HCD/UXD Subject Matter Expert

LightFeather is currently seeking a passionate and experienced HCD/UXD Subject Matter Expert (SME) to guide our team in shaping the future of user-centered design in our organization, and will establish, drive, and evolve the HCD and UX design practice. This role is for a dynamic, strategic thinker who thrives in building teams, fostering talent, and delivering results through human-centered design methodologies. The successful candidate will lead a multidisciplinary team to ensure that all design solutions are aligned with both business goals and user needs, translating these into actionable plans and innovative experiences.This is a full time, hybrid position requiring candidates to be local to the DC Metro area.Responsibilities:Build and scale the HCD/UXD practice, including setting standards, developing processes, and defining best practices to ensure high-quality, user-centered outcomes.Manage a team of UX/UI designers, researchers, and HCD professionals, fostering a collaborative and innovative design culture.Partner with product, engineering, and business teams to integrate design thinking into our core processes, balancing user needs with business goals.Communicate the value of design to cross-functional teams and senior leadership, championing HCD principles and articulating the ROI of UX investments.Oversee user research efforts to drive evidence-based design decisions, ensure a deep understanding of user behaviors, and prioritize improvements in line with strategic goals.Lead the end-to-end design process from ideation through implementation, ensuring design quality and continuity across projects.Establish best practices, standards, and methodologies within the team.Stay up-to-date with industry trends, tools, and methodologies, incorporating new insights to keep the team on the cutting edge of HCD/UXD practices.Required Qualifications and Skills:US Citizenship.Ability to obtain and maintain clearance at the Public Trust level or above. Active or prior clearance is preferred.Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Human-Centered Design, Interaction Design, UX Design, Psychology, or a related field.5+ years of experience in UX or HCD.Strong portfolio showcasing successful projects and processes in HCD and UXD across various digital platforms.Expertise in user-centered design principles, UX research methodologies, and design thinking.Excellent communication skills, with the ability to clearly articulate design decisions to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.Proven experience in managing and growing design teams, with a track record of developing high-performing, collaborative environments.Proficiency with design and prototyping tools such as Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD, or similar platforms.Why Join LightFeather?You'll be part of a team dedicated to meaningful impact, working on solutions that address mission-critical needs. Experience variety, fulfillment, and the opportunity to work with some of the best in the industry. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment where everyone is valued and respected.Commitment to DiversityLightFeather is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.