2027 Product Design Office (PDO)- User Experience (UX) Design Internship

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: 2027 Product Design Office (PDO)- User Experience (UX) Design Internship

Company: Stellantis

Location: Auburn Hills, Michigan, United States

Job Type: Internship

Category: Product Design / User Experience Operations

Date Posted: September 01, 2026

Experience Level: 0-2 Years (Internship)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This internship focuses on User Experience (UX) Design within Stellantis' Product Design Office (PDO), offering hands-on experience in automotive design.

• Interns will be instrumental in creating effective and engaging user experiences and design solutions, bridging the gap between concept and production.

• The role requires a strong understanding of consumer research, brand identity, and emerging technologies in the automotive sector.

• Successful candidates will contribute to interactive user interface design, graphical asset creation, and present design concepts to senior management and colleagues.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this is a UX Design internship, the "Operations" aspect comes into play through the structured program, project management, cross-functional collaboration with engineers and developers, and the systematic approach to design, feedback, and presentation required within a large corporate product development cycle. This role requires operational excellence in design execution and communication.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and execute compelling user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design solutions for automotive products.

• Create engaging graphical assets using standard 2D and 3D designer tools, aligning with brand identity and product strategy.

• Conduct and utilize consumer research insights to inform design decisions and validate design concepts.

• Collaborate closely with engineers, developers, and other design professionals throughout the product development lifecycle, from concept to production.

• Assist in the creation and refinement of interactive prototypes and design specifications.

• Present design solutions and project updates effectively to design management, stakeholders, and cross-functional teams.

• Research and integrate emerging technologies into design concepts to enhance user experience and product innovation.

• Participate actively in design reviews, team meetings, and structured internship program activities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are framed to emphasize the structured nature of an internship within a large automotive corporation. The emphasis on "assisting," "contributing," and "participating" highlights the learning and developmental aspect, while the expectation to "create," "develop," and "present" underscores the need for proactive contribution and ownership of assigned tasks.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Pursuing a Bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college or university in User Experience, Human Factors, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Computer Science, Product Design, Graphic Design, Interaction Design, Visual Design, Game Design, Film, or a closely related field.

• Completion of at least the freshman year at an accredited college or university by Spring 2027 is required; completion of sophomore year or higher by Summer 2027 is preferred. Experience:

• Previous internship or project experience in UX/UI design, product design, or graphic design is beneficial.

• Demonstrated ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team environment. Required Skills:

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

• Strong foundational understanding of user-centered design principles and methodologies.

• Ability to communicate design ideas and rationale clearly, both verbally and in writing.

• Basic knowledge of 2D and 3D design tools and principles.

• Willingness to work full-time (40 hours per week) for the duration of the internship program (May-August 2027).

• Must be authorized to work in the United States without requiring sponsorship. Preferred Skills:

• Working knowledge of industry-standard design software such as Alias, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, and/or similar programs.

• Exceptional design intuition with strong presentation and design communication skills.

• A strong interest in the automotive industry and emerging automotive technologies.

• Experience with interactive prototyping tools.

• Creative, curious, and innovative mindset with strong problem-solving capabilities.

• Demonstrated leadership characteristics.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications are structured to differentiate between essential requirements for internship eligibility and preferred skills that would make a candidate more competitive. The inclusion of specific degree fields and software knowledge directly addresses the technical needs of a UX Design role within an automotive context. The emphasis on "authorized to work" and "no sponsorship" is critical for international candidates.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A portfolio in PDF format is mandatory and must be submitted with the application for it to be processed.

• The portfolio should clearly represent your skills as they pertain to UX/UI design, product design, and automotive design if applicable.

• Present your most current work first, displayed in descending order of recency (most current to oldest).

• When appropriate, provide a brief, specific description of your individual contributions to collaborative projects (e.g., "responsible for full model design" vs. "involved in specific areas of the model"). Process Documentation:

• Showcase projects that demonstrate a clear understanding of the design process, from initial concept and research to final execution and iteration.

• Include examples that illustrate your ability to translate user needs and business requirements into effective design solutions.

• Highlight any experience with documentation of design specifications, user flows, or wireframes.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is crucial for a design role. The emphasis is on demonstrating the candidate's design process, their ability to articulate their role in team projects, and the quality/relevance of their work to Stellantis' product development needs. The requirement for a PDF portfolio and specific content guidelines are directly extracted and elaborated from the job description.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• As an internship position at a major automotive manufacturer, interns are typically provided with a competitive hourly wage. Based on industry standards for UX Design internships in the Auburn Hills, Michigan area, a range of $18 - $25 per hour is estimated. This range can vary based on the candidate's year in school and prior experience. Benefits:

• Exposure to cutting-edge projects and technologies in the automotive industry.

• Collaborative work environment with experienced professionals.

• Mentorship from on-site designers and industry experts.

• Networking opportunities with peers, leaders, and cross-functional teams.

• Skill development workshops and training sessions focused on design and professional growth.

• Paid US holidays during the internship period.

• Access to the Stellantis Employee Advantage Vehicle Discount Program.

• Eligibility for the Company Vehicle Employee Lease Program (details to be confirmed).

• Relocation assistance may be available for eligible candidates meeting specific criteria. Working Hours:

• This is a full-time internship requiring 40 hours per week, scheduled from May through August 2027.

• Specific daily working hours will be determined by the assigned department but are expected to align with standard business operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on typical internship compensation for design roles in the automotive sector in a high-cost-of-living area like Auburn Hills, Michigan. The benefits are directly listed from the provided text, with added context on their relevance to operations and professional development.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Automotive Manufacturing. Stellantis is a major global automotive group, formed from the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) and PSA Group. This industry demands innovation, efficiency, and a strong focus on product quality and user experience.

Company Size: Stellantis is a large, multinational corporation with a significant global workforce, indicating a structured corporate environment with established processes and diverse teams.

Founded: Stellantis was formed in January 2021. Its heritage brands (like Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Fiat, Peugeot, Citroën) have long histories, contributing to a rich legacy of automotive design and engineering.

Team Structure:

• Interns will be assigned to a specific department within the Product Design Office (PDO).

• The UX Design team likely consists of experienced UX designers, UI designers, researchers, and potentially design strategists.

• Collaboration is expected with engineering, product development, and marketing departments.

• Reporting structure will involve a direct mentor/supervisor within the PDO. Methodology:

• Design projects will follow a structured, project-oriented approach, likely incorporating elements of user-centered design, agile methodologies, and stage-gate product development processes.

• Emphasis on data-driven decision-making through consumer research and design validation.

• Focus on iterative design and continuous improvement to meet product specifications and user needs.

Company Website: https://www.stellantis.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context is derived from the Stellantis brand recognition and the nature of the automotive industry. The description of team structure and methodology is inferred from the internship program's description and the typical operations of a large automotive design department.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level internship position, designed for individuals early in their academic and professional careers. It serves as a foundational experience in professional UX/UI design within a major corporate setting.

Reporting Structure: Interns will report to a designated mentor or supervisor within the Product Design Office (PDO). They will be integrated into specific project teams, working under the guidance of experienced professionals.

Operations Impact: While interns are primarily learning, their contributions to assigned projects can have a direct impact on the user experience of future Stellantis vehicles. They contribute to the operational pipeline of design innovation and product development by providing fresh perspectives and executing design tasks.

Growth Opportunities:

• Direct Industry Experience: Gain invaluable hands-on experience in UX/UI design within the highly competitive and dynamic automotive industry.

• Skill Development: Enhance technical design skills (2D/3D tools, prototyping) and soft skills (communication, teamwork, presentation, problem-solving) through structured training and project work.

• Networking: Build professional connections with industry leaders, mentors, and fellow interns, which can be crucial for future career opportunities.

• Return Internship/Full-Time Consideration: Outstanding performance during the internship may lead to invitations for subsequent internships or consideration for full-time positions upon graduation.

📝 Enhancement Note: This analysis focuses on the growth trajectory typical for an internship within a large corporation like Stellantis, emphasizing skill acquisition, networking, and potential career advancement pathways within the operations of product design.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The internship is an in-person model at Stellantis Headquarters and Technology Center in Auburn Hills, Michigan. This suggests a professional corporate office environment with dedicated workspaces.

Office Location(s): Auburn Hills, Michigan, United States. This location is a hub for automotive research, design, and development in the region.

Workspace Context:

• Interns will likely have access to workstations equipped with necessary design software and hardware.

• The environment is expected to be collaborative, encouraging interaction with mentors, peers, and other team members.

• Opportunities will exist to work within design studios and potentially interact with physical prototypes or concept vehicles.

• Access to shared resources, meeting rooms, and common areas for team collaboration and presentations.

Work Schedule: A full-time, 40-hour per week schedule is expected, aligned with standard business hours in the Auburn Hills area. While specific hours may vary by team, the overall work environment will support a structured professional setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description of the work environment is based on the "in-person model" at a "Headquarters and Technology Center," implying a professional, collaborative, and resource-rich setting typical for large corporate internships.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Submission: The initial step involves submitting the online application, ensuring all required fields are completed, and crucially, including the PDF portfolio.

• Portfolio Review: Applications will be screened based on the quality and relevance of the submitted portfolio. This is a critical gatekeeping step.

• Initial Screening/Interview: Candidates whose portfolios meet the requirements may proceed to an initial screening or interview, potentially conducted by HR or a hiring manager. This may include behavioral questions and an overview of the candidate's background.

• Technical/Design Interview: A subsequent interview, likely with the hiring manager and/or design leads, will focus on design skills, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of UX/UI principles. This may involve discussing portfolio projects in detail.

• Final Interview/Assessment: The final stage might involve a more comprehensive interview, potentially with senior management, to assess cultural fit, communication skills, and overall potential. A design challenge or case study presentation could also be part of this stage.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Clarity and Conciseness: Ensure your portfolio is easy to navigate and understand. Use clear headings and brief descriptions.

• Showcase Process: Don't just show final designs; demonstrate your thought process, research, iterations, and problem-solving approaches. Use case studies effectively.

• Highlight Contributions: Be explicit about your role in team projects. Quantify your impact where possible.

• Tailor to Automotive: If possible, include projects that demonstrate an understanding of automotive design challenges and opportunities. Even personal projects in this area are valuable.

• Professional Presentation: Ensure the PDF is well-formatted, visually appealing, and free of errors.

Challenge Preparation:

• If a design challenge is presented, focus on understanding the problem statement thoroughly.

• Structure your approach logically, outlining your research, ideation, design choices, and rationale.

• Be prepared to present your solution clearly and concisely, articulating your decision-making process.

• Consider the user and business objectives within the context of the automotive industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview and portfolio review process is detailed based on standard practices for UX Design internships at large corporations, with specific emphasis on the mandatory portfolio requirement and tailoring to the automotive sector.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design Software: Alias (preferred for automotive), Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, potentially Figma, Sketch, or Adobe XD for UI/UX.

• Prototyping Tools: Tools like Figma, Adobe XD, InVision, or Axure may be used for creating interactive prototypes.

• Productivity Suite: Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) is a basic requirement.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary focus for design interns, familiarity with how user data and analytics inform design decisions is beneficial. Experience with tools that visualize user behavior or feedback might be a plus. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly relevant to this UX Design internship role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The tools listed are based on the "preferred qualifications" and common industry standards for UX/UI design, with a specific emphasis on Alias due to the automotive context.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation: A drive to explore new technologies and design approaches to shape the future of mobility.

• Collaboration: Strong emphasis on teamwork, open communication, and cross-functional partnership to achieve common goals.

• User-Centricity: A deep commitment to understanding and serving the needs of the end-user in every design decision.

• Excellence: Striving for high-quality design execution and delivering impactful solutions.

• Efficiency: Optimizing design processes and workflows to deliver results effectively.

Collaboration Style:

• Expect a highly collaborative environment where ideas are shared freely, and feedback is actively sought and given.

• Cross-functional collaboration with engineering and product teams is integral to the design process.

• A culture that encourages learning from others and contributing to a shared knowledge base.

📝 Enhancement Note: These values and collaboration styles are inferred from the nature of a large, innovative company like Stellantis and the demands of a product design team operating within a structured corporate environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Fast-Paced Environment: Working within a large automotive company means adapting to tight deadlines and evolving project requirements.

• Balancing Design & Technical Constraints: Learning to balance creative vision with the technical limitations and manufacturing realities of automotive production.

• Cross-Functional Communication: Effectively communicating design ideas and rationale to diverse stakeholders with varying technical backgrounds.

• Navigating Corporate Structures: Understanding and operating within the established processes and hierarchies of a large organization.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Mentorship Program: Direct guidance from experienced UX/UI designers.

• Skill Enhancement: Access to workshops and training sessions to build technical and soft skills.

• Industry Exposure: Gaining deep insights into automotive product development and design trends.

• Portfolio Building: Opportunity to create significant portfolio pieces through real-world projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges and growth opportunities are framed to provide a realistic outlook for an intern, highlighting potential hurdles and the developmental resources available.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex design problem you encountered in a past project and how you approached solving it. What was the outcome?" (Focus on your process, problem-solving, and results.)

• "How do you stay updated on the latest UX design trends and emerging technologies, particularly in the automotive sector?" (Showcase your curiosity and commitment to learning.)

• "Imagine you need to design a new in-car infotainment feature. Walk us through your design process from concept to potential implementation." (Demonstrate your structured approach and user-centric thinking.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you specifically about Stellantis and the automotive industry?" (Research Stellantis' recent models, design philosophy, and future vision.)

• "How do you approach receiving and incorporating constructive criticism on your designs?" (Highlight your openness to feedback and collaborative spirit.)

• "Describe a time you worked effectively as part of a team to achieve a common goal." (Provide a specific example demonstrating teamwork and communication.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: For each project, explain the "why" – the problem, your role, your process, your solutions, and the impact.

• Visuals are Key: Use high-quality images, mockups, and prototypes. Ensure clarity and aesthetic appeal.

• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate questions about your design choices, challenges faced, and alternative approaches considered.

• Highlight Automotive Relevance: If you have automotive-specific projects, lead with those or clearly articulate how your general design skills apply to the automotive context.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview questions are crafted to assess critical skills and fit for a UX Design intern role at Stellantis, emphasizing preparation strategies related to portfolio demonstration and understanding company context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this User Experience (UX) Design Internship position:

• Visit the Stellantis careers portal and submit your application through the provided link.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your PDF portfolio is tailored to highlight UX/UI design skills, design process, and any automotive-related projects. Prioritize your most recent and relevant work.

• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to clearly articulate your academic background, relevant coursework, any prior design experience (internships, personal projects), and proficiency with design tools. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, problem-solving skills, and contributions to past projects. Be ready to discuss your portfolio and your interest in Stellantis and the automotive industry.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Stellantis' brand portfolio, recent design innovations, and their approach to user experience in their vehicles. Understand their commitment to future technologies.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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