Principal Ux Designer

Description:

Bixal, a purpose-driven consulting firm headquartered in Fairfax, VA, is seeking an experienced Principal UX Designer to join their team in Washington, DC. This role focuses on creating human-centered, Section 508-compliant digital experiences for complex enterprise systems serving government clients. The Principal UX Designer plays a pivotal role in designing intuitive, accessible, and responsive digital interfaces that align with federal digital service standards and usability best practices.

This position offers the opportunity to contribute directly to projects that enhance how government agencies serve the public. It combines creativity, collaboration, and technical expertise in UX design, research, accessibility, and front-end technologies. The role is full-time and contingent on contract award, with an initial one-year term and four optional renewal periods.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead user-centered design initiatives, ensuring accessibility and compliance with Section 508 and WCAG 2.1.

• Apply Human-Centered Design (HCD) principles, usability testing, and research to improve user experience.

• Create high-fidelity wireframes, mockups, prototypes, and interactive designs using Figma, Sketch, or Adobe XD.

• Conduct heuristic evaluations and cognitive walkthroughs to validate usability and accessibility.

• Partner with researchers, developers, and stakeholders to ensure cohesive and responsive design outcomes.

• Build and maintain scalable design systems, UI frameworks, and enterprise-wide style guides.

• Collaborate with development teams to translate design specifications into functional user interfaces.

• Advocate for accessibility-first design, integrating assistive technologies and screen reader compatibility.

• Participate in Agile/SAFe processes including sprint planning and UX governance meetings.

• Contribute to standardizing design language and visual consistency across applications and services.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in UX Design, UI/UX, or related technical field.

• At least 8 years of experience in IT projects with 3+ years in UX architecture/design for enterprise systems.

• Strong portfolio demonstrating experience with complex, responsive, and accessible digital systems.

• Advanced proficiency with design tools such as Figma, Adobe XD, or Sketch.

• Working knowledge of front-end frameworks like React, Angular, or Bootstrap.

• In-depth understanding of Section 508 and WCAG 2.1 accessibility standards.

• Experience with federal government programs (e.g., USCIS or similar environments).

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills for both technical and non-technical audiences.

• Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive salary between USD 135000 and 150000 annually (USD 11250 – 12500 monthly).

• 401(k) with matching contribution.

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.

• Flexible work hours and commuter benefits.

• Paid Time Off (PTO) and 11 paid holidays.

• Parental leave and flexible spending account.

• Company-provided short-term disability and life insurance.

Company Overview:
Bixal is a mission-driven consulting company dedicated to improving government efficiency through technology, data, and human-centered design. The organization values people-first leadership, transparency, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Bixal empowers its employees to innovate and make a meaningful impact in how public services are delivered.