UI/UX Developer

About the Role

Our Client is seeking a seasoned UI/UX Developer to lead the creation and maintenance of enterprise‑wide design systems that meet our client accessibility standards. In this contract role, you will work closely with cross‑functional teams to build reusable, accessible components that power high‑visibility state applications. You will be responsible for translating complex design requirements into clean, semantic code while ensuring compliance with WCAG 2.1/AAA and Section 508. The position offers the opportunity to shape the visual and interaction language of multiple our client platforms and to mentor developers on best practices for accessibility and design consistency. Your work will directly impact the usability and inclusivity of critical public services delivered to Iowa residents.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain a scalable enterprise design system using the U.S. Web Design System framework or a comparable platform.
• Create high‑level wrapper components in HTML, SASS, and Angular that enforce accessibility and visual consistency across web applications.
• Lead the implementation of WCAG 2.1/AAA and Section 508 compliance through semantic markup, ARIA roles, and automated testing workflows.
• Document component usage and guidelines in Storybook, ensuring clear, actionable references for developers and designers.
• Collaborate with product owners, developers, and designers to translate design mockups into functional, accessible UI components.
• Conduct code and accessibility reviews, providing constructive feedback to maintain quality standards.
• Mentor junior developers on accessibility best practices and design system principles.
• Support major state systems, including DNR, HHS, IWD, and the River AI Chatbot, to meet our client compliance deadlines.
• Participate in sprint planning, stand‑ups, and retrospective meetings to align on deliverables and timelines.
• Continuously evaluate emerging accessibility tools and techniques to improve component quality and developer efficiency.

Required Skills & Experience

• 5+ years of professional experience as a UI/UX Developer or Design Engineer, with a strong focus on component libraries and design systems.
• Expertise in building and scaling design systems using frameworks such as the U.S. Web Design System, Bootstrap, or similar.
• Deep knowledge of WCAG 2.1/AAA and Section 508 accessibility standards, including hands‑on experience with semantic HTML, ARIA, and automated testing tools.
• Proficiency in HTML5, CSS3, SASS/SCSS, and JavaScript frameworks (Angular, React, or Vue) for component development.
• Experience with Storybook for component documentation, testing, and collaboration.
• Strong communication skills, capable of articulating technical concepts to non‑technical stakeholders and guiding teams on accessibility best practices.
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Human‑Computer Interaction, Design, or a related field (or equivalent professional experience).
• Familiarity with version control systems such as Git and continuous integration pipelines.

Tools & Technologies

• Design System Frameworks: U.S. Web Design System, Bootstrap, or equivalent.
• Front‑end Libraries: Angular, React, or Vue.js.
• Styling: SASS/SCSS, CSS3.
• Component Documentation: Storybook.
• Accessibility Testing: axe, Lighthouse, NVDA/JAWS screen readers.
• Version Control: Git.
• Build Tools: npm, Webpack, or similar.
• Project Management: Jira, Confluence.

Work Schedule & Duration

• Contract Length: 9 months (10 May 2026 – 30 June 2027).
• Work Arrangement: Onsite at Our Client’s office located at 200 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, Iowa.
• Hours: Standard 40‑hour work week with flexibility for project milestones.

Interview Process

The selection process typically begins with an initial screening call to assess experience and fit, followed by a technical interview focused on design system architecture and accessibility implementation. Candidates may be asked to present a portfolio or complete a short design challenge. A final interview with senior stakeholders will evaluate communication skills and cultural fit. Interviews can be conducted via webcam or in person at the office.

Position Details

• Employment Type: Contract
• Duration: Approximately 12 months (with potential for extension)
• Work Authorization: Must be authorized to work in the United States