XR Developer

Are you someone who strives for excellence, values accountability, provides the best service, all while reflecting unwavering integrity? Our talented team members across the state follow the behaviors, beliefs and outcomes of these core values to ensure that our vision is met. Job Description The Extended Reality (XR) Developer is responsible for designing, developing, deploying and maintaining immersive applications and simulations using Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR) and Mixed Reality (MR) technologies. This position translates skills-based learning objectives and technical requirements into functional, engaging XR applications and interactive experiences that support faculty and students. The XR Developer collaborates with faculty, instructional designers, project managers, Technical Artists and engineering teams to develop scalable XR solutions using technologies such as Unity and/or Unreal Engine, WebXR and related platforms. Responsibilities include software development, prototyping, user interaction design, AI integration, testing, optimisation, troubleshooting and deployment across VR headsets, desktop, browser-based and LMS environments. The position also contributes to the development of reusable frameworks, tools, workflows and coding standards while researching and implementing emerging XR and AI technologies. Additionally the XR Developer provides technical guidance and training to stakeholders and assists with the setup, configuration, maintenance troubleshooting and deployment of XR devices. The Target Hiring Range for the position is $75,643 - 86,990.40 The final salary offer will be determined based on the candidate’s qualifications and experience. Essential Functions The employee will demonstrate TSTC’s Core Values of Excellence, Accountability, Service, and Integrity with internal and external stakeholders, customers, students and community members. XR Application Development Designs, develops, prototypes, deploys and maintains immersive applications and simulations using Unity and/or Unreal Engine, and related XR technologies. Translates skills-based learning objectives, user needs and technical requirements into functional, engaging and accessible XR applications. Develops scalable XR applications, prototypes, frameworks and reusable components that support organisational XR initiatives. Develops immersive user interactions, navigation, input systems, spatial interfaces, object manipulation, physics-based interactions and other application behaviours appropriate to XR environments. Integrates AI technologies, including AI-driven avatars, conversational agents, and other intelligent systems, into immersive applications and experiences. Develops and deploys simulations compatible with existing XR platforms, devices and applications. Conducts comprehensive testing and debugging throughout the development lifecycle to identify and resolve issues related to functionality, performance, compatibility and user experience. Optimises applications for performance, usability, scalability and compatibility across target platforms. Troubleshoots and resolves application issues, including performance bottlenecks, software bugs, and device-specific challenges. Applies appropriate accessibility and usability principles to immersive experiences. LMS & Web-Based XR Integration Develops browser-based XR experiences using HTML, JavaScript, WebXR and related web technologies. Collaborates with stakeholders and engineering teams to integrate XR experiences with existing Learning Management Systems (LMS) and web-based platforms. Develops and maintains reusable web-based XR frameworks, prototypes and integration processes. Tests, troubleshoots and optimises browser-based XR applications for compatibility, performance and usability. Supports integration of XR applications with LMS platforms and related learning technologies for authentication, launch, progress tracking, completion, assessment and reporting. Collaboration & Technical Documentation Collaborates with instructional designers, faculty, subject matter experts, project managers and engineering teams to define requirements and develop effective XR solutions. Collaborates with Technical Artists and other XR team members to integrate 3D assets and interactive content into XR applications. Partners with Application Engineering, AI Engineering and Data Engineering to support the integration of XR applications with broader AI and technology initiatives. Establishes, documents and maintains coding standards, development guidelines, workflows and best practices. Documents code, architecture, design decisions, development processes and technical solutions to support collaboration and knowledge sharing. Designs and implements application architecture, interfaces, APIs and integration patterns needed to connect XR applications with enterprise platforms, AI services, data sources and other systems. Training & Technical Support Provides training and technical guidance to faculty, instructional designers, staff and other stakeholders on XR applications, technologies and best practices. Consults with geographically distributed stakeholders to support the effective implementation and use of XR solutions. Assists with the setup, configuration, deployment, maintenance, troubleshooting and inventory management of XR devices and equipment. Research & Innovation Researches and evaluates emerging XR, AI, software development and immersive learning technologies and recommends solutions that support organisational initiatives. Stays current with evolving XR platforms, development tools, frameworks, standards and industry practices. Contributes to the continuous improvement of XR development processes, tools, applications and technical capabilities. Develops mechanisms for capturing user interactions, simulation progress, completion data, assessments and other learning or performance information as required by the application. Education & Experience Minimum Requirements Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Game Development, Extended Reality or a closely related field. 3-4 years of experience developing interactive software applications using real-time development engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine and programming or scripting languages including C#, C++ or JavaScript. Demonstrated experience developing interactive 3D simulations, VR, AR or MR applications and utilizing source control systems. A portfolio, GitHub repository or demonstrable body of work showcasing interactive 3D or XR development projects. Preferred Qualifications Master’s degree in Computer Science, Extended Reality, Game Development or a related field. Experience developing for Meta Quest or other standalone VR platforms and implementing WebXR or browser-based 3D applications. Experience integrating AI-driven avatars, conversational agents, REST APIs or learning management systems into interactive simulations. Experience developing educational, industrial or workforce skills‑training simulations. Relevant experience may be considered in lieu of formal education where appropriate, consistent with TSTC’s equivalency philosophy. Skills & Abilities Advanced proficiency in real-time engine development using Unity or Unreal Engine and core languages including C#, C++ or modern JavaScript frameworks. Strong understanding of spatial computing, 3D math, physics simulation, user interface design and interaction mechanics for immersive headsets. Demonstrated ability to integrate external APIs, artificial intelligence models, digital avatars and cloud-connected learning platforms. Proven skill in profiling, debugging and optimizing interactive 3D applications for performance frame rate stability and platform compatibility. Knowledge of WebXR standards, browser-based rendering and LMS integration standards for assessment and progress tracking. Ability to write clean maintainable and well-documented code using modern version control systems such as Git or Azure DevOps. Strong collaboration and communication skills to work effectively with instructional designers, faculty, artists and cross-functional technical teams. Ability to manage multiple development priorities independently while meeting established project milestones and quality benchmarks. Core Competencies Communication Leads communication efforts for projects, programs or teams ensuring clarity alignment and transparency. Shares complex technical information effectively with a range of stakeholders tailoring messages to the audience. Facilitates open dialogue encourages feedback and fosters collaboration across teams both internally and externally. Proactively addresses communication gaps to ensure smooth execution of initiatives and strengthen internal engagement. Job Knowledge & Job Performance Possesses advanced technical expertise and in-depth knowledge of processes systems and industry best practices. Leads efforts to apply this expertise to solve complex problems and optimise outcomes. Continuously seeks to improve technical skills and knowledge staying ahead of industry trends emerging technologies. Serves as a subject matter expert providing guidance and mentoring to peers and juniors. Contributes to innovation capability development and service excellence through expert-level performance. Ownership & Accountability Takes ownership of key projects programs or processes ensuring that goals are achieved efficiently effectively. Holds oneself and others accountable for results demonstrating the ability to manage risk and resolve issues proactively. Takes responsibility for both successes and challenges applying critical thinking and sound judgement to learn from experiences and adapt strategies for continuous improvement. Maintains a strong sense of engagement and commitment to achieving outcomes. Teamwork & Service Leads by example in fostering a collaborative supportive team environment. Works across functions and teams to ensure the achievement of shared goals offering mentorship and support to peers and juniors. Actively contributes to team growth recognizes the contributions of others and encourages a service-oriented mindset to meet and exceed team expectations. Promotes a culture of mutual respect community and effective partnership in all interactions. Planning & Execution Defines tasks and milestones to achieve objectives while ensuring optimal use of resources to achieve those objectives by providing clear direction motivation guidance and feedback. Identifies and addresses issues promptly and demonstrates a strong results orientation. Applies strategic thinking to align priorities with broader organisational goals and ensure timely high-impact execution. Critical Thinking & Judgement Takes a proactive solution-focused approach in anticipating preventing and solving problems. Utilises strong reasoning skills and risk analysis to provide clear informed and timely decisions while considering organisational goals. Demonstrates good judgement in complex situations balancing technical expertise with business acumen and long-term thinking. Drives innovation and improvement through thoughtful analysis and calculated risk-taking. Leadership Without Authority Effectively builds trust leverages subject matter expertise and navigates relationships to guide decisions and drive outcomes regardless of reporting lines. Uses insight credibility and well-timed communication to align stakeholders and gain buy-in across levels. Role models professional behaviour adaptability integrity encouraging others to follow by example. Demonstrates influence reaching purpose to action cultivating a culture of collaboration and accountability. Extra Duties Statement This job description outlines the general responsibilities and expectations of the role. It is not intended to include every task or responsibility. Additional duties may be assigned by leadership as needed. Work Location and Telework This position is classified as Telework Eligible. Work may be performed remotely in a hybrid arrangement or on site based on departmental requirements leadership approval with occasional travel or presence required at campus locations for equipment deployment hardware maintenance testing team planning or institutional events. Physical and Environmental Demands Physical demands include the ability to remain in a stationary position for extended periods operating computer equipment development software manual dexterity to manipulate VR and AR hardware occasional lifting or moving of simulation equipment up to 25 pounds and visual acuity to test and assess immersive 3D graphics and display systems. Equal Opportunity and Accommodation Texas State Technical College is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive supportive environment for all employees. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions. The Target Hiring Range for the position is $75,643 - 86,990.40 The final salary offer will be determined based on the candidate’s qualifications and experience. Equal Opportunity Employer Texas State Technical College (TSTC) as an equal opportunity employer complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination. TSTC is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race color national origin age marital status sex sexual orientation disability religion or veteran status in employment educational programs and activities and admissions. Employment Eligibility Verification If hired you will be required to complete the federal Employment Eligibility Verification I-9 form You will be required to present acceptable and original documents to prove your identity and authorization to work in the United States Documents need to be presented no later than the third day of employment Failure to do so will result in loss of employment at TSTC. Background Checks A criminal history background check will be required for the finalist(s) under consideration for this position. #J-18808-Ljbffr Texas State Technical College