Senior UX/UI Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior UX/UI Designer

Company: Sandfield

Location: Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Digital Design & User Experience Operations

Date Posted: 2025-09-11T03:35:17.414

Experience Level: Senior (5-10 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive exceptional UX and UI design for leading companies across Australasia, focusing on sustainable, long-term projects.

• Collaborate with over 100 experienced developers to deliver cutting-edge software solutions and enhance user experiences.

• Craft intuitive, accessible, and seamless user journeys for a diverse range of digital products and bespoke client solutions.

• Leverage Figma mastery for advanced design collaboration, prototyping, and efficient workflow management.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Senior UX/UI Designer within a software solutions company, implying a focus on both strategic design direction and hands-on execution. The emphasis on "driving force" and "shaping user experience" suggests significant autonomy and influence. The company's long history (since 1989) and low employee turnover indicate a stable and supportive work environment, which is valuable for operations professionals seeking long-term growth.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design user interfaces and craft user experiences for digital products, ensuring they are intuitive, accessible, and deliver a seamless user journey.

• Conduct user research and usability testing to gather insights and feedback, and apply this data to refine and improve design solutions.

• Create detailed wireframes, prototypes, and design mockups using Figma to guide development teams and stakeholders through the design process.

• Collaborate closely with product managers, developers, and other stakeholders to ensure designs meet both user needs and overarching business objectives.

• Maintain UI design consistency and visual appeal across various platforms, including mobile and web.

• Provide mentorship and guidance to junior designers, fostering skill development and enhancing team contributions.

• Stay abreast of the latest UX/UI trends, tools, and technologies, integrating best practices into all design projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic design thinking (user research, stakeholder collaboration) and tactical execution (wireframing, prototyping in Figma). The mentorship aspect is crucial for a senior role, indicating leadership potential and a contribution to team growth, which is a key consideration for operations professionals looking to build their teams or develop their leadership skills.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Design, Human-Computer Interaction, Computer Science, or a related field is typically expected for senior roles in this domain. Equivalent practical experience will also be considered.

Experience: A minimum of 5-10 years of progressive experience in UX/UI design, with a proven track record of delivering successful digital products and solutions. Experience in a consulting or agency environment working with diverse clients is advantageous.

Required Skills:

• Expert proficiency in UX/UI design principles, methodologies, and best practices.

• Mastery of Figma for wireframing, prototyping, and collaborative design workflows.

• Strong understanding of user research, usability testing, and data analysis for design iteration.

• Proven ability to create intuitive and accessible user interfaces across web and mobile platforms.

• Excellent collaboration and communication skills for effective stakeholder management and team integration.

• Ability to adapt designs to varying project budgets and requirements, demonstrating resourcefulness.

Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with design systems and their implementation.

• Experience with other design and prototyping tools (e.g., Sketch, Adobe Creative Suite).

• Knowledge of front-end development principles (HTML, CSS, JavaScript) to inform design decisions.

• Experience in the software solutions or technology consulting industry.

• A strong portfolio showcasing a range of successful UX/UI projects with demonstrable impact.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "5-10 years" experience level indicates this is a key individual contributor role with potential for team leadership. The emphasis on Figma mastery is a critical technical requirement. The preference for design systems knowledge and front-end awareness suggests a desire for designers who understand the technical feasibility and scalability of their designs, a key aspect in operations.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 5-7 diverse UX/UI projects that demonstrate end-to-end design process, from user research to final implementation.

• Include case studies that clearly articulate the problem, your role, the design process, key decisions, and the measurable impact of your solutions.

• Highlight projects involving complex data, business process optimization, or enterprise-level software solutions.

• Demonstrate proficiency in creating wireframes, interactive prototypes, user flows, and high-fidelity mockups.

Process Documentation:

• Be prepared to discuss your design process in detail, including how you gather requirements, conduct user research, iterate on designs, and collaborate with development teams.

• Evidence of using data and user feedback to drive design decisions and measure success.

• Examples of how you have contributed to or managed design systems to ensure consistency across projects.

• Ability to articulate how your designs align with business objectives and contribute to operational efficiency or revenue growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior UX/UI Designer, a robust portfolio is critical. It should not only display aesthetic skills but also a deep understanding of the user-centered design process, problem-solving capabilities, and the ability to translate business needs into effective user experiences. The "measurable impact" and "operational efficiency" aspects are key for candidates looking to demonstrate their value in an operations context.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a Senior UX/UI Designer in Auckland, New Zealand, with 5-10 years of experience, the estimated annual salary range is NZD $100,000 - $140,000. This range accounts for the seniority of the role, the demand for skilled UX/UI professionals, and the cost of living in Auckland.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage, including medical, dental, and vision.

• Generous paid time off (annual leave, sick leave, public holidays).

• Opportunities for professional development, including training, conferences, and certifications.

• Contribution to KiwiSaver or equivalent retirement savings plan.

• Regular team social events, including "fun food Evenings" and drinks from the fridge.

• Modern, well-equipped office space in a desirable Auckland location.

• Potential for flexible working arrangements, though the role is primarily on-site.

Working Hours: The role is full-time, typically around 40 hours per week, with flexibility offered within the standard business hours to accommodate project needs and team collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: While no specific salary was provided, industry research for a Senior UX/UI Designer in Auckland, New Zealand, suggests a competitive compensation package. The benefits listed are typical for established companies in New Zealand and align with the company's description of a supportive and engaging workplace. The "drinks fridge" and "fun food Evenings" indicate a strong emphasis on company culture and employee well-being.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Software Development & Technology Solutions. Sandfield specializes in building smart software solutions for various sectors, including logistics, supply chain, finance, and leisure, serving prominent Australasian brands.

Company Size: Sandfield operates with a team of over 100 developers, indicating a medium-to-large sized company with established processes and a significant market presence.

Founded: Established in 1989, Sandfield has a long history of innovation and client success, fostering a culture of stability, expertise, and long-term relationships.

Team Structure:

• The UX/UI Designer will be part of a larger design and development team, working closely with over 100 developers.

• Collaboration is a core value, suggesting a flat or matrixed team structure where cross-functional interaction is encouraged.

Methodology:

• Sandfield emphasizes building "smart software solutions" and delivering "exceptional user experiences," suggesting a focus on user-centric design principles integrated with agile development methodologies.

• Data analysis and user feedback are key to refining design solutions, indicating a data-driven approach to product development.

• The company's commitment to becoming carbon neutral highlights a focus on sustainability and responsible business practices.

Company Website: https://www.sandfield.co.nz

📝 Enhancement Note: Sandfield's long history and low employee turnover (average tenure of five years) are strong indicators of a positive and stable work environment. The company's diverse client base (Mainfreight, Foodstuffs, KiwiRail, Les Mills) means exposure to various industries and complex challenges, crucial for operations professionals seeking broad experience. The focus on "getting the job done and having a good time" points to a balanced and collaborative culture.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior UX/UI Designer. This level implies significant autonomy, responsibility for design quality and strategy, and the ability to mentor junior team members. It sits within the broader digital design and product development operations.

Reporting Structure: The Senior UX/UI Designer will likely report to a Design Manager, Head of Product, or a Director of Engineering. They will collaborate extensively with product managers and a large team of developers, requiring strong communication and influencing skills.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts user satisfaction, product adoption, and the overall efficiency of digital solutions by ensuring intuitive and effective user interfaces. This contributes to client success, operational streamlining for clients, and Sandfield's reputation for delivering high-quality software.

Growth Opportunities:

• Potential to lead design initiatives and mentor junior designers, developing leadership and team management skills.

• Opportunity to specialize in specific industries or technologies based on project exposure and personal interest.

• Possibility of transitioning into Product Management or User Experience Strategy roles within Sandfield.

• Continuous learning through exposure to diverse projects, cutting-edge technologies, and collaborative problem-solving with experienced professionals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Senior level suggests a path towards design leadership or specialization. The company's focus on "smart software solutions" and client-driven projects means that growth is often tied to the successful delivery and impact of these solutions, a key metric in operations. The low employee turnover also suggests that internal growth and promotion are common.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Sandfield offers "funky offices," suggesting a modern, creative, and potentially unconventional workspace designed to foster collaboration and employee engagement.

Office Location(s): The role is based in Auckland, New Zealand. Specific office details are not provided, but it's likely situated in a business district accessible to public transport and amenities.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative environment with opportunities for direct interaction with a large team of developers, product managers, and other designers.

• Access to modern design tools and technology, with a specific emphasis on Figma.

• The "funky offices" and "drinks fridge" contribute to a relaxed yet productive atmosphere, encouraging creativity and camaraderie.

• The company's commitment to sustainability may be reflected in the office's design and operational practices.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time hours (approx. 40 hours/week) are expected, with the flexibility to manage tasks and collaborate effectively within the team's workflow. The on-site nature of the role facilitates direct collaboration and immersion in the company culture.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description of "funky offices" and the emphasis on a collaborative culture suggest an environment that values creativity and teamwork. For operations professionals, this implies a workplace where open communication and shared problem-solving are encouraged, which can lead to more efficient processes and better outcomes. The on-site requirement is important for candidates who thrive in a highly interactive team setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess experience and fit.

• Technical Interview: Discussion focused on UX/UI design principles, your design process, and problem-solving skills. Expect questions about specific projects from your portfolio.

• Practical Exercise/Case Study: You may be asked to complete a design challenge or present a portfolio case study demonstrating your approach to a given problem.

• Team/Stakeholder Interviews: Meetings with potential colleagues (developers, product managers) and hiring managers to assess collaborative abilities and cultural fit.

• Final Interview: Possibly with senior leadership to discuss strategic alignment and long-term vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects that showcase your end-to-end design process and impact.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the user research conducted, design decisions, iterations, and the final outcome/impact. Use visuals effectively.

• Highlight Figma Proficiency: Be ready to walk through your Figma files, demonstrating your workflow, component usage, and prototyping capabilities.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, include metrics or qualitative feedback that demonstrate the success of your designs (e.g., improved conversion rates, reduced task completion time, increased user satisfaction).

• Address Collaboration: Be prepared to discuss how you collaborated with developers and stakeholders, highlighting communication strategies and problem-solving approaches.

Challenge Preparation:

• Practice articulating your design process concisely and clearly.

• Be ready to analyze a problem from a user-centered perspective and propose design solutions.

• Familiarize yourself with Sandfield's client work and company values to tailor your responses.

• Prepare questions for the interviewers to demonstrate your engagement and interest.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is expected to be thorough, focusing on both technical design skills and the ability to integrate into a collaborative team. A strong portfolio is paramount, and candidates should be prepared to dissect their projects, demonstrating not just design output but also strategic thinking and process. The mention of collaboration with "over 100 developers" emphasizes the need for strong interpersonal and communication skills.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: Essential for UI design, wireframing, prototyping, and collaborative workflows. Mastery is explicitly required.

• Design Software: Proficiency in other industry-standard design tools like Sketch or the Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, XD) may be beneficial for broader project needs.

Analytics & Reporting:

• User Analytics Platforms (e.g., Google Analytics, Mixpanel, Hotjar): Understanding how to interpret user behavior data to inform design decisions is valuable.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly a UX/UI tool, an understanding of how CRM systems (like Salesforce) and marketing automation platforms impact user journeys and data flow can provide valuable context for designing integrated solutions.

• Project Management Tools (e.g., Jira, Asana, Trello): Essential for managing tasks, collaborating with development teams, and tracking project progress within an agile framework.

📝 Enhancement Note: Figma is the cornerstone of this role's toolset. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate deep expertise in its features for collaborative design, prototyping, and component management. Awareness of user analytics and project management tools is also important for understanding the broader product development lifecycle and how design contributes to operational efficiency.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Collaboration: A strong emphasis on teamwork and cross-functional interaction with developers, product managers, and clients.

• User-Centricity: A commitment to understanding and meeting user needs through research and iterative design.

• Innovation: Driving smart software solutions and staying abreast of the latest design trends and technologies.

• Quality & Excellence: Delivering intuitive, accessible, and visually appealing digital experiences that provide clients with a competitive edge.

• Long-Term Relationships: A culture that values employee retention and building lasting client partnerships.

Collaboration Style:

• Open and communicative, with frequent interaction between design and development teams.

• Iterative and feedback-driven, encouraging constructive criticism to refine designs.

• Proactive in identifying and solving user experience challenges.

• Supportive of mentorship and knowledge sharing among team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: Sandfield’s culture appears to be a blend of professional excellence and a genuinely enjoyable work environment. The stated value of "people also don’t tend to leave" is a strong indicator of a positive and supportive culture. For operations professionals, this means a stable team dynamic and a focus on building strong internal relationships, which can facilitate smoother cross-functional operations.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Adapting design strategies to meet diverse client budgets and project requirements, requiring resourcefulness and creative problem-solving.

• Balancing user needs with business objectives and technical constraints within complex software solutions.

• Keeping pace with rapidly evolving UX/UI trends and technologies to maintain best-in-class design output.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deepen expertise in UX/UI design through exposure to a wide array of projects and client types.

• Develop leadership and mentorship skills through guiding junior team members.

• Gain exposure to various industries and business processes through Sandfield's diverse client portfolio.

• Potential to contribute to the development and refinement of design systems and internal design best practices.

• Opportunities to attend industry conferences or pursue certifications relevant to UX/UI design and product development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for senior roles in a dynamic software environment. The growth opportunities are significant, particularly for those looking to broaden their experience across industries and develop leadership capabilities within a well-established and supportive company. The emphasis on adapting to different client needs is a key operational challenge that senior designers must master.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex UX problem you solved and how you approached it, detailing your process, tools, and the outcome." (Focus on your systematic approach, data use, and collaboration.)

• "How do you balance user needs with business requirements and technical limitations? Provide an example." (Demonstrate your ability to find optimal solutions within constraints.)

• "How do you stay updated on the latest UX/UI trends and incorporate them into your work?" (Showcase your commitment to continuous learning and best practices.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to Sandfield and this specific role?" (Connect your skills and career goals with the company's mission and values.)

• "How do you approach collaboration with developers and product managers?" (Highlight your communication, empathy, and problem-solving skills.)

• "What do you think makes a 'smart software solution'?" (Relate this to user experience, efficiency, and business value.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Begin with a brief overview of Sandfield and the role, then present your chosen projects chronologically or by complexity. For each project, use a clear structure: Problem -> Your Role -> Process -> Solution -> Outcome/Impact.

• Figma Walkthrough: Be ready to share your screen and navigate through a Figma project. Explain your file organization, component usage, prototyping methods, and how you collaborated within Figma.

• Storytelling: Weave a narrative around each project, highlighting the challenges, your decision-making process, and the value delivered. Emphasize the "why" behind your design choices.

• Conciseness: Be mindful of time. Practice presenting your portfolio within the allotted interview slot, focusing on the most critical aspects of each project.

• Engagement: Encourage questions throughout your presentation to foster a more interactive discussion.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a deep understanding of the UX/UI process, strong communication skills, and a clear ability to translate business needs into user-friendly designs. Highlighting specific achievements with quantifiable results in your portfolio presentation will be key to success. The emphasis on collaboration with a large developer team means showcasing strong interpersonal skills is crucial.

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📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Workable.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your 5-10 years of relevant UX/UI design experience, specifically mentioning your proficiency in Figma and any experience with enterprise software or complex systems.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your responsibilities and achievements using action verbs and quantifiable results where possible, focusing on process improvement and user satisfaction.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process and key project contributions, preparing to walk through 2-3 strong portfolio pieces that showcase your skills in Figma, user research, and problem-solving.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Sandfield's client base and the types of software solutions they provide to understand their business context and how your design skills can add value.

⚠️ 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.