Freelance UX Strategist

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Freelance UX Strategist

Company: 829 Studios

Location: United States

Job Type: CONTRACTOR

Category: User Experience (UX) Strategy / Operations

Date Posted: 2026-06-11

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10+ years)

Remote Status: Fully Remote

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on providing expert UX strategy services on a project-by-project basis, acting as a key contributor to client engagements.

• Responsibilities include leading discovery sprints, conducting user and competitive research, and translating findings into actionable strategic direction for B2B and B2C clients.

• The position requires strong client-facing skills, including leading interviews, workshops, and presenting strategic recommendations.

• A core aspect of this role involves developing information architecture, sitemaps, and content frameworks, and creating lo-fi wireframes in Figma to communicate strategic thinking.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Freelance UX Strategist," the nature of the work – leading discovery, research, IA, wireframing, and client presentations – positions this role within an operational framework for service delivery. The "operations" aspect is in the execution of client projects according to defined processes and the strategic output that drives client success. This is not a traditional Revenue Operations or Sales Operations role, but rather an operational role within a creative/digital agency context, focused on delivering strategic UX services.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead or significantly support stakeholder interviews and client workshops to gather critical business and user insights.

• Conduct comprehensive research, including competitive analysis, website analytics review, and user insight synthesis, to inform strategic recommendations.

• Translate research findings and stakeholder input into clear, actionable strategic direction for website development and redesign projects.

• Develop detailed information architecture (IA), sitemaps, and content frameworks that align with business objectives and user needs.

• Create low-fidelity wireframes in Figma to effectively communicate user flows, content hierarchy, and functional requirements.

• Present UX strategy deliverables and recommendations clearly and persuasively to clients, guiding them through the strategic rationale and proposed solutions.

• Collaborate closely with designers, developers, and marketing teams to ensure seamless integration of UX strategy into the overall project lifecycle.

• Provide expertise on CMS-driven websites (e.g., WordPress, Drupal, Shopify) to ensure strategic recommendations are technically feasible and optimized for content management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities are heavily focused on the execution of UX strategy services, aligning with a project-based operational model. The emphasis on "leading or supporting," "conducting research," and "translating findings" highlights an operational workflow within the agency's service delivery.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a strong understanding of Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), User Experience Design principles, or related fields is expected.

Experience: 5–10+ years of dedicated experience in UX strategy, with a significant portion ideally gained within an agency or consulting environment.

Required Skills:

• Proven expertise in UX strategy development, encompassing research, analysis, and strategic planning.

• Strong proficiency in Information Architecture (IA) and the creation of sitemaps and content frameworks.

• Demonstrated ability to conduct and synthesize user research, competitive analysis, and analytics data.

• Advanced skill in wireframing, with specific proficiency in Figma for lo-fi design.

• Excellent client-facing communication and presentation skills, with a proven ability to lead conversations and influence decision-making.

• Experience facilitating stakeholder interviews and workshops.

• Familiarity with the nuances of CMS-driven websites (e.g., WordPress, Drupal, Shopify).

• Ability to work independently, integrate quickly into project teams, and deliver high-quality work with minimal oversight. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with A/B testing and conversion rate optimization (CRO) principles.

• Familiarity with content strategy development beyond basic frameworks.

• Experience working with B2B and B2C clients across various industries.

• Understanding of front-end development constraints and capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirement of 5-10+ years strongly suggests this role is for a seasoned professional who can operate autonomously. The emphasis on a "strong portfolio demonstrating research → strategy → IA/wireframes" indicates a need for tangible proof of past project success and process.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a clear progression from user research and discovery to strategic recommendations, information architecture, and wireframing.

• Case studies that detail the problem, your process, the solutions implemented (IA, wireframes), and the impact or outcomes achieved.

• Demonstrations of your ability to lead client conversations and workshops, with examples of how you've translated client needs into strategic deliverables.

• Examples of sitemaps, content frameworks, and lo-fi wireframes created in tools like Figma. Process Documentation:

• While direct process documentation might not be submitted, your portfolio should clearly articulate your personal methodology for conducting UX strategy work, including:

  • Your approach to discovery and stakeholder alignment.

  • How you gather and synthesize user insights and competitive intelligence.

  • Your systematic process for developing information architecture and content strategies.

  • Your method for translating strategy into wireframes and functional specifications.

  • How you present and defend your strategic recommendations to clients.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a freelance UX strategist role, the portfolio is paramount and serves as the primary "process and systems" demonstration. It's expected to reflect a structured, repeatable, and effective approach to delivering UX strategy services.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $45 - $65 per hour.

This rate is determined based on factors such as the candidate's experience, demonstrated skills, and alignment with the specific project scope and impact.

Benefits:

• As a freelance contractor, standard employee benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans are typically not provided.

• The primary benefit is the flexibility of project-based work, allowing for a flexible schedule and the opportunity to work with diverse clients.

• Access to project opportunities with 829 Studios, which can lead to recurring engagements and professional networking.

• Opportunity to contribute to a variety of impactful website strategy and redesign projects for established and growth-stage brands.

Working Hours: Project-based engagements will vary in scope and duration. While specific hours are not fixed, collaboration is primarily expected within Eastern Time business hours, suggesting a need for availability during core business periods for client calls and team syncs, likely around a 40-hour work week per project.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is provided. As this is a contract role, benefits are limited to those inherent in freelance work and project opportunities. The "working hours" are an estimation based on the need for collaboration within a specific timezone.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Digital Agency / Web Design & Development / Marketing Technology. 829 Studios operates within the digital services sector, focusing on creating websites and digital experiences for clients.

Company Size: The input data doesn't specify exact size, but the description implies a growing agency that "builds a bench of experienced UX strategists" and engages talent on a "project basis," suggesting a lean, agile operational structure.

Founded: The founding date is not provided. However, the company's website (829studios.com) and the description of their work suggest an established agency with experience in complex builds for established and growth-stage brands.

Team Structure:

• The agency appears to have a core team of designers, developers, and project managers, augmented by a bench of freelance specialists like UX Strategists.

• Freelancers are integrated into client project teams as needed, working alongside internal staff.

• The operational model is project-centric, with work assigned based on expertise, availability, and client requirements. Methodology:

• Client-Centric Approach: Engagements are driven by specific client needs, ranging from discovery sprints to multi-phase website strategy and redesigns.

• Agile Integration: Freelancers are expected to quickly integrate into existing project teams and deliver value with minimal oversight, indicative of agile operational practices.

• Specialized Expertise: The agency leverages a pool of talent to bring the "right expertise at the right time," emphasizing a flexible and specialized operational model.

Company Website: https://www.829studios.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is geared towards project-based delivery, requiring freelancers to be self-sufficient and adaptable. The "Operations" aspect is in how the agency manages client projects and leverages external talent efficiently.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a Mid-to-Senior level, requiring 5-10+ years of experience. It's for seasoned UX Strategists who can independently manage workstreams and client relationships.

Reporting Structure: As a freelance contractor, you will report to the project lead or account manager at 829 Studios for project-specific tasks and deliverables. You will also interface directly with clients, acting as the primary UX Strategy point of contact for your assigned projects.

Operations Impact: Your work directly impacts client success by shaping the strategic foundation of their digital presence. Effective UX strategy leads to improved user engagement, conversion rates, and ultimately, business growth for clients, which is a critical operational outcome for the agency.

Growth Opportunities:

• Recurring Engagements: Successful project delivery can lead to ongoing work with 829 Studios and their diverse client base.

• Portfolio Expansion: Working on a variety of projects for different clients provides opportunities to expand your professional portfolio and gain experience in new domains.

• Networking: Collaboration with the 829 Studios team and their clients offers valuable networking opportunities within the digital agency and client business sectors.

• Skill Specialization: The project-based nature allows you to focus on specific areas of UX Strategy that align with your expertise and interests.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth in this freelance role is tied to performance, client satisfaction, and the ability to secure repeat engagements. It's less about climbing a corporate ladder and more about building a sustainable freelance career through quality delivery and client relationships.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Fully Remote. This is a telecommuting position, meaning work is performed from a remote location, not a physical office.

Office Location(s): While the role is remote, collaboration is primarily expected within Eastern Time business hours. This implies that candidates should be located in or able to comfortably work within US Eastern Time (ET) working hours for effective communication and meetings.

Workspace Context:

• Independent Work: You will be expected to manage your own workspace and ensure you have the necessary tools and a reliable internet connection to perform your duties effectively.

• Digital Collaboration Tools: Expect to utilize various digital collaboration platforms (e.g., Slack, Zoom, email, project management software) to communicate with the 829 Studios team and clients.

• Figma Integration: Proficiency and consistent use of Figma for wireframing and design collaboration is a key part of the workspace environment.

Work Schedule: Project-based engagements will dictate the workload. While not a standard 9-to-5, candidates should be prepared to dedicate focused time to projects, with a need for availability during core Eastern Time business hours for meetings and client interactions. The flexibility of freelance work allows for some autonomy in scheduling, provided project deadlines and collaboration needs are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The remote nature is a key feature, but the ET collaboration requirement is crucial for candidates to consider. The "workspace context" emphasizes self-sufficiency and proficiency with digital collaboration tools.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Your resume and initial application will be assessed for relevant experience and qualifications.

• Portfolio Submission & Review: A strong portfolio showcasing your UX strategy process, IA, wireframing skills, and client engagement examples is critical. This will be the primary focus of the review.

• Discovery Call/Interview: Expect a conversation to discuss your experience, approach to UX strategy, client management style, and how you fit with 829 Studios' project-based operational model. This may involve discussing specific case studies from your portfolio.

• Potential Project Discussion: You might be interviewed for specific upcoming projects, where your suitability for that particular client's needs will be assessed.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Show, Don't Just Tell: Clearly articulate your process for each project. Use visuals (sitemaps, wireframes, research summaries) to support your narrative.

• Highlight Impact: Quantify results where possible. Even for strategy work, discuss how your approach contributed to client goals (e.g., improved user flows, clearer content hierarchy, better stakeholder alignment).

• Focus on Strategy-to-Execution: Ensure your portfolio demonstrates the link between your strategic thinking (research, IA) and the tangible outputs (wireframes).

• Client Interaction Examples: If possible, include examples or descriptions of how you managed client relationships, presented recommendations, and handled feedback.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your methodology for leading discovery workshops and stakeholder interviews.

• Anticipate questions about how you translate complex user needs and business requirements into actionable strategic plans and wireframes.

• Be ready to articulate your experience with Figma and other relevant UX tools.

• Prepare to discuss your approach to collaborating with cross-functional teams (designers, developers).

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process heavily relies on the portfolio. Candidates should prepare to walk through their work and articulate their strategic thinking and operational process behind it.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: Essential for creating lo-fi wireframes and communicating design thinking. Proficiency is a core requirement.

• Project Management Software: Likely used for task tracking and collaboration (e.g., Asana, Trello, Jira – though not explicitly stated, standard for agency operations).

• Communication Platforms: Tools like Slack, Zoom, Google Meet, or Microsoft Teams for daily interactions and client meetings.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Web Analytics Tools: Experience with tools like Google Analytics is beneficial for understanding user behavior and informing strategy.

• User Research Platforms: Familiarity with tools for surveys, interviews, and usability testing (e.g., UserTesting.com, SurveyMonkey, Typeform).

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly managing a CRM or automation platform, an understanding of how UX strategy integrates with marketing and sales funnels is advantageous.

• Familiarity with CMS platforms (WordPress, Drupal, Shopify) is required, indicating an understanding of content management systems that drive client websites.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Figma is a critical technical requirement. The broader toolset implies a need for adaptability and comfort with standard agency digital collaboration and research tools.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Client Success Driven: The primary focus is on delivering exceptional UX strategy that leads to tangible client outcomes and satisfaction.

• Excellence in Execution: A commitment to high-quality work, meticulous process, and delivering value on time.

• Collaboration & Integration: The ability to seamlessly integrate into project teams and work effectively with diverse skill sets.

• Proactive & Autonomous: A self-starter mentality, taking ownership of workstreams and proactively seeking solutions.

• Adaptability & Agility: The capacity to quickly understand new client contexts and adapt strategies accordingly.

Collaboration Style:

• Remote-First Collaboration: Expect to communicate primarily through digital channels, requiring clear, concise, and timely communication.

• Cross-Functional Partnership: A collaborative approach with designers, developers, and project managers is essential for successful project delivery.

• Feedback-Oriented: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback to improve project outcomes and personal development.

• Focus on Clarity: Emphasis on clear communication of ideas, strategies, and deliverables to both internal teams and clients.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture values individuals who can operate independently within a team structure, contributing specialized expertise to achieve client objectives. The "operations" aspect is in the collaborative execution of service delivery.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Diverse Client Needs: Each client will have unique business goals, user bases, and technical constraints, requiring strategic flexibility.

• Managing Project Scope & Deadlines: As a freelancer, balancing multiple projects and ensuring timely delivery can be challenging.

• Remote Collaboration Dynamics: Maintaining strong working relationships and clear communication without in-person interaction requires deliberate effort.

• Translating Vision to Lo-Fi: Effectively communicating complex strategic ideas through simple wireframes requires strong visualization and communication skills.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Exposure to Varied Industries: Working with diverse clients provides broad industry exposure and a chance to apply UX strategy across different business models.

• Refining Client Management Skills: The role offers ample opportunity to hone skills in client communication, presentation, and negotiation.

• Deepening Figma Expertise: Consistent use will further enhance proficiency in this industry-standard design tool.

• Building a Freelance Network: Successful engagements can lead to referrals and a stronger professional network within the digital agency space.

📝 Enhancement Note: The key challenge and growth opportunity lies in the autonomous, project-based nature of the work, fostering self-reliance and broad skill development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for a typical UX strategy engagement, from initial client brief to final wireframes." (Focus on your operational workflow, research methods, and strategic thinking.)

• "How do you approach stakeholder interviews and workshops to ensure you capture all critical information?" (Highlight your facilitation and questioning techniques.)

• "Walk me through a challenging project where you had to translate complex user needs into a clear information architecture and wireframe solution. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Prepare a specific case study from your portfolio.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working with 829 Studios on a freelance basis?" (Show you understand their project-based model and client focus.)

• "How do you ensure effective collaboration and communication when working remotely with a team and clients?" (Emphasize your proactive communication strategies and tool proficiency.)

• "How do you stay current with UX trends and best practices?" (Demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, clearly outline the problem, your role and process, the solutions (IA, wireframes), and the results or impact.

• Highlight Strategic Thinking: Emphasize why you made certain strategic decisions, linking them back to research and client objectives.

• Showcase Your Tools: Be ready to demo or discuss your Figma work and explain how it effectively communicates your strategy.

• Be Concise and Engaging: Present your work clearly and enthusiastically, anticipating questions about your process and rationale.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a structured, strategic, and client-focused approach to UX strategy, supported by concrete examples from your portfolio.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Ashby.

• Customize Your Resume: Highlight your 5-10+ years of UX strategy experience, emphasizing agency work, client management, and specific deliverables like IA, sitemaps, content frameworks, and wireframes. Ensure keywords like "UX Strategy," "Information Architecture," "Figma," and "Client Management" are prominent.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 of your strongest case studies that best demonstrate your process from research to wireframing, and your ability to interface with clients. Ensure it's well-organized, visually appealing, and clearly articulates your strategic thinking.

• Prepare for a Portfolio Walkthrough: Be ready to discuss your portfolio in detail during an interview, explaining your process, rationale, and the impact of your work. Practice presenting your case studies concisely.

• Research 829 Studios: Understand their client base, project types, and agency ethos. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

⚠️ 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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