Sr Designer - UX - New York

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Sr. Designer - UX
Company: Photon Career Site
Location: United States (On-site)
Job Type: Full-Time
Category: User Experience (UX) Design / Product Design
Date Posted: December 11, 2025
Experience Level: 10+ Years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is focused on driving expert design solutions and ensuring a seamless user experience throughout digital products.
• The Senior UX Designer will be instrumental in translating complex user needs and business requirements into intuitive and visually compelling designs.
• This position requires a deep understanding of design principles, user-centered methodologies, and proficiency in industry-standard design tools.
• Collaboration with cross-functional teams, including product managers, engineers, and stakeholders, is a critical aspect of this role to ensure successful product development and delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The raw input indicated the job title as "Sr Designer - UX" and the description heavily emphasizes design principles and tools. Given the "10+ Years" experience level and focus on UX architecture, research, and usability, this role is categorized under User Experience (UX) Design / Product Design to provide clearer context for operations professionals seeking roles that impact product development and user engagement. The "United States" location is noted as On-site based on the remote_derived: false flag.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver expert-level design solutions, encompassing visual design, UI architecture, and user experience flows that align with product strategy and user needs.
• Create high-fidelity mockups, prototypes, and detailed design specifications for web and mobile applications, ensuring adherence to design principles, typography, color theory, and visual aesthetics.
• Conduct and leverage user research, usability testing, and content strategy analysis to inform design decisions and validate proposed solutions.
• Collaborate closely with product managers, engineers, and other stakeholders to understand technical feasibility and ensure the accurate implementation of designs, effectively communicating design rationale and deliverables.
• Champion user-centered design principles and best practices throughout the product development lifecycle, contributing to a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.
• Design with mobile-first principles and responsive layouts in mind, ensuring optimal user experiences across a variety of devices and screen sizes.
• Articulate the technical feasibility of design solutions to engineering teams and provide clear, actionable guidance for design implementation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities are expanded to include specific UX design activities such as creating high-fidelity mockups, conducting user research, and applying mobile-first principles, which are standard for a Senior UX role. The emphasis on collaboration and technical feasibility communication is also highlighted to reflect the senior level.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's degree in Design, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Computer Science, or a related field is typically expected for a Senior UX Designer role. Equivalent practical experience will also be considered.
Experience: Minimum 8+ years of relevant professional design experience, with a strong emphasis on user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design within enterprise environments.

Required Skills:

• Minimum 8+ years of hands-on design experience in UX/UI, product design, or a closely related field.
• A robust portfolio demonstrating expert capabilities in design principles, UX architecture, user research, usability testing, and content strategy.
• Extensive experience with visual design principles, including layout, graphics development, typography, color theory, and overall visual aesthetics.
• Proficient in industry-standard design and prototyping tools such as Sketch, Figma, and Adobe XD.
• Proven experience working effectively within cross-functional teams, including product management, engineering, and marketing.
• Deep understanding of digital design, web, and mobile development processes within an enterprise context.
• Demonstrated ability to design for mobile layouts and responsive interfaces.
• Capability to understand and clearly articulate the technical feasibility of proposed design solutions.
• Strong communication skills to effectively transfer design concepts and deliverables to technical developers.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with user journey mapping, persona development, and information architecture.
• Familiarity with agile development methodologies and participation in sprint planning.
• Experience with A/B testing and data-driven design optimization.
• Knowledge of accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG) and inclusive design practices.
• Experience in mentoring junior designers or leading design initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience level is clarified from "8+" to "10+" years based on the ai_experience_level flag, and the description is expanded to include typical educational backgrounds and preferred skills common for senior-level UX positions. The "8+" years from the raw data is explicitly mentioned as the minimum requirement.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a minimum of 8 years of design work, with a strong emphasis on UX architecture, user research, and usability across web and mobile platforms.
• Detailed case studies demonstrating the end-to-end design process, from initial problem definition and user research to final design solutions and their impact.
• Examples of visual design, UI layout, typography, and color application that highlight expertise in aesthetic principles and brand consistency.
• Prototypes and interactive designs created using tools like Sketch, Figma, or Adobe XD, illustrating user flows and interaction design.
• Evidence of designing for enterprise environments and understanding technical feasibility for implementation by developers.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate a structured approach to user research methodologies, including planning, execution, and synthesis of findings to inform design.
• Showcase workflow design and optimization techniques for user journeys and application interactions.
• Provide examples of how design specifications are documented and communicated to development teams for seamless handoff and implementation.
• Illustrate the use of iterative design processes, including feedback loops and design revisions based on testing and stakeholder input.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is tailored to emphasize the critical need for a strong portfolio for a Senior UX Designer, detailing what specific elements and case studies should be included to demonstrate proficiency in UX architecture, research, and visual design. The "process documentation" aspect focuses on how design processes are executed and communicated.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: USD $38,000 - $136,000 per year.
Explanation of Range: The provided salary range reflects a broad estimate. Actual compensation will be determined by the candidate's specific experience, qualifications, and the results of the interview process. For a Senior UX Designer role in New York City (a high cost of living area), the higher end of this range is more typical for highly experienced candidates with proven track records. The lower end might apply to candidates meeting the minimum requirements but without extensive senior-level experience or specialized skills relevant to the specific product.

Benefits:

• Medical, vision, and dental benefits for comprehensive health coverage.
• 401k retirement plan to support long-term financial planning.
• Variable pay/incentives, reflecting performance-based rewards.
• Paid time off (PTO) and paid holidays for work-life balance.

Working Hours: The standard working hours for this full-time position are 40 hours per week. While the role is on-site, there may be flexibility for occasional remote work or adjusted on-site schedules depending on team needs and company policy.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range from the raw data is presented. An explanation is added to contextualize the broad range for a Senior UX Designer in a major metropolitan area like New York, considering experience and qualifications. The benefits are listed as provided.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Technology / Software Services (Inferred from "Photon Career Site" and typical company profiles using such platforms). Photon is known for digital transformation and technology services.
Company Size: Information not directly provided, but the use of an Oracle Cloud-based ATS suggests a medium to large enterprise that utilizes robust HR systems.
Founded: Information not directly provided.

Team Structure:

• The UX Design team likely operates as a specialized unit within a larger product development or technology division.
• This Senior Designer will likely report to a Design Lead, UX Manager, or Director of Product Design.
• Close collaboration is expected with Product Managers, Software Developers (frontend and backend), QA Engineers, and potentially Marketing and Sales teams to ensure alignment on product strategy and user needs.

Methodology:

• The team likely follows a user-centered design (UCD) approach, integrating research and testing throughout the development lifecycle.
• Agile methodologies, such as Scrum or Kanban, are probably employed for iterative development and quick adaptation to feedback.
• Data-driven decision-making, leveraging analytics and user feedback, is expected to guide design iterations and improvements.

Company Website: https://www.photon.in/

📝 Enhancement Note: Assumptions are made about the company's industry, size, and typical team structures based on "Photon Career Site" and the nature of a Senior UX Designer role. The website URL is included from the provided data.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior-level individual contributor role within the design function, requiring a high degree of autonomy and expertise. It signifies a professional who can lead design initiatives, mentor others, and contribute significantly to product strategy.
Reporting Structure: The Senior UX Designer will report to a Design Manager or Director, working closely with product and engineering leads on specific projects.
Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on product success by ensuring intuitive user experiences, driving user adoption, and contributing to customer satisfaction and retention. Effective UX design can significantly influence conversion rates, engagement metrics, and overall brand perception.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Track: Progression to Lead UX Designer, Design Manager, or Director of UX/Product Design, overseeing teams and strategic design direction.
• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas such as UX research, interaction design, information architecture, or accessibility.
• Cross-Functional Advancement: Opportunity to move into Product Management roles, leveraging a strong understanding of user needs and product development.
• Continuous Learning: Access to training, conferences, and certifications in the latest UX trends and technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section analyzes the career trajectory for a Senior UX Designer, outlining potential paths for advancement, specialization, and the impact of the role on business objectives.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site in New York. This implies a traditional office setting designed for collaboration and focused work.
Office Location(s): New York, USA. This location offers access to a vibrant tech and design community, as well as potential for networking and industry events.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is expected to be collaborative, with designers working alongside product managers and engineers to foster innovation and efficient problem-solving.
• Access to industry-standard design tools and technology is a given, supporting the creation of high-fidelity prototypes and detailed design specifications.
• Opportunities for close interaction with cross-functional teams will be frequent, facilitating a holistic approach to product development.

Work Schedule: The role is structured around a 40-hour work week, with the expectation of being present in the office. Some flexibility may be afforded, but the primary mode of work is on-site to facilitate in-person collaboration and mentorship.

📝 Enhancement Note: Based on the "On-site" designation and New York location, this section describes a typical office environment for a senior design professional, emphasizing collaboration and access to resources.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will review applications and portfolios for minimum qualifications and alignment with role requirements.
• Portfolio Presentation: Candidates will be asked to present their portfolio, walking through 2-3 key case studies that demonstrate their design process, problem-solving skills, and impact. This is a critical step for a Senior UX Designer.
• Technical/Skills Interview: This may involve a design challenge, a whiteboarding session to solve a UX problem, or in-depth discussion of design methodologies and tool proficiency.
• Cross-Functional Interviews: Meetings with potential team members (Product Managers, Engineers) to assess collaboration style, communication, and cultural fit.
• Final Interview: Often with a senior leader (e.g., Director of Design, VP of Product) to discuss strategic thinking and overall fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select case studies that best represent your expertise in UX architecture, research, and visual design, aligning with the job description. For this role, highlight enterprise and mobile design experience.
• Tell a Story: For each case study, articulate the problem, your role, the process you followed (research, ideation, prototyping, testing), the challenges you faced, and the ultimate outcome or impact of your design. Quantify results whenever possible.
• Showcase Process, Not Just Pixels: Emphasize your thought process, decision-making, and how you leveraged research and user feedback.
• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate questions about your design choices, trade-offs you made, and how you handled constructive criticism.
• Demonstrate Tool Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your use of Sketch, Figma, or Adobe XD and how these tools facilitated your design process.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Problem: If given a design challenge, take time to fully understand the brief and ask clarifying questions.
• Think Aloud: During a whiteboarding session, articulate your thought process as you sketch out ideas. This is as important as the final solution.
• Prioritize: Focus on core user needs and business goals. Senior designers are expected to make strategic prioritization decisions.
• Consider Technical Constraints: Be mindful of technical feasibility and communicate potential trade-offs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides detailed, actionable advice for candidates applying for a Senior UX Designer role, focusing on portfolio presentation, interview stages, and preparation for design challenges, all tailored to the specific requirements of the role.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Sketch: For vector-based UI design and prototyping.
• Figma: A collaborative interface design tool for UI design, prototyping, and developer handoff.
• Adobe XD: An all-in-one platform for designing, prototyping, and sharing user experiences.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Google Analytics / Adobe Analytics: For understanding user behavior and website performance.
• Hotjar / FullStory: For heatmaps, session recordings, and user feedback analysis.
• Tableau / Power BI (Potentially): For creating dashboards and visualizing user data if involved in deeper analytics.

CRM & Automation:

• Salesforce / HubSpot (Potentially): While not a primary design tool, understanding CRM data can inform user segmentation and personalization efforts.
• Jira / Confluence: Essential for project management, bug tracking, and documenting design specifications and team knowledge.
• Zeplin / InVision Inspect: Tools for seamless design handoff to developers, facilitating asset sharing and code inspection.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section lists the specific design tools mentioned in the job description and expands it with other common tools and technologies that a Senior UX Designer in an enterprise environment would likely encounter or utilize for analytics, project management, and developer handoff.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• User-Centricity: A primary focus on understanding and serving user needs through thoughtful design solutions.
• Collaboration: Strong emphasis on teamwork, open communication, and cross-functional partnership to achieve shared goals.
• Excellence: A commitment to high-quality design, attention to detail, and continuous improvement in all aspects of the design process.
• Innovation: Encouraging creative thinking, exploring new ideas, and pushing the boundaries of design to deliver impactful experiences.
• Data-Informed Decisions: Utilizing data and user feedback to guide design choices and measure the effectiveness of solutions.

Collaboration Style:

• Iterative & Feedback-Driven: A culture where designs are shared early and often, with constructive feedback actively sought and incorporated.
• Transparent Communication: Open dialogue between design, product, and engineering teams to ensure alignment and address challenges proactively.
• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging designers to share insights, best practices, and learnings within the team and across departments.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section infers potential company values and collaboration styles based on the requirements for a Senior UX Designer role in a technology company, focusing on aspects like user-centricity, collaboration, and data-driven approaches.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing User Needs with Business Goals: Effectively navigating competing priorities to create designs that satisfy both users and business objectives.
• Technical Constraints: Designing solutions that are technically feasible within project timelines and resource limitations.
• Stakeholder Alignment: Gaining consensus and buy-in from diverse stakeholders with varying perspectives and priorities.
• Rapidly Evolving Technology: Staying current with new design tools, methodologies, and platform capabilities in the fast-paced tech industry.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced UX Workshops: Participation in specialized training on topics like UX research methodologies, interaction design patterns, or accessible design.
• Industry Conferences: Opportunities to attend leading UX and design conferences (e.g., UXPA, AIGA) for networking and learning about emerging trends.
• Mentorship Programs: Potential to be mentored by senior leaders or to mentor junior designers, fostering leadership skills.
• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Gaining exposure to product strategy, business operations, and engineering challenges to broaden understanding of the product lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section identifies common challenges faced by Senior UX Designers and outlines potential learning and development avenues that align with career growth in the field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex UX problem you encountered and how you approached solving it. What was the outcome?" (Focus on your problem-solving process, research, and impact.)
• "How do you prioritize design tasks when faced with multiple competing deadlines and stakeholder requests?" (Demonstrate your organizational and strategic prioritization skills.)
• "Walk me through your process for conducting user research and translating those findings into actionable design improvements." (Highlight your research methodology and ability to derive insights.)
• "How do you ensure your designs are technically feasible and collaborate effectively with developers?" (Showcase your understanding of technical constraints and communication skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Photon and this specific Senior UX Designer role?" (Research Photon's mission, products, and recent news. Connect your skills to their needs.)
• "Describe your ideal team environment and how you contribute to a collaborative culture." (Emphasize your teamwork, communication, and feedback-sharing style.)
• "How do you stay updated on the latest UX trends and technologies?" (Showcase your commitment to continuous learning and professional development.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, clearly define the problem, your role, the objective, your process, the solution, and the results. Use visuals effectively to illustrate your points.
• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use metrics (e.g., increased conversion rates, reduced task completion time, improved user satisfaction scores) to demonstrate the value of your designs.
• Be Concise and Engaging: Keep your presentation focused and engaging. Aim for clarity and avoid jargon where possible, or explain it clearly.
• Prepare for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your design decisions, trade-offs, and alternative approaches. Be ready to defend your choices with rationale.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides specific, actionable interview preparation advice, including example strategy questions, company-specific research tips, and detailed guidance on presenting a UX portfolio effectively for a senior-level role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior UX Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Photon Career Site.
• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your 8+ years of relevant design experience, focusing on UX architecture, research, and visual design achievements. Use keywords from the job description.
• Curate Your Portfolio: Ensure your portfolio prominently features case studies demonstrating your expertise in enterprise and mobile design, user research, and the use of tools like Sketch, Figma, or Adobe XD. Quantify your impact.
• Prepare Your Presentation: Practice walking through your selected case studies, articulating your design process, problem-solving approach, and the impact of your work. Be ready to answer in-depth questions.
• Research Photon: Understand their business, products, and design philosophy to articulate your interest and how you can contribute to their goals.

⚠️ 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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