UX/UI Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UX/UI Designer

Company: Steampunk

Location: McLean, Virginia, United States

Job Type: Other

Category: User Experience (UX) / User Interface (UI) Design

Date Posted: June 1, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive human-centered design initiatives for government clients, translating complex user needs into intuitive digital experiences.

• Execute the full spectrum of UX/UI design processes, from initial discovery and user research to detailed interface design and accessibility compliance.

• Act as the primary advocate for the end-user, ensuring their requirements are met and prioritized throughout the solution development lifecycle.

• Collaborate within an Agile framework, integrating design iterations and user feedback seamlessly into technical sprints.

• Ensure all design deliverables meet the highest standards of quality, usability, and 508 compliance for federal government projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role is explicitly focused on government clients and requires the ability to obtain a Public Trust Security Clearance, indicating a need for candidates experienced in or adaptable to the federal contracting environment. The emphasis on "Design Intelligence™" suggests a structured, data-driven approach to design problem-solving.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the discovery process by understanding client missions, user ecosystems, current state journeys, and program objectives through workshops and interviews.

• Develop and present key UX artifacts such as journey maps, service blueprints, personas, and ecosystem maps to articulate user needs and experience visions.

• Conduct comprehensive user research, including user interviews, usability testing, and accessibility testing, to inform design decisions and validate hypotheses.

• Translate user research findings into actionable design specifications for wireframes, low-fidelity, and high-fidelity prototypes.

• Design elegant, intuitive, and accessible user interfaces, adhering to 508 compliance requirements for federal digital products.

• Integrate design activities within an Agile/Scrum delivery framework, contributing to user stories, sprint planning, and story pointing.

• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including service designers, technologists, data scientists, engineers, solution architects, and change managers.

• Continuously research and recommend industry best practices and emerging tools to enhance design outcomes and efficiency.

• Ensure the quality and consistency of design deliverables across multiple projects under strict timelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic design thinking and tactical execution, requiring a candidate who can both conceptualize high-level user experiences and meticulously craft detailed interfaces. The mention of "Design Intelligence™" and "Design Intelligence™ process" implies a specific company methodology that candidates should be prepared to learn and apply.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in Human-Centered Design (HCD), Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), or UX/UI Design.

Experience: 4+ years of professional UX and UI design experience, with a proven track record of designing multi-platform digital products.

Required Skills:

• Demonstrated expertise in Human-Centered Design (HCD) and Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) principles.

• Proficiency in conducting primary and secondary user research, including user interviews, discovery workshops, heuristic evaluations, and card sorting.

• Strong experience in UI design, encompassing wireframing, low and high-fidelity prototyping, and user testing (moderated and unmoderated).

• In-depth knowledge of and experience with Section 508 compliance requirements for accessibility.

• Proven experience working within Agile delivery frameworks and Scrum teams, including writing user stories and participating in story pointing.

• Proficiency in design and prototyping tools such as Adobe Creative Suite, Sketch, Figma, and Zeplin.

• Ability to obtain a U.S. government Public Trust Security Clearance.

• Excellent analytical skills and a natural curiosity for problem-solving.

Preferred Skills:

• Previous work experience in or with the federal government.

• Previous consulting experience, particularly within the federal sector.

• Experience working on a cross-functional Salesforce implementation team.

• Familiarity with service design methodologies and tools.

• Experience with ecosystem mapping and service blueprinting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Bonus Points" section indicates a strong preference for candidates with direct federal government or consulting experience, suggesting these profiles will be highly competitive. The requirement for a Public Trust clearance is a critical gatekeeper for this role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A current, comprehensive portfolio demonstrating a strong understanding of design ideology and methodology.

• Clear examples of applied UX/UI design skills, showcasing proficiency with relevant tools and techniques.

• Case studies that illustrate a structured approach to problem-solving, from user research and ideation to final design implementation.

Process Documentation:

• Showcase your process for conducting user research and translating insights into actionable design artifacts (personas, journey maps, etc.).

• Detail your workflow for wireframing, prototyping, and conducting usability and accessibility testing.

• Provide examples of how you've integrated design into Agile sprints, including contributions to user stories and sprint planning.

• Demonstrate how you ensure 508 compliance throughout the design and development lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is a critical component for this role, and candidates should prepare to showcase their end-to-end design process, with a particular emphasis on how they handle user research, translate findings into designs, and ensure accessibility and compliance within a project-based, Agile environment.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $75,000 - $140,000 annually.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive benefits package (details available on the Steampunk careers page).

• Employee ownership opportunities, reflecting a strong commitment to employee investment and reward.

• Professional development and learning opportunities to keep pace with industry tools and best practices.

• Collaborative work environment within a company focused on innovation and client success.

• Opportunity to work on impactful projects for federal government clients.

Working Hours: Standard full-time, likely around 40 hours per week, with potential for flexibility depending on project needs and team dynamics within the Agile framework.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is an estimate based on Steampunk's stated compensation factors, including geographic location (McLean, VA), contract requirements, education, experience, and skills. The company emphasizes that annual salary is only one part of their total compensation, highlighting employee ownership as a significant benefit.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Federal Contracting, Technology Solutions, Design & Consulting. Steampunk operates within the Homeland, Federal Civilian, Health, and DoD sectors.

Company Size: Steampunk is an employee-owned company with a focus on growth, suggesting a culture that values employee contributions and fosters a sense of shared purpose. The "Change Agent" descriptor implies a forward-thinking and innovative environment.

Founded: Information not explicitly provided, but the company's focus on modernizing federal contracting suggests a relatively established yet dynamic organization.

Team Structure:

• The UX/UI Designer will be part of a multi-disciplinary delivery team, working closely with service designers, technologists, data scientists, engineers, solution architects, and change managers.

• Collaboration is key within an Agile delivery framework, implying frequent interaction and shared responsibility for project outcomes.

Methodology:

• Steampunk utilizes its proprietary "Design Intelligence™" process, which incorporates human-centered methods to solve complex user experience challenges for government clients.

• This methodology likely involves structured discovery, research, ideation, prototyping, and iterative testing to ensure effective solutions.

• The company emphasizes shared accountability and a data-driven approach to problem-solving.

Company Website: http://www.steampunk.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Steampunk positions itself as a disruptor in the federal contracting space, emphasizing innovation, employee ownership, and a structured design process. Candidates should expect a culture that values collaboration, continuous learning, and a commitment to client mission success.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a Mid-Senior Level, requiring 4+ years of experience and the ability to lead UX/UI initiatives from discovery through implementation. It demands a strong portfolio and the capacity to work independently and collaboratively.

Reporting Structure: While not explicitly detailed, the role operates within cross-functional teams and project-based structures. The designer will likely report to a Design Lead, Project Manager, or a higher-level UX/UI Manager, while collaborating closely with technical leads and client stakeholders.

Operations Impact: The UX/UI Designer's work directly impacts the usability, efficiency, and adoption of digital solutions for government clients. By applying human-centered design principles, they ensure that complex government missions are supported by user-friendly, accessible, and effective technology, ultimately contributing to mission success and improved citizen services.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Deepen expertise in specialized areas of UX/UI design, accessibility standards (508 compliance), and human-centered design methodologies.

• Leadership Potential: Progress into Lead UX/UI Designer roles, managing design projects, mentoring junior designers, and contributing to the strategic direction of design within Steampunk.

• Industry Specialization: Develop deep expertise in specific federal sectors (Homeland, Civilian, Health, DoD) and their unique design challenges.

• Process Innovation: Contribute to the refinement and evolution of Steampunk's "Design Intelligence™" framework and design processes.

• Consulting Acumen: Enhance skills in client management, stakeholder communication, and strategic problem-solving within a consulting context.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers significant opportunities for growth within a specialized niche (federal government UX/UI) and within a company that values employee development. The emphasis on a structured design process and cross-functional collaboration provides a solid foundation for career progression.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Steampunk operates in the federal contracting industry, suggesting a professional, client-focused work environment. The role is on-site in McLean, VA, implying a need for a physical presence and collaboration within a shared office space.

Office Location(s): McLean, Virginia, USA. This location is part of the Washington D.C. metropolitan area, a hub for federal government contracting and technology.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect to work in a dynamic, team-oriented setting, collaborating closely with designers, developers, data scientists, and project managers.

• Technology & Tools: Access to industry-standard design and prototyping tools (Adobe Creative Suite, Sketch, Figma, Zeplin) will be provided.

• Client Interaction: Opportunities to engage directly with government clients, understand their needs, and present design solutions.

• Agile Cadence: The work schedule and team interactions will likely follow Agile sprint cycles, requiring regular stand-ups, reviews, and retrospectives.

Work Schedule: While a standard 40-hour work week is typical, the Agile framework may involve flexible arrangements or specific sprint-related activities that require focused availability. The on-site requirement suggests a structured daily presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in McLean, VA, combined with the federal contracting context, suggests a professional office environment where collaboration and direct client interaction are paramount. Candidates should be prepared for a structured work setting that supports team-based project delivery.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess experience, skills, and alignment with role requirements.

• Technical Interview: Likely includes a deeper dive into your UX/UI design process, problem-solving approach, and tool proficiency. You may be asked to walk through specific portfolio projects.

• Portfolio Presentation/Case Study: A dedicated session where you present a selected project from your portfolio, demonstrating your design thinking, methodology, and impact. Be prepared to discuss challenges, solutions, and outcomes.

• Behavioral/Cultural Fit Interview: To assess your collaboration style, communication skills, adaptability, and alignment with Steampunk's values and culture, especially regarding client interaction and team dynamics.

• Security Clearance Verification: Discussion regarding your eligibility and willingness to obtain a U.S. government Public Trust Security Clearance.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 of your strongest projects that best showcase your skills relevant to this role (government clients, complex problems, full UX lifecycle).

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the process you followed (research, ideation, design, testing), the challenges you faced, your solutions, and the measurable impact or outcomes.

• Highlight Process: Emphasize your methodology, especially your user research techniques, how you incorporated user feedback, and your approach to accessibility and 508 compliance.

• Showcase Tools: Demonstrate proficiency with tools like Figma, Sketch, Adobe Creative Suite, and prototyping software.

• Tailor to Steampunk: Briefly explain how your skills and experience align with Steampunk's "Design Intelligence™" framework and their work with federal clients.

Challenge Preparation:

• Anticipate Design Challenges: Be ready for hypothetical design problems related to government services or complex user workflows. Practice outlining a problem-solving approach, research methods, and potential design directions.

• Agile Integration: Prepare to discuss how you integrate design into Agile sprints, manage feedback, and collaborate with development teams.

• 508 Compliance: Review key principles of Section 508 compliance and be prepared to discuss how you ensure accessibility in your designs.

• Presentation Skills: Practice presenting your portfolio projects concisely and engagingly, anticipating questions about your design decisions and impact.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily weigh your portfolio and your ability to articulate your design process and its impact, especially in the context of government clients and Agile development. Be prepared to demonstrate your understanding of 508 compliance and your ability to obtain a security clearance.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design & Wireframing: Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, XD), Sketch, Figma.

• Prototyping: Figma, Adobe XD, Zeplin, or other industry-standard prototyping tools.

• Collaboration & Handoff: Zeplin, or similar tools for seamless integration with development teams.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Experience within a Salesforce implementation team is listed as a bonus, indicating potential exposure to CRM systems and associated workflows, though not a core requirement for the design role itself.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Figma, Sketch, and Adobe Creative Suite for design and prototyping is essential. Zeplin or similar tools for design handoff are also expected. While direct analytics tool experience isn't a primary requirement for the designer, understanding how data informs design is always a plus.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Human-Centered Focus: A deep commitment to understanding and advocating for user needs in all design solutions.

• Innovation & Change Agency: A drive to challenge existing norms and bring new, effective thinking to federal contracting.

• Collaboration & Shared Accountability: Working effectively within cross-functional teams and taking collective responsibility for project success.

• Data-Driven Design: Utilizing research and insights to inform design decisions and measure impact.

• Quality & Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality, elegant, and accessible design solutions.

• Continuous Learning: Staying abreast of evolving industry tools, best practices, and technologies.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Seamlessly working with technologists, data scientists, service designers, and project managers in an Agile environment.

• Open Communication: Engaging in clear, constructive dialogue with team members and stakeholders to refine designs and address challenges.

• Iterative Feedback Loop: Actively seeking and incorporating feedback from users, clients, and team members throughout the design process.

• Knowledge Sharing: Contributing to a team culture that promotes the sharing of insights, best practices, and lessons learned.

📝 Enhancement Note: Steampunk's culture appears to be built around innovation, collaboration, and a strong commitment to client success through a structured, human-centered design process. Candidates should expect a dynamic environment where teamwork and continuous improvement are valued.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Government Client Dynamics: Understanding and adapting to the unique requirements, procurement processes, and stakeholder landscapes within federal agencies.

• Balancing User Needs with Technical/Policy Constraints: Designing effective solutions that meet user needs while adhering to strict government regulations, security protocols, and technical limitations.

• Integrating Design into Agile Sprints: Ensuring design continuity and impact within fast-paced, iterative development cycles.

• Maintaining 508 Compliance: Diligently applying accessibility standards across all design deliverables.

• Adapting to Evolving Tools & Technologies: Continuously learning and integrating new design tools and methodologies to maintain a competitive edge.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized UX/UI Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in areas like advanced prototyping, user research methodologies, or accessibility standards.

• Federal Sector Immersion: Gaining in-depth knowledge of specific federal agency missions and operational challenges.

• Consulting Skills Development: Enhancing client communication, stakeholder management, and strategic advisory capabilities.

• Mentorship Programs: Access to experienced designers and leaders within Steampunk for guidance and career development.

• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Support for attending relevant UX/UI and government technology conferences or pursuing certifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents the challenge of applying cutting-edge design principles within the structured and regulated environment of federal contracting. The growth opportunities are substantial for individuals looking to specialize in government UX/UI and develop strong consulting skills.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for conducting user research on a complex government service." (Focus on methodology, tools, and how you translate findings.)

• "How do you ensure Section 508 compliance throughout the design lifecycle?" (Highlight specific techniques and your understanding of the standards.)

• "Walk me through a project where you had to balance competing user needs or stakeholder requirements." (Showcase your problem-solving and negotiation skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working with government clients and Steampunk's 'Design Intelligence™' approach?" (Research Steampunk's mission and values.)

• "How do you handle constructive criticism on your designs?" (Demonstrate openness to feedback and iterative improvement.)

• "Describe a time you collaborated with a diverse, multi-disciplinary team. What was your role?" (Highlight teamwork and communication skills.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure is Key: For each project, use a clear narrative: Problem -> Your Role -> Process -> Solution -> Impact.

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

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions on specific design decisions, trade-offs made, and alternative approaches you considered.

• Showcase Your Tools: Briefly demonstrate or explain how you used specific tools to achieve design outcomes.

• Enthusiasm for the Mission: Convey genuine interest in solving complex problems for government clients and contributing to Steampunk's mission.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a robust design process, strong communication skills, a deep understanding of user advocacy, and a clear ability to navigate the specifics of government projects, including 508 compliance and security clearance requirements.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this UX/UI Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Steampunk careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio is up-to-date and highlights projects that demonstrate your experience with user research, UI design, prototyping, and accessibility (especially 508 compliance). Tailor your project selection to showcase relevant skills for government clients.

• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to clearly articulate your 4+ years of UX/UI experience, emphasizing achievements and responsibilities that align with the job description, using keywords like "Human-Centered Design," "Agile," "508 Compliance," and specific tool proficiencies.

• Interview Preparation: Practice presenting your portfolio projects, focusing on the problem, your process, solutions, and impact. Prepare answers to common UX/UI interview questions and behavioral questions related to collaboration and problem-solving.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Steampunk, its "Design Intelligence™" process, its work in the federal sector, and its company culture. Understand their mission and how your skills can contribute to their success.

⚠️ 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.