Senior User Interface Engineer

Job Title: Senior Human-Centered Design (HCD) Strategist – SMELocation: Baltimore (Hybrid – Onsite/Remote Flexibility)Client: Maryland Health Benefit ExchangeEmployment Type: Contract (Local Candidates Only)About the RoleThe Maryland Health Benefit Exchange is seeking a Senior Human-Centered Design (HCD) Strategist – Subject Matter Expert to support a mission-critical, Medicaid-focused initiative.This role will drive user-centered transformation across eligibility, enrollment, and renewal experiences, ensuring accessible, intuitive, and equitable digital services for Maryland residents.Key ResponsibilitiesLead end-to-end Human-Centered Design (HCD) initiatives across Medicaid lifecycleConduct qualitative research: interviews, usability testing, contextual inquiryDevelop journey maps, service blueprints, personas, and prototypesCollaborate with cross-functional teams (policy, IT, operations, business)Ensure compliance with Section 508 and WCAG accessibility standardsTranslate research insights into user stories and technical requirementsPresent findings, insights, and recommendations to executive leadershipChampion and scale design thinking practices across the organizationRequired Qualifications7+ years of experience in HCD, UX Strategy, or Service DesignStrong experience in regulated environments (government, healthcare, financial services)Deep expertise in user research and service design methodologiesProven ability to work with cross-functional stakeholdersStrong knowledge of accessibility and inclusive design (WCAG, Section 508)Preferred QualificationsExperience with Medicaid, CHIP, SNAP, or public benefits programsBackground in government or large-scale public sector systemsExperience working in Agile environments and design systemsExposure to AI-driven or self-service digital experiencesUX certifications such as NN/g, IDEO, LUMA, or CUA