Sr. UX/UI Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Sr. UX/UI Designer Company: Re:Build Manufacturing Location: Kalamazoo, MI Job Type: Full-time Category: UX/UI Design, Digital Product Design Date Posted: January 13, 2026 Experience Level: 5-10 years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the design of user-centered websites and digital product experiences that drive engagement and measurable business results for Re:Build Tekna's diverse client base.
• Develop and implement end-to-end UX/UI solutions across medical, life science, consumer, and industrial categories, ensuring a cohesive and impactful brand presence.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including Brand Managers, Researchers, Graphic Designers, and Developers, to translate strategic objectives into intuitive and visually compelling digital interfaces.
• Establish and champion best practices in website development, incorporating emerging trends such as AI, eCommerce, and evolving user expectations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Senior UX/UI Designer, implying a need for leadership, strategic thinking, and the ability to mentor junior team members. The focus on diverse industries and client-facing responsibilities suggests a consulting-like environment within Re:Build Tekna, requiring strong client management and communication skills.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, design, and prototype user-centered websites and digital experiences that align with client objectives and market demands.
• Lead the entire design process from initial concept and user research to final implementation and post-launch analysis.
• Develop comprehensive user experience strategies, defining information architecture, user flows, wireframes, and interactive prototypes.
• Translate complex requirements into intuitive, accessible, and visually appealing user interfaces, ensuring adherence to brand guidelines and design systems.
• Conduct user research, usability testing, and gather feedback to iterate on designs and validate solutions.
• Collaborate with developers to ensure accurate implementation of designs, providing clear documentation and asset handoffs.
• Mentor and guide junior designers, fostering a collaborative and growth-oriented team environment.
• Stay abreast of emerging design trends, technologies (e.g., AI in design), and best practices in web development, accessibility, SEO, and performance optimization.
• Contribute to the development and refinement of design systems and component libraries within Figma.
• Participate in client consultations, proposal development, and project scoping, advising on design feasibility, budgets, and resourcing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities are inferred from the job description's emphasis on "leading end-to-end solutions," "developing user experience strategies," and "collaborating closely" with various stakeholders. The mention of "consulting environment experience" further informs the scope of client interaction and project management.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Minimum Bachelor’s degree in UX/UI Design, Industrial Design, Graphic Design, Human-Computer Interaction, or a closely related design field.

Experience:

• 5 to 10 years of professional experience in UX/UI Design, with a significant focus on crafting engaging and effective web experiences.
• Proven track record of leading the design process for digital products and websites across multiple industries.

Required Skills:

• Extreme competence and advanced proficiency in Figma, including mastery of component libraries, design systems, and collaborative workflows.
• Deep understanding of user-centered design principles and methodologies.
• Demonstrated ability to create wireframes, user flows, prototypes, and high-fidelity mockups.
• Experience designing for accessibility (WCAG standards), Search Engine Optimization (SEO), and performance optimization.
• Proficiency in basic HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, understanding their implications for web design.
• Experience with Content Management Systems (CMS) platforms.
• Strong portfolio showcasing creativity, critical thinking, and business-minded outcomes in web design.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to articulate design decisions and mentor effectively.
• Proven ability to collaborate and partner with executives, clients, and developers to deliver impactful digital experiences.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with AI tools relevant to design and content creation.
• Specific experience with WordPress and Elementor CMS platforms.
• Background in a consulting environment, with experience in proposal development and advising on project budgets and resourcing.
• Experience mentoring early-career team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "extreme competence in Figma" and the explicit mention of AI tools, accessibility, SEO, and performance optimization are key areas of focus for this senior role. The preference for WordPress and Elementor, combined with basic HTML/CSS/JS knowledge, indicates a practical, hands-on approach to web development within the design context.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio demonstrating a strong understanding of user-centered design principles and their application to real-world projects.
• Case studies that clearly articulate the problem, your design process, the solutions implemented, and the measurable business outcomes or user impact achieved.
• Examples of website designs across diverse industries (medical, life science, consumer, industrial) showcasing versatility and adaptability.
• Demonstrations of proficiency in Figma, including the use of design systems, component libraries, and collaborative design workflows.
• Evidence of designing for accessibility, SEO, and performance optimization within projects.

Process Documentation:

• Clear documentation of your design process, from initial research and ideation to prototyping, testing, and developer handoff.
• Examples of how you have collaborated with developers, providing clear specifications and assets for seamless implementation.
• Evidence of your ability to guide clients and teams through the design process, presenting ideas confidently and managing feedback effectively.
• Documentation of how you have contributed to or maintained design systems and component libraries.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior UX/UI Designer role, the portfolio is critical. It needs to go beyond aesthetics and demonstrate strategic thinking, problem-solving capabilities, and a clear understanding of how design contributes to business objectives and user satisfaction, particularly within a client-facing or consulting context.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for Senior UX/UI Designers with 5-10 years of experience in Kalamazoo, MI, a competitive salary range is estimated between $90,000 and $130,000 annually. This estimate considers the cost of living in Kalamazoo, the specialized skill set required (Figma proficiency, AI understanding, accessibility, SEO), and the consulting-like nature of the role within Re:Build Tekna.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Retirement savings plan (e.g., 401k) with potential company match.
• Paid time off (PTO), including vacation days, sick leave, and holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development, training, and attending industry conferences.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses or profit sharing.
• Access to cutting-edge design tools and technology.
• Exposure to a diverse range of projects across multiple industries.
• Supportive and collaborative team environment with opportunities for mentorship.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, typically around 40 hours per week. The role may require flexibility to meet project deadlines or client needs, particularly in a fast-paced, client-focused environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary range is an estimation based on Glassdoor, LinkedIn Salary, and industry reports for similar roles in the Kalamazoo, MI area. Benefits are standard offerings for full-time positions at companies of this size and industry, tailored to attract design professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Manufacturing (with a strong focus on design consulting, contract manufacturing, and OEM services for medical, life science, consumer, and industrial goods). Re:Build Manufacturing's broader mission is to revitalize U.S. manufacturing through technology and operational excellence. Company Size: Re:Build Manufacturing is described as a "family of industrial businesses," suggesting a growing but potentially complex organizational structure. Tekna, as a subsidiary, likely operates with a dedicated team within this larger framework. (Company size data from LinkedIn indicates Re:Build Manufacturing has between 201-500 employees). Founded: Tekna was founded in 1988. Re:Build Manufacturing's acquisition and integration are more recent, aiming to build a "next-generation industrial company."

Team Structure:

• The Sr. UX/UI Designer will be part of the Re:Build Tekna team, which includes Design Engineering, Industrial Design, CAD, Procurement, Production, and Quality departments.
• This role will collaborate closely with Brand Managers, Researchers, Graphic Designers, Developers, and other UX/UI Designers within a highly creative and cross-functional environment.
• Reporting likely to a Design Lead, Creative Director, or Head of Product Development within Tekna.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on client-focused design consulting, offering a diverse project portfolio.
• Integration of cutting-edge enabling technologies and operational superiority across industrial platforms.
• Cross-functional team collaboration is a core aspect of the workflow.
• Commitment to empowering employees, offering coaching, and supporting professional growth.

Company Website: https://www.rebuildmanufacturing.com/ (Note: The provided URL was null, so a general search was performed.)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is characterized by a blend of established manufacturing expertise (Tekna) and a forward-thinking, technology-driven growth strategy (Re:Build Manufacturing). The emphasis on empowering staff, cross-functional collaboration, and diverse projects suggests a dynamic and supportive environment for experienced professionals.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior-level individual contributor role. It requires not only advanced design skills but also leadership qualities, strategic thinking, and the ability to mentor others. The role is pivotal in shaping user experiences and influencing product development across various clients and industries.

Reporting Structure: The Sr. UX/UI Designer will likely report to a Design Manager, Creative Director, or a senior leader within the Re:Build Tekna business unit. They will collaborate extensively with cross-functional teams, including Brand Managers, Developers, and Researchers.

Operations Impact: The Sr. UX/UI Designer's work directly impacts client satisfaction, user engagement, brand perception, and ultimately, the commercial success of the products and services designed and manufactured. By creating intuitive and effective user experiences, they contribute to client retention, lead generation, and market differentiation for Re:Build Tekna and its clients.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Development: Opportunity to mentor junior designers, lead design initiatives, and potentially grow into a Design Lead or Manager role.
• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in emerging areas like AI in design, advanced UX research, or specific industry verticals (e.g., medical device design).
• Strategic Influence: Contribute to the overall business strategy and product vision by advising clients and internal leadership on design best practices and market trends.
• Broader Exposure: Gain experience across a wide array of industries and product types, increasing marketability and versatility.
• Career Path within Re:Build: Potential to move into roles with broader responsibility within the Re:Build Manufacturing ecosystem as the company expands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Sr." title and the emphasis on mentorship and best practice establishment indicate a role with significant growth potential beyond individual contribution, paving the way for leadership or specialized expert tracks within the organization.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Kalamazoo, MI, and is described as "On-site," suggesting a physical office location. Given the company's industry and focus on collaboration, it's likely a modern office environment that supports both focused work and team interaction. Office Location(s): Kalamazoo, Michigan. This location offers a blend of industrial heritage and a growing tech/design sector.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect an open or semi-open office layout designed to foster communication and teamwork among designers, developers, and other cross-functional teams.
• Tools and Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (primarily Figma), potentially other prototyping tools, and necessary hardware. The company encourages leveraging "cutting-edge enabling technologies."
• Team Interaction: Frequent opportunities to engage with colleagues for brainstorming sessions, design reviews, project discussions, and knowledge sharing.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is full-time (approximately 40 hours per week).
• While on-site, there may be an expectation of flexibility to accommodate project timelines, client meetings, and collaborative sessions, which can sometimes extend beyond standard hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "on-site" nature of the role suggests a preference for in-person collaboration, which is often beneficial for design teams to facilitate real-time feedback, spontaneous problem-solving, and strong team cohesion.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess alignment with the role's requirements and experience level.
• Portfolio Presentation & Discussion: A session where you present your portfolio, walking through 2-3 key projects that highlight your UX/UI design skills, process, and impact. Expect in-depth questions about your design decisions, problem-solving approach, and collaborative methods.
• Technical/Skills Assessment: This may involve a design challenge or a discussion focused on your proficiency with Figma, understanding of web technologies (HTML/CSS/JS), and knowledge of accessibility, SEO, and performance optimization.
• Cross-Functional Interview: An interview with potential peers and collaborators (e.g., developers, brand managers) to assess your teamwork, communication, and ability to integrate into the existing team structure.
• Leadership/Manager Interview: A final interview with a senior leader to discuss your strategic thinking, mentorship capabilities, cultural fit, and long-term career aspirations within Re:Build Manufacturing.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best showcase your end-to-end design process, problem-solving skills, and ability to deliver business-oriented outcomes. Prioritize web experience examples.
• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly define the problem, your role, the design process you followed, key decisions made, challenges overcome, and the quantifiable results or impact.
• Highlight Figma Mastery: Be prepared to discuss your use of Figma features like design systems, component libraries, auto-layout, and collaborative tools.
• Showcase Technical Understanding: Demonstrate your awareness of how your designs translate to code (HTML/CSS/JS) and your considerations for accessibility, SEO, and performance.
• Explain Collaboration: Detail how you worked with developers, stakeholders, and clients, and how you managed feedback and iterations.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready for a potential design challenge that tests your ability to quickly understand a problem, ideate solutions, and present your approach.
• Practice articulating your thought process clearly and concisely.
• Prepare to discuss how you would approach integrating AI, eCommerce, or specific user expectations into a design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and potential design challenges is standard for UX/UI roles. For this senior position, the review will likely focus heavily on strategic thinking, leadership potential, and the ability to drive measurable business outcomes through design.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: This is the core tool for UI/UX design, prototyping, and collaboration. Expect advanced usage, including design systems, component libraries, and collaborative workflows.
• Prototyping Tools: While Figma has strong prototyping capabilities, other tools like InVision or Adobe XD might be used for specific workflows or presentations.
• Design Systems: Experience in creating, maintaining, and utilizing design systems is crucial.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Web Analytics Platforms: Familiarity with tools like Google Analytics is important for understanding user behavior and performance metrics.
• Heatmapping & User Session Tools: Tools like Hotjar or Crazy Egg can provide insights into user interaction.
• SEO Tools: Basic understanding of SEO tools for keyword research and performance tracking.

CRM & Automation:

• While not primary design tools, understanding how designs integrate with CRM systems (like Salesforce) or marketing automation platforms may be beneficial for context.

Development Environment Context:

• HTML, CSS, JavaScript: Fundamental understanding required to design effectively for the web.
• CMS Platforms: WordPress and Elementor are specifically mentioned as preferred. Knowledge of how designs are implemented within these platforms is valuable.

📝 Enhancement Note: Figma is highlighted as a critical tool. The requirement for basic HTML/CSS/JS knowledge and familiarity with CMS platforms like WordPress and Elementor indicates that the designer needs a practical understanding of web development realities and the ability to work closely with developers.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Client-Centricity: A strong focus on understanding and meeting client needs to deliver successful project outcomes.
• Innovation & Technology: Embracing cutting-edge technologies and creative solutions to drive success in manufacturing and design.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where cross-functional teams work together effectively to achieve common goals.
• Growth & Development: Commitment to empowering employees, providing opportunities for learning, skill enhancement, and career advancement.
• Quality & Excellence: Maintaining high standards in design, manufacturing, and client service.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilizing insights from analytics and user feedback to inform design choices and measure impact.

Collaboration Style:

• Highly collaborative, with frequent interaction across departments (Design, Engineering, Brand, Development).
• Open communication and feedback loops are encouraged to ensure alignment and drive continuous improvement.
• Cross-functional teams are expected to work synergistically to deliver integrated solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture emphasizes a blend of client focus, technological innovation, and a strong internal commitment to employee growth and collaborative problem-solving. This is typical for design roles within forward-thinking manufacturing or technology companies.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Diverse Project Demands: Balancing the needs of multiple clients across vastly different industries, each with unique user bases and business objectives.
• Integrating Emerging Technologies: Staying ahead of the curve with AI, eCommerce, and other evolving web trends and effectively incorporating them into designs.
• Cross-Functional Alignment: Ensuring seamless collaboration and communication between design, development, marketing, and client teams, especially in a complex organizational structure.
• Defining New Standards: As a senior member, there's an opportunity and challenge to establish new best practices and processes for website development within Re:Build Tekna.
• Client Management: Navigating client expectations, feedback, and potential scope changes effectively.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Skills: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specialized areas of UX/UI design, interaction design, or visual design.
• Industry Trends: Access to training and resources to stay current on AI in design, new web technologies, and evolving user behavior.
• Leadership Training: Development programs focused on mentorship, team leadership, and strategic project management.
• Cross-Industry Exposure: Gaining broad experience that enhances versatility and marketability across various sectors.
• Mentorship: Opportunity to be mentored by senior leaders within Re:Build Manufacturing and to mentor junior designers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are framed to highlight opportunities for growth and skill development, aligning with the company's commitment to employee empowerment and continuous learning.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for designing a website for a new client in the medical device industry. How would you ensure user safety and regulatory compliance are considered?" (Focus on process, industry specifics, and risk mitigation).
• "How do you stay current with emerging technologies like AI in design, and how have you incorporated them into your work? Provide an example." (Focus on continuous learning, innovation, and practical application).
• "Walk us through a challenging client feedback scenario you encountered. How did you manage it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on communication, negotiation, and client relationship management).
• "How would you approach building or contributing to a design system for a company like Re:Build Tekna, which serves multiple brands/industries?" (Focus on scalability, reusability, and strategic design thinking).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Re:Build Manufacturing's mission to revitalize U.S. manufacturing?" (Demonstrate research and alignment with company values).
• "How do you see your role as a Senior UX/UI Designer contributing to the collaborative environment here?" (Highlight teamwork, mentorship, and communication skills).
• "Describe a time you had to advocate for a design decision that was met with resistance. How did you handle it?" (Assess conviction, communication, and problem-solving).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure is Key: Start with a brief overview of your career and expertise. Then, present 2-3 projects, dedicating ample time to each.
• Problem-Solution-Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem statement, your specific role and process, the design solutions you implemented, and the measurable impact or results achieved.
• Figma Deep Dive: Be prepared to share your Figma files or screen recordings to demonstrate your proficiency with design systems, components, prototyping, and collaboration features.
• Technical Context: Explain how your designs considered HTML/CSS/JS constraints, accessibility, SEO, and performance.
• Client/Stakeholder Interaction: Detail how you gathered requirements, presented designs, and incorporated feedback from clients and internal teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview questions are tailored to assess not only technical skills but also strategic thinking, leadership potential, and cultural fit, particularly concerning collaboration, client management, and adaptability within a dynamic manufacturing and design environment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Sr. UX/UI Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided greenhouse.io link.
• Portfolio Preparation: Ensure your online portfolio is up-to-date, showcasing your best web design projects. Focus on case studies that demonstrate your end-to-end process, problem-solving skills, and measurable impact. Highlight your Figma expertise and experience with accessibility, SEO, and performance optimization.
• Resume Tailoring: Customize your resume to emphasize your 5-10 years of relevant UX/UI design experience, specifically highlighting your work on websites and digital experiences. Use keywords from the job description such as "Figma," "user-centered design," "web experiences," "accessibility," and "mentorship."
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Re:Build Manufacturing's mission, Tekna's services, and the industries they serve. Understand their approach to revitalizing U.S. manufacturing and how design plays a role.
• Practice Presentation: Rehearse your portfolio presentation, focusing on clearly articulating your design process, rationale, and the outcomes of your projects. Be ready to answer in-depth questions about your Figma usage and technical considerations.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. All details, particularly regarding compensation and specific benefits, should be verified directly with Re:Build Manufacturing during the application and interview process.