User Experience Designer (temp) – McLean, Virginia

User experience is very much the buzzword in the world of blogging right now and given the importance which we have once again placed on that user experience there are a number of companies and operations who have dawned on the fact that their UX is trash and they are looking to hire people in order to reverse it. 

I always chortle at things like this and whilst I wholeheartedly agree that UX should always be front and center, it often amazes me how we got so far away from it despite the ever-presence of the user themselves, it isn’t like they went away for a while and now we have them back. Alas there is one particular job which I have picked out that I think may be of interest to you all you designers out there, who truly care about UX. The position is to work for SAIC’s Corporate Creative Services  based in McLean, Virginia, and here is the position which is up for grabs. 

The Job Itself

Candidate will assist Web designers and developers create and improve Web sites and Web applications, as well as other user interfaces (including Flash). Develop and share an expertise in usability, user-centered design, user experience, interaction design, information architecture, and accessibility (Section 508). Develop documentation to support these efforts (usability reports, user testing scripts, wireframes, personas/scenarios, style guides) and present findings and recommendations to the client.

Candidate may also design, document, and publish Web sites supporting our corporate creative services department and contract for SAIC line organizations.

Skills and Experience 

This is certainly a handsome job and if you consider yourself to be one of the best candidates for it then this is what you will need to be able to display. 

Required Skills: US Citizenship required. 3 plus years of related experience, including Web page development using HTML and CSS. Individual must have the ability to work on multiple tasks with minimal supervision and interface with customers on a daily basis. Strong communication skills are a must. This position requires a self-motivated individual who can work closely with team members. 

Desired Skills: Experience in using Dreamweaver desired. Ability to code HTML and CSS using only a text editor a plus. Demonstrated knowledge and skill in remediating Web site files in compliance with Section 508 standards, and familiarity with a graphics package such as Photoshop to create and manipulate graphics desired. Experience in scripting languages such as JavaScript helpful. One year of experience in customer requirements gathering, budgeting, project management, and process development a plus. Experience creating wireframes in Visio or similar program a plus.

This is a temporary job although they do state that there is a chance of it being made permanent in the future. It is fair to say that if you have your eyes on a career within UX and design then this could give you some great experience which you can take forward in the rest of your career.