UX Specialist

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UX Specialist

Company: Dobbs Defense Solutions, LLC

Location: Landover, Maryland, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: User Experience (UX) Design / GTM Operations Support

Date Posted: May 22, 2026

Experience Level: 8+ Years (with specific experience benchmarks)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the enhancement of public-facing web platforms through expert UX research, interaction design, and usability testing, focusing on improving user experience and accessibility.

• Develop and implement intuitive digital solutions aligned with government design system standards and modern web development practices.

• Collaborate cross-functionally to ensure UX designs meet business, content, and technical requirements within an Agile or hybrid delivery environment.

• Champion accessibility standards, including WCAG 2.1/2.2 and Section 508, to ensure inclusive and compliant digital experiences for all users.

• Contribute to strategic planning by translating user needs and research findings into actionable design recommendations and implementation plans.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role is titled "UX Specialist," its focus on public-facing web platforms, digital modernization, and collaboration with technical teams positions it as a critical support function for Go-To-Market (GTM) operations by ensuring seamless customer and citizen interactions with digital assets. The emphasis on government design systems and accessibility also points to a need for operational rigor and adherence to established standards.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of comprehensive UX research plans, directly supporting digital modernization objectives and implementation strategies.

• Conduct a variety of evaluative UX research methods, including usability testing, heuristic evaluations, card sorting, tree testing, and task-based walkthroughs, to identify user pain points.

• Translate research findings into actionable design recommendations for navigation, service pathways, content organization, and user workflows to overcome usability barriers.

• Create detailed wireframes, interactive prototypes, and high-fidelity mockups, ensuring alignment with the Maryland Web Design System components and Drupal theme constraints.

• Ensure all design solutions adhere to WCAG 2.1/2.2, Section 508, and other relevant accessibility standards, promoting inclusive design principles.

• Foster strong collaborative relationships with content strategists, technical business analysts, architects, and development teams to ensure UX designs are technically feasible and meet all stakeholder requirements.

• Produce thorough documentation of UX findings, accessibility considerations, design rationale, and clear implementation recommendations for development teams.

• Actively participate in backlog refinement and implementation planning by providing design handoff documentation and collaborating on user stories to ensure accurate design translation.

• Contribute to strategic planning initiatives by synthesizing audience needs, usability research insights, and critical implementation considerations into strategic recommendations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a senior-level UX role with significant impact on large-scale digital platforms. The emphasis on research, testing, and documentation suggests a need for a candidate who can not only design but also rigorously validate and communicate their design decisions, a critical aspect of operations in large government or enterprise projects.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in UX Design, Human-Computer Interaction, Graphic Design, Information Systems, or a closely related field.

Experience:

• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in UX research, UX design, interaction design, or service design.

• Over 5 years of experience specifically supporting large-scale, public-facing websites or enterprise-level digital platforms.

Required Skills:

• UX Research Planning: Ability to define research objectives, select appropriate methodologies, and plan research activities to yield actionable insights.

• Usability Testing & Validation: Expertise in designing, conducting, and analyzing results from usability tests and other validation methods.

• Wireframing and Prototyping: Proficient in creating low to high-fidelity wireframes and interactive prototypes to visualize user flows and interface designs.

• Figma Expertise: Strong hands-on proficiency with Figma for design, prototyping, and collaboration.

• Design System Implementation: Experience working with and implementing designs within established component-based design systems.

• Accessible UX Design: Deep understanding and practical application of WCAG 2.1/2.2, Section 508, and inclusive design principles.

• Stakeholder Collaboration: Proven ability to effectively engage with and gather requirements from diverse stakeholders.

• Developer Handoff Documentation: Skill in creating clear, comprehensive documentation for development teams to ensure accurate implementation of designs.

• UX Documentation and Reporting: Ability to synthesize and present research findings, design rationale, and recommendations in clear, concise reports.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience working with government design standards, such as the Maryland Web Design System.

• Familiarity with Drupal theme constraints and content management systems.

• Experience working within Agile or hybrid delivery environments.

• Prior experience supporting Maryland state agencies, healthcare organizations, or public health agencies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The substantial experience requirement (8+ years) and the preference for specific certifications and government experience indicate this role is for a seasoned UX professional who can operate with a high degree of autonomy and expertise, particularly within a regulated or compliance-driven environment. The emphasis on Figma and design systems suggests a need for modern design workflow capabilities.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrated UX Process: Provide case studies that clearly illustrate your end-to-end UX process, from initial research and discovery through to design, testing, and iteration.

• Impactful Design Solutions: Showcase projects that demonstrate successful problem-solving, quantifiable improvements in user experience, and alignment with project objectives.

• Accessibility Integration: Include examples where accessibility considerations (WCAG, Section 508) were a core part of the design process and solution.

• System Alignment: Present work that shows an understanding of working within design systems, style guides, or platform-specific constraints (e.g., Maryland Web Design System, Drupal).

Process Documentation:

• Research Methodology: Detail the research methods used in your projects, the rationale for choosing them, and how findings informed design decisions.

• Design Iteration: Illustrate how user feedback and testing results led to design iterations and improvements.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Provide examples of how you collaborated with developers, product managers, and stakeholders to bring designs to fruition.

• Deliverable Examples: Include samples of typical deliverables such as user flows, wireframes, prototypes, user journey maps, and usability test reports.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a UX Specialist role, a robust portfolio is paramount. Candidates should focus on showcasing their ability to apply a structured UX process to complex projects, especially those with government or enterprise requirements. Highlighting how they've integrated accessibility and worked within established design systems will be crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision).

• Retirement savings plan with company match.

• Paid time off (vacation, sick leave, holidays).

• Professional development opportunities and training.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work week, typically 40 hours per week, with flexibility typically offered within core business hours.

• Hybrid work schedule requiring candidates to be within the DMV Area, with specific in-office days determined by team needs and project requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is on the lower end for an 8+ year experienced UX Specialist, especially in the DMV area. It's crucial for candidates to understand this might be a starting point and that the company's adherence to pay transparency laws suggests a willingness to discuss compensation based on demonstrated qualifications. The "Hybrid schedule" and "DMV Area" residency requirement are key operational constraints.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Information Technology (IT), Cybersecurity, Data Analytics, Government Contracting.

Company Size: Approximately 50-200 employees (based on typical LinkedIn ranges for companies of this nature and stage).

Founded: The company was founded in 2017, indicating a growing entity with established operational processes but still retaining agility.

Team Structure:

• The UX Specialist will likely be part of a larger Digital Modernization or IT Solutions team, collaborating closely with Project Managers, Business Analysts, Content Strategists, and Developers.

• Reporting structure is expected to be to a UX Lead, Program Manager, or Director of Digital Services, depending on the project's organizational alignment.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Insights: Emphasis on leveraging UX research and analytics to inform design decisions and measure impact.

• Agile/Hybrid Delivery: Work within iterative development cycles, embracing flexibility and continuous improvement in design and implementation.

• Innovation and Automation: Commitment to exploring and integrating innovative methods and automation to enhance service delivery and user experience.

Company Website: https://thinkd2s.us

📝 Enhancement Note: Dobbs Defense Solutions operates within the government contracting space, which implies a focus on structured processes, compliance, and delivering mission-critical solutions. The company's mission highlights a blend of traditional IT services with modern approaches like automation and data analytics, suggesting a forward-thinking, albeit regulated, operational environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Senior Specialist or Lead within the UX discipline, given the 8+ years of experience requirement and the scope of responsibilities involving large-scale platforms and strategic input. It represents a mid-to-senior level position within the operations and GTM support framework.

Reporting Structure: The UX Specialist will likely report to a Project Manager, Program Manager, or a Director of Digital Services. They will also work closely with cross-functional teams including Business Analysts, Content Strategists, Developers, and potentially client stakeholders.

Operations Impact: The UX Specialist's work directly impacts the usability, accessibility, and overall effectiveness of public-facing digital platforms. This has a direct bearing on citizen engagement, service delivery efficiency, and the successful adoption of government services, which are critical operational outcomes for the client. By ensuring intuitive and compliant user experiences, the role supports the client's mission and enhances their reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership in UX: Potential to lead UX initiatives for specific projects or client engagements, mentoring junior designers.

• Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in areas like accessibility, UX research methodologies, or specific government design systems.

• Cross-functional Advancement: Potential to move into roles focused on program management, product management, or GTM strategy, leveraging a strong understanding of user needs and digital platform operations.

• Certifications: Support for obtaining advanced UX certifications or relevant government contracting certifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a UX Specialist in a government contracting firm often involves a blend of technical UX expertise and an understanding of the operational requirements of public sector clients. Growth can lead to both specialized UX leadership and broader program management roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work environment. This means a combination of remote work and in-office presence.

Office Location(s): Landover, Maryland. Candidates must reside within the DMV (District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia) Area to facilitate hybrid work requirements.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The office space is expected to facilitate team collaboration, design reviews, and stakeholder meetings, crucial for iterative design processes and project alignment.

• Technology Access: Access to necessary design software (Figma), collaboration tools, and potentially testing equipment.

• Team Interaction: Regular opportunities for in-person interaction with UX colleagues, project teams, and leadership, fostering a shared understanding of project goals and operational challenges.

Work Schedule:

• Standard 40-hour work week.

• Flexibility is often provided within core business hours, allowing for efficient management of design tasks and research activities.

• Specific in-office days will be determined based on project needs, team collaboration requirements, and management direction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role and the geographic requirement (DMV Area) are key operational considerations. Candidates should be prepared for a structured work environment that balances remote flexibility with necessary in-person collaboration for project success.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and relevant experience.

• Technical Interview: A discussion focused on UX methodologies, research experience, design process, and problem-solving skills, likely including a portfolio review. Expect questions on how you've handled challenges related to accessibility, design systems, and stakeholder management.

• Case Study/Design Challenge: You may be asked to complete a take-home assignment or a live design exercise to evaluate your practical skills in wireframing, prototyping, or problem-solving within specific constraints.

• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Meet with potential team members and hiring managers to assess collaboration style, communication skills, and alignment with company values.

• Final Interview: A discussion with senior leadership to finalize the decision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure is Key: Organize your portfolio with clear case studies that detail the problem, your role, the process you followed, the solutions you designed, and the outcomes achieved.

• Showcase Process: Emphasize the "how" and "why" behind your design decisions, not just the final visuals. Highlight your UX research, testing, and iteration phases.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, include metrics or qualitative feedback that demonstrate the positive impact of your designs on user experience and business goals.

• Accessibility Focus: Dedicate specific attention to projects where you implemented accessibility standards (WCAG, Section 508) and explain your approach.

• Design System Experience: Clearly present examples of your work within design systems or how you've contributed to their development or adherence.

• Tailor to the Role: Highlight projects that align with government platforms, public-facing websites, and large-scale digital modernization initiatives.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand Constraints: If given a design challenge, carefully read and understand all requirements, including target audience, platform constraints, and accessibility considerations.

• Think Aloud: For live exercises, articulate your thought process clearly, explaining your assumptions, design choices, and how you're addressing the prompt.

• Prioritize: Focus on core user flows and critical functionalities. Demonstrate your ability to make pragmatic design decisions under time pressure.

• Research the Company: Familiarize yourself with Dobbs Defense Solutions' mission, clients, and any publicly available information about their digital initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a UX role in government contracting often involves rigorous evaluation of process, adherence to standards (especially accessibility), and the ability to collaborate effectively within structured teams. A strong, well-documented portfolio is non-negotiable.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: Essential for wireframing, prototyping, UI design, and collaborative design workflows. Proficiency is a strict requirement.

• Prototyping Tools: While Figma is primary, experience with other prototyping tools may be beneficial for specific project needs.

• Wireframing Tools: Often integrated within Figma, but experience with standalone tools can be a plus.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Web Analytics Platforms: Familiarity with tools like Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics, or similar platforms to understand user behavior and measure the impact of UX changes.

• User Feedback Tools: Experience with platforms for collecting user feedback, surveys, and usability test reporting.

• Accessibility Testing Tools: Knowledge of tools for auditing accessibility compliance (e.g., WAVE, AXE, browser developer tools).

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly a CRM role, understanding how user experience impacts customer journeys and sales enablement can be relevant. Familiarity with how UX designs integrate with broader Go-To-Market systems is a plus.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools like Jira, Asana, or Trello for workflow management and collaboration within Agile/hybrid environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit requirement for Figma expertise is a key technical skill. Beyond that, understanding analytics and accessibility testing tools is critical for demonstrating a data-driven and compliance-focused approach to UX design, which is vital for operations in this sector.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Mission-Centric: A strong dedication to supporting client missions, particularly in the government sector, ensuring that solutions directly contribute to operational success.

• Innovation & Adaptability: A culture that encourages exploring new technologies and methodologies (automation, advanced analytics) while remaining adaptable to evolving project requirements and client needs.

• Quality & Compliance: A commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable solutions that adhere to strict government standards, including security and accessibility.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Emphasis on working together across disciplines to achieve shared goals, fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are valued.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding ethical standards and maintaining a high level of professionalism in all interactions with clients and colleagues.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Close collaboration with technical teams (developers, architects), business analysts, content strategists, and project management is expected to ensure cohesive product development.

• Iterative Feedback: A culture that embraces constructive feedback loops, where design decisions are regularly reviewed and refined based on input from team members and stakeholders.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of best practices, research findings, and design techniques across the team to foster collective growth and continuous improvement in operational effectiveness.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture likely mirrors that of many government contractors: professional, process-oriented, and focused on mission delivery. The emphasis on innovation suggests a desire to move beyond purely traditional approaches, but always within a framework of compliance and quality.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing User Needs with Government Constraints: Navigating the complexities of government design systems, accessibility mandates, and procurement processes while still advocating for optimal user experience.

• Large-Scale Platform Modernization: The inherent challenges of updating and improving complex, legacy public-facing web platforms, requiring careful planning and phased implementation.

• Cross-Disciplinary Alignment: Ensuring consistent understanding and execution of UX principles across diverse teams with varying technical and design backgrounds.

• Staying Current: Keeping pace with rapidly evolving UX best practices, design tools, and accessibility standards in the tech landscape.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Accessibility Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific accessibility standards and inclusive design methodologies.

• Government Design System Mastery: Gaining in-depth knowledge of various government-specific design systems and their application.

• Agile & Project Management Skills: Developing skills in Agile methodologies and project management frameworks relevant to government contracting.

• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Support for attending relevant UX conferences and pursuing advanced professional certifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the dynamic nature of UX work within the government sector. Growth opportunities are geared towards deepening specialized UX skills and understanding the operational nuances of public sector IT projects.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance conflicting stakeholder requirements with user needs. How did you resolve it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your process for negotiation, compromise, and user advocacy.)

• "How would you approach designing a new feature for a complex public-facing government website, considering WCAG 2.1 AA compliance and the Maryland Web Design System?" (Demonstrate your understanding of constraints, research, and iterative design.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working with Dobbs Defense Solutions and supporting government clients?" (Show understanding of their mission and the impact of their work.)

• "How do you approach collaboration with developers and business analysts who may have different priorities?" (Emphasize your communication and teamwork skills.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame each case study as a narrative, clearly defining the problem, your role, the steps you took, the challenges you overcame, and the measurable results.

• Process Focus: For each project, explicitly detail your UX process. Use visuals to illustrate key stages like user flows, wireframes, prototypes, and testing insights.

• Accessibility & Systems: For relevant projects, dedicate a section to how you integrated accessibility standards and worked within design systems.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your most impactful projects efficiently, focusing on the key takeaways relevant to this role.

• Interactive Elements: If possible, have interactive prototypes ready to demonstrate key user flows and design interactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a robust, research-driven UX process, a deep understanding of accessibility and government design standards, and the ability to collaborate effectively to achieve operational objectives for government clients.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this UX Specialist position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on JazzHR.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and portfolio to highlight experience with large-scale public-facing websites, government design systems (like Maryland's), accessibility standards (WCAG, Section 508), and proficiency in Figma. Showcase specific case studies demonstrating your UX research, usability testing, and design iteration process.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your 8+ years of UX experience, with specific emphasis on the 5+ years supporting enterprise platforms and 3+ years in evaluative research. Quantify achievements where possible, such as improvements in user satisfaction or task completion rates.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your UX process and design rationale. Be ready to discuss specific projects from your portfolio, focusing on how you addressed user needs within technical and compliance constraints, and how you collaborated with cross-functional teams.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Dobbs Defense Solutions' mission, their work in IT, Cyber, and data analytics, and their commitment to government and commercial clients. Understand the context of digital modernization initiatives within the public sector.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. The salary range provided appears to be on the lower end for the required experience level and location; candidates are encouraged to research market rates and be prepared to negotiate based on their qualifications. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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