Trainee UX/UI Designer (m/w/d)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Trainee UX/UI Designer (m/f/d)
Company: Digitale Leute School | DL Education
Location: Köln, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
Job Type: Intern
Category: Product Design & Operations
Date Posted: October 1, 2025
Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)
Remote Status: Hybrid (Online education with potential for in-person projects)

🚀 Role Summary

• This is an exceptional opportunity for aspiring professionals to enter the digital product design field through a comprehensive bootcamp experience.
• The role focuses on developing practical UX/UI design skills, including user research, wireframing, prototyping, and interface design.
• Participants will gain hands-on experience working in simulated product teams using agile methodologies like Scrum and Kanban.
• The program emphasizes direct support for job placement within Digitale Leute's extensive hiring network, facilitating a smooth transition into a professional UX/UI design career.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Trainee UX/UI Designer," the description clearly outlines this as an educational program (bootcamp) rather than a traditional entry-level job. The "Intern" employment type further supports this. The role is positioned as a pathway to a career, with a strong emphasis on learning and development.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive user research to understand user needs, behaviors, and pain points.
• Translate research findings into intuitive user flows, wireframes, and interactive prototypes.
• Design visually appealing and user-friendly interfaces that align with product goals and brand guidelines.
• Plan and execute usability testing sessions to gather feedback and iterate on designs.
• Implement designs based on user feedback and usability test results, ensuring a high-quality user experience.
• Collaborate effectively within simulated product teams, adopting agile methodologies such as Scrum and Kanban.
• Participate actively in real-world-like projects, contributing to the entire product design lifecycle.
• Engage with mentors and trainers to receive guidance and feedback on design work and career development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed are typical for an intensive UX/UI design bootcamp, focusing on the core activities of a junior designer. The emphasis on "simulated product teams" and "real-world-like projects" highlights the practical, hands-on nature of the training.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: No specific formal education in design is required. A passion for design, technology, and digital products is essential. Experience: Prior experience in design is not necessary. The program is designed for individuals looking to transition careers or start their journey in the digital sector.

Required Skills:

• Demonstrated passion for design, technology, and digital products.
• Strong motivation and a proactive attitude towards learning new skills and concepts in UX/UI design.
• Good command of the German language (both written and spoken), as instruction and project work will primarily be conducted in German.
• Ability to collaborate effectively within a team environment.
• Eagerness to understand and apply user-centered design principles.

Preferred Skills:

• Basic understanding of design principles or digital product development.
• Familiarity with concepts of user research, wireframing, or prototyping.
• Exposure to agile methodologies (Scrum, Kanban).
• A portfolio showcasing personal projects or any design-related work, even if informal.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Qualification" section is framed around enthusiasm and willingness to learn, which is characteristic of educational programs. The German language requirement is a critical factor for participation and success in this program.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While no prior experience is required, participants will be encouraged to build a portfolio throughout the bootcamp.
• The portfolio should showcase a progression of work, starting from user research insights to final interface designs and prototypes.
• Projects should demonstrate an understanding of user needs and how design solutions address those needs.
• Emphasis will be placed on documenting the design process, including ideation, iteration, and testing phases.

Process Documentation:

• Participants will learn to document their design process, including user personas, user journey maps, and wireframe evolution.
• The bootcamp will guide participants on how to present their design decisions and rationale clearly.
• Methods for conducting and documenting usability tests and incorporating feedback will be taught.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Portfolio Essentials" and "Process Documentation" sections are framed around the development of a portfolio during the bootcamp, rather than pre-existing requirements. This aligns with the educational nature of the role.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: This is an educational program. For individuals eligible for a Bildungsgutschein (education voucher), participation is entirely free. For others, specific tuition fees would apply, but no salary is provided as this is a training initiative.

Benefits:

• 4 Months Online Education: Comprehensive, flexible online learning over four months, allowing for potential part-time study.
• Certificate as Product Designer (UX/UI): Upon successful completion, participants receive a recognized certificate.
• Personal Mentorship: Dedicated guidance and support from experienced mentors in the field.
• Practical Work in Simulated Product Teams: Hands-on experience in realistic project environments.
• Direct Support for Job Entry: Active assistance in the job search process through an established hiring network.

Working Hours: The bootcamp is described as "online-weiterbildung (auch berufsbegleitend möglich)," suggesting flexibility. While the intensity of a bootcamp can be high, the "berufsbegleitend möglich" (possible alongside employment) implies adaptability, likely requiring an average commitment of around 20-40 hours per week depending on individual pace and focus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Compensation & Benefits" are framed around the educational value and career advancement opportunities provided by the bootcamp, not a traditional salary. The mention of "Bildungsgutschein" is crucial for understanding the financial aspect for eligible individuals in Germany. The working hours are an estimate based on the description of flexibility and bootcamp intensity.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Education Technology (EdTech), Professional Development, Tech Community Building. Company Size: The description mentions "Digitale Leute School | DL Education" and its network of partners (Airbnb, Porsche Digital, Atlassian, Rewe Digital), suggesting a significant presence and influence within the tech and product management community. The specific size of DL Education itself is not explicitly stated, but its partnerships indicate a robust operation. Founded: While the founding date of Digitale Leute School is not specified, the overall Digitale Leute platform is known for its role in connecting professionals since its inception, fostering a culture of continuous learning and industry advancement.

Team Structure:

• Participants will work within "simulated Product Teams," mirroring real-world tech environments.
• These teams will be guided by experienced trainers and mentors from leading tech companies.
• Collaboration will extend across various functional areas within the simulated teams, promoting cross-functional understanding.
• The broader Digitale Leute organization provides a supportive ecosystem, connecting participants with industry professionals and potential employers.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis and Insights: Participants will learn to derive insights from user research and usability testing to inform design decisions.
• Workflow Planning and Optimization: Emphasis on structured design processes, from ideation to implementation, with a focus on efficiency and user satisfaction.
• Automation and Efficiency Practices: While not directly about tool automation, the bootcamp instills efficient design workflows and agile practices to maximize productivity.

Company Website: https://school.digitale-leute.de

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is centered around bridging the gap between education and industry, fostering a community of practice, and enabling career transitions into high-demand tech roles. The emphasis on partnerships and practical application is key.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents an entry point into the Product Design (UX/UI) field, specifically aimed at individuals with little to no prior experience. It is a foundational program designed to equip participants with the necessary skills to begin a career as a junior UX/UI Designer.

Reporting Structure: During the bootcamp, participants will report to their assigned mentors and trainers within their simulated product teams. Post-bootcamp, the program's support network will guide them toward roles where they would report to a Design Lead or Product Manager.

Operations Impact: Graduates of this program are being prepared to contribute to the design and development of digital products, directly impacting user experience, customer satisfaction, and ultimately, the success of the products they help create. Their work as UX/UI designers will influence the usability and appeal of software and digital platforms.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Intensive training in UX/UI design, user research, prototyping, and agile methodologies.
• Industry Conference and Certification Participation: The bootcamp itself culminates in a recognized certificate, serving as a strong credential. The program also aims to integrate participants into a professional network, potentially opening doors to further learning opportunities.
• Operations Leadership Potential: While this is an entry-level program, successful completion and performance can lead to junior design roles, with potential for advancement to mid-level designer, senior designer, and eventually design lead or management positions over time.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Career & Growth Analysis" is heavily focused on the transition from education to employment within the UX/UI design field. The "Operations Impact" is framed in terms of the contribution to product success, which is the ultimate goal of UX/UI design.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The primary mode of education is online, offering flexibility. However, the mention of "praktische Arbeit in simulierten Product Teams" suggests that there might be opportunities for collaborative sessions or project work at physical locations, or that the online environment is designed to closely mimic an office setting.

Office Location(s): The bootcamp is based in Köln, Germany. While the education is online, the company's operational base and network are rooted in Germany, with potential for in-person networking events or project collaborations in the Cologne area or with partner companies.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Participants will engage in collaborative work within simulated product teams, fostering teamwork and communication skills.
• Operations Tools and Technology: The program will likely introduce participants to industry-standard design and prototyping tools (e.g., Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD) and agile project management platforms.
• Operations Team Interaction: Opportunities to interact with trainers, mentors, and fellow participants, creating a supportive learning community.

Work Schedule: The program is described as a "4 Monate Online-Weiterbildung (auch berufsbegleitend möglich)." This indicates a flexible schedule, suitable for individuals who may be employed or have other commitments. A significant time commitment (estimated 20-40 hours/week) will be necessary for effective learning and project completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is primarily digital and flexible, but with a clear connection to the physical location of Köln, Germany, and the potential for in-person interactions within the broader Digitale Leute network.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application: Candidates will submit their application, likely including a motivation letter and CV, highlighting their enthusiasm and suitability for a career change.
• Screening/Assessment: An initial assessment or interview may be conducted to gauge motivation, German language proficiency, and aptitude for design thinking.
• Bootcamp Participation: If accepted, the focus shifts to actively participating in the bootcamp, demonstrating learning and progress.
• Portfolio Development & Review: Throughout the bootcamp, participants will develop their design portfolio, which will be reviewed by mentors.
• Job Placement Support: Post-bootcamp, the Digitale Leute network will facilitate introductions and support for job applications with partner companies.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Process Improvement Case Study: Focus on showcasing the journey of a design project within your bootcamp portfolio, from identifying a user problem to presenting a tested solution.
• Metrics Presentation: While early-stage, try to incorporate any qualitative feedback from usability tests or hypothetical metrics that demonstrate the impact of your design choices.
• Company-Specific Considerations: When applying for roles post-bootcamp, research the target company's products and user base to tailor your portfolio presentation and highlight relevant skills.
• Storytelling: Clearly articulate the "why" behind your design decisions, connecting them back to user needs and business objectives.

Challenge Preparation:

• Typical Operations Exercise: Post-bootcamp, job interviews might involve design challenges, case studies, or take-home assignments focused on solving a specific UX/UI problem.
• Time Management: Practice working under timed conditions for design exercises, simulating real-world project constraints.
• Stakeholder Communication: Be prepared to articulate your design process, rationale, and solutions clearly and concisely, as you would in a professional setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process is geared towards educational program admission, with a strong emphasis on motivation and potential. Post-bootcamp, candidates will undergo traditional job interview processes, for which the bootcamp aims to provide preparation.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design & Prototyping Software: While not explicitly named, participants will likely work with industry-standard tools such as Figma, Sketch, or Adobe XD for wireframing, prototyping, and UI design.
• Collaboration Platforms: Tools for team communication and project management, potentially Slack, Microsoft Teams, or similar.
• Agile Project Management Tools: Familiarity will be gained with tools like Jira or Trello for managing tasks within Scrum or Kanban frameworks.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Participants will learn how to interpret data from user research and usability testing, though direct use of advanced analytics tools might be limited at this stage.
• Emphasis will be on understanding user behavior and feedback to inform design iterations.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the core UX/UI design training, but an understanding of how design impacts user engagement within CRM and other systems might be discussed contextually.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specific tools are not listed, but the description implies exposure to the standard software suite used in modern UX/UI design and agile development environments.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Continuous Learning: A core value, as the program is designed for skill development and career transition.
• User-Centricity: Designing with the end-user's needs and experience at the forefront.
• Collaboration and Teamwork: Emphasizing the importance of working effectively with others in a product team setting.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Using research and testing to inform design choices, rather than relying solely on intuition.
• Efficiency and Agility: Adopting modern development practices to deliver value quickly and adapt to change.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Participants will experience working with individuals in different "roles" within simulated teams, promoting understanding of various product development contributions.
• Feedback Exchange: A culture of constructive feedback is essential for learning and design iteration, both from mentors and peers.
• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging participants to share insights, challenges, and solutions within the learning cohort.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values and collaboration style are reflective of a modern tech product development environment, emphasizing continuous improvement, user focus, and teamwork, all of which are critical for successful UX/UI designers.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Rapid Skill Acquisition: The primary challenge is absorbing a significant amount of new knowledge and practical skills in a condensed timeframe (4 months).
• Transitioning to Professional Practice: Moving from simulated projects to real-world client demands and project scopes can be challenging.
• Job Market Competition: Securing a junior role in a competitive UX/UI design market requires a strong portfolio and effective interview skills.
• Adapting to Industry Tools: Mastering new design software and agile methodologies may require dedicated effort.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Intensive training in UX/UI design, user research, prototyping, and usability testing methodologies.
• Industry Network Access: Direct connection to Digitale Leute's network of tech companies and hiring managers.
• Mentorship and Coaching: Personalized guidance from experienced professionals throughout the learning process.
• Portfolio Building: Creation of a professional portfolio that serves as a key credential for job applications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to intensive training programs and career transitions, while the growth opportunities are directly provided by the bootcamp structure and the Digitale Leute ecosystem.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operations Strategy: Be prepared to discuss how you approach understanding user problems and translating them into design solutions. Articulate your design process, emphasizing user research and iterative testing.
• Collaboration and Stakeholder Management: Discuss how you would communicate design decisions to team members or potential stakeholders, and how you handle constructive criticism.
• Problem-Solving: Be ready to walk through a design challenge from your portfolio, explaining your thought process, the trade-offs you considered, and the rationale behind your final design.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Company Operations Culture: Research Digitale Leute's mission, its role in the German tech scene, and its partnerships. Understand their commitment to education and career development.
• Operations Team Dynamics: Reflect on your experience in simulated teams and discuss what makes for an effective collaborative environment in product development.
• Operations Impact Measurement: Think about how UX/UI design contributes to a product's success (e.g., user satisfaction, conversion rates, task completion).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Process Improvement Case Study: Structure your presentation to tell a clear story: Problem -> Research -> Ideation -> Solution -> Testing -> Iteration.
• Metrics Presentation: If possible, use qualitative feedback from your bootcamp projects to illustrate the impact of your design choices. Discuss how you would measure success in a real-world scenario.
• Interactive Demonstration: Be ready to navigate your prototypes and explain specific design elements and interactions, demonstrating your understanding of user flow and interface usability.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation advice is tailored to a candidate transitioning into a UX/UI role, emphasizing the practical application of design skills, portfolio presentation, and understanding of product development processes.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this educational opportunity:

• Submit your application: Complete the online application form through the provided link, including any requested documents such as a CV or motivation letter.
• Portfolio Customization: While a formal portfolio isn't required for application, begin thinking about personal projects or areas of interest that align with UX/UI design to showcase your passion.
• Resume Optimization: Highlight transferable skills such as problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and any relevant technical interests or previous learning experiences.
• Interview Preparation: Familiarize yourself with basic UX/UI design concepts and be ready to articulate your motivation for pursuing this career path.
• Company Research: Understand the mission and values of Digitale Leute School and its role in the tech education landscape.

⚠️ 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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