Senior UX Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior UX Designer Company: ZEISS Group Location: Lisbon, Portugal Job Type: Full-time Category: User Experience & Design Date Posted: February 04, 2026 Experience Level: 5-10 years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Champion a user-centric innovation process, establishing and promoting UX Design as a core discipline within the organization.
• Drive the user experience of digital platforms, ensuring seamless, engaging experiences that maximize business value through strategic UX design.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including product owners, developers, market stakeholders, and business leads, to translate complex requirements into user-centered designs.
• Ensure product user experiences are consistent, accessible, and aligned with customer and business needs from discovery to high-fidelity prototypes and design specifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role focuses on integrating UX design principles into a technology-driven organization, emphasizing the impact of user experience on business outcomes and the need for strong cross-functional collaboration. The "Senior" title implies a leadership potential and expectation for strategic contribution beyond execution.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct user research and analyze usage data to identify business opportunities and user pain points.
• Guide cross-functional teams in shaping and implementing state-of-the-art digital solutions, including new platforms and features, with a strong UX focus.
• Apply hands-on design skills to demonstrate the value and impact of a user-centered design process throughout projects.
• Create comprehensive design artifacts, including wireframes, mockups, prototypes, and final visual designs for core user flows.
• Integrate user insights into decision-making processes through usability testing, stakeholder feedback sessions, and analytics reviews.
• Prepare detailed screen flows and design assets for development handover, ensuring consideration for responsive behavior and edge-case handling.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a proactive and hands-on approach, requiring the candidate to not only design but also influence and guide teams, demonstrating a strategic understanding of how UX impacts business objectives and product development lifecycles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Design, Psychology, or a related field is typically expected for a Senior UX Designer role. Experience: 5+ years of professional experience in User Experience (UX) design, with a proven track record of delivering successful digital products and services.

Required Skills:

• A broad design skillset encompassing conceptualization, high-level strategy, and detailed execution for implementable digital products.
• Advanced proficiency in design and prototyping tools such as Figma and Sketch.
• Demonstrated ability to bring concepts to life, transforming UI designs into high-quality, fully functional digital products or services.
• Experience managing and developing UI pattern libraries and style guides, indicative of DesignOps practices.
• Collaborative, user-centered mindset with a strong ability to co-create with stakeholders across business, product, and technology.
• Experience facilitating workshops using Design Thinking methods to uncover user pain points and shape solutions.
• Familiarity with data-driven design principles, utilizing usage analytics, feedback loops, and usability testing to enhance flows and interfaces.
• Excellent verbal, written, and visual communication skills in English.

Preferred Skills:

• Hands-on experience with user research methodologies and the ability to root design decisions in profound user understanding.
• Experience with DesignOps, including the management and development of design systems, UI pattern libraries, and style guides.
• German language proficiency is a plus.
• Experience with analytics platforms and interpreting usage data to inform design decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a blend of technical design skills, strategic thinking, leadership potential, and strong communication abilities, crucial for a senior-level role in a global technology company. The portfolio is a critical component to validate these skills.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a broad range of UX design projects, demonstrating end-to-end product development from conceptualization to final implementation.
• Highlight projects that illustrate a deep understanding of user-centered design principles and their application in solving complex business problems.
• Include examples of high-fidelity prototypes and visual designs that have been successfully translated into functional digital products or services.
• Present case studies that detail your role, the design process, challenges faced, and the impact of your contributions, specifically focusing on user experience improvements and business value.
• Demonstrate proficiency with industry-standard design tools such as Figma and Sketch, showcasing complex workflows and interactive prototypes.

Process Documentation:

• Detail your approach to user research, including methodologies used (e.g., interviews, surveys, usability testing) and how findings informed design decisions.
• Illustrate your process for creating wireframes, user flows, mockups, and interactive prototypes, emphasizing iterative design and feedback loops.
• Explain your experience with Design Thinking workshops and how you facilitated them to uncover user needs and generate innovative solutions.
• Document how you leverage data (analytics, A/B testing results, user feedback) to validate design choices and drive continuous improvement.
• Showcase your process for collaborating with cross-functional teams (product managers, developers, stakeholders) from concept to launch.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is paramount for this role, serving as the primary evidence of the candidate's design capabilities, process maturity, and ability to deliver tangible results. It should clearly articulate the candidate's journey through the design lifecycle and their impact on product success.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: For a Senior UX Designer in Lisbon, Portugal, with 5-10 years of experience, the estimated annual salary range is typically between €45,000 and €65,000. This range can vary based on specific skills, the complexity of projects, and the overall compensation structure of ZEISS Group.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
• Retirement savings plan options.
• Paid time off, including vacation days, public holidays, and sick leave.
• Opportunities for professional development, training, and attending industry conferences.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses or incentives.
• Access to modern design tools and technology.
• Collaborative and international work environment.

Working Hours: Standard full-time working hours are approximately 40 hours per week, with potential for some flexibility depending on project needs and team coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates are based on industry benchmarks for Senior UX Designer roles in Lisbon, Portugal, considering the experience level and the nature of a global technology company like ZEISS Group. Benefits are typical for such roles in Western Europe.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Optics and Optoelectronics. ZEISS Group operates at the forefront of technology, developing innovative solutions for demanding applications in various sectors, including semiconductor manufacturing, industrial quality assurance, research, medical technology, and consumer markets. This industry context implies a need for sophisticated, high-precision, and often complex digital solutions. Company Size: ZEISS Group is a large, global enterprise, with around 46,000 employees worldwide and generating over 11.8 billion euros in revenue. This scale suggests a structured organization with well-defined processes, but also opportunities for impact within specialized teams. Founded: While the founding date isn't provided, ZEISS has a long history (founded in 1846), indicating a stable, established company with a strong heritage in innovation and quality. This history often translates into a culture that values expertise, long-term vision, and a commitment to excellence.

Team Structure:

• The UX Design team, though potentially part of a larger digital or product organization, likely operates with a degree of autonomy while maintaining close ties to product owners, development teams, and business stakeholders.
• The reporting structure for a Senior UX Designer would typically involve reporting to a Head of Design, Product Lead, or a similar management role within the digital product development hierarchy.
• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, with designers working alongside product managers, engineers, researchers, and business analysts to bring digital products to life.

Methodology:

• Data analysis and insights are crucial, with a strong emphasis on user-centricity, driven by research findings and usage data.
• Workflow planning and optimization strategies will be applied to ensure efficient product development cycles and user journey improvements.
• Automation and efficiency practices are likely integrated within the development and design processes, aiming for streamlined workflows and robust design systems.

Company Website: [ZEISS Group Website - Assuming it's zeiss.com, though the provided URL is for a specific job portal.]

📝 Enhancement Note: ZEISS's stature as a global technology leader in optics and optoelectronics suggests a culture that values precision, innovation, and deep technical expertise. The UX team's role is critical in translating complex technological offerings into user-friendly digital experiences for diverse customer segments.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Senior UX Designer, indicating a mid-to-senior level of expertise. It requires not only strong individual contributor design skills but also the ability to influence team direction, mentor junior designers, and contribute strategically to product vision. The focus is on driving user experience as a core discipline and maximizing business value through design. Reporting Structure: The Senior UX Designer will likely report to a Design Lead, Product Manager, or Head of Digital Product. They will work closely with development teams, product owners, and market stakeholders, requiring effective communication and collaboration across different functional areas. Operations Impact: The role's impact is significant, directly influencing the usability, adoption, and perceived value of ZEISS's digital platforms. By ensuring a seamless and engaging user experience, the Senior UX Designer contributes to customer satisfaction, retention, and ultimately, business success and revenue generation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Development: Opportunity to lead design initiatives, mentor junior designers, and potentially move into a Design Lead or Managerial role.
• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific UX areas such as user research, interaction design, or design systems, or explore adjacent fields like product management.
• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain broader understanding of business strategy, product development lifecycles, and market dynamics through close collaboration with diverse teams.
• Innovation Contribution: Play a key role in shaping the future of ZEISS's digital products and user experiences, contributing to cutting-edge technological solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" title implies a pathway for leadership and specialized growth within the UX field at a large, established technology company. The role offers opportunities to influence product strategy and contribute to high-impact projects within a global organization.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Lisbon, Portugal, implying an on-site work environment within a modern office setting typical of a global technology company. This likely includes collaborative workspaces, meeting rooms, and individual workstations. Office Location(s): Lisbon, Portugal. Specific office details are not provided but can be assumed to be professional, well-equipped facilities designed to foster collaboration and productivity. Workspace Context:

• The workspace is expected to be collaborative, encouraging interaction with cross-functional teams (product owners, developers, business leads) to foster innovation and efficient problem-solving.
• Access to industry-standard design tools and technology, including software like Figma and Sketch, will be provided.
• Opportunities for regular team interaction, design critiques, and knowledge sharing sessions are likely integral to the work environment. Work Schedule: Standard full-time working hours, likely around 40 hours per week. While on-site, there may be some flexibility offered, but the primary expectation is presence in the office to facilitate in-person collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Lisbon suggests an environment geared towards fostering strong team cohesion and facilitating the hands-on collaboration essential for UX design work. The company's global nature implies a professional and well-resourced office setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess basic qualifications and alignment with the role's requirements.
• Portfolio Presentation/Walkthrough: A dedicated session where you present key projects from your portfolio, explaining your design process, decision-making, and the impact of your work. Be prepared to discuss specific challenges and solutions.
• Skills-Based Interview: Technical questions focusing on UX methodologies, design tools (Figma, Sketch), Design Thinking, user research, and data-driven design.
• Cross-functional Collaboration Interview: Questions assessing your ability to work effectively with product owners, developers, and business stakeholders, including how you handle feedback and manage differing opinions.
• Final Interview: May involve a discussion with senior leadership or hiring manager to assess cultural fit, strategic thinking, and overall suitability for the Senior UX Designer role.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-4 of your strongest projects that best showcase your end-to-end UX design capabilities, problem-solving skills, and impact.
• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the process you followed (research, ideation, design, testing), the challenges you overcame, and the measurable outcomes or learnings.
• Show, Don't Just Tell: Use visuals (wireframes, user flows, mockups, prototypes) to illustrate your design thinking. Clearly explain your rationale behind design decisions.
• Highlight Impact: Quantify results whenever possible (e.g., improved conversion rates, reduced user error, increased user satisfaction scores). If quantitative data isn't available, focus on qualitative insights and user feedback.
• Demonstrate Tool Proficiency: Showcase your skills in Figma and Sketch, and explain how you use them to create effective prototypes and design systems.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Challenge: You may be given a hypothetical design problem to solve within a set timeframe. Focus on demonstrating your structured approach, user-centric thinking, and ability to deliver a coherent solution, even if it's not fully polished.
• Process Explanation: Be ready to articulate your design process in detail, explaining why you chose certain methods and how they contributed to the outcome.
• Stakeholder Communication: Practice explaining complex design concepts and rationale clearly and concisely to both technical and non-technical audiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a Senior UX Designer will heavily rely on the portfolio. Candidates should prepare to deeply discuss their past work, demonstrating not just design execution but also strategic thinking, collaboration skills, and the ability to drive user-centered initiatives within a corporate environment.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: Essential for collaborative interface design, prototyping, and creating design systems. Expect questions on advanced Figma features, component libraries, and team collaboration workflows.
• Sketch: Another key design tool; proficiency in Sketch, including its ecosystem of plugins and integrations, is highly valued.
• Prototyping Tools: Beyond Figma/Sketch's built-in capabilities, experience with specialized tools like InVision, Axure, or Adobe XD may be beneficial for complex interactive prototypes.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Usage Analytics Platforms: Familiarity with tools like Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics, or similar platforms to interpret user behavior data and inform design decisions.
• A/B Testing Tools: Experience with tools that facilitate experimentation and data-driven optimization of interfaces and user flows.
• User Feedback Platforms: Knowledge of tools and methods for collecting and analyzing qualitative user feedback.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly a UX tool, understanding how UX designs integrate with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce) and automation platforms can be an advantage, particularly for understanding the business context and user journeys across different touchpoints.
• Design System Management Tools: Tools or methodologies for managing and scaling design systems, ensuring consistency and efficiency across multiple products.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Figma and Sketch is explicitly required. The ability to leverage analytics and user feedback for data-driven design decisions is also a key expectation, highlighting the role's blend of creative design and analytical rigor.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• User-Centricity: A deep commitment to understanding and prioritizing user needs in all design decisions, ensuring that products are intuitive, effective, and enjoyable to use.
• Collaboration: Fostering a cooperative environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and cross-functional teams work together seamlessly to achieve common goals.
• Innovation: Encouraging creative problem-solving and the exploration of new ideas to develop cutting-edge solutions that push technological boundaries.
• Excellence & Quality: A dedication to high standards in design execution, attention to detail, and delivering polished, robust, and reliable digital products.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilizing research, analytics, and user feedback to inform design choices and measure impact, ensuring that design efforts are aligned with business objectives.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with product managers, developers, researchers, and business stakeholders to ensure alignment and shared understanding throughout the product lifecycle.
• Design Critiques & Feedback: Participating in and leading constructive design critique sessions to refine designs and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
• Knowledge Sharing: Openly sharing insights, best practices, and learnings with the broader design and product teams to elevate collective expertise.
• Co-Creation: Embracing a workshop-driven approach to design, involving stakeholders in the ideation and problem-solving process to build consensus and ownership.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture likely emphasizes a blend of German precision and engineering rigor with a modern, agile approach to digital product development, driven by user needs and business impact. Collaboration and a commitment to quality are central.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing User Needs with Business Goals: Effectively navigating the inherent tension between creating ideal user experiences and meeting business objectives, technical constraints, and timelines.
• Driving UX Adoption: Championing the value of UX design within an organization that may have varying levels of design maturity, ensuring buy-in and integration across teams.
• Managing Complex Systems: Designing for intricate, high-tech products (optics, optoelectronics) that may have steep learning curves or niche user bases.
• Global Consistency: Ensuring a consistent and cohesive user experience across diverse digital platforms and product lines for a global audience. Learning & Development Opportunities:
• Advanced UX Techniques: Opportunities to deepen expertise in areas like advanced user research, interaction design patterns for complex systems, or inclusive design principles.
• Design System Leadership: Leading the evolution and expansion of ZEISS's design system, contributing to its scalability and adoption across the organization.
• Industry Trends & Technologies: Staying abreast of emerging UX trends, tools, and technologies relevant to the optics and optoelectronics industries.
• Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Gaining exposure to areas like product management, business strategy, and engineering to foster a holistic understanding of product development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities to tackle complex design challenges within a leading technology company, offering significant potential for professional growth by expanding expertise in advanced UX methodologies and contributing to the strategic direction of digital products.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance conflicting stakeholder requirements with user needs. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on negotiation, user advocacy, solution finding).
• "How do you ensure that your design decisions are data-driven? Walk us through an example where data significantly influenced your design." (Highlight research, analytics, A/B testing, and iterative improvements).
• "Imagine we are launching a new digital platform for [ZEISS product area]. What would be your first steps in defining the user experience strategy?" (Demonstrate structured thinking, discovery phase, user research planning).
• "How do you contribute to the development and maintenance of a design system or UI pattern library?" (Showcase understanding of DesignOps, consistency, and scalability).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about ZEISS Group and its products? How do you see UX design contributing to our specific industry?" (Research ZEISS, optics/optoelectronics, and connect UX value).
• "Describe your ideal cross-functional team dynamic. How do you build rapport and collaborate effectively with engineers, product managers, and business stakeholders?" (Emphasize communication, empathy, and shared goals).
• "How do you measure the success of your UX designs? What KPIs do you typically track?" (Discuss user satisfaction, task completion rates, adoption metrics, business impact).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure for Impact: Begin with a concise overview of the project and highlight the key problem you solved. Dedicate significant time to walking through your process, showing key artifacts, and explaining your rationale.
• Quantify Success: Whenever possible, present metrics that demonstrate the positive impact of your design work. If not available, articulate qualitative feedback and user insights that validate your approach.
• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Be prepared to answer detailed questions about any aspect of your projects, from user research methodologies to specific design choices and technical implementation considerations.
• Showcase Collaboration: Highlight instances where you worked effectively with other teams, demonstrating your ability to integrate diverse perspectives into the design process.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a strategic, user-centered approach, strong collaboration skills, and the ability to articulate the business value of UX design, supported by a well-curated portfolio and clear communication.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior UX Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the ZEISS Group careers portal.
• Tailor your Resume: Highlight experience and skills directly relevant to UX design, DesignOps, Figma, Sketch, user research, and cross-functional collaboration. Use keywords from the job description.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Ensure your portfolio is up-to-date, showcases 3-4 of your strongest, most relevant projects, and clearly articulates your process, role, and impact. Make sure it's easily accessible (e.g., via a link on your resume or a dedicated portfolio website).
• Research ZEISS Group: Familiarize yourself with ZEISS's products, markets, and company values to understand how UX design contributes to their technological innovations.
• Practice Your Pitch: Be ready to walk through your portfolio projects, answer strategy and behavioral questions, and articulate your design philosophy and 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.

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