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. If you're ready to join the TSTC family and make great memories please complete our application process.

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, optimization, 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 organizational XR initiatives. Develops immersive user interactions, navigation, input systems, spatial interfaces, object manipulation, physics-based interactions, and other application behaviors 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. Optimizes 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 optimizes 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 organizational 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 optimize outcomes. Continuously seeks to improve technical skills and knowledge, staying ahead of industry trends and 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 and 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 judgment 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 and 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 organizational goals and ensure timely, high-impact execution.

Critical Thinking & Judgement
Takes a proactive, solution-focused approach in anticipating, preventing, and solving problems. Utilizes strong reasoning skills and risk analysis to provide clear, informed, and timely decisions while considering organizational goals. Demonstrates good judgment 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 behavior, adaptability, and integrity, encouraging others to follow by example. Demonstrates influence by connecting purpose to action and 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 and 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 and 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.