and effective design.

• User-Centric Narrative: Frame your projects around the user's journey and how your designs improved their experience and operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of user-centered design, practical application of accessibility standards, proficiency with key design tools (especially Figma), and the ability to navigate the unique demands of government IT projects.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this UX Designer position:

• Submit your application through the Peraton careers portal link provided.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight experience with UX design, user research, prototyping, Section 508 compliance, USWDS, and proficiency in Figma. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate 3-4 strong case studies emphasizing your process, problem-solving approach, and adherence to government standards. Ensure it is easily accessible and presentable.

• Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse discussing your portfolio projects, focusing on your role, methodology, design decisions, and outcomes, especially concerning accessibility and USWDS.

• Research Peraton & the CSM Program: Understand Peraton's mission in national security and the goals of the Consular Systems Modernization Program to articulate your interest and alignment.

⚠️ 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.