(Junior) UX Designer (all genders)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Junior UX Designer (all genders)
Company: JAKALA Germany GmbH
Location: Hamburg, Germany (Hybrid/Remote options available in Berlin, Germany & Vienna, Austria)
Job Type: Full-time / Part-time
Category: UX Design / Digital Product Design
Date Posted: January 20, 2026
Experience Level: Junior (0-2 years)
Remote Status: Hybrid / Remote

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on translating user needs into intuitive and effective digital interfaces, bridging the gap between user experience and business objectives.
• You will be instrumental in crafting information architectures and user flows, ensuring a seamless and engaging user journey for diverse client projects.
• The position involves collaborative work within interdisciplinary teams, including UI designers, developers, and project managers, to bring innovative digital products to life.
• You will have the opportunity to develop and proactively advance concepts for digital products, contributing fresh perspectives and driving innovation from ideation to execution.
• This role requires strong communication skills to represent and advocate for product concepts internally and externally in client meetings and workshops.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Junior UX Designer," the description implies a role with significant growth potential, allowing the candidate to "piece by piece take conceptual responsibility" and "proactively develop these concepts further." This suggests that while initial experience is valued, a strong aptitude for strategic thinking and independent development will be highly regarded. The inclusion of "all genders" indicates a commitment to diversity and inclusion.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams (UI Design, Development, Project Management) to conceptualize and realize diverse digital projects.
• Create robust information architectures and goal-oriented user flows, prioritizing intuitive user guidance and a positive user experience.
• Support the development of concepts for new digital products ("from scratch") and the optimization of existing ones, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative ideas.
• Take on increasing conceptual responsibility for your ideas, proactively developing them to drive innovation and enhance product offerings.
• Act as a key point of contact for product concepts, engaging in internal team discussions and external client meetings/workshops, and persuasively representing your visions.
• Conduct user research and analysis to identify user needs, pain points, and opportunities for product improvement.
• Translate complex business requirements and user needs into clear, actionable design specifications and wireframes.
• Participate in design sprints, workshops, and client presentations, effectively communicating design rationale and solutions.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of design processes and methodologies within the team.
• Stay updated on the latest UX/UI trends, tools, and best practices to ensure cutting-edge design solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of tactical design execution and strategic conceptualization. The emphasis on "proactively develop these concepts further" and "representing your visions persuasively" suggests that candidates should be comfortable taking initiative and advocating for their design decisions. The mention of "various clients and exciting pitches" indicates exposure to a dynamic agency environment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• A degree in Design (e.g., Interaction Design, Graphic Design, Digital Design), Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Psychology, or a related field is typically preferred.
• Equivalent practical experience demonstrating strong UX design capabilities will also be considered.

Experience:

• Initial experience in UX design, preferably within an agency setting or on client-facing projects.
• Demonstrated ability to translate user needs and business goals into effective digital product designs.

Required Skills:

• UX Design Fundamentals: Solid understanding of UX principles, user-centered design methodologies, and the design thinking process.
• Information Architecture & User Flows: Proficiency in creating logical site maps, user journey maps, and intuitive user flows.
• Prototyping & Wireframing Tools: Hands-on experience with industry-standard tools such as Figma and Keynote.
• Analytical & Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to analyze complex problems, identify root causes, and develop user-centric, data-informed solutions.
• Communication & Presentation Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly articulate design concepts and rationale to diverse audiences (internal teams, clients).
• Strategic Thinking: Capacity to see the "big picture" and understand how design decisions align with broader business objectives and client goals.
• Team Collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary teams, fostering a collaborative and productive environment.
• Motivation & Solution Orientation: Proactive, results-driven approach with a passion for developing and improving products and client relationships.
• Language Proficiency: Fluent in German and English, both written and spoken, for effective communication in a hybrid/remote setting.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with user research methodologies (e.g., interviews, surveys, usability testing).
• Familiarity with UI design principles and visual design.
• Knowledge of agile development methodologies.
• Experience in client-facing roles, including workshop facilitation and presentation.
• Understanding of sustainable design practices and their integration into product development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Junior" designation, coupled with the expectation of analytical skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to present persuasively, suggests that while extensive experience isn't mandatory, a strong foundation and a proactive attitude are crucial. The preference for agency experience points towards a fast-paced, client-driven environment.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case Studies: Showcase 2-3 comprehensive case studies demonstrating your UX design process from problem identification to solution implementation.
• Process Visualization: Clearly illustrate your design thinking journey, including user research, ideation, wireframing, prototyping, and testing phases.
• Problem/Solution Framing: For each case study, clearly articulate the problem statement, your role, the design challenges, and the proposed solutions.
• Impact & Metrics: Quantify the impact of your designs where possible, using metrics related to user satisfaction, task completion rates, conversion improvements, or other relevant KPIs. If direct metrics are unavailable, articulate the anticipated impact and rationale.
• Tool Proficiency: Include examples that highlight your proficiency with tools such as Figma and Keynote.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate your ability to document and communicate design processes effectively, whether through detailed case studies, process diagrams, or workflow explanations.
• Highlight your understanding of how to integrate UX design processes within broader project management and development lifecycles.
• Showcase an approach to iterative design and feedback incorporation, demonstrating how you refine concepts based on insights.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Junior UX Designer role, the portfolio is paramount. It needs to convey not just aesthetic design skills but a structured, user-centered approach. The emphasis on problem-solving and strategic thinking means case studies should clearly link design decisions to business and user outcomes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• For a Junior UX Designer with 0-2 years of experience in Hamburg, Germany, the estimated annual salary range is typically between €38,000 and €50,000. This estimate considers the cost of living in Hamburg, industry standards for junior design roles, and the hybrid/remote work options.

Benefits:

• Flexible Employment: Option for Full-time or Part-time employment, catering to individual needs.
• Hybrid Work Model: Flexibility to work remotely or from the office, with flexible working hours.
• Collaborative Culture: An open and team-oriented company culture that values employee ideas.
• Employee Appreciation: A culture that genuinely values and recognizes employee contributions.
• Commuting Support: Subsidy for public transport (ÖPNV) and a bike leasing option.
• Wellness: Urban Sports Club Membership for health and fitness.
• Team Engagement: Weekly joint breakfast or lunch to foster team connection.
• Unique Perks: Opportunity to join the company's Hamburg band (seeking a drummer).

Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, with flexibility offered due to the hybrid work model. Part-time options are also available.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on industry benchmarks for junior UX designers in Germany. Actual compensation may vary based on specific experience, qualifications, and negotiation. The benefits package emphasizes work-life balance, employee well-being, and a strong sense of community.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Digital Transformation Consulting / Technology Services / Marketing Technology. JAKALA operates at the intersection of technology, marketing, and consulting, helping clients navigate digital transformation. Company Size: JAKALA is a growing international company. While the specific size of the German entity isn't detailed, the overall organization is substantial, suggesting access to resources and a broad client base. Founded: JAKALA was founded in 2009, with a significant evolution into becoming a Benefit Corporation in 2021, underscoring a commitment to sustainability and ethical business practices.

Team Structure:

• The UX Design team is part of a larger interdisciplinary structure, working closely with UI Design, Development, and Project Management.
• This collaborative setup implies a matrixed reporting structure where designers contribute to various client projects under the guidance of project leads and design managers.
• Cross-functional collaboration is a core tenet, emphasizing shared responsibility and collective problem-solving.

Methodology:

• User-Centric Design: A strong emphasis on understanding and designing for user needs is central to their approach.
• Agile & Iterative Processes: Expectation of working within agile frameworks, allowing for flexibility, rapid iteration, and continuous improvement.
• Data-Informed Decisions: While not explicitly stated for UX, the company's broader focus on digital transformation and client success suggests an appreciation for data to inform design and strategy.
• Client Collaboration: Regular interaction with clients through meetings and workshops is a key part of the design and delivery process.

Company Website: https://jakala.com/de/

📝 Enhancement Note: JAKALA's identity as a Benefit Corporation is a significant cultural indicator, highlighting a commitment beyond profit to environmental and social responsibility. This ethos likely permeates their project work and internal operations. The company's focus on digital transformation suggests a dynamic and forward-thinking environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Junior UX Designer. This role is positioned at the entry-level for a specialized design career path. It involves learning and applying established UX principles and methodologies under guidance, while gradually taking on more complex tasks and responsibilities. Reporting Structure: The Junior UX Designer will likely report to a Senior UX Designer, a Design Lead, or a Project Manager. They will work closely with UI Designers, Developers, and other cross-functional team members on a project-by-project basis. Operations Impact: While the role is not directly within revenue or sales operations, the UX designer's work has a significant indirect impact on revenue by improving user engagement, conversion rates, and customer satisfaction for client digital products. Enhancing the user experience directly contributes to client success and retention, which in turn drives JAKALA's business.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas of UX, such as user research, interaction design, or information architecture.
• Project Leadership: Progression towards leading design efforts on smaller projects or specific features, with increasing autonomy and client interaction.
• Mentorship: Access to guidance from senior designers and potential for formal mentorship programs.
• Cross-functional Learning: Exposure to UI design, development processes, and project management, broadening overall understanding of digital product creation.
• Client Engagement: Development of client-facing skills, including presentation, workshop facilitation, and strategic consultation.
• Industry Exposure: Working with a variety of clients across different industries provides broad exposure to different business challenges and design contexts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Junior" title implies a structured learning and development path. The company's emphasis on innovation and client success suggests that high performers will be given opportunities to grow and take on more challenging responsibilities. The hybrid/remote model also offers flexibility in how and where growth occurs.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid model, combining remote work with in-office collaboration. The office environment in Hamburg is likely modern and designed to foster collaboration. Office Location(s): Hamburg, with remote/hybrid options also extending to Berlin and Vienna. This provides geographical flexibility for candidates. Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: Offices are expected to have areas conducive to team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and collaborative design work.
• Technology & Tools: Access to necessary design software (Figma, Keynote) and potentially other collaboration tools essential for remote and hybrid teams.
• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with design peers, developers, and project teams, both in person and virtually, to ensure alignment and knowledge sharing.

Work Schedule: Flexible working hours are offered within the hybrid model, allowing for a balance between project deadlines, team collaboration needs, and personal work preferences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid and remote options are significant aspects of the work environment, requiring strong self-discipline and communication skills from employees. The company's culture likely supports asynchronous communication and digital collaboration tools to bridge geographical distances.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a brief call with HR or a recruiter to assess basic qualifications, cultural fit, and interest.
• Portfolio Review & Technical Interview: A more in-depth session with a senior designer or design lead to discuss your portfolio, design process, and problem-solving skills. Expect to walk through case studies and answer questions about your approach.
• Team/Cross-functional Interview: An opportunity to meet potential colleagues from UI design, development, or project management. This assesses collaboration style and ability to work within interdisciplinary teams.
• Final Interview: May involve a discussion with a hiring manager or department head, focusing on strategic thinking, career aspirations, and overall fit with JAKALA's culture and values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Process: Clearly articulate your design process for each case study. Show, don't just tell, how you approach problems.
• Highlight Your Role: Be specific about your contributions, especially if it was a team project. Use "I" statements for your individual actions and "we" for team efforts.
• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, include metrics that demonstrate the success or impact of your designs. If direct metrics aren't available, explain the intended impact and rationale.
• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize projects that align with the responsibilities and requirements outlined in the job description, such as user flows, information architecture, and client-facing work.
• Showcase Tool Proficiency: Ensure examples of your work clearly demonstrate your skills with Figma and Keynote.
• Be Ready to Discuss: Prepare to talk about your design decisions, trade-offs considered, and lessons learned from each project.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for potential design challenges or exercises, which might involve analyzing a problem, sketching solutions, or refining an existing concept.
• Practice articulating your thought process clearly and concisely, especially under time constraints.
• Consider how you would approach a situation where business goals and user needs might seem to conflict, and how you would navigate that.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is the most critical component for this role. Candidates should curate their best work, focusing on demonstrating a strong understanding of the UX process and its impact. The emphasis on client interaction means presentation skills and the ability to articulate design rationale are key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: Essential for wireframing, prototyping, and collaborative design. Proficiency in creating interactive prototypes, component libraries, and design systems is highly valued.
• Keynote: Used for presentations, concept development, and client proposals.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly listed as a primary tool for the UX Designer, familiarity with analytics platforms (e.g., Google Analytics, Hotjar, Mixpanel) can be beneficial for understanding user behavior and informing design decisions.
• Understanding how to interpret data from these tools to justify design choices is a plus.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly relevant to the core UX design function, but awareness of how user experience impacts CRM adoption and customer journey automation can provide valuable context.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Figma and Keynote indicates these are the core tools for this role. Candidates should be able to demonstrate proficiency and ideally advanced usage within these platforms. Familiarity with user research and analytics tools would be a strong differentiator.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• User Centricity: A deep commitment to understanding and advocating for the end-user in all design decisions.
• Collaboration: Emphasis on working effectively within interdisciplinary teams, valuing diverse perspectives and shared ownership.
• Innovation: A drive to explore new ideas, challenge the status quo, and develop creative solutions for clients.
• Impact & Sustainability: A focus on creating meaningful value for clients and users, with an underlying commitment to sustainable business practices (as reflected in the Benefit Corporation status).
• Openness & Appreciation: A culture that encourages open communication, values employee contributions, and fosters a positive work environment.

Collaboration Style:

• Interdisciplinary Integration: Seamlessly working with UI designers, developers, project managers, and client stakeholders.
• Proactive Communication: Maintaining clear and consistent communication, especially in a hybrid/remote setting, to ensure alignment and progress.
• Feedback-Driven: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback to continuously improve designs and processes.
• Client-Focused Partnership: Collaborating closely with clients to understand their needs, present solutions, and build strong working relationships.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's "Benefit Corporation" status is a strong indicator of values extending beyond profit, emphasizing ethical practices and sustainability. This likely influences how projects are approached and how teams interact.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing User Needs and Business Goals: Navigating situations where user desires might conflict with client business objectives, requiring strong negotiation and strategic design thinking.
• Adapting to Diverse Client Requirements: Working with a variety of clients across different industries means quickly understanding new contexts, user bases, and business challenges.
• Managing Remote/Hybrid Collaboration: Effectively communicating and collaborating with team members and clients across different locations and time zones.
• Rapid Iteration in an Agency Setting: The pace of agency work often demands quick turnarounds and the ability to adapt designs based on evolving feedback and project scopes.
• Translating Complex Ideas: Effectively simplifying complex technical or business requirements into intuitive user experiences.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deepening UX Expertise: Opportunities to specialize in areas like user research, interaction design, or information architecture through hands-on project work and potential training.
• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Gaining experience across a wide range of client projects and industries, broadening your portfolio and problem-solving toolkit.
• Mentorship and Senior Guidance: Learning from experienced designers and project leads within the company.
• Developing Client-Facing Skills: Opportunities to hone presentation, workshop facilitation, and client management abilities.
• Understanding Digital Transformation: Gaining insights into broader digital strategy and transformation challenges faced by clients.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for junior roles in consulting/agency environments, offering significant learning opportunities. The company's focus on digital transformation and its Benefit Corporation status provide a unique context for growth.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance conflicting user needs with business requirements. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Prepare a case study demonstrating your problem-solving and negotiation skills.)
• "How would you approach designing a new feature for [mention a type of digital product, e.g., an e-commerce app]? Walk me through your process." (Be ready to outline your UX process from research to iteration, highlighting your use of tools like Figma.)
• "Imagine a client is hesitant about a design recommendation you've made. How would you persuade them?" (Focus on articulating your rationale, using data, and demonstrating understanding of their business goals.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about JAKALA's work, particularly our approach as a Benefit Corporation?" (Research JAKALA's sustainability initiatives and connect them to your own values.)
• "How do you approach collaboration within an interdisciplinary team, especially in a hybrid/remote setting?" (Provide examples of successful team projects and your communication strategies.)
• "How do you ensure your designs align with business objectives while prioritizing user needs?" (Discuss your understanding of the interplay between UX and business outcomes.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, clearly define the problem, your role, the process, the solution, and the impact.
• Visual Storytelling: Use visuals (screenshots, wireframes, flow diagrams) to illustrate your process and design decisions effectively.
• Highlight Your Thinking: Focus on explaining the "why" behind your design choices, not just the "what."
• Be Concise and Engaging: Practice presenting your work within a reasonable timeframe, keeping the audience engaged.
• Prepare for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your design decisions, trade-offs, and future iterations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should heavily emphasize the candidate's ability to articulate their thought process and demonstrate a user-centered, business-aware approach. The portfolio presentation is key to showcasing these skills.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Junior UX Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on join.com.
• Portfolio Customization: Curate your portfolio to showcase 2-3 projects that best highlight your UX design process, focusing on information architecture, user flows, and problem-solving. Ensure your role and contributions are clear.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize relevant UX skills, tools (Figma, Keynote), and any agency or client-facing experience. Quantify achievements where possible.
• Interview Preparation: Practice presenting your portfolio case studies, focusing on articulating your design thinking and rationale. Prepare answers for common UX interview questions and questions related to JAKALA's values.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research JAKALA, its services, its work as a Benefit Corporation, and recent projects. Understand their approach to digital transformation and client collaboration.

⚠️ 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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