AI-Forward UX Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: AI-Forward UX Designer

Company: Jobgether (on behalf of a partner company)

Location: Portugal

Job Type: Part-time

Category: UX/UI Design, AI Integration, Product Design

Date Posted: May 06, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (3-7+ years)

Remote Status: Fully Remote

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead end-to-end UX design processes for diverse client projects, integrating advanced AI tools to accelerate ideation, research, and prototyping.

• Drive the adoption and evolution of AI-first design methodologies, focusing on efficiency and enhanced output quality.

• Translate complex user needs and business requirements into intuitive, scalable, and user-centered digital interfaces.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including product managers, engineers, and clients, in a fast-paced, multi-client environment.

• Champion experimentation and continuous learning to redefine UX practices through emerging AI technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned at the forefront of AI integration in UX design, demanding a candidate who not only excels in traditional design principles but also actively leverages generative AI tools to innovate and streamline the design lifecycle. The "AI-Forward" aspect is central, implying a proactive approach to adopting and shaping AI-driven design workflows.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the complete UX design lifecycle for multiple client engagements, from initial discovery and user research through to wireframing, prototyping, and final design handoff.

• Leverage AI-powered design tools, including generative design platforms and AI features within Figma, to rapidly produce UI mockups, interactive prototypes, and design assets, thereby accelerating the design process.

• Conduct and synthesize user research using AI-assisted methods, extracting key insights from qualitative data such as interviews and surveys, as well as quantitative behavioral data.

• Apply established design thinking and product thinking frameworks to thoroughly define user problems, map out customer journeys, and validate proposed solutions with stakeholders.

• Develop and maintain robust, scalable design systems, reusable UI components, and comprehensive documentation to ensure design consistency and efficiency across all client projects.

• Foster strong collaborative relationships with cross-functional teams, including product managers, engineers, and client representatives, to effectively translate business and technical requirements into exceptional user experiences.

• Articulate and present design concepts, rationale, and outcomes, clearly demonstrating how AI-driven workflows contribute to improved efficiency and superior output quality.

• Actively contribute to the refinement of internal design methodologies and champion the adoption of AI-first design practices throughout the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic leadership in UX design and tactical execution using cutting-edge AI tools. The emphasis on "multi-client setup" and "agency/consultancy" experience suggests a need for adaptability, strong client management skills, and the ability to manage multiple project streams concurrently.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a strong foundation in Design, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Computer Science, or a related field is typically expected for this level of role. A portfolio demonstrating practical application of these principles is paramount.

Experience: 3–7+ years of professional experience in UX/UI design, with a significant portion demonstrating hands-on application of AI tools within design workflows. Experience in agency, consultancy, or multi-client environments is highly valued.

Required Skills:

• Comprehensive UX/UI design expertise, evidenced by a strong portfolio showcasing user-centered digital product design.

• Proven, hands-on experience integrating AI tools (e.g., generative design platforms, AI-assisted research tools, AI plugins) into daily design workflows.

• Advanced proficiency in Figma, with a keen understanding of its AI-enabled plugins and design acceleration features.

• Solid grasp of design thinking, product thinking, and human-centered design principles.

• Demonstrated ability to analyze qualitative and quantitative research data and translate findings into actionable design decisions.

• Excellent communication and presentation skills, including experience leading client-facing workshops and design reviews.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with other design and prototyping tools beyond Figma.

• Familiarity with front-end development principles (HTML, CSS, JavaScript) to better collaborate with engineers.

• Experience in building and scaling design systems.

• Knowledge of specific AI technologies relevant to design, such as machine learning concepts or prompt engineering for design.

• Experience in project management methodologies within a design context.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirement is specific about the type of experience, prioritizing practical AI tool integration over just years in a traditional UX role. The portfolio is explicitly called out as a critical component for demonstrating this capability.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated selection of UX/UI design projects that clearly demonstrate the end-to-end design process, from problem definition to final solution.

• Specific case studies highlighting how AI tools were leveraged to enhance efficiency, explore design variations, or derive unique insights in the design process.

• Examples showcasing wireframes, interactive prototypes, user flows, and final UI designs, with clear explanations of design rationale and user research findings.

• Evidence of experience in building or contributing to design systems, including component libraries and style guides.

Process Documentation:

• Showcase examples of how design thinking or product thinking frameworks were applied to structure project workflows and decision-making.

• Illustrate methods used for user research synthesis, particularly any AI-assisted analysis techniques employed.

• Provide insights into how design systems are managed, updated, and scaled to ensure consistency and efficiency across projects.

• Detail the process of design handoff to engineering teams, including documentation and collaboration strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio requirements are heavily weighted towards demonstrating practical application of AI in design. Candidates should be prepared to explicitly articulate their process for using AI tools and the impact these tools had on project outcomes, efficiency, and design quality.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As this is a part-time role in Portugal, and specific salary is not provided, a competitive hourly rate or prorated annual salary would be expected. Based on industry benchmarks for mid-senior level UX Designers with AI integration experience in Portugal, a range of €30,000 - €50,000 annually (pro-rated for part-time) or €20-€35 per hour is a reasonable estimate. This estimate considers the specialized AI skills, part-time nature, and the cost of living in Portugal.

Benefits:

• Competitive compensation package commensurate with experience and part-time commitment.

• Fully remote-first work environment, offering significant flexibility and work-life balance.

• Flexible working hours to accommodate personal schedules and global client needs.

• Access to cutting-edge AI tools and advanced design technologies, provided by the organization.

• Opportunity to work on a diverse portfolio of high-impact client projects across various industries, offering broad exposure.

• A collaborative and innovative team culture composed of experienced designers, AI specialists, and engineers.

• A professional development budget allocated for continuous learning, including courses, certifications, and industry conferences.

• The opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping and influencing the future direction of AI-driven UX design practices within the partner company and its clients.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. The exact number of hours per week will be discussed during the hiring process, but the role emphasizes flexible working hours, allowing for adaptation around personal commitments while ensuring client needs are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The compensation estimate is based on typical market rates for experienced UX designers in Portugal, adjusted for the part-time nature of the role and the specialized AI skill set. The benefits package strongly emphasizes flexibility, professional development, and access to advanced technology, aligning with the "AI-Forward" nature of the role.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: The partner company likely operates within the Technology, Software, Consulting, or Creative & Media sectors, focusing on digital product development and design services. The "AI-Forward" aspect suggests a strong leaning towards innovation and early adoption of new technologies.

Company Size: The exact size of the partner company is not specified, but operating a multi-client model with both Jobgether and internal teams suggests a medium-sized agency or consultancy, or a dedicated design studio. This size often fosters a dynamic, collaborative environment with opportunities for broad exposure.

Founded: Information on the founding date of the partner company is not provided. However, the emphasis on AI and modern design workflows implies a company that is either relatively new or has undergone significant modernization to embrace these advanced practices.

Team Structure:

• The UX design team is likely composed of specialized designers, potentially with different seniority levels, working across various client projects.

• There will be close collaboration with Product Managers, Engineers, and AI Specialists within the partner company, as well as direct interaction with client teams.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on using user research, analytics, and AI-driven insights to inform design decisions.

• Agile & Iterative Processes: Likely working in agile sprints or iterative cycles, common in client-facing digital product development.

• AI Integration: Core methodology involves integrating generative AI tools throughout the design process, from ideation to asset creation and research analysis.

• Human-Centered Approach: Despite AI integration, the user remains central, with a focus on creating intuitive and valuable experiences.

Company Website: Jobgether's website is jobgether.com. Information on the partner company's website would typically be provided during the application process if not already linked.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "AI-Forward" positioning suggests a culture that values innovation, continuous learning, and adaptability. The multi-client nature implies a fast-paced, results-oriented environment where strong communication and project management are key.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a Mid-Senior level within the UX/UI design discipline. It requires a candidate who can independently lead design initiatives, mentor junior designers (potentially), and contribute to strategic design discussions. The "AI-Forward" aspect adds a layer of specialization, making this a high-demand niche.

Reporting Structure: The designer will likely report to a Senior Design Manager, Head of Design, or a Lead UX Designer within the partner company. They will also work closely with Project Managers and potentially directly with client product leads.

Operations Impact: The impact of this role is significant, directly influencing the user experience and success of digital products for multiple clients. By integrating AI, the designer has the potential to dramatically improve design efficiency, reduce time-to-market, and elevate the quality and innovation of the final product, thereby driving client satisfaction and business outcomes.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization in AI Design: Deepen expertise in AI-driven design tools and methodologies, becoming a recognized authority in this emerging field.

• Leadership in Design: Progress to a Senior UX Designer, Lead Designer, or Design Manager role, overseeing larger projects or teams.

• Product Strategy Influence: Contribute more significantly to product strategy and roadmap planning, leveraging AI insights and design expertise.

• Cross-Industry Expertise: Gain extensive experience across diverse industries through client projects, broadening market knowledge and adaptability.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to mentor junior designers and share knowledge on AI integration and best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career growth path is strongly tied to the evolving landscape of AI in design. This role offers a unique opportunity to build highly relevant and future-proof skills, positioning the candidate for leadership in a rapidly advancing field.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a fully remote-first position. While there might not be a physical office, the company fosters a virtual collaborative environment.

Office Location(s): The role is based in Portugal, but the "fully remote-first" nature means the designer can work from anywhere within Portugal. This offers flexibility in choosing a personal workspace.

Workspace Context:

• Virtual Collaboration: The workspace is primarily digital, relying on collaboration tools like Slack, Zoom, Figma, and project management software.

• Tools & Technology: Access to cutting-edge AI design tools and software is a key feature, empowering designers with advanced capabilities.

• Team Interaction: Regular virtual team meetings, design critiques, and client presentations will form the basis of team interaction, fostering a connected remote culture.

Work Schedule: This is a part-time role with flexible working hours. While the specific number of hours will be negotiated, the emphasis is on achieving deliverables and meeting client needs, allowing for personal scheduling flexibility. This is ideal for individuals seeking to balance work with other commitments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The fully remote aspect, combined with flexible hours, is a significant draw for candidates seeking autonomy and work-life balance. The success of this environment hinges on effective digital communication and collaboration tools.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening (AI & Recruiter): Jobgether's AI-powered matching system will conduct an initial review to assess core requirements. A recruiter may then conduct a brief screening call.

• Portfolio Review & Design Challenge: Candidates will present their portfolio, focusing on AI integration examples. A practical design challenge, potentially involving AI tools, may be assigned to assess problem-solving skills and workflow application.

• Hiring Manager/Team Interview: Discussions with the hiring manager and potential team members to assess cultural fit, collaboration style, and strategic thinking.

• Client-Facing Interview (Potentially): Depending on the partner company's process, there may be an interview with a client representative to ensure alignment for specific projects.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight AI Integration: Dedicate specific sections or projects to showcase how AI tools were used. Quantify the impact (e.g., time saved, increased iterations, novel solutions).

• Process-Oriented Storytelling: Clearly articulate the problem, your process (including AI steps), your role, the solution, and the outcomes. Use visuals effectively.

• Figma & AI Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your Figma workflow, specific AI plugins or features you utilize, and how they enhance your design capabilities.

• Client Adaptability: Showcase projects from diverse industries or client types to demonstrate your ability to adapt to different contexts, a key requirement for agency-style work.

• Conciseness: For a part-time role, a well-curated, focused portfolio is more effective than an exhaustive one.

Challenge Preparation:

• AI Tool Familiarity: Be prepared to use AI design tools under timed conditions, or discuss how you would approach a problem using them.

• Problem Decomposition: Practice breaking down complex design problems into manageable steps, identifying where AI can add the most value.

• Communication: Rehearse presenting your thought process and design rationale clearly and concisely, as if explaining it to a client or stakeholder.

• Efficiency Mindset: Focus on demonstrating an understanding of how to achieve high-quality results efficiently, a core theme of this role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes the unique AI aspect of the role. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate not just design skills, but also their strategic thinking around AI integration and their ability to adapt quickly in a client-facing, remote environment.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: Essential for UI design, prototyping, and collaboration. Strong proficiency expected, including knowledge of AI-enabled features and plugins.

• Generative AI Platforms: Experience with tools for generating UI elements, mockups, content, or design concepts (e.g., Midjourney, Stable Diffusion, specialized AI design plugins).

• Prototyping Tools: Figma's prototyping capabilities, or potentially others like Adobe XD, InVision, or Framer.

• User Research Tools: Platforms for surveys, user interviews, usability testing, and analytics (e.g., UserTesting.com, SurveyMonkey, Hotjar).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Web Analytics: Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics, or similar for understanding user behavior on live products.

• Product Analytics: Tools like Amplitude, Mixpanel, or Pendo for in-depth product usage analysis.

• Data Visualization: Tools like Tableau, Power BI, or even advanced Figma features for presenting data insights.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: Familiarity with CRM platforms like Salesforce, HubSpot, or Zoho CRM, especially regarding how UX design impacts user journeys within them.

• Project Management: Tools such as Asana, Jira, Trello, or Monday.com for managing project workflows and tasks.

• Collaboration Suites: Slack, Microsoft Teams, Google Workspace for communication and document sharing.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Figma and a demonstrable history of using generative AI tools are critical. The role implies a need to be adaptable and learn new tools quickly, as the AI landscape is constantly evolving.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Experimentation: A core value likely centered on exploring new technologies, particularly AI, and iterating rapidly to find optimal solutions.

• User-Centricity: A commitment to understanding and advocating for the end-user, ensuring that AI integration enhances, rather than detracts from, user experience.

• Efficiency & Optimization: A drive to streamline processes, leverage tools (especially AI) to save time and resources, and deliver high-quality results efficiently.

• Collaboration & Transparency: Fostering an open environment for sharing ideas, providing feedback, and working together across teams and with clients.

• Continuous Learning: A culture that encourages and supports ongoing professional development, especially in the rapidly evolving fields of AI and design.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Seamless collaboration with product managers, engineers, and AI specialists to ensure holistic product development.

• Client Partnership: Working closely with clients as a trusted advisor, facilitating workshops, and presenting design solutions with clarity and confidence.

• Peer Feedback Culture: Encouraging constructive critique and knowledge sharing among design team members to elevate collective work.

• Agile & Responsive: Adapting quickly to project changes, client feedback, and emerging technological advancements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values emphasize a forward-thinking, adaptive, and collaborative approach. Candidates who thrive in innovative environments and are passionate about the intersection of AI and design will find this culture appealing.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Rapidly Evolving AI Landscape: Keeping pace with the continuous advancements in AI tools and techniques requires ongoing learning and adaptation.

• Integrating AI Ethically and Effectively: Ensuring AI is used responsibly, without compromising user privacy, trust, or accessibility, and that it genuinely adds value.

• Balancing AI Efficiency with Creative Nuance: Finding the optimal balance between AI-driven acceleration and the human touch necessary for truly innovative and empathetic design.

• Managing Multi-Client Demands: Juggling the diverse needs, timelines, and stakeholder expectations across multiple client projects in a part-time capacity.

• Defining "AI-First" Design Standards: Contributing to the establishment of new best practices and workflows for AI-integrated design within the organization.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• AI Design Specialization: Opportunities to attend workshops, take courses, and earn certifications focused on AI in design, prompt engineering, and generative art/design.

• Exposure to Diverse Industries: Working on varied client projects provides broad exposure to different market challenges and user bases.

• Mentorship from AI Specialists: Potential to learn from AI experts within the organization or partner companies.

• Leadership in Emerging Design Practices: Becoming a go-to expert for AI-driven UX design, leading initiatives and potentially teams.

• Conferences and Industry Events: Access to a professional development budget to attend relevant design and AI conferences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are directly tied to the innovative nature of the role. Successfully navigating these challenges presents significant opportunities for professional growth and specialization in a high-demand field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for integrating generative AI tools into a typical UX design workflow. Provide a specific example from your portfolio."

• "How do you ensure that AI-assisted research leads to actionable design insights, and what are the potential pitfalls to watch out for?"

• "How would you balance the speed and scale offered by AI tools with the need for human empathy and creative problem-solving in UX design?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What excites you most about an 'AI-Forward' design role, and what are your expectations for how AI will shape the future of UX?"

• "How do you approach collaboration with engineers and product managers, especially when incorporating novel technologies like AI?"

• "Describe a time you had to adapt your design process or learn a new tool quickly. How did you approach it?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure for AI Impact: For each project, clearly label or dedicate a section to "AI Integration." Detail the specific tools used, the problem AI helped solve, and the measurable impact (e.g., reduced iteration time by X%, explored Y more concepts).

• Show, Don't Just Tell: Use visuals of AI-generated assets, prototypes, or research summaries. Walk through the workflow visually if possible.

• Quantify Results: Whenever possible, use numbers and metrics to demonstrate the value of your work and the impact of AI.

• Focus on Process: Emphasize your thought process and how you made decisions, especially regarding the selection and application of AI tools.

• Be Prepared for Figma Deep Dive: Have specific examples of how you use Figma's advanced features and AI plugins to enhance your workflow.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to articulate their understanding of AI's role in design, demonstrate practical experience with AI tools, and showcase their ability to adapt and innovate in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this AI-Forward UX Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on jobs.lever.co.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and portfolio to prominently feature your experience with AI tools in UX design. Create specific case studies highlighting AI integration, efficiency gains, and innovative solutions.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly lists AI-related design skills, proficiency in Figma and its AI features, and experience in client-facing or agency environments. Use keywords from the job description naturally.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, particularly your AI-driven workflows, and prepare to discuss your portfolio projects in detail. Rehearse responses to common UX and AI strategy questions.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Jobgether's platform and understand the implications of applying through a third-party service. Research general trends in AI-driven design to demonstrate your industry awareness.

⚠️ 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.