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Xr Design Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Senior Software Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$138K - $183K/yr

... XR) interfaces, and novel information design paradigms. Essential functions include: * Architect, build, and maintain web application infrastructure and the data systems that support interactive ...

Senior Software Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$138K - $183K/yr

... XR) interfaces, and novel information design paradigms. Essential functions include: * Architect, build, and maintain web application infrastructure and the data systems that support interactive ...

Advanced knowledge of the principles, methods, and techniques used in network analysis and design-Service Provider * Primary Skills: ISIS, OSPF, MP-BGP, VRFs, EVPN, vxLAN, IOS-XR, JUNOS, IOS-XE ...

Advanced knowledge of the principles, methods, and techniques used in network analysis and design--Service Provider * Primary Skills: ISIS, OSPF, MP-BGP, VRFs, EVPN, vxLAN, IOS-XR, JUNOS, IOS-XE ...

Preferred : • Equally proficient in Juniper and Cisco configuration, troubleshooting, and design. • Experience with Cisco IOS XR, JUNOS, and Cisco IOS codes. • Pearl or other language scripting ...

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Xr Design information

See Washington salary details

$92.3K

$188.6K

How much do xr design jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for xr design in Washington is $185,594.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $188,000.00 and $188,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is XR design?

XR design refers to the process of creating user experiences for extended reality (XR) technologies, which include virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR). XR designers focus on crafting immersive environments and interfaces that blend the physical and digital worlds seamlessly. Their work involves understanding user interaction, spatial design, and the technical capabilities of XR devices to deliver engaging and intuitive experiences. XR design is used in industries like gaming, education, healthcare, and retail to create innovative solutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an XR designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an XR Designer, you need a strong background in 3D modeling, user experience (UX) design, and a solid understanding of spatial computing, often supported by a degree in design, computer science, or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as Unity, Unreal Engine, Blender, and AR/VR development kits, as well as certifications in XR platforms, is highly valuable. Creative problem-solving, effective communication, and adaptability to rapidly evolving technologies are essential soft skills. These skills are crucial for creating immersive, intuitive, and engaging extended reality experiences that meet user needs and industry standards.

What are some common challenges faced by XR designers when collaborating with multidisciplinary teams?

XR Designers often work alongside developers, 3D artists, UX researchers, and product managers. One common challenge is ensuring clear communication across disciplines, as each team may have different technical vocabularies and design priorities. Balancing creative vision with technical constraints, such as device performance or platform limitations, is also frequent. XR Designers need to be proactive in seeking feedback, iterating prototypes, and facilitating user testing to ensure a seamless and immersive user experience.

What is the difference between Xr Design vs UX Design?

AspectXr DesignUX Design
Required CredentialsDesign degree, 3D modeling, AR/VR software skillsDesign degree, user research, wireframing tools
Work EnvironmentAR/VR labs, multimedia studiosDigital platforms, web and app development environments
Industry UsageGaming, entertainment, training simulationsWebsites, mobile apps, software interfaces

While both Xr Design and UX Design focus on user experience, Xr Design specializes in immersive environments like AR and VR, requiring skills in 3D modeling and multimedia tools. UX Design centers on optimizing digital interfaces for usability. Understanding these differences helps professionals choose the right career path or specialization within the design industry.

What is an XR designer?

An XR designer specializes in creating experiences for extended reality environments, including virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR). They use tools like Unity or Unreal Engine and focus on user interaction, visual design, and immersive storytelling to develop engaging digital experiences. Strong skills in 3D modeling, programming, and user experience are essential for this role.

What job categories do people searching Xr Design jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Xr Design jobs in Washington are:

Infographic showing various Xr Design job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 29% Temporary, and 31% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $185,594 per year, or $89.2 per hour.

AR/VR/XR Visualization Research and Development Engineer

Penn State University

Reston, VA • On-site

$127.08 - $240.96/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 104 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

233rd of 623 rated colleges and universities


Job description

## AR/VR/XR Visualization Research and Development EngineerApplylocations: Reston, VAtime type: Full timeposted on: Posted Todayjob requisition id: REQ\_0000080138# **APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:*** ## CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.* ## CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.* ## If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants.### **Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.**### **POSITION SPECIFICS**We are searching for a driven, innovative Visualization Research and Development Engineer to join the Advanced Visualization Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. Our department develops cutting-edge visualization solutions that push the boundaries of collaborative visualization, Virtual Reality (VR), and Augmented Reality (AR) applications for critical national security missions.ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.**You will:*** Design experiences, interactions, and applications that support effective collaboration for research sponsors* Design and implement application programming interfaces (APIs) to pass data between disparate software applications* Develop methodologies for effective integration, visualization, and dissemination of novel 3D data sources using game-engine-based synthetic environment frameworks* Create tool workflows or visual communication methods using internally and externally-developed toolkits to illustrate and document complex concepts* Integrate features and solutions with synthetic environment frameworks being applied to multiple sponsored projects across domains* Deploy solutions to Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) platforms including the latest hardware from Meta, Varjo, HTC, and others* Perform systems engineering activities to improve data flows and processes* Brief research sponsors on technical solutions* Develop engineering and technical documentation* Draft whitepapers and proposals for research sponsors**Additional responsibilities for higher-level position includes:*** Lead the development and prototyping of hardware and software-based solutions for sponsor challenges* Define immersive interaction standards* Develop new processes for visualizing content using immersive technology* Develop and manage new sponsor relationships* Design and develop architectures of industry-related engineering systems, applying knowledge of complex principles, theories, concepts, tools and techniques to design challenges* Independently manage multiple and/or large IT projects* Plan, schedule, conduct, or coordinate detailed phases of the work of a major project or in a total project of moderate scope* Understand broad strategic objectives and contribute to them* Develop and maintain long-term professional relationships with government sponsors, industry partners, and academic collaborators to ensure programs meet customer* Serve as a subject matter expert for the sponsor when needed**Required Skills/Experience areas include:*** Software development proficiency (C#, Python, or Java)* Team-based software development, troubleshooting, and deployment experience* Software engineering, systems engineering, human computer interfaces, or visualization technologies**Preferred Skills/Experience areas include:*** Master's Degree* Active security clearance, TS/SCI preferred, or current eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret/Top Secret level or higher and may be subject to a government background investigation to upgrade clearance eligibility, if required* Advanced software development in C#, Python, or Java focusing on modular programming and performance* Extended Reality (XR) application development (Unity/Unreal)* Cloud deployment experience (AWS/Azure)* Software containerization and deployment (Docker, Podman, Kubernetes, Helm, etc.)* DevSecOps experience* Graphics programming – rendering, graphical shaders, etc.* Network programming such as TCP/UDP and client-server* Messaging interfaces (ActiveMQ, DDS, Kafka, etc.)* Databases (PostGRES-PostGIS preferred)* Performance optimization and process automation experience* Geospatial data formats and standards* CompTIA Security+ certification* Project management or related skills**Your working location will be:** fully on-site located in **State College, PA** or **Reston, VA**. This role requires periodic travel to remote locations. **MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS**If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Software (ARL) - Advanced Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science5+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications:NoneIf filled as Research and Development Engineer - Software (ARL) - Intermediate Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science2+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications:None### ARL's purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Intel Community (IC). **FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our website at www.arl.psu.edu.** **BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES**Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.### Notice regarding employment at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL):Employees must be eligible to obtain a government security clearance, participate in the ARL drug testing program, and comply with electronic and physical monitoring requirements applicable to federal contractors. ARL operates in a secure information environment involving Unclassified, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), and Classified information. Personal electronic devices brought onsite must be registered and may be restricted from certain areas. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply. **SALARY & BENEFITS**The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $127,080.00 - $240,960.00. This salary range includes an adjustment based on required geographic work location. Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.**CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS**Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.**EEO IS THE LAW**Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473. #J-18808-Ljbffr

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