Junior UX/UI Designer (m/w/d)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Junior UX/UI Designer (m/w/d)
Company: Digitale Leute School | DL Education
Location: Köln, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
Job Type: INTERN
Category: Product Design / UX/UI Operations
Date Posted: 2025-09-24T13:31:02.155
Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)
Remote Status: Remote Eligible (with in-person training component implied)

🚀 Role Summary

• This internship focuses on foundational UX/UI design principles and practical application within simulated product teams, aligning with a "learn-to-earn" model.
• The role emphasizes understanding user needs through research, translating them into tangible design artifacts like wireframes and prototypes, and iterating based on usability testing.
• Participants will gain experience working with agile methodologies, a common operational framework in tech product development.
• The program aims to provide a structured pathway into the tech industry, specifically in product design, with direct support for job placement post-completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: While labeled as an internship, the description strongly suggests a structured educational program with a vocational training component, designed to transition individuals into UX/UI roles. The "remote eligible" status likely pertains to the online learning aspect, with potential for in-person elements given the "Köln" location.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive user research to identify and deeply understand user needs, pain points, and behaviors.
• Develop detailed wireframes and interactive prototypes to visualize user flows and interface concepts.
• Design intuitive, user-centered interfaces that enhance usability and user experience for digital products.
• Execute usability testing sessions to gather feedback on designs and identify areas for improvement.
• Integrate user feedback and testing results into design iterations, demonstrating an iterative design process.
• Collaborate within simulated product teams, applying agile methodologies such as Scrum or Kanban to project execution.
• Contribute to the entire product design lifecycle, from ideation and user research to final interface design and testing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities mirror a typical junior-level UX/UI designer's tasks, with a strong emphasis on practical, hands-on project work within a training environment. The mention of agile methods indicates a need for operational efficiency and adaptability in project execution.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: No specific prior experience in design is required; enthusiasm for design, technology, and digital products is the primary prerequisite. Experience: Entry-level candidates looking for a career change or to start a career in the digital sector are encouraged to apply.

Required Skills:

• A strong passion for design, technology, and digital products, demonstrating intrinsic motivation.
• Excellent German language proficiency (C1 level or equivalent) for effective communication in training and project work, as most instruction is in German.
• High motivation and eagerness to learn new skills and concepts in UX/UI design.
• Ability to understand and articulate user needs and translate them into design solutions.
• Foundational understanding of design principles and user-centered design methodologies.
• Familiarity with collaborative work environments and team-based project execution.

Preferred Skills:

• Exposure to design thinking principles and user journey mapping.
• Basic understanding of wireframing and prototyping tools (e.g., Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD).
• Familiarity with agile development frameworks (Scrum, Kanban) and their application in product teams.
• Experience with user research techniques such as interviews, surveys, or usability testing.
• A portfolio showcasing personal projects, design challenges, or relevant academic work, even if not professionally produced.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "motivation to learn" and "no prior experience needed" positions this as an ideal entry point for career changers or recent graduates. The requirement for strong German skills is critical for successful participation and integration.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While formal professional experience isn't required, candidates are encouraged to demonstrate their passion and learning aptitude through any form of design-related work.
• This could include personal projects, design challenges completed during self-study, or academic projects that showcase problem-solving skills and design thinking.
• Focus on projects that highlight understanding user needs, developing design solutions, and iterating based on feedback.
• The portfolio should reflect a systematic approach to design, even at a foundational level, demonstrating a thought process.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates will be expected to document their design process during bootcamp projects, detailing user research methodologies, wireframing and prototyping techniques used, and the rationale behind design decisions.
• This documentation will serve as a key component for showcasing their learning and practical application of UX/UI principles.
• Emphasis will be placed on how feedback from usability testing was incorporated into design refinements, demonstrating an iterative process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "portfolio" here is less about a history of professional work and more about demonstrating potential and the ability to follow a structured design process learned during the program. It's a showcase of learning and application rather than a track record.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As this is an internship/educational program, a formal salary is not specified. Participation may be free for individuals with a "Bildungsgutschein" (education voucher). For others, the program offers significant value through training, mentorship, and job placement assistance. Benefits:

• 4 Months Online-Weiterbildung: Comprehensive, flexible online training program focused on Product Design (UX/UI).
• Certificate as Product Designer (UX/UI): Formal certification upon successful completion, validating acquired skills.
• Personal Support by Mentors: Guidance and expertise from experienced professionals in the tech industry.
• Practical Work in Simulated Product Teams: Hands-on experience in a collaborative, project-based learning environment.
• Direct Support for Job Entry: Active assistance in navigating the job market and securing employment through a strong hiring network.

Working Hours: The 4-month online training can be pursued "auch berufsbegleitend möglich" (also possible alongside other employment), suggesting flexibility in daily commitment, though a full-time equivalent of around 40 hours per week is typical for intensive bootcamps to ensure effective learning and project completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary "compensation" is the intensive training, certification, and job placement support. The mention of "Bildungsgutschein" indicates a potential for government-funded participation for eligible individuals in Germany, making it a cost-effective career transition opportunity. The flexibility for part-time study is a key benefit for those seeking to upskill without immediate full-time commitment.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Education Technology (EdTech), Professional Development, Tech Industry Networking. Digitale Leute connects professionals across Product Management, UX Design, and Engineering, aiming to shape the future of software development. Company Size: The provided data doesn't specify the exact size of Digitale Leute School | DL Education, but its network includes major tech partners like Airbnb, Porsche Digital, Atlassian, and Rewe Digital, suggesting a significant reach and influence within the tech community. Founded: The founding date is not specified, but the organization is positioned as a modern platform for digital industry professionals.

Team Structure:

• Participants will work in simulated Product Teams, mirroring how cross-functional teams operate in real tech companies.
• These teams will likely include individuals with diverse backgrounds, all focused on learning and executing product design projects.
• Mentors, who are professionals from leading tech companies, will provide guidance and support, acting as a layer of expertise and leadership.

Methodology:

• Data-driven learning and skill development are central, with a focus on practical application.
• Workflow optimization is embedded through the use of agile methods (Scrum, Kanban) in project execution.
• The program emphasizes a blend of theoretical knowledge transfer and hands-on experience, simulating real-world product development cycles.

Company Website: https://school.digitale-leute.de

📝 Enhancement Note: The company operates as an educational facilitator and a connector within the tech ecosystem. The culture is likely collaborative, forward-thinking, and focused on skill acquisition and career advancement. The partnerships with major tech companies highlight a commitment to industry relevance and high standards.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an entry-level or transitional role, specifically for individuals aspiring to become UX/UI Designers. It's designed to bridge the gap between lacking experience and being job-ready. Reporting Structure: Interns will report to program mentors and potentially project leads within their simulated product teams. The reporting structure is designed to facilitate learning and provide constructive feedback. Operations Impact: Graduates of this program are expected to have a direct impact on product development by creating user-centric designs that improve usability, customer satisfaction, and potentially drive product adoption and business metrics.

Growth Opportunities:

• Immediate Career Launch: The primary growth opportunity is securing a position as a UX/UI Designer in the tech industry, facilitated by the program's hiring network.
• Skill Specialization: Post-bootcamp, individuals can further specialize in areas of UX/UI such as user research, interaction design, visual design, or product strategy.
• Continuous Learning: The tech industry demands continuous learning, and graduates will be equipped with foundational skills to adapt to new tools, methodologies, and design challenges.
• Network Expansion: Participation provides access to a network of peers, mentors, and industry professionals, fostering long-term career development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This program is a strategic career accelerator. The "growth" is defined by the successful transition into a professional role and the subsequent opportunities for specialization and advancement within the tech product design field.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The program is described as an "Online-Weiterbildung" (online further education), suggesting that the primary mode of learning and project work is remote. However, the location in Cologne implies potential for in-person networking events, workshops, or hybrid elements, though not explicitly stated as a requirement. Office Location(s): Köln, Germany. Specific office details are not provided, but the location serves as the program's anchor.

Workspace Context:

• Participants will likely utilize digital collaboration tools for team projects and communication, such as Slack, Microsoft Teams, or project management platforms.
• Access to design software and prototyping tools is essential, and recommendations or licensing might be provided as part of the program.
• The focus is on self-directed learning and collaborative problem-solving within a virtual or hybrid team setting.

Work Schedule: The program is flexible and can be undertaken "berufsbegleitend" (alongside other employment), indicating that participants can largely set their own schedules for online learning and project work. However, to complete the intensive 4-month curriculum and project work, a significant time commitment, comparable to full-time study, is expected for optimal results.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is primarily digital and self-managed. Success hinges on discipline, effective online communication, and proactive engagement with learning materials and team members.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process: The typical interview process for such programs involves an initial application followed by an interview to assess motivation, understanding of the field, and suitability for the program.

• Application Submission: Candidates submit their application detailing their interest and background.
• Interview Stage: A personal interview (likely virtual) to discuss motivation, career aspirations, and understanding of UX/UI design. This stage assesses the "passion for design, technology & digital products" and the "motivation to learn."
• Assessment (Potential): Some programs may include a small design task or case study to evaluate foundational skills or problem-solving approaches.
• Program Acceptance: Notification of acceptance into the bootcamp.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Passion: Highlight personal projects, design challenges, or any creative work that demonstrates your interest in design and problem-solving.
• Explain Your Process: Even for personal projects, articulate your thought process: what user problem did you try to solve? How did you approach it? What did you learn?
• Focus on Iteration: If you've had a chance to get feedback on a design, show how you incorporated it. This demonstrates adaptability and a user-centric mindset.
• Highlight Motivation: Clearly articulate why you want to transition into UX/UI design and how this bootcamp will help you achieve your goals.

Challenge Preparation:

• Research UX/UI Fundamentals: Familiarize yourself with core concepts like user-centered design, usability heuristics, and the design thinking process.
• Understand the Program: Research Digitale Leute School and its mission to show genuine interest and alignment with their values.
• Prepare Your "Why": Be ready to articulate your career transition story and your specific interest in UX/UI design.
• Practice Communication: Prepare to discuss your learning style and how you best absorb new information and collaborate in a team setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application and selection process will likely focus heavily on potential and motivation, given the "no prior experience needed" aspect. Candidates should emphasize their enthusiasm, learning agility, and a clear vision for their career in UX/UI design.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design & Prototyping Software: While not explicitly named, industry-standard tools like Figma, Sketch, or Adobe XD are likely to be used and taught. Proficiency or familiarity with at least one is beneficial.
• Collaboration Platforms: Tools such as Slack, Zoom, or Microsoft Teams for communication, and potentially project management tools like Jira or Trello for agile workflow management.
• User Research Tools: Familiarity with survey platforms (e.g., SurveyMonkey, Google Forms) or tools for user interview scheduling might be advantageous.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Basic understanding of how user data and feedback are analyzed to inform design decisions.
• Experience with analytics tools is not a prerequisite but can be an advantage if acquired through personal projects.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly relevant to the Junior UX/UI Designer role in this context, as the focus is on design and user experience rather than sales or marketing operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The program will likely provide training on the essential tools. Candidates who proactively explore and gain basic familiarity with common design software will have a slight edge.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• User-Centricity: A core principle is designing with the end-user's needs and experience at the forefront of all decisions.
• Collaboration: Teamwork and cross-functional collaboration are essential, mirroring industry practices.
• Continuous Improvement: Embracing feedback, iterating on designs, and consistently seeking to enhance user experience.
• Innovation & Adaptability: A forward-thinking mindset, staying current with design trends and technologies, and being open to new approaches.
• Passion for Digital Products: A shared enthusiasm for creating effective and engaging digital solutions.

Collaboration Style:

• Constructive Feedback: Encouraging an environment where feedback is regularly exchanged and used for mutual improvement.
• Team-Based Problem Solving: Working collectively to address design challenges and achieve project goals.
• Knowledge Sharing: Actively sharing insights, learnings, and best practices within the team and potentially with the broader Digitale Leute community.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture is geared towards learning, practical application, and professional development within the tech industry's collaborative framework. Success requires an open mind, a willingness to contribute, and a positive attitude towards teamwork.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Rapid Skill Acquisition: The 4-month timeframe requires intensive learning and rapid assimilation of new skills in UX/UI design and agile methodologies.
• Bridging the Experience Gap: Transitioning from no prior experience to a job-ready professional requires significant effort and demonstrating potential.
• Navigating the Tech Job Market: Securing the first role in a competitive field can be challenging, even with program support.
• Adapting to Real-World Projects: Moving from simulated projects to real client or company projects involves adapting to different constraints, stakeholders, and project scopes.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Intensive UX/UI Training: Comprehensive curriculum covering user research, wireframing, prototyping, and usability testing.
• Industry Mentorship: Direct guidance from experienced professionals in the tech sector.
• Portfolio Development: Building a strong portfolio through practical projects that showcase design skills and process.
• Job Placement Assistance: Active support in resume writing, interview preparation, and networking to secure employment.
• Networking Opportunities: Connecting with peers, mentors, and potential employers within the Digitale Leute network.

📝 Enhancement Note: The program is designed to overcome the primary challenge for entry-level professionals: the lack of experience. The support structure is built to facilitate growth and successful career entry.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Tell me about your passion for UX/UI design and why you want to transition into this field." Prepare a compelling narrative that highlights your motivations and interests.
• "How do you approach understanding user needs?" Discuss user research methods and your thought process for empathizing with users.
• "Describe a time you had to learn a new skill quickly. How did you approach it?" This assesses your learning agility, crucial for a bootcamp.
• "What are your expectations from this bootcamp and your mentors?" Show that you've thought about what you want to gain and how you'll engage with the program.
• "How comfortable are you working in a team, especially in an agile environment?" Be ready to discuss collaborative experiences and your understanding of agile principles.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Digitale Leute and our mission?" Research the company's website and understand their role in the tech industry.
• "How do you handle constructive criticism on your work?" Demonstrate openness to feedback and a growth mindset.
• "What are your long-term career goals in product design?" Show ambition and a clear vision for your future.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Process, Not Just Polish: For any projects you present, explain the "why" and "how" behind your design choices, not just the final outcome.
• Tell a Story: Structure your project presentations as narratives – problem, solution, outcome, learnings.
• Highlight Iteration: If you received feedback and made changes, showcase that iteration process.
• Keep it Concise: Be prepared to present key projects effectively within a limited timeframe.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating enthusiasm, a proactive learning approach, and a clear understanding of the UX/UI design discipline and the program's value proposition.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on join.com.
• Prepare Your Narrative: Reflect on your motivations for a career change into UX/UI design and be ready to articulate them clearly during the interview.
• Showcase Your Potential: If you have any personal design projects, sketches, or even mood boards that demonstrate your interest and aptitude, have them ready to discuss, even if not a formal portfolio.
• Research Digitale Leute: Understand the company's mission, its partners, and the value it provides through its educational programs.
• Practice Your Introduction: Be prepared to introduce yourself, discuss your background, and explain why you are a good fit for this intensive learning program.

⚠️ 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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