Principal, Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Principal, Designer Company: DEPT® Location: United States Job Type: Full-time Category: Design Operations / Creative Operations Date Posted: September 11, 2025 Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years) Remote Status: Remote (US)

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the creation of industry-leading digital experiences for prominent clients across lifestyle and technology sectors, focusing on setting new design standards.
• Lead conceptualization, production, sketching, prototyping, and strategic planning for complex digital projects, including websites, branding, content, and campaigns.
• Foster a collaborative environment, mentoring junior designers and guiding teams to achieve project objectives with a focus on "best idea wins" methodology.
• Translate business strategy into compelling creative execution, ensuring design solutions deliver tangible results and align with client objectives.
• Act as a proactive problem-solver in a dynamic environment with evolving processes, demonstrating strong ownership and an entrepreneurial spirit.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Principal, Designer," the responsibilities and experience level (5-7 years) suggest a role that bridges senior design execution with emerging leadership and strategic contribution. The emphasis on "less process" and "proactive problem-solving" indicates a need for adaptable, self-sufficient individuals accustomed to high-growth agency environments. The role is positioned to influence creative direction and client outcomes.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, design, and deliver high-quality digital experiences, including websites, branding, content, and integrated campaigns for key clients.
• Develop detailed design documentation, including asset kits, style guides, and specifications for developers and cross-functional teams.
• Lead the design process from initial concept through final execution, utilizing sketching, wireframing, prototyping, and user-centered design principles.
• Bring business strategy to life through impactful creative execution, ensuring design solutions are aligned with client goals and drive measurable results.
• Present and articulate design vision, rationale, and outcomes clearly and persuasively to internal teams and external stakeholders at all levels.
• Oversee and mentor junior design talent, providing guidance, feedback, and support to ensure project success and professional development.
• Proactively identify and solve design and process challenges in a fluid agency environment, demonstrating initiative and strategic thinking.
• Leverage motion design or high-fidelity prototyping to bring concepts to life and communicate complex interactions effectively.
• Ensure consistency in design and communication across all touchpoints, from product interfaces to client presentations.
• Seek opportunities to enhance usability and simplicity in all design outputs, focusing on user experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of hands-on design execution and strategic leadership. The need to "bring business strategy to creative execution" and "oversee junior talent" indicates a role that requires not only strong design craft but also the ability to influence project direction and mentor team members. The emphasis on "less process" and "proactive problem-solving" suggests DEPT® values initiative and adaptability in its design team.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Design, Graphic Design, Interaction Design, Human-Computer Interaction, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.

Experience: 5-7 years of professional design experience, preferably within a fast-paced agency environment or a similar creative setting.

Required Skills:

• Proven expertise in visual design principles, including layout, color theory, and typography.
• Strong understanding of user-centered experience design (UX) and interaction design (IxD) methodologies.
• Demonstrated ability in brand development and applying brand guidelines across various digital touchpoints.
• Proficiency in modern design and prototyping tools (e.g., Figma, Sketch, Adobe Creative Suite, Principle, InVision).
• Excellent presentation and communication skills, with the ability to articulate design decisions and rationale to diverse audiences.
• Proven experience in leading internal teams, providing strategic vision, and offering creative inspiration.
• A strong point of view on design trends and best practices, coupled with a highly collaborative and adaptable nature.
• Entrepreneurial spirit and the ability to work independently, taking ownership of projects and driving them to completion.
• Passion for lifestyle, fashion, entertainment, and technology sectors, with the ability to translate this passion into compelling design solutions.
• Flexibility and a positive attitude towards problem-solving and embracing new challenges.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with motion design tools (e.g., After Effects) to create dynamic visual elements and prototypes.
• Demonstrated ability to apply design thinking principles to complex business challenges.
• Experience in creating and managing design systems.
• Familiarity with front-end development concepts and how design translates into code.
• A diverse portfolio showcasing a wide range of design aesthetics and problem-solving approaches.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a blend of technical design skills and soft skills crucial for agency life. The "5-7 years" experience level suggests a senior individual contributor who can also guide others. The preference for a "diverse sense of taste" and "passion for lifestyle, fashion, entertainment, and technology" indicates a desire for designers who are culturally aware and can adapt their style to various client needs and industries.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated selection of digital projects demonstrating expertise in visual design, user experience, and interaction design across various platforms (websites, apps, campaigns).
• Case studies that clearly articulate the design challenge, the user-centered approach, the creative process, and the impact of the design solutions.
• Examples showcasing brand development and the application of brand identity across digital touchpoints.
• Prototypes or motion design examples that illustrate user flows, interactions, and the overall user experience.
• Documentation samples, such as style guides, asset kits, or process flow diagrams, if available.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate an understanding of how to document design processes, including workflow design, user journey mapping, and asset handoff procedures.
• Showcase an ability to create clear and concise documentation that facilitates effective collaboration with developers and other team members.
• Provide evidence of how you approach problem-solving in situations with minimal existing process, highlighting adaptability and proactive solution development.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Principal Designer role in an agency, a portfolio is paramount. It should not only showcase aesthetic quality but also the thought process behind the design. The emphasis on "less process in place, solving problems through proactive problem-solving" means candidates should highlight instances where they've established or improved design workflows and documentation. Demonstrating the ability to create "asset kits" and "documentation" for developers is key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $106,900 - $160,400 USD per year.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Healthcare, Dental, and Vision coverage.
• 401k plan with employer matching contributions.
• Paid Time Off (PTO) for work-life balance.
• Paid Company Holidays for recognized holidays.
• Parental Leave to support new parents.

Working Hours: The role is based on a 40-hour workweek, with the expectation of flexibility to meet client and project demands, common in agency environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is competitive for a Principal Designer role in the US remote market, reflecting the seniority and expected impact. The benefits package is standard for a full-time position and aligns with industry expectations for a company of DEPT®'s size and scope. The mention of flexibility in working hours is typical for agency roles where project deadlines can necessitate extended effort.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Digital Services / Technology / Marketing Agency Company Size: 2,500+ employees globally. This size offers opportunities for global collaboration and diverse project exposure, while the "boutique culture" aims to maintain a sense of intimacy and agility within teams. Founded: DEPT® was founded in 2015, positioning it as a relatively modern agency built on digital foundations, emphasizing innovation and forward-thinking approaches.

Team Structure:

• The Principal Designer will report to a Creative Director, indicating a hierarchical structure within the creative department but with an emphasis on leadership guidance.
• Design teams likely consist of various levels of designers, strategists, project managers, and developers, requiring strong cross-functional collaboration.
• The agency's global presence suggests opportunities to work with diverse teams and on international projects, fostering a broad perspective.

Methodology:

• DEPT® emphasizes a "new model of agency" with a deep skillset in tech and marketing, suggesting a data-informed and technology-driven approach to creative execution.
• The culture prioritizes innovation, curiosity, and self-driven individuals who are "leaning forward" and "always innovating."
• A "best-idea-wins" philosophy encourages open collaboration and valuing contributions from all levels.

Company Website: www.deptagency.com

📝 Enhancement Note: DEPT® presents itself as a digitally native agency focused on innovation and client results. The company's B Corp certification and commitment to purpose-driven work suggest a culture that values social responsibility alongside business objectives. The "small enough to care" aspect of their culture implies a focus on individual growth and team support despite the large global footprint.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a "Principal" designer, typically indicating a senior individual contributor with significant experience and influence. It suggests a level where one is expected to lead projects, mentor others, and contribute to the strategic direction of the design practice.

Reporting Structure: The Principal Designer reports to the Creative Director. This structure implies a clear line of reporting for creative strategy and project oversight, with opportunities to influence upwards and laterally.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts client success by designing "standard-setting products" and driving "business strategy to creative execution to drive results." This means the designer's work has a tangible effect on client brand perception, user engagement, and potentially revenue generation through optimized digital experiences.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Deepen expertise in specific design disciplines (e.g., interaction design, motion graphics, design systems) through challenging client projects and internal knowledge sharing.
• Leadership Development: Progress into more senior leadership roles, such as Design Lead, Art Director, or Creative Director, by demonstrating strong project leadership, team mentorship, and strategic thinking.
• Client Relationship Management: Develop stronger client-facing skills and potentially take on more direct client management responsibilities.
• Specialization: Focus on specific industry verticals or types of digital products that align with personal interests and company growth areas.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Principal" title in design often signifies a path towards leadership or deep specialization. Given the agency context, growth could involve managing larger accounts, leading larger creative teams, or becoming a recognized expert within DEPT®'s network. The emphasis on mentoring junior talent also points towards a leadership development track.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: While the role is remote, DEPT® generally fosters a collaborative and open-door environment, which likely translates to virtual collaboration tools and practices that encourage team interaction.

Office Location(s): The job is listed as remote within the United States, indicating flexibility in geographic location for the candidate, with potential for occasional travel to client sites or DEPT® offices for key meetings or workshops.

Workspace Context:

• Collaboration: Expect frequent collaboration with diverse teams (strategy, development, account management) using digital tools. The culture supports the "best-idea-wins" philosophy, encouraging active participation.
• Technology: Access to industry-standard design and prototyping software will be essential, and DEPT® likely provides or supports access to necessary tools.
• Team Interaction: Regular virtual meetings, design critiques, and brainstorming sessions will be part of the daily routine, fostering connection and idea exchange.

Work Schedule: The standard 40-hour workweek is noted, but agency environments often require flexibility to meet project deadlines and client needs. This means occasional extended hours or weekend work might be necessary, balanced by the remote flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: As a remote role, the work environment is heavily reliant on digital communication platforms and self-management. The "boutique culture" within a large global organization suggests that even remotely, there's an emphasis on personal connection and collaborative problem-solving, rather than a purely transactional work relationship.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and creative output.
• Hiring Manager/Creative Director Interview: Discussion about experience, design philosophy, leadership style, and alignment with DEPT®'s culture. Expect questions on past projects and how you approach challenges.
• Design Challenge/Presentation: A practical exercise or review of existing portfolio pieces to evaluate design skills, strategic thinking, problem-solving abilities, and presentation clarity. This may involve presenting a case study or tackling a hypothetical design problem.
• Team/Cross-functional Interview: Meeting with potential colleagues from design, development, or strategy teams to assess collaboration skills and cultural fit.
• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss overall fit and strategic contributions.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects that showcase a range of skills (visual design, UX, branding, problem-solving). Prioritize projects relevant to lifestyle, fashion, entertainment, or technology if possible.
• Tell a Story: For each case study, clearly outline the problem, your role, the process, key decisions, and the measurable outcome or impact. Focus on the "why" behind your design choices.
• Showcase Process: Include sketches, wireframes, user flows, and iterations to demonstrate your design thinking and problem-solving approach, especially highlighting how you navigate "less process."
• Highlight Collaboration: If possible, mention how you collaborated with teams, stakeholders, or clients, and how you handled feedback.
• Presentation Ready: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate. Be prepared to walk through it confidently and answer in-depth questions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand DEPT®: Research their client roster, recent work, and company values. Tailor your approach to align with their style and ethos.
• Problem-Solving Framework: Be ready to articulate a clear process for tackling design challenges, emphasizing user needs, business goals, and iterative refinement.
• Presentation Skills: Practice presenting your work concisely and persuasively, anticipating questions about your design decisions, rationale, and impact.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process likely involves a strong emphasis on portfolio presentation and how candidates approach ambiguity. The ability to articulate a clear design process, even in the absence of pre-defined structures, will be crucial. Candidates should prepare to discuss their leadership style, mentorship approach, and how they drive creative excellence.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design & Prototyping: Figma, Sketch, Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), Principle, InVision, Miro (for collaboration/whiteboarding).
• Motion Design: Adobe After Effects, potentially Principle or similar tools for interactive prototypes.
• Documentation: Confluence, Notion, or similar platforms for creating and sharing design documentation, style guides, and asset kits.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary responsibility for a designer, familiarity with how design impacts analytics (e.g., conversion rates, engagement metrics) is beneficial. Understanding data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Google Analytics) to interpret design performance is a plus.

CRM & Automation:

• No direct CRM or automation tools are typically used by designers, but understanding how design integrates with marketing automation platforms or CRM interfaces for user experience is advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in industry-standard design tools is non-negotiable. The mention of "motion design or high-fidelity prototypes" suggests that tools like After Effects or advanced prototyping features within Figma/Sketch are highly valued. Experience with collaborative whiteboarding tools like Miro is also increasingly important for remote teams.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Curiosity: A drive to explore new ideas, technologies, and design approaches, constantly "leaning forward."
• Collaboration & Openness: A "best-idea-wins" environment that encourages sharing, feedback, and collective problem-solving.
• Ownership & Accountability: Taking initiative, being self-driven, and owning projects from start to finish, especially in less structured environments.
• Client Focus & Results: Delivering impactful design solutions that meet client business objectives and drive tangible results.
• Craftsmanship & Detail: A commitment to high-quality work, paying attention to detail in all aspects of design and communication.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Working closely with strategists, developers, project managers, and account teams to ensure cohesive project delivery.
• Feedback-Driven: Actively seeking and providing constructive feedback to improve designs and processes, fostering a culture of continuous learning.
• Agile & Adaptable: Embracing change, pivoting when necessary, and adapting to evolving project requirements and client needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: DEPT®'s culture appears to value individuals who are not only skilled designers but also proactive team players who can navigate ambiguity and contribute to a positive, innovative work environment. The emphasis on purpose-driven work and B Corp certification suggests an underlying value for making a positive impact.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Ambiguity: Working with "little process in place" requires a high degree of self-direction, proactivity, and comfort with undefined workflows.
• Balancing Multiple Projects: Managing diverse client needs and project scopes simultaneously, common in agency settings, demands strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Client Expectations: Meeting and exceeding the high standards of major clients while translating business strategies into creative, effective designs.
• Staying Ahead of Trends: Keeping pace with rapid advancements in digital design, technology, and user behavior in dynamic industries like lifestyle and technology.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Mentorship: Learning from experienced Creative Directors and senior designers within the DEPT® network.
• Diverse Project Exposure: Gaining experience across a wide range of clients, industries, and digital product types.
• Skill Specialization: Opportunities to deepen expertise in areas like advanced interaction design, motion graphics, or design systems through project work and internal training.
• Industry Engagement: Potential for participation in industry events, conferences, or workshops to stay current and network.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge for a Principal Designer at DEPT® will be to contribute effectively in an environment that encourages rapid iteration and innovation, where established processes may not always be present. Growth will come from mastering this adaptability and leveraging the diverse project portfolio to build a broad skill set and leadership experience.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to create a design solution with very little existing process or guidelines. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your problem-solving methodology, initiative, and documentation skills.)
• "How do you balance creative vision with client business objectives and technical constraints?" (Highlight your ability to integrate strategy with execution and manage stakeholder needs.)
• "Walk me through a project where you mentored or guided junior designers. What was your approach to feedback and development?" (Demonstrate leadership, communication, and team-building skills.)
• "How do you ensure consistency and quality across multiple design deliverables for a single client or project?" (Showcase your attention to detail and understanding of design systems/style guides.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to DEPT® and our approach to digital experiences?" (Research their clients, recent work, and B Corp status.)
• "How do you contribute to a collaborative, 'best-idea-wins' team environment?" (Provide examples of how you share ideas, give/receive feedback, and support colleagues.)
• "How do you stay current with design trends and emerging technologies in the lifestyle and technology sectors?" (Show your passion and commitment to continuous learning.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For case studies, follow a clear problem-solution-impact structure. Emphasize your thought process and the "why" behind your decisions.
• Highlight Collaboration: If possible, mention your role within a team and how you interacted with others.
• Quantify Impact: Where possible, use metrics or qualitative outcomes to demonstrate the effectiveness of your designs.
• Showcase Adaptability: Include examples that demonstrate your ability to work with different styles, brands, and project requirements, especially those that highlight problem-solving in less defined scenarios.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only design expertise but also the ability to thrive in an agency environment that values proactivity, collaboration, and strategic thinking. Be ready to discuss your design philosophy, leadership style, and how you approach challenges with limited structure.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Greenhouse platform.
• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio is up-to-date and highlights projects that best demonstrate your visual design, UX, and interaction design skills, particularly those relevant to lifestyle or technology sectors. Select case studies that showcase your problem-solving approach in less structured environments.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize your 5-7 years of agency experience, leadership contributions, and proficiency in key design tools. Quantify achievements where possible and use keywords from the job description, such as "user-centered experience design," "interaction design," and "creative process."
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, how you handle feedback, and your approach to mentoring junior talent. Prepare specific examples for behavioral questions related to collaboration, problem-solving, and driving results.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with DEPT®'s client roster, recent campaigns, and their stated values, including their B Corp certification and commitment to purpose-driven work. Understand their agency model and "new model" approach.

⚠️ 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.