Ui / ux designer

Job Title: UI/UX Designer

Job Description

We are seeking a senior-level UI/UX Designer to lead the design strategy for a mission-critical human-machine interface (HMI) used by soldiers operating systems within military vehicles. This role focuses on conceptual design and user experience optimization, not software implementation. The ideal candidate will excel in translating complex operational needs into intuitive, efficient, and context-aware interface designs suited for high-stress environments. This position involves migrating a legacy dual-screen interface to a modern single-screen design, likely a touchscreen optimized for finger input without the use of a stylus. The primary user input will be through a joystick or gamepad-style controller, featuring physical buttons for interaction. While a keyboard may be present within the vehicle, minimizing its use is a key design priority. Preference will be given to those with experience in developing interfaces for real-world, complex systems such as industrial machinery, automotive controls, or tactical equipment. The role also includes creating all production artwork to be used in the GUI.

Responsibilities

• Develop storyboards, flowcharts, wireframes, graphical mockups, and artwork proposals that define intuitive UI/UX concepts for soldier-operated systems.
• Design nested menu structures and interaction flows that minimize cognitive load and maximize operational efficiency in chaotic or hazardous environments.
• Design final production artwork for the GUI.
• Collaborate closely with software developers to ensure accurate implementation of design concepts.
• Clearly articulate and document design rationale, usability considerations, and interface logic for development teams.
• Interface with end customers and equipment to understand operational constraints and user needs.
• Conduct user-centered design reviews and iterate based on feedback from stakeholders and subject matter experts.
  
  

Essential Skills

• Ideally 6+ years of experience in UI/UX design, preferably in defense, aerospace, automotive cockpit, or other high-stakes environments.
• Strong portfolio demonstrating interface design for complex systems with layered functionality.
• Experience designing for touchscreen interfaces, embedded systems, or mobile platforms.
• Proficiency in design tools such as Figma, Adobe XD, Axure, or similar.
• Proficiency with graphical editing tools such as Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, or similar.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to justify design decisions and collaborate across disciplines.
  
  

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Familiarity with human factors engineering and usability principles in constrained or tactical environments is a plus.
• Must be a US Citizen
  
  

Work Environment

This is a 100% onsite role in a Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) center located in Troy, MI. Occasional travel to customer sites within the continental US may be required to interact with equipment and operational personnel. The designer will work separately from the software development team, focusing on design deliverables and documentation.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position (With Benefits) based out of Troy, Michigan.

Expected Duration is 6 months, but could extend based on new workload.

Pay And Benefits

The pay range for this position is $60.00 - $70.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job

classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be

subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits

Available For This Temporary Role May Include The Following

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
  
  

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in troy,MI.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 19, 2025.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email [email protected] for other accommodation options.