UI/UX Designer

Join Elder Research in McLean, Virginia for a full-time onsite UI/UX design role that emphasizes user research, leadership over complex systems, and the creation of high-fidelity interfaces. This position focuses on guiding UX and UI for high-visibility projects, developing interactive prototypes, and delivering accessible designs that support national defense efforts. An active TS/SCI clearance with polygraph is required, along with a bachelor’s degree and a background in design and research.

Responsibilities

• Provide User Research and Analysis support
• Lead User Experience (U) and User Interface (UI) efforts for complex, high-visibility systems
• Develop interactive prototypes using tools such as Figma, Adobe XD, or similar technologies
• Produce high-fidelity UI designs that are accessible and usable by those charged with support of our nation’s defense

Requirements

• Active U.S. Government Security Clearance at the TS/SCI level with required polygraph
• Bachelor’s degree in Design, Human-Computer Interaction, Psychology, Computer Science, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
• Minimum 8 years of experience with a Bachelor’s degree; or 7 years of experience with a Masters degree; or 6 years of experience with a Doctorate
• Demonstrated experience conducting UX research, analysis, and synthesis (not UI-only)
• Strong proficiency with design and prototyping tools such as Figma, Adobe XD, or equivalent
• Experience collaborating closely with product managers and engineering teams
• Ability to clearly articulate design decisions and research findings to stakeholders
• Willingness to work onsite full time in McLean, VA

Technologies

• Figma
• Adobe XD

General Information

• Requisition #687
• Locations USA-VA-McLean
• Posting Date 04/22/2026
• Security Clearance Required - TS/SCI + Poly
• Remote Type N/A
• Time Type Full time

Preferred Qualifications

• Portfolio (website, case studies, or work samples) demonstrating UX research methodology, analysis, and UI design quality
• Experience designing for mission-critical or government systems
• Familiarity with accessibility standards (WCAG) and inclusive design practices
• Experience contributing to or managing design systems
• Familiarity with modern front-end frameworks and design constraints (e.g., component-based development)
• Experience supporting data-heavy or analytical user workflows

Clearance Requirements

• Must have an active TS/SCI + Poly

Physical Requirements

• The person in this position must be able to remain in a stationary position 50% of the time
• Occasionally move about inside the office to access file cabinets, office machinery, or to communicate with co-workers, management, and customers, via email, phone, and or virtual communication, which may involve delivering presentations