Afstudeerstage UX Design

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Afstudeerstage UX Design

Company: KPN

Location: Teleportboulevard, Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands

Job Type: Stage (Internship)

Category: UX Design / Design Operations

Date Posted: June 04, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is a full-time internship focused on User Experience (UX) Design within KPN Zakelijk's digital experience team.

• The intern will contribute to the improvement and ongoing development of KPN's design system, a critical component for scalable design across the organization.

• A key aspect involves researching and understanding how designers and developers currently utilize the design system to identify areas for enhancement and optimization.

• The position offers hands-on experience in creating documentation, templates, and best practices to standardize design processes and improve efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: This is an internship role, specifically an "Afstudeerstage" which translates to a graduation internship. This implies a need for the intern to complete a significant project or research for their degree. The focus on "UX Guild" suggests a community of practice where knowledge sharing and standardization are paramount, aligning with Design Operations principles.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct user research to understand how designers and developers interact with the current design system, identifying pain points and opportunities for improvement.

• Actively participate in the further development and refinement of KPN's design system, contributing new components, guidelines, and updates.

• Develop and maintain clear, comprehensive, and user-friendly documentation for the design system, ensuring ease of access and understanding for all users.

• Explore, design, and implement standardized templates, best practices, and other standardization methods to streamline design workflows and ensure consistency.

• Collaborate closely with experienced UX designers and developers within the UX Guild, fostering a learning environment and contributing to team knowledge.

• Apply strategic, research-driven, and practical approaches to the internship project, aiming for tangible impact on KPN's design application at scale.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities highlight a blend of research, development, and documentation, which are foundational to both UX Design and Design Operations. The emphasis on "standardization" and "scalability" points towards the strategic importance of the design system within a large organization like KPN.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Pursuing a HBO/WO (Bachelor's/Master's) degree in Communication & Multimedia Design, UX Design, Interaction Design, Industrial Design, Creative Business, or Human Computer Interaction.

Experience:

• Previous project experience with design systems is highly beneficial.

• Familiarity with research methodologies for understanding user needs and system usability. Required Skills:

• Strong digital mindset and a proactive, curious attitude.

• Proficiency in design tools, specifically Figma.

• Ability to create clear and structured documentation.

• Understanding of design system principles and best practices.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in both Dutch and English.

• A keen eye for detail and a structured approach to problem-solving. Preferred Skills:

• Experience in user research, including qualitative and quantitative methods.

• Familiarity with front-end development concepts (HTML, CSS, JavaScript) to better understand developer needs.

• Experience with collaboration tools and workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a degree in fields like UX Design, Interaction Design, or HCI is standard for this type of internship. The specific mention of Figma as a required tool, along with the need for Dutch and English fluency, are key qualifications. The emphasis on a "digital mindset" and "curiosity" points to the soft skills valued in an innovative environment.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase examples of previous design projects, particularly those demonstrating an understanding of design systems or component-based design.

• Include case studies that highlight your research process, problem-solving approach, and the impact of your design solutions.

• Demonstrate proficiency in Figma through examples of wireframes, prototypes, or design system components.

• Provide examples of documentation or process outlines you have created. Process Documentation:

• Ability to research and document user workflows and system interactions effectively.

• Experience in creating clear guidelines and best practices for design implementation.

• Understanding of how to structure information for easy comprehension by both designers and developers.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an "Afstudeerstage," the portfolio is crucial for demonstrating practical skills and the ability to undertake a research-driven project. The focus should be on process, not just final outputs, illustrating how the candidate approaches design challenges and system development.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: EUR 600 per month (based on a 40-hour work week).

Benefits:

• A monthly internship allowance of EUR 600.

• A company laptop provided for both internship tasks and school assignments.

• Reimbursement for travel expenses (train or car) if the intern does not have a student public transport pass.

• Dedicated professional coaching and mentorship from a fixed supervisor.

• Access to a broad network of KPN experts who are willing to share knowledge and contacts.

• Opportunities for skill enhancement through KPN Academy and various workshops.

• Participation in fun activities organized by Jong KPN and the intern network.

• Regular social events and gatherings at the office.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week (flexible arrangement for 4 days per week may be possible, to be discussed).

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary and benefits package is typical for a Dutch internship. The provision of a laptop and travel reimbursement are practical inclusions. The emphasis on professional coaching, access to experts, and learning opportunities (KPN Academy, workshops) highlights KPN's commitment to intern development.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Telecommunications. KPN is a leading telecommunications company in the Netherlands, providing a wide range of services including mobile, internet, television, and IT solutions for both consumers and businesses.

Company Size: Large enterprise (KPN is a major publicly traded company with thousands of employees globally). This scale means a structured environment with established processes, but also significant opportunities for impact through well-defined projects.

Founded: 1881. KPN has a long history, indicating stability and a deep understanding of the telecommunications market.

Team Structure:

• The role is within the UX team of KPN Zakelijk (KPN Business).

• The UX Guild plays a central role, functioning as a community of practice for designers within KPN.

• This suggests a collaborative structure where designers share knowledge, develop standards, and work on a common design system.

• Collaboration with developers is also a key aspect, indicating a cross-functional approach to design system implementation. Methodology:

• Focus on creating digital experiences that are simple, consistent, and future-proof.

• Emphasis on "scale" in design application, implying a need for efficient and standardized processes.

• The UX Guild promotes knowledge sharing, standardization, and the continuous development of KPN's design practice.

• A blend of hard work, learning, and enjoyment is a stated part of the team's ethos.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: KPN's position as a large, established telecommunications provider means that design system development and standardization are crucial for maintaining quality and efficiency across a vast range of products and services. The "UX Guild" structure indicates a mature approach to design practice management.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an internship role, serving as an entry point into UX Design and potentially Design Operations. It's focused on learning and contributing under guidance.

Reporting Structure: The intern will report to a dedicated supervisor within the UX team and be an active participant in the UX Guild. This provides direct mentorship and exposure to senior design professionals.

Operations Impact: While an internship, the project has the potential for significant impact by improving the usability and efficiency of KPN's design system, which affects all digital products and services for business customers. This offers a tangible contribution to KPN's operational efficiency in design.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Deepen expertise in UX design, design systems, user research, and documentation through hands-on work and mentorship.

• Industry Exposure: Gain practical experience in a large telecommunications company and understand large-scale design operations.

• Networking: Build connections within the KPN design community (UX Guild) and the broader Jong KPN network.

• Future Opportunities: A successful internship can lead to potential future employment opportunities within KPN or other organizations in the design field.

📝 Enhancement Note: This internship is positioned as a valuable learning experience, offering practical application of academic knowledge and a glimpse into the professional world of UX design and large-scale design operations. The structured mentorship and access to resources are key growth enablers.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site at KPN's Amsterdam office (Teleportboulevard). This suggests a professional office environment conducive to collaboration and focused work.

Office Location(s): Teleportboulevard, Amsterdam, Netherlands. This location is likely well-connected by public transport, common for large Dutch companies.

Workspace Context:

• A collaborative environment is expected, with regular interaction within the UX Guild and with developers.

• Access to necessary tools and technology, including a provided laptop and likely KPN's standard software suite.

• Opportunities for informal learning and knowledge sharing through team activities and social events.

Work Schedule: Primarily 40 hours per week, with potential flexibility to work 4 days a week, to be discussed. This offers a structured yet potentially adaptable schedule for an intern.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement indicates a preference for direct collaboration and immersion in the KPN work culture. The Amsterdam office setting likely provides a modern and well-equipped workspace, fostering both productivity and team interaction.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and motivation letter, with particular attention to the portfolio.

• First Interview: Likely with the recruiter (Julie

Kleijzen) to assess general fit, motivation, and basic qualifications.

• Second Interview: With the hiring manager and potentially senior UX designers/developers from the UX Guild. This stage will focus on:

  • Discussing your portfolio in detail, probing your design process and problem-solving skills.
  • Assessing your understanding of design systems and user research.
  • Evaluating your communication skills in both Dutch and English.
  • Understanding your availability and learning objectives for the internship.

• Potential Assignment/Case Study: You may be asked to complete a small design task or case study to further evaluate your skills.

• Final Decision: Based on overall fit, skills, and potential contribution.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Process: Clearly articulate your design thinking, research methods, and iterative process for each project.

• Showcase Figma Proficiency: Include examples of wireframes, user flows, prototypes, and any design system components you've worked on in Figma.

• Demonstrate Research Impact: Explain how your research informed your design decisions and what outcomes were achieved.

• Address Design System Relevance: If possible, include projects related to component design, style guides, or pattern libraries.

• Conciseness and Clarity: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, easy to navigate, and succinctly presents your best work.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize aspects of your work that align with KPN's focus on improving their design system and documentation.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss KPN's existing digital products and services from a UX perspective.

• Research KPN's design system (if publicly available) or general best practices for design systems in large organizations.

• Think about common challenges in design system adoption and how to address them.

• Practice articulating your ideas clearly and concisely, especially when explaining design choices and research findings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio and the detailed interview process suggest KPN takes its internship placements seriously, seeking candidates who can contribute meaningfully. Preparing specific examples related to design systems and documentation will be key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: Essential for UX design, wireframing, prototyping, and potentially design system component creation. Proficiency is a requirement.

• Collaboration Tools: Likely KPN uses standard professional tools for team communication and project management (e.g., Slack, Microsoft Teams, Jira, Confluence). Familiarity with these is beneficial.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly stated as a requirement for the intern, KPN likely uses various analytics tools to track user behavior and product performance. Understanding how design impacts these metrics is valuable. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly relevant to this UX Design internship, but KPN as a company uses CRM and automation extensively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit requirement for Figma highlights its central role in KPN's UX design workflow. Familiarity with broader design and collaboration tools will be advantageous for seamless integration into the team.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Collaboration: Working closely with designers and developers in the UX Guild and broader teams.

• Innovation: Contributing to the future of digital services and improving design practices.

• Quality: Maintaining high standards for user experience and design consistency through the design system.

• Efficiency: Improving workflows and design application through standardization and documentation.

• Customer Focus: Ensuring digital experiences are simple, consistent, and user-friendly for KPN's business customers.

Collaboration Style:

• A community-driven approach through the UX Guild, emphasizing knowledge sharing and collective improvement.

• Close interaction between design and development teams to ensure practical and effective design system implementation.

• Openness to new ideas and constructive feedback from both peers and mentors.

📝 Enhancement Note: KPN's culture appears to value collaboration, continuous improvement, and a strong focus on delivering quality digital experiences. The UX Guild structure actively promotes a shared responsibility for design excellence.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Design System Maturity: Navigating the complexities of an established design system and identifying impactful areas for improvement within a limited internship timeframe.

• Balancing Research and Development: Effectively managing time between user research, system development, and documentation creation.

• Cross-functional Communication: Ensuring clear communication and alignment between design and development teams regarding design system updates.

• Impact Measurement: Demonstrating the tangible impact of your contributions to the design system and KPN's overall design practice.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deep Dive into Design Systems: Gain in-depth knowledge of how large organizations build, maintain, and scale design systems.

• Practical UX Research: Apply and refine user research techniques in a real-world business context.

• Professional Skill Development: Enhance presentation, documentation, and collaboration skills under the guidance of experienced professionals.

• Industry Insight: Understand the operational aspects of UX design within a major telecommunications company.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for an internship focused on a core operational component like a design system. The growth opportunities are substantial, offering a unique chance to learn about critical aspects of modern UX and Design Operations.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Tell me about your experience with design systems. What makes a good design system?"

• "How would you approach researching the current usage and pain points of KPN's design system?"

• "Describe a challenging design problem you solved in a previous project and how you documented your process."

• "How do you ensure consistency and scalability in design?"

• "What are your thoughts on the role of documentation in a design system?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in interning at KPN specifically?"

• "What do you know about KPN Zakelijk and its digital offerings?"

• "How do you see yourself contributing to the UX Guild's goals?"

• "Describe your ideal work environment and how you collaborate with others." Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Begin with an overview of your most relevant projects, focusing on those related to design systems, user research, or documentation.

• Narrative: For each project, clearly explain the problem, your role, the process you followed (research, ideation, design, testing), and the outcome or impact.

• Visuals: Use clear screenshots, wireframes, prototypes, and examples of documentation.

• Figma Emphasis: Be ready to demonstrate specific Figma features you used and how they helped your design process.

• Q&A: Be prepared to answer detailed questions about your design choices, research findings, and problem-solving approaches.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a proactive, research-oriented mindset and a clear understanding of design system principles. Providing concrete examples from your portfolio that align with KPN's needs will be crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the KPN jobs portal link provided.

• Customize Your CV and Motivation Letter: Tailor them to highlight your relevant education (UX Design, HCI, etc.), specific skills (Figma, Dutch/English fluency), and any prior experience or projects related to design systems or documentation.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Ensure your portfolio is up-to-date, showcases your best work relevant to the role (design systems, research, Figma examples), and clearly articulates your design process. Include it as requested in your CV or motivation letter.

• Research KPN: Understand KPN's business, its digital services, and its commitment to user experience. Familiarize yourself with the concept of a "UX Guild" and its purpose.

• Practice Your Presentation: Be ready to walk through your portfolio projects, explain your design decisions, and discuss your approach to research and documentation.

⚠️ 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.