UX/Video Game Developer
Role details
Job location
Tech stack
Job description
Responsible for designing immersive, high-fidelity user experiences and game-based interfaces that translate complex academic and operational content into intuitive, engaging, and mission-relevant digital environments. This role applies AAA game design principles to defense and training systems, ensuring that learning objectives are embedded within compelling gameplay mechanics, user interfaces, and progression systems that enhance retention and reduce training friction.
- Design and implement AAA-level UX/UI solutions informed by best practices from commercially shipped, high-fidelity video games.
- Develop intuitive, immersive interfaces using modern design tools and real-time game engines such as Unreal Engine and Unity.
- Translate academic curricula and operational doctrine into engaging instructional game loops, progression systems, and feedback mechanisms.
- Design gamified learning experiences that map complex non-game content into intuitive dashboards and user workflows.
- Collaborate with instructional designers, developers, and government stakeholders to align gameplay systems with training and educational outcomes.
- Advise on player engagement strategies, usability improvements, and long-term system usability across multi-year deployments.
Requirements
- Clearance Required: None
- Position requires U.S. Citizenship due to the nature of the role.
- Demonstrated ability to design AAA-level UX/UI systems consistent with major commercial video game standards.
- Experience using industry-standard design tools such as Figma, Adobe XD, or Sketch.
- Proficiency prototyping and implementing UX/UI within game engines such as Unreal Engine or Unity.
- Ability to translate academic or operational material into gamified learning systems and intuitive interfaces.
- Experience designing instructional game loops, progression systems, and feedback-driven learning mechanics.
- Bachelor's degree in Human-Computer Interaction, Game Design, Graphic Design, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
Preferred Skills and Experience
- Recent (within the last five years) experience in a Lead or Senior Game Designer or UX role on a shipped AAA commercial title.
- Experience with live service or Games-as-a-Service (GaaS) models and long-term player engagement systems.
- Understanding of player psychology, behavioral design, and motivational systems to enhance engagement and reduce user fatigue.
- Experience applying gamification principles to education, training, or simulation environments.
- Familiarity with defense, military training systems, or large-scale instructional platforms.
- Strong portfolio demonstrating shipped products, interactive prototypes, or game-based UX systems., * A valid photo ID must be presented during each interview
- During the Hiring Process
- Enhanced Biometrics ID verification screening
- Background check, to include:
- Criminal history (past 7 years)
- Verification of your highest level of education
- Verification of your employment history (past 7 years), based on information provided in your application
Benefits & conditions
At GovCIO, we consistently hear that meaningful work and a collaborative team environment are two of the top reasons our employees enjoy working here. In addition, our employees have access to a range of perks and benefits to support their personal and professional well-being, beyond the standard company offered health benefits, including:
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Corporate Discounts
- Learning & Development platform, to include certification preparation content
- Training, Education and Certification Assistance*
- Referral Bonus Program
- Internal Mobility Program
- Pet Insurance
- Flexible Work Environment
*Available to full-time employees
Our employees' unique talents and contributions are the driving force behind our success in supporting our customers, which ultimately fuels the success of our company. Join us and be a part of a culture that invests in its people and prioritizes continuous enhancement of the employee experience.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. EOE, including disability/vets.
Posted Pay Range
The posted pay range, if referenced, reflects the range expected for this position at the commencement of employment, however, base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, education, experience, and internal equity. The total compensation package for this position may also include other compensation elements, to be discussed during the hiring process. If hired, employee will be in an "at-will position" and the GovCIO reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, GovCIO or individual department/team performance, and market factors.