Product Designer Internship

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Product Designer Internship

Company: 8x8

Location: Cluj-Napoca, Romania

Job Type: Full-time Internship

Category: Product Design / UX/UI

Date Posted: March 4, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-Level (Internship)

Remote Status: Hybrid (Minimum 2 days/week in-office)

🚀 Role Summary

• This internship offers a hands-on introduction to Product Design within a global technology company, focusing on enhancing user experiences for Customer Experience (CX) leaders.

• The role involves collaborating with experienced designers, product managers, and engineers to translate ideas into tangible product features, from initial research through to final interfaces.

• A key aspect of this internship includes working with and learning modern AI tools for design tasks, such as ideation, research support, documentation, and prototyping.

• Candidates will have the opportunity to contribute to user research, wireframing, UI mockups, usability testing, and design documentation, gaining practical experience in a professional design environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role is specifically tailored for final-year students or recent graduates, indicating an entry-level position focused on learning and development within the product design lifecycle. The emphasis on AI tools suggests a forward-thinking design team that integrates cutting-edge technology into their workflow.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Assist the Product Design team in conducting user research and effectively gathering user feedback to inform design decisions.

• Create detailed wireframes and user interface (UI) mockups using industry-standard design tools like Figma.

• Support usability testing sessions, analyze results, and contribute to iterative improvements of product designs.

• Collaborate closely with Product Management and Engineering teams to refine design solutions and ensure seamless implementation.

• Contribute to the creation and maintenance of design documentation, ensuring consistency in user experience and visual elements across the product suite.

• Aid in maintaining design system consistency and contribute to the development of reusable UI components.

• Explore and apply modern AI tools to enhance design workflows, including ideation, research synthesis, and content generation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a structured approach to product design, emphasizing user-centricity, iterative development, and cross-functional collaboration. The inclusion of AI tools signifies a modern design practice, requiring adaptability and a willingness to learn new technologies.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Prior internship or project experience in digital product design, UX/UI, or a related creative field is beneficial.

Required Skills:

• Strong interest in digital product design and a solid grasp of user-centered thinking principles.

• Basic proficiency with design and prototyping tools, with a specific requirement for Figma or similar applications.

• Excellent attention to detail and a structured, analytical approach to problem-solving.

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.

• Comfortable and effective working in English, both written and verbal.

• Full-time availability for the duration of the internship period (July 20 – November 20, 2026).

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with user research methodologies and synthesizing findings.

• Familiarity with usability testing principles and practices.

• Understanding of design systems and component-based design.

• Basic knowledge of front-end development principles (HTML/CSS) is a plus.

• Exposure to AI-powered design tools or a strong curiosity to explore their applications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize foundational design skills and a strong willingness to learn, aligning with an internship role. The explicit mention of AI tools suggests that candidates who can demonstrate experience or a keen interest in this area will be highly regarded.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A portfolio showcasing personal or academic projects that demonstrate your understanding of user-centered design principles and problem-solving abilities.

• Examples of design process, including user research, ideation, wireframing, prototyping, and iteration.

• Case studies that highlight your role in a project, the challenges you faced, and the solutions you developed.

Process Documentation:

• Your portfolio should illustrate your ability to document design decisions and processes, providing context for your work.

• This includes showing how you translated research insights into design artifacts and how you iterated based on feedback.

• Examples of how you've contributed to design documentation or maintained consistency in design elements.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not a formal requirement for initial application, a portfolio is crucial for showcasing practical skills during the interview process. Candidates should prepare to walk through 1-2 projects that best highlight their design thinking, problem-solving skills, and familiarity with the required tools, especially Figma.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Paid internship, providing financial compensation for your work.

• Practical, hands-on experience in Product Design within a global technology company.

• Mentorship from experienced Product Designers, Product Managers, and Engineers.

• Opportunity to work with and learn modern AI tools in a professional setting.

• Exposure to the full product development lifecycle.

• Networking opportunities within the tech industry.

Working Hours:

• Full-time commitment, Monday to Friday. The internship is scheduled for 40 hours per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on general knowledge of paid internship compensation in Romania's tech sector. The benefits focus heavily on the learning and development aspects crucial for an internship.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Telecommunications, Software, Cloud Communications, Customer Experience (CX) Solutions. 8x8 provides unified communications, collaboration, and contact center solutions.

Company Size: 8x8 is a mid-to-large sized global technology company, with several thousand employees worldwide. This size offers a stable environment with opportunities for structured learning and exposure to established processes, while still maintaining a dynamic atmosphere.

Founded: 1986. With a long history in the technology sector, 8x8 has evolved significantly, demonstrating adaptability and a commitment to innovation.

Team Structure:

• The Product Design team is likely part of a larger Product or Engineering organization. It will comprise experienced Product Designers, UX Researchers, UI Designers, and potentially UX Writers.

• The internship will operate within a hierarchical structure, reporting to a Design Lead or Senior Designer, who will provide guidance and mentorship.

Methodology:

• 8x8 likely employs agile methodologies for product development, meaning the design team will work in sprints, closely aligned with engineering and product roadmaps.

• There's a strong emphasis on data-driven decision-making, utilizing user research, analytics, and performance insights to shape product direction.

• The company's focus on CX leaders suggests a dedication to creating user-friendly, efficient, and impactful solutions that drive business outcomes.

• The explicit mention of AI tools indicates an openness to exploring and integrating innovative technologies into their design and development processes.

Company Website: http://www.8x8.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on CX and its long history in telecommunications suggest a culture that values reliability, innovation, and customer-centricity. The internship's integration with AI tools points to a forward-looking approach to design and technology.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level internship role, specifically designed for individuals early in their career journey in Product Design. It serves as a foundational stepping stone for roles such as Junior Product Designer, UX/UI Designer, or UX Researcher.

Reporting Structure: The intern will report to a Senior Designer or Design Lead, who acts as a mentor, providing direct supervision, feedback, and project assignments. This structure ensures guidance and learning opportunities.

Operations Impact: While an intern's direct impact is typically through supporting larger projects, their contributions to user research, design iterations, and documentation directly influence the refinement of user experiences. This, in turn, helps 8x8 deliver better products that empower CX leaders and drive business results for their clients.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Gain practical experience in core product design activities, including user research, wireframing, UI design, usability testing, and design documentation, with a focus on Figma.

• Technology Exploration: Learn to leverage modern AI tools within a professional design context, enhancing technical proficiency and adaptability.

• Industry Exposure: Gain insights into the operations of a global SaaS company, understanding how design fits into the broader product development and business strategy.

• Networking: Build professional connections with designers, product managers, and engineers, which can be invaluable for future career prospects.

• Potential for Future Employment: Successful interns may be considered for future full-time roles within 8x8, based on performance and business needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The internship is positioned as a significant learning opportunity. The growth path is clearly defined from intern to junior roles, with a strong emphasis on skill acquisition and exposure to industry best practices and emerging technologies like AI.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The company operates a hybrid work model. This means the intern will experience an office environment for a portion of their week, facilitating in-person collaboration and team integration, alongside remote work flexibility.

Office Location(s): The internship is based in the Cluj-Napoca office in Romania. This location will likely feature modern office spaces designed to foster collaboration and productivity.

Workspace Context:

• The office environment is expected to be collaborative, with opportunities for designers to interact with their peers and mentors.

• Access to necessary design tools and technology, including Figma and potentially other relevant software and hardware, will be provided.

• The workspace will support cross-functional interactions, allowing interns to engage with product managers, engineers, and other stakeholders involved in the product development process.

• The hybrid model allows for focused individual work remotely and collaborative sessions in the office.

Work Schedule: The internship requires a full-time commitment (40 hours per week), Monday through Friday. The hybrid nature allows for some flexibility in structuring the work week, balancing in-office days with remote work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model aims to provide the best of both worlds: the structure and collaborative benefits of an office environment, combined with the flexibility and focus opportunities of remote work, tailored for a professional development setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Submission: Candidates will apply online, submitting their resume and any required preliminary information. A portfolio is highly recommended for this stage.

• Initial Screening: Applications and portfolios will be reviewed by the hiring team to assess qualifications and fit.

• Interview 1 (Hiring Manager/Team Lead): This interview will likely focus on assessing your design fundamentals, understanding of UX/UI principles, experience with Figma, and your motivation for the internship. Behavioral questions related to teamwork and problem-solving will also be common.

• Interview 2 (Design Challenge/Portfolio Review): This stage may involve a design exercise or a deeper dive into your portfolio. You will be expected to present 1-2 key projects, explaining your process, design decisions, and the outcomes. This is where you demonstrate your ability to articulate your design thinking.

• Final Interview (Potential Cross-functional Team Members): This might include a brief chat with a Product Manager or Engineer to assess collaboration potential and broader fit within the product team.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 2-3 of your strongest projects that best represent your skills and the requirements of this internship. Quality over quantity.

• Show Your Process: Clearly articulate your design thinking. For each project, explain the problem, your approach, research conducted, design iterations, challenges faced, and the final solution.

• Highlight Figma Proficiency: Ensure your portfolio demonstrates your comfort and skill with Figma, showcasing specific examples of its use in your projects.

• Focus on User Impact: Emphasize how your designs address user needs and contribute to a positive user experience.

• Be Prepared to Discuss AI Tools: If you have experience or have explored AI tools in your design work, be ready to discuss them, their potential applications, and your responsible approach to using them.

• Conciseness: Present your projects clearly and concisely, focusing on the most critical aspects.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Problem: If given a design challenge, take time to fully understand the brief, the target users, and the business goals. Ask clarifying questions.

• Think Out Loud: During the challenge, articulate your thought process. Explain your assumptions, the trade-offs you're considering, and your rationale for design decisions.

• Prioritize: Focus on the most critical aspects of the problem and demonstrate a strategic approach to solving it, rather than getting bogged down in minor details.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is structured to evaluate both technical design skills and soft skills like communication and collaboration. A strong, well-presented portfolio is paramount for this role.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: This is the core design tool mentioned, essential for wireframing, UI mockups, prototyping, and potentially design system management. Proficiency is expected.

• Prototyping Tools: While Figma has robust prototyping capabilities, familiarity with other tools like Adobe XD or InVision may be beneficial.

• AI Design Tools: The internship emphasizes learning and using modern AI tools. Examples could include AI-powered ideation tools, research assistants, content generation platforms, or AI-assisted prototyping tools. Specific tool names are not listed, indicating an openness to exploration.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly relevant for a Product Designer intern role, but understanding how product features integrate into broader customer journeys managed by CRM systems is beneficial context.

📝 Enhancement Note: Figma is the non-negotiable design tool. The emphasis on AI tools suggests the company is at the forefront of design technology adoption, and interns are expected to be curious and adaptable in learning these new systems.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• User-Centricity: A deep commitment to understanding and serving the needs of users, particularly CX leaders, to deliver exceptional experiences.

• Collaboration: A strong emphasis on teamwork, with designers working closely with product managers, engineers, and other stakeholders to achieve common goals.

• Innovation: Encouraging the exploration and adoption of new technologies, including AI, to enhance design processes and product capabilities.

• Clarity & Thoughtfulness: Valuing clear communication, well-reasoned design decisions, and meticulous attention to detail in all aspects of work.

• Impact-Driven: Focusing on creating designs that not only look good but also solve real problems and drive tangible business impact for customers.

Collaboration Style:

• The design team likely operates with a highly collaborative approach, using shared tools like Figma for real-time feedback and co-creation.

• Regular design critiques and reviews are expected to foster continuous improvement and knowledge sharing.

• Cross-functional collaboration is key, with designers actively participating in product planning, development sprints, and user feedback loops.

• Open communication channels are encouraged, fostering an environment where ideas can be freely exchanged and debated constructively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's values, particularly user-centricity and innovation, are directly reflected in the internship's focus on user research and the integration of AI tools. This suggests a culture that supports learning and progressive design practices.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Bridging Theory and Practice: Transitioning academic knowledge of design principles into practical application within a fast-paced, professional environment.

• Navigating Cross-functional Dynamics: Effectively communicating design ideas and collaborating with diverse teams (Product, Engineering) with different priorities and perspectives.

• Integrating AI Responsibly: Learning to leverage AI tools effectively while maintaining design integrity, ethical considerations, and avoiding over-reliance.

• Fast-Paced Environment: Adapting to agile development cycles and delivering design work within tight deadlines.

• Scope Management: Understanding project scope and focusing efforts on high-impact design elements within the internship's timeframe.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Hands-on Skill Building: Directly applying and refining core product design skills (research, wireframing, UI, testing) on real-world projects.

• Technology Adoption: Gaining practical experience with cutting-edge AI tools in design, enhancing marketability and future-proofing skills.

• Mentorship: Receiving guidance and feedback from experienced professionals, accelerating learning and professional development.

• Industry Insight: Understanding the product development lifecycle in a global SaaS company and the role of design within it.

• Portfolio Enhancement: Creating tangible project work that can be added to a professional portfolio, supporting future career applications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for an internship, especially in a technology-driven company integrating new tools like AI. The growth opportunities are directly linked to overcoming these challenges and leveraging the learning environment.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Process: Be prepared to walk through your design process for a specific project. Explain how you approach problems, conduct research, iterate on solutions, and arrive at a final design. Focus on your methodology.

• User-Centered Thinking: Discuss a time you advocated for the user. How did you gather user insights, and how did those insights influence your design decisions?

• Tool Proficiency: Be ready to demonstrate your Figma skills. You might be asked to perform a small design task or explain how you've used specific Figma features to solve design problems.

• AI Tool Exploration: If you have any experience or have explored AI tools in design, be ready to discuss your thoughts on their potential, limitations, and how you might use them responsibly in a professional context.

• Collaboration: Describe a situation where you worked effectively with others (peers, non-designers) on a project. How did you handle disagreements or differing opinions?

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation: Clearly articulate why you are interested in product design, why 8x8, and what you hope to gain from this specific internship.

• Company Understanding: Research 8x8's products and target audience (CX leaders). Understand their mission and how design contributes to their goals.

• Team Fit: Consider how your working style and values align with the company culture (e.g., collaboration, innovation, user-centricity).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, start with the problem, your role, the process, the solution, and the outcome/impact.

• Focus on "Why": Explain why you made certain design decisions. Back up your choices with research, user feedback, or design principles.

• Show, Don't Just Tell: Use visuals effectively. Showcase wireframes, mockups, prototypes, and any research artifacts.

• Highlight Figma Use: Point out specific examples of how you utilized Figma features to achieve your design goals.

• Discuss AI Integration (if applicable): If you’ve used AI tools, explain how they helped streamline your process or enhance your output.

• Be Honest About Limitations: It's okay to acknowledge what you learned or what you would do differently. This shows self-awareness and a growth mindset.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview preparation emphasizes demonstrating a solid understanding of design fundamentals, practical tool skills (especially Figma), and an eagerness to learn and adapt, particularly with new technologies like AI.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Product Designer internship:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the 8x8 Workday job portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio is up-to-date and highlights projects demonstrating your Figma skills, design process, and user-centered thinking. Tailor the projects you feature to align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.

• Resume Optimization: Craft your resume to emphasize relevant coursework, academic projects, any prior design experience, and your proficiency with design tools like Figma. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process and presenting your portfolio projects. Prepare thoughtful answers to common interview questions and research 8x8's products and mission.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with 8x8's offerings, particularly their CX solutions, and understand their company values and culture. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description has been created to provide a comprehensive overview for operations and design professionals. While it incorporates industry standards and inferred details, candidates should always refer to the official job posting and company resources for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Specific details regarding tools, processes, and compensation should be confirmed directly with the hiring organization.