Student Assistant - AI Product Designer & Prototyper

VML MAP
Full-timeCopenhagen, Denmark

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Student Assistant - AI Product Designer & Prototyper

Company: VML MAP

Location: Copenhagen, Capital Region, Denmark

Job Type: Intern

Category: Product Design / AI / UX/UI

Date Posted: 2026-05-08T06:40:13

Experience Level: 0-2 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

  • Engage in hands-on product design and rapid prototyping for user-facing AI solutions within the Agentic AI Lab.

  • Conceptualize, design, and bring to life interactive AI-powered experiences, applications, and demos for a diverse range of enterprise clients.

  • Collaborate closely with the AI Lead to translate abstract AI concepts into tangible, user-friendly interfaces and functional prototypes.

  • Utilize cutting-edge tools like Figma, Claude Code, and Codex to transform designs into working prototypes and client-ready demonstrations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as an "Intern" and "Student Assistant," indicating a focus on learning and development, with direct mentorship from an AI Lead. The emphasis on "front-stage journey" and "user-facing" solutions highlights the importance of tangible output and client-facing deliverables, even at an assistant level. The requirement for a portfolio suggests that practical demonstration of skills is paramount over academic background alone.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

  • Design and prototype user-facing AI experiences, user flows, and interface concepts using Figma, with a strong emphasis on auto-layout and visual detail.

  • Transform early-stage ideas and client briefs into tangible product directions and interactive prototypes that demonstrate the potential of AI.

  • Leverage AI-assisted development tools, such as Claude Code and Codex, to convert static designs into functional, interactive prototypes.

  • Prepare and refine prototypes, demos, and interactive concepts for presentation to clients, internal teams, and stakeholders.

  • Collaborate with front-end developers to iterate on prototypes, ensuring a smooth transition towards product-ready applications.

  • Conduct research and benchmarking on modern AI products, interaction patterns, and emerging AI-driven behaviors to inform design decisions.

  • Explore and define novel AI-powered experiences, moving beyond traditional screen design to address unique human-AI interaction challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly outline a full-cycle design and prototyping process, from ideation to client-ready demonstrations. The explicit mention of AI-assisted development tools and research into AI product behaviors indicates a forward-thinking and experimental approach to product design within the AI domain.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While a specific academic background is not mandated, candidates may be studying product design, interaction design, UX/UI design, service design, philosophy, creative technology, computer science, or related fields.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience in digital product design, with a focus on UX/UI fundamentals and practical application.

Required Skills:

  • Solid UX and UI design fundamentals, with a strong command of design principles and best practices.

  • Proficient in Figma, including advanced features like auto-layout, for creating detailed interface designs and prototypes.

  • Strong visual taste and meticulous attention to detail in all design outputs.

  • Ability to conceptualize and map out user journeys, understanding the end-to-end user experience.

  • Genuine interest in AI products, assistants, copilots, agents, and novel forms of human-AI interaction.

  • Experience or demonstrated strong interest in using "vibe coding" or AI-assisted development tools to create working prototypes.

  • Aptitude for working with ambiguity, balancing creative exploration with practical execution.

Preferred Skills:

  • Prior experience designing AI-related features, conversational interfaces, copilots, or agentic workflows.

  • Basic understanding of front-end development concepts (e.g., HTML, CSS, JavaScript) to facilitate collaboration with developers.

  • Experience creating interactive or coded prototypes beyond basic Figma capabilities.

  • Interest in CRM and marketing-specific experiences, such as customer journey mapping, personalization engines, or marketing automation workflows.

  • Experience working with and contributing to design systems.

  • Interest in the intersection of digital experiences and physical environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "hiring for a mindset" approach, coupled with strong emphasis on Figma proficiency and AI interest, suggests that adaptability, a proactive learning attitude, and a demonstrable passion for AI-driven design are highly valued. The preferred skills indicate an advantage for candidates with a broader understanding of development and marketing technology stacks.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • Showcase of digital product design work that clearly articulates your thought process and problem-solving approach.

  • Examples demonstrating strong UX/UI design fundamentals, including wireframes, user flows, and high-fidelity mockups.

  • Prototypes (ideally interactive) that illustrate your ability to bring designs to life and test user interactions.

  • Projects that highlight your attention to detail, visual design sensibility, and understanding of user-centered design principles.

Process Documentation:

  • Case studies or project descriptions that detail your design process from initial concept to final prototype or demo.

  • Explanation of how you approach user research, problem definition, and ideation for AI-powered experiences.

  • Documentation of your prototyping workflow, including tools used and challenges overcome.

  • Examples of how you collaborate with others (e.g., developers, AI leads) to refine and implement designs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is critical for this role, serving as the primary evidence of a candidate's design thinking, technical proficiency, and creative application of AI in product design. It should not just present final outputs but also the iterative process and strategic considerations behind them, especially concerning AI integration.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As this is a student assistant/intern position, compensation will be competitive and reflective of local Danish student assistant/intern wages and the candidate's experience level. A typical range for a student assistant in Copenhagen with specialized skills in design and AI could be between 15,000 - 25,000 DKK per month, depending on hours and specific responsibilities.

Benefits:

  • Opportunity to gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge AI product design and prototyping.

  • Mentorship from an experienced AI Lead and exposure to a leading global agency network.

  • Work on impactful projects for world-renowned brands across various industries.

  • Development of skills in Figma, AI-assisted development tools, and human-AI interaction design.

  • Exposure to a dynamic and collaborative work environment within the Agentic AI Lab.

  • Potential for networking and career growth within VML MAP and the broader WPP network.

Working Hours: This is a part-time student assistant role, typically requiring a commitment of 15-20 hours per week, with flexibility to accommodate academic schedules. The standard Danish work week is 37 hours, but this role will be adjusted accordingly.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on typical student assistant/intern rates in Copenhagen, Denmark, considering the specialized nature of the role and the industry. The benefits emphasize learning, development, and exposure to high-profile projects and clients, which are key selling points for student roles.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Marketing, Advertising, Technology, AI, Data Solutions, Consultancy. VML MAP operates at the intersection of these fields, focusing on humanizing customer relationships through hyper-personalization, automation, and CRM.

Company Size: VML MAP is part of the global VML network, which comprises over 30,000 employees across 150+ offices in 60+ markets. VML MAP itself has over 1000 specialists globally. This scale provides significant resources, opportunities, and a diverse professional environment.

Founded: VML MAP is a modern entity formed from the merger of Wunderman Thompson MAP and VML. Its roots trace back to established agencies within the WPP group, bringing a rich history of marketing and technology innovation.

Team Structure:

  • The Agentic AI Lab is a specialized unit focused on exploring and developing AI-driven solutions.

  • You will work closely with the AI Lead, who will provide direct guidance and mentorship.

  • Collaboration extends to front-end developers and other members of the broader VML MAP team.

Methodology:

  • Data-Driven Design: Leveraging data insights to inform AI product development and personalization strategies.

  • Agile & Iterative Prototyping: Rapidly developing and testing prototypes to gather feedback and iterate on designs.

  • Human-Centered AI: Focusing on creating AI experiences that are useful, understandable, and beneficial to real users.

  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Working closely with diverse teams (design, development, strategy, data science) to bring complex solutions to life.

Company Website: https://vml-map.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is characterized by a blend of agency creativity, consultancy strategy, and technological prowess. The global network offers extensive opportunities, while the Agentic AI Lab provides a focused, innovative environment for AI exploration. The methodology emphasizes practical application and iterative development.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level student assistant/intern position, offering foundational experience in AI product design and prototyping. It's designed for individuals early in their careers who are eager to learn and contribute.

Reporting Structure: You will report directly to the AI Lead within the Agentic AI Lab. This close reporting line ensures dedicated mentorship and focused project involvement.

Operations Impact: While this is an assistant role, your contributions will directly impact the development of tangible AI product prototypes and demos that are presented to major clients. This provides a unique opportunity to influence early-stage product ideation and demonstrate the practical application of AI in business contexts.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in AI product design, UX/UI, rapid prototyping, and specific AI development tools.

  • Industry Exposure: Gain invaluable experience working with leading global brands and understanding their AI adoption challenges.

  • Networking: Build connections within VML MAP, WPP, and the broader tech and marketing industries.

  • Portfolio Development: Create compelling projects and case studies for your professional portfolio.

  • Potential for Future Roles: Strong performance and demonstrated potential may lead to future internship extensions or full-time opportunities within VML MAP or WPP.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as an excellent stepping stone for aspiring AI product designers. The growth opportunities are geared towards skill acquisition, practical application, and building a professional network within a large, reputable organization. The direct impact on client-facing materials is a significant growth catalyst.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based on-site in Copenhagen. VML MAP fosters a collaborative and dynamic office environment, characteristic of a leading global agency and technology hub.

Office Location(s): Copenhagen, Capital Region, Denmark. Specific office details would be provided upon inquiry or during the interview process.

Workspace Context:

  • Collaborative Spaces: The office likely features open-plan areas, meeting rooms, and project spaces designed to encourage teamwork and idea sharing.

  • Technology & Tools: Access to necessary design software (Figma), AI development tools, and standard office technology will be provided.

  • Team Interaction: Opportunities to connect with peers, mentors, and senior team members across various disciplines, fostering a rich learning environment.

  • Client-Facing Atmosphere: Exposure to a professional environment where client presentations and innovative solutions are the norm.

Work Schedule: On-site, part-time (15-20 hours per week), with flexibility to accommodate academic commitments. While on-site, the environment is expected to be conducive to focused design work and collaborative sessions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Copenhagen suggests an environment that values in-person collaboration and immersion in the company's culture. The workspace is expected to be equipped with the necessary tools and designed to promote innovation and teamwork.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  • Initial Screening: Review of CV and portfolio to assess fundamental design skills, AI interest, and alignment with role requirements.

  • Portfolio Presentation & Discussion: A session where you present your portfolio, discuss your design process, and explain your approach to AI product design and prototyping. Be prepared to articulate your thought process for specific projects.

  • Skills Assessment (Figma/Prototyping): A practical exercise or discussion to evaluate your Figma proficiency, understanding of auto-layout, and ability to translate concepts into interactive prototypes.

  • AI/Concept Discussion: An exploration of your understanding and interest in AI products, human-AI interaction, and your ideas about the future of AI in user experiences.

  • Cultural Fit Interview: Discussion to assess your collaboration style, ability to work with ambiguity, and enthusiasm for the VML MAP culture.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Curate Selectively: Showcase 3-5 of your strongest projects that best represent your skills in UX/UI, prototyping, and AI interest.

  • Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, your process, the tools used, key decisions, and the outcome or learnings.

  • Highlight AI Focus: If possible, include projects that demonstrate your exploration of AI features, conversational interfaces, or innovative interaction patterns.

  • Showcase Figma Mastery: Ensure your Figma work is well-organized, uses auto-layout effectively, and demonstrates a strong visual design sense.

  • Include Prototypes: Interactive prototypes are highly valuable. If using Figma, ensure they are well-linked and demonstrate key user flows.

  • Explain Your "Why": Be ready to discuss your motivations, learning process, and why you are excited about AI and product design.

Challenge Preparation:

  • Figma Practice: Revisit and practice advanced Figma features, especially auto-layout, components, and interactive prototyping.

  • AI Product Research: Familiarize yourself with current AI products, emerging trends in human-AI interaction, and common AI product patterns (e.g., copilots, agents).

  • Design Thinking: Be prepared to walk through your design thinking process for hypothetical AI product challenges.

  • Client Scenario: Consider how you would approach designing an AI experience for a specific industry (e.g., automotive, retail, finance) based on the job description.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is heavily focused on practical skills and conceptual understanding. A strong, well-presented portfolio is paramount, and candidates should be prepared to articulate their design process and AI-related thinking in detail.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

  • Figma: The core tool for UX/UI design, wireframing, and interactive prototyping. Proficiency with advanced features like auto-layout is essential.

  • AI-Assisted Development Tools: Experience or strong interest in tools like Claude Code and Codex for turning designs into working prototypes.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

  • Interest in CRM and marketing automation is a plus, suggesting an awareness of how AI products can integrate into broader customer engagement strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is centered around core design tools (Figma) and emerging AI development platforms. Candidates with existing experience or a strong willingness to learn these specific AI-assisted tools will have a distinct advantage.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

  • Curiosity & Learning: A strong emphasis on exploring new technologies and ideas, particularly in the rapidly evolving field of AI.

  • Creativity & Innovation: Encouraging novel approaches to problem-solving and the design of user experiences.

  • Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively with colleagues across different disciplines to achieve shared goals.

  • User-Centricity: Designing with the end-user in mind, ensuring AI solutions are beneficial and understandable.

  • Execution & Delivery: A focus on bringing ideas to life through tangible prototypes and demos that demonstrate value.

Collaboration Style:

  • Cross-Functional Integration: Expect to collaborate closely with AI Leads, front-end developers, and potentially strategists and data scientists.

  • Open Communication: An environment that encourages sharing ideas, providing feedback, and discussing challenges openly.

  • Iterative Feedback Loops: Working in cycles of design, prototyping, testing, and refinement, with continuous feedback from mentors and stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture values a proactive, learning-oriented mindset combined with a strong execution capability. The collaborative style is designed to foster innovation and ensure that AI solutions are not just conceptual but also practically realized and user-focused.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • Rapidly Evolving AI Landscape: Keeping pace with the constant advancements and new applications of AI technology.

  • Designing for Ambiguity: Working on exploratory projects where the final product direction may not be clearly defined from the outset.

  • Translating Complex AI Concepts: Making sophisticated AI functionalities accessible and understandable to diverse user groups.

  • Balancing Creativity and Execution: Merging imaginative design concepts with the practical requirements of building functional prototypes.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • AI Product Design Specialization: Gaining deep practical experience in designing and prototyping AI-driven user experiences.

  • Tool Proficiency: Mastering Figma and becoming adept with AI-assisted development tools like Claude Code and Codex.

  • Industry Exposure: Learning from experienced professionals and working on projects for major global brands.

  • Portfolio Enhancement: Building a strong portfolio with real-world projects that showcase advanced design and AI prototyping skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents a unique opportunity to tackle the challenges of designing for AI, a field that is still rapidly maturing. The growth opportunities are significant for individuals looking to build a career at the forefront of AI product innovation.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • "Walk me through a project in your portfolio where you designed a user-facing feature or product. What was the problem, your role, your process, and the outcome?"

  • "How do you approach translating a complex technical concept, like AI, into a user-friendly experience?"

Company & Culture Questions:

  • "What interests you most about AI product design and VML MAP's Agentic AI Lab?"

  • "How do you stay updated on AI trends and new interaction patterns?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Focus on Process: Clearly articulate your thought process, decision-making, and iterative steps for each project.

  • Demonstrate Figma Skills: Highlight your use of auto-layout and advanced prototyping features.

  • Showcase AI Exploration: If you have AI-related projects, explain the unique challenges and solutions.

  • Keep it Concise: Be prepared to present your portfolio within a given timeframe, focusing on the most impactful projects.

  • Be Enthusiastic: Convey your passion for design, AI, and learning.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong design foundation, a clear understanding of AI's potential, and the ability to articulate one's process effectively. The portfolio is the central piece of evidence, so thorough preparation for presenting it is key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this student assistant position:

  • Submit your application through the provided link on Greenhouse.

  • Tailor Your Resume: Highlight relevant coursework, projects, and any prior design or prototyping experience, emphasizing skills like Figma, UX/UI, and any AI-related interests.

  • Curate Your Portfolio: Select 3-5 of your strongest digital design projects. Ensure they showcase your UX/UI fundamentals, Figma proficiency, and any exploration into AI or innovative interactions. Include interactive prototypes if possible.

  • Prepare for Portfolio Presentation: Practice explaining your design process, problem-solving approach, and the rationale behind your design decisions for each project in your portfolio.

  • Research VML MAP and WPP: Understand their work, client base, and culture. Familiarize yourself with their approach to AI and personalization as described on their website.

  • Express Enthusiasm for AI: Clearly articulate your interest in AI, human-AI interaction, and your eagerness to learn and contribute within the Agentic AI Lab.

⚠️ 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.

Application Requirements

Requires solid UX/UI fundamentals, strong Figma skills, and a passion for human-AI interaction. Candidates should have a portfolio demonstrating digital product design and the ability to work with ambiguity.