Concepteur.trice UI

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Concepteur.trice UI (UI Designer) Company: Frima Studio Location: Québec, Quebec, Canada Job Type: Temps plein (Full-time) Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design Date Posted: 2025-10-02 Experience Level: 3+ Years (based on 3 years minimum experience requirement) Remote Status: Remote OK (with Quebec residency preference)

🚀 Role Summary

• Design and illustrate compelling user interface (UI) elements for video games, ensuring a visually engaging and intuitive player experience.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to define and execute the overall visual style and user experience (UX) of game projects.
• Leverage expertise in Unreal Engine for the initial integration and implementation of UI designs within the game development pipeline.
• Conduct thorough visual research and conceptualization to inform design decisions and maintain creative audacity throughout the development lifecycle.
• Develop clear navigation flowcharts and comprehensive design documentation to facilitate production team understanding and partner collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a specialized UI Design position within the video game industry, focusing on the visual and interactive elements of game interfaces. While the core responsibilities are design-centric, the integration with Unreal Engine and the need for user behavior understanding indicate a strong technical and user-centric foundation is crucial. The "operations" aspect here translates to the smooth functioning and efficient delivery of the UI design process within a broader game development framework.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Illustrate and conceptualize high-fidelity interface elements for video games, aligning with project art direction and player engagement goals.
• Conduct comprehensive visual research, mood boarding, and style exploration to establish and refine the aesthetic direction of game UIs.
• Develop intuitive navigation flowcharts (schematics) to map out user journeys and interaction pathways within the game.
• Execute initial design integration within the Unreal Engine, ensuring seamless handoff and practical implementation for the production team.
• Create and maintain detailed design documentation, including style guides, asset specifications, and functional explanations for internal teams and external partners.
• Participate actively in defining the overall visual style and user experience (UX) of a game, contributing creative ideas and solutions.
• Collaborate with game designers, artists, and developers to ensure UI designs meet technical constraints and gameplay requirements.
• Adapt and iterate on UI designs based on feedback from playtesting, team reviews, and partner consultations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative design, technical integration, and collaborative documentation. The emphasis on "initial integration" within Unreal Engine suggests a need for designers who can bridge the gap between design tools and game development environments, implying a practical understanding of implementation challenges.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• College diploma in Graphic Design, Multimedia, or a related design discipline.

Experience:

• Minimum of three (3) years of professional experience specifically in interface design for video games.

Required Skills:

• UI Design: Proven ability to design visually appealing and user-friendly interfaces for interactive applications, with a strong portfolio showcasing video game UI work.
• Unreal Engine Proficiency: Excellent knowledge and practical experience with the Unreal Engine for UI integration and development.
• Visual Research & Conceptualization: Skill in conducting effective visual research and translating concepts into compelling design elements.
• Navigation Flowcharts: Ability to create clear and logical navigation schematics that define user pathways.
• User Behavior & Ergonomics: Understanding of user behavior principles and ergonomic design to ensure an optimal player experience.
• English Language Proficiency: Strong command of English, essential for collaboration with English-speaking partners and understanding project requirements.
• Portfolio/Demo: A strong portfolio or demo reel is mandatory, showcasing relevant UI design work in video games.

Preferred Skills:

• UX Design Principles: Deeper understanding of user experience (UX) design methodologies and user-centered design processes.
• Graphic Design Software: Proficiency in industry-standard design tools such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator), Figma, Sketch, or similar.
• Game Development Pipeline: Familiarity with the broader game development lifecycle and the role of UI within it.
• Art Direction Collaboration: Experience working closely with art directors to align UI with overall game aesthetics.
• Adaptability to Target Audiences: Demonstrated ability to tailor designs effectively for different demographic groups and player types.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for 3+ years of experience and specific Unreal Engine knowledge points towards a mid-level to senior UI Designer. The emphasis on English proficiency is a critical practical requirement given the company's international collaborations. The portfolio is explicitly stated as a prerequisite, underscoring its importance in the evaluation process for a creative role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Video Game UI Case Studies: Showcase detailed projects that demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of UI design for video games, including problem definition, design process, and final implementation.
• Visual Research & Conceptualization Examples: Include examples of your visual research, mood boards, and conceptual sketches that led to the final UI designs.
• Navigation Flowchart Examples: Present clear and well-structured flowcharts that illustrate the user navigation logic within your designed interfaces.
• Unreal Engine Integration Examples: If possible, include examples or descriptions of how your UI designs were integrated or intended to be integrated within Unreal Engine.
• Demonstration of Design Adaptability: Highlight projects where you successfully adapted UI designs for different target audiences or game genres.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate your ability to document UI design workflows, including stages from initial concept to final asset delivery.
• System Integration Understanding: Show an understanding of how UI designs integrate with game engines and development systems, particularly Unreal Engine.
• Performance Analysis & Iteration: Provide examples of how you have used feedback or data to iterate on and improve UI designs.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a UI Designer role, the "portfolio" is the primary mechanism through which candidates demonstrate their process and system thinking. The emphasis here is on showcasing not just the final output but the strategic thinking, research, and technical considerations that went into creating effective game UIs, particularly within the context of Unreal Engine.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry standards for a UI Designer with 3+ years of experience in Québec, Canada, a competitive salary range would typically fall between CAD $60,000 to $85,000 annually. This estimate accounts for the specific requirements of game UI design, Unreal Engine proficiency, and the cost of living in Québec City.

Benefits:

• 4.5-Day Work Week: Enjoy a shorter work week with Fridays afternoons off year-round.
• Flexible Work Arrangements: Choose between 100% remote (for Quebec residents), hybrid, or 100% in-office work.
• Generous Vacation Policy: Up to 7 weeks of vacation per year, plus sick days and personal days.
• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Full group insurance coverage provided from the start date.
• RRSP Contribution: Company contributions to your Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP).
• Ergonomic Equipment Allowance: A CAD $400 allowance for purchasing ergonomic office equipment.
• On-Site Amenities: Access to on-site benefits such as chair massages, fresh fruit and snacks, and a gym.
• Regular Company Updates: Stay informed with regular presentations on projects and company developments.

Working Hours:

• The standard work week is 36 hours. The company offers significant flexibility, including the 4.5-day work week and various remote/hybrid options, allowing for effective management of design tasks and personal well-being.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on typical market rates for similar roles in Canada, adjusted for the specific location and industry. The benefits package is exceptionally strong, emphasizing work-life balance and employee well-being, which are key selling points for creative roles in the tech and gaming industries. The 36-hour work week is also a significant perk.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Video Game Development & Interactive Media. Frima Studio is a well-established player in the Canadian game development scene, recognized for its creative output and employee-centric culture. Company Size: Frima Studio is a significant employer in the industry, likely employing over 200 professionals, as indicated by its recognition as a top employer and its longevity. This size suggests a structured environment with established processes but retains a level of agility and collaborative spirit. Founded: Over 20 years ago, indicating a stable company with a proven track record and deep experience in the industry.

Team Structure:

• UI/UX Team Specialization: The UI Designer will be part of a dedicated UI/UX team, suggesting specialization and focused expertise within the broader studio.
• Reporting Structure: Likely reports to a Lead UI/UX Designer or Art Director, with close collaboration with game designers and programmers.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Will work extensively with game designers, programmers (especially those familiar with Unreal Engine), artists, and potentially producers to ensure cohesive game experiences.

Methodology:

• Data-Informed Design: While primarily creative, the emphasis on user behavior and ergonomics suggests a data-informed approach to UI design, where user feedback and analysis influence design decisions.
• Agile Development Practices: In the game industry, agile methodologies are common, meaning the UI team will likely work in sprints, with iterative design and feedback loops.
• Creative Audacity & Innovation: The company emphasizes "creative audacity," suggesting an environment that encourages new ideas and innovative solutions in design.

Company Website: https://frimastudio.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is clearly highlighted as a major strength, with multiple awards for being a top employer. This suggests a supportive and employee-focused environment, which is a significant draw for creative professionals. The "operations" context here is about how the creative process is managed, supported, and integrated within a larger development studio.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-level to Senior UI Designer. The requirement for 3+ years of experience and specific engine knowledge places this role beyond an entry-level position. It's a role where the individual is expected to contribute significantly to the visual and interactive design of games. Reporting Structure: The UI Designer will likely report to a Lead UI/UX Designer or Art Director. They will be a key contributor within the UI/UX team, collaborating closely with game designers and engineers. Operations Impact: The UI Designer's work directly impacts the player's perception of the game, its usability, and its overall aesthetic appeal. Effective UI design enhances player engagement, reduces frustration, and contributes significantly to the game's success and marketability. The integration of designs into Unreal Engine means their work has a direct and tangible impact on the final product.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in UI design for specific game genres or complex interactive systems.
• Lead/Senior Roles: Progress to Lead UI Designer or Senior UI/UX Designer positions, taking on more complex projects and mentorship responsibilities.
• Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Gain exposure to UX research, game design principles, and technical art through collaboration.
• Industry Trends: Stay at the forefront of UI/UX trends in the gaming industry, potentially attending conferences or pursuing advanced training.
• Contribution to Art Direction: Influence the visual identity and user experience of major game titles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for a UI Designer in a game studio is typically through increasing complexity of projects, leadership within teams, and specialization. Frima Studio's reputation as a top employer suggests they invest in employee development, making this a promising role for career advancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The company offers flexibility: 100% remote (for Quebec residents), hybrid, or 100% in-office. This caters to diverse working preferences. Office Location(s): The primary location is 395, rue Victor Revillon, Québec, Quebec, Canada. Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Even with remote options, the company fosters a sense of team cohesion and inclusivity. The emphasis on regular updates and team activities suggests a connected work environment.
• Tools & Technology: Access to necessary design software and the Unreal Engine development environment. The ergonomic equipment allowance further supports a comfortable and productive workspace.
• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with designers, artists, and developers, whether in person or through digital collaboration tools.

Work Schedule: The standard work week is 36 hours, with a 4.5-day schedule (Fridays afternoons off). This allows for focused work periods and ample time for personal pursuits, which is particularly beneficial for creative roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The significant flexibility in work arrangement is a standout feature, appealing to a broad range of candidates. The company's commitment to employee well-being is evident in the ergonomic allowance and the structured work-life balance initiatives.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess basic qualifications and relevant experience.
• Technical Interview/Portfolio Review: In-depth discussion of the candidate's portfolio, focusing on design process, problem-solving, and Unreal Engine familiarity. This may include a live design challenge or a detailed walkthrough of past projects.
• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Meeting with potential team members (other designers, art director, etc.) to assess collaboration style, communication skills, and alignment with Frima's culture.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader to discuss overall fit, career aspirations, and final offer details.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate for Relevance: Showcase 3-5 of your strongest video game UI design projects. Prioritize those that best demonstrate your skills in Unreal Engine integration, user behavior consideration, and visual research.
• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem you were solving, your design process (ideation, research, iteration), your specific contributions, and the outcome or impact.
• Highlight Unreal Engine Integration: If possible, include visual examples or descriptions of how your designs were implemented or would be implemented in Unreal Engine. This is a critical requirement.
• Demonstrate Adaptability: Include examples that show your ability to design for different genres or target audiences.
• Professional Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, easy to navigate, and visually polished. A dedicated section for UI flowcharts and visual research is recommended.

Challenge Preparation:

• UI Flowchart Exercise: Be prepared to sketch out a user flow for a common game scenario or feature.
• Design Critique: You may be asked to critique an existing UI and suggest improvements.
• Unreal Engine Fundamentals: Refresh your knowledge of Unreal Engine's UI system (UMG - Unreal Motion Graphics) and common integration methods.
• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Think about how you would approach designing a UI for a novel game mechanic or a challenging user interaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a creative role like this heavily relies on the portfolio. Candidates should be ready to defend their design choices, articulate their process, and demonstrate practical knowledge of the required tools and principles.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Unreal Engine (UMG): Essential for UI implementation and integration. Proficiency is non-negotiable.
• UI/UX Design Software:
  • Figma/Sketch/Adobe XD: For wireframing, prototyping, and high-fidelity UI design.
  • Adobe Photoshop/Illustrator: For asset creation, image editing, and vector graphics.
• Visual Research & Mood Board Tools: Pinterest, Milanote, Miro, or similar platforms for gathering inspiration and conceptualizing visual styles.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary focus for the UI Designer role, familiarity with analytics tools used to track user engagement with UI elements could be beneficial for understanding design impact.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this role, as it is design-focused rather than sales or marketing operations. However, understanding how UI designs support user journeys within a broader product ecosystem is implied.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Unreal Engine is a key differentiator. Candidates should be able to speak fluently about their experience using UMG or similar UI tools within the engine. Proficiency in standard design software is also a baseline expectation.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creative Audacity: A willingness to explore bold, innovative design solutions.
• Collaboration & Inclusivity: Working effectively with diverse teams, valuing different perspectives, even in remote settings.
• Well-being & Balance: Prioritizing employee health and work-life balance through flexible schedules and generous time off.
• Rigor & Professionalism: Maintaining high standards of quality, detail, and accountability in all design work.
• Adaptability: Ability to adjust designs to meet evolving project requirements and diverse audience needs.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with game designers, programmers, and artists to ensure UI is a cohesive part of the game.
• Feedback-Driven Process: Open to constructive criticism and iterative design based on team and player feedback.
• Knowledge Sharing: Contributing to a culture where design insights and best practices are shared among team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: Frima Studio's culture appears to be a significant draw, emphasizing creativity, employee welfare, and a collaborative spirit. This is crucial for attracting and retaining talent in the competitive game development industry.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Aesthetics and Functionality: The core challenge of UI design is creating interfaces that are both visually stunning and highly functional, especially within the demanding constraints of game development.
• Unreal Engine Integration Nuances: Navigating the technical aspects of integrating UI designs into Unreal Engine, ensuring optimal performance and compatibility.
• Adapting to Diverse Game Projects: Successfully shifting design styles and approaches for different game genres, target audiences, and art directions.
• Remote Collaboration Effectiveness: Maintaining strong communication and creative synergy with team members when working remotely or in a hybrid model.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Unreal Engine UI: Deepen expertise in UMG and other Unreal Engine tools for UI development.
• UX Research & Testing: Gain hands-on experience with user research methodologies to inform design decisions.
• Game Design Fundamentals: Develop a stronger understanding of game mechanics and player psychology to create more impactful UIs.
• Industry Conferences & Workshops: Opportunities to attend events like GDC (Game Developers Conference) or specialized UI/UX workshops.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are inherent to the role and industry, offering opportunities for significant skill development and professional growth. Frima's commitment to employee well-being suggests support for navigating these challenges.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for designing a new UI element from concept to implementation, specifically for a video game. How do you incorporate user behavior and ergonomics?"
• "Walk us through a challenging UI project in your portfolio. What was the problem, what was your approach, and what was the outcome? How did you handle integration with Unreal Engine?"
• "How do you approach defining the visual style for a game's UI? What steps do you take to ensure it aligns with the overall art direction?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Frima Studio and our work in the video game industry?"
• "How do you contribute to a collaborative and inclusive team environment, especially in a remote or hybrid setting?"
• "How do you stay updated on the latest UI/UX trends in gaming?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Process: For each project, clearly explain your thought process, research, and iterative steps. Don't just show the final screens.
• Quantify Impact (if possible): If you have data on user feedback or engagement related to your UI designs, present it.
• Unreal Engine Integration Emphasis: Be ready to discuss your practical experience with Unreal Engine's UI tools (UMG) and how you've approached implementation challenges.
• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your portfolio efficiently, focusing on the most relevant aspects for this role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for a blend of creative talent, technical proficiency (especially with Unreal Engine), and strong collaborative skills. Being able to articulate your design process and justify your choices is paramount.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this UI Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on SmartRecruiters.
• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your resume and portfolio are tailored to highlight your experience in video game UI design and your proficiency with Unreal Engine.
• Resume Optimization: Use keywords from the job description such as "UI Design," "Unreal Engine," "User Behavior," "Ergonomics," and "Video Games" to optimize your resume for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
• Portfolio Walkthrough Practice: Rehearse presenting your portfolio, focusing on clear explanations of your design process, challenges, and outcomes, especially regarding Unreal Engine integration.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Frima Studio's recent projects, company culture, and their reputation as a top employer in the gaming industry.

⚠️ 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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