UI Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UI Designer Company: Verndale Location: Quito, Ecuador Job Type: Full-Time Category: Design Operations / Digital Experience Design Date Posted: July 29, 2025 Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-4 years) Remote Status: Remote Possible

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on crafting exceptional user interfaces for digital products and eCommerce platforms, demanding a strong blend of visual design expertise and user-centric thinking.
• The UI Designer will be instrumental in translating strategic objectives into tangible design solutions, impacting user engagement and brand perception.
• Key responsibilities include developing design systems, ensuring seamless collaboration with development teams, and maintaining high standards for visual execution across all digital touchpoints.
• Success in this role hinges on a meticulous attention to detail, proficiency in modern design tools like Figma, and a passion for elevating digital experiences within the eCommerce and web development landscape.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "UI Designer," the responsibilities and required skills suggest a role deeply integrated with the operational aspects of digital product development, particularly within eCommerce. This role bridges creative design with the practical execution and implementation of digital experiences, aligning it with operational excellence in a digital agency context.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design user-centered digital products and eCommerce websites, balancing aesthetic appeal with intuitive usability and brand consistency.
• Develop comprehensive mood boards, style directions, and foundational design systems to guide project execution and ensure scalability across digital platforms.
• Execute hands-on design work for multiple concurrent projects, effectively managing priorities and design timelines to meet client deliverables.
• Collaborate closely with front-end developers and technical teams to ensure accurate implementation of designs, facilitating smooth and efficient hand-offs.
• Prepare and maintain detailed design specifications, style guides, and asset libraries that empower developers and maintain design integrity post-launch.
• Apply a keen eye for detail to all design elements, including typography, layout, spacing, color palettes, and interactive states, ensuring a polished and professional final product.
• Actively participate in team critiques and client presentations, articulating design rationale, incorporating feedback, and contributing to a culture of continuous improvement.
• Stay abreast of emerging design trends, digital technologies, and best practices within the UI/UX and eCommerce sectors to inform and enhance design strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a proactive approach to design execution, integration with development workflows, and contribution to foundational design assets like design systems. This indicates a need for a designer who understands the operational lifecycle of digital products and can contribute to their efficient and effective implementation.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: A Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Interaction Design, Human-Computer Interaction, or a related field is typically preferred, or equivalent practical experience.

Experience: 2-4 years of dedicated experience in digital design, with a significant focus on web, mobile applications, or eCommerce platforms. Agency or studio experience is highly advantageous.

Required Skills:

• Demonstrated exceptional visual craft and a strong portfolio showcasing a detail-oriented approach to digital product and eCommerce design.
• Advanced proficiency in Figma for design, prototyping, and collaboration; familiarity with other industry-standard design and prototyping tools is also valued.
• Solid understanding and practical experience in developing and implementing design systems for consistency and scalability.
• Expertise in responsive design principles and best practices across various devices and screen sizes.
• Proven experience in collaborating effectively with development teams, including preparing and executing smooth design hand-offs.
• A strong grasp of user experience (UX) design principles and how they inform effective UI design.
• Ability to manage and prioritize multiple design projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to articulate design concepts and receive constructive feedback.
• A naturally curious and positive attitude, with a demonstrated commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience designing for established eCommerce platforms such as Shopify, Sitecore, or Optimizely.
• Familiarity with A/B testing methodologies and design optimization based on performance data.
• Knowledge of front-end development principles (HTML, CSS) to better inform design decisions and handoffs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specific platforms like Shopify and Sitecore, along with A/B testing, suggests that candidates who understand the operational impact of design choices within these environments will be highly valued. The 2-4 year experience range positions this as a mid-level role, requiring both execution skills and growing strategic input.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated portfolio that clearly demonstrates a strong command of visual design principles, including typography, color theory, composition, and layout.
• Case studies that detail the design process from problem definition and user research through ideation, wireframing, prototyping, UI design, and final implementation.
• Examples showcasing the creation and application of design systems, including style guides, component libraries, and pattern libraries.
• Demonstrations of responsive design principles applied across different devices (desktop, tablet, mobile), highlighting adaptive layouts and interactions.
• Evidence of collaboration with developers, showcasing effective design hand-off processes and the resulting implementation quality.
• Projects that reflect an understanding of user-centered design methodologies and the ability to translate user needs into effective interface solutions.
• Work that highlights attention to detail in micro-interactions, states, and overall polish.

Process Documentation:

• Examples of workflow diagrams or process maps illustrating how design projects are managed from kickoff to completion.
• Documentation of how design systems are maintained, updated, and integrated into ongoing projects.
• Case studies that include metrics or quantifiable outcomes demonstrating the impact of design decisions on user engagement, conversion rates, or other key performance indicators.

📝 Enhancement Note: The expectation for a portfolio that includes design systems, responsive design, and collaboration with developers underscores the operational aspect of this role. Candidates need to show not just aesthetic talent but also an understanding of how their designs are built, deployed, and maintained, emphasizing process and system thinking.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: For a UI Designer with 2-4 years of experience in Quito, Ecuador, the estimated annual salary range typically falls between $18,000 and $30,000 USD. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in South America, factoring in the cost of living and market demand for digital design skills.

Benefits:

• Ample Company Paid Holidays: Generous paid time off to ensure a healthy work-life balance.
• Personal Time Off: Additional paid leave for personal needs and rejuvenation.
• Work-Life Balance: A company culture that supports and promotes a sustainable work-life integration.
• Remote Work Possibility: Flexibility to work remotely, offering greater autonomy and convenience.
• Health & Wellness Programs: (Assumed, common in agency environments) Opportunities for health and wellness support.
• Professional Development: Access to training, workshops, and industry events to enhance skills.

Working Hours: The standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, aligned with full-time employment. While the role is based in Quito, the potential for remote work implies flexibility in scheduling to accommodate collaboration across different time zones or personal needs, within reasonable operational boundaries.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate for Quito, Ecuador, based on general market data for mid-level design roles. Actual compensation may vary based on Verndale's specific compensation structure, the candidate's experience, and negotiation. The benefits highlight a supportive work environment with a focus on employee well-being and flexibility.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Digital Experience Agency, focusing on digital product and eCommerce solutions. Verndale operates within the competitive landscape of digital transformation, strategy, design, and development services. Company Size: Verndale has offices across the Americas (Boston, Montreal, Los Angeles, Quito) and additional hubs, suggesting a medium to large agency size. This implies a structured environment with opportunities for diverse project exposure and cross-team collaboration. Founded: While the founding date isn't explicitly stated, Verndale has established itself as a significant player in the digital experience space, indicating a history of growth and adaptation to market changes.

Team Structure:

• The UI Designer will likely be part of a broader Digital Experience or Creative team, working alongside UX designers, Art Directors, Creative Directors, Content Strategists, and Developers.
• Reporting structure will probably involve a Creative Lead or Design Director, with direct collaboration on project teams that include account managers, project managers, and client stakeholders.
• Cross-functional collaboration is a core aspect, requiring seamless interaction with strategy, development, SEO, and analytics teams to ensure holistic digital solutions.

Methodology:

• Verndale likely employs agile or hybrid methodologies for project management, emphasizing iterative design and development cycles.
• Data analysis and user insights are probably central to their approach, informing design decisions and performance optimization.
• Workflow planning and optimization are critical for managing multiple client projects efficiently, ensuring timely delivery and high-quality output.
• Automation and efficiency practices are implicit in agency operations, aiming to streamline processes and maximize resource utilization.

Company Website: https://www.verndale.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Verndale's positioning as a digital experience agency implies a culture that values innovation, client-centricity, and technical expertise. The presence of multiple offices and hubs suggests a dynamic, potentially fast-paced environment where collaboration and adaptability are key operational strengths.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This UI Designer role is positioned at a mid-career level, requiring 2-4 years of experience. It demands strong execution skills in UI design and prototyping, with a growing capacity for strategic input and system thinking.

Reporting Structure: The UI Designer will likely report to a Design Lead or Creative Director. They will collaborate closely with Project Managers, UX Designers, Developers, and potentially client-facing roles like Account Managers. This structure emphasizes teamwork and clear communication lines for effective project delivery.

Operations Impact: While not a traditional "operations" role, the UI Designer's work directly impacts the operational efficiency of digital product delivery and the effectiveness of customer-facing digital experiences. Well-designed systems and clear hand-offs reduce development friction and improve launch timelines. High-quality UI design directly influences user engagement, conversion rates, and customer satisfaction, which are key operational metrics for Verndale's clients.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior UI Designer: Progression to a senior role would involve leading design efforts on larger projects, mentoring junior designers, and contributing more significantly to design strategy and system architecture.
• UX/UI Specialization: Opportunities to deepen expertise in either User Experience (UX) research and strategy or advanced UI/Interaction Design, potentially leading to specialized roles.
• Design Leadership: With demonstrated leadership and strategic thinking, growth into roles like Art Director or Creative Director is possible, overseeing broader creative output.
• Platform Expertise: Developing deep expertise in platforms like Shopify or Optimizely could lead to specialized roles in eCommerce optimization and digital transformation consulting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for a UI Designer in an agency setting like Verndale often involves deepening technical and strategic skills, moving from execution to leadership and specialization. This role offers a solid foundation for a career in digital experience design with clear avenues for advancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Verndale operates with a hybrid model, indicated by the "Remote Work Possibility" benefit. This suggests a blend of office-based collaboration and remote flexibility, allowing for both in-person team interaction and individual focused work. The specific office environment in Quito would likely be a modern, collaborative workspace typical of creative agencies.

Office Location(s): The primary specified location is Quito, Ecuador. Verndale also has offices in Boston, Montreal, and Los Angeles, suggesting a global team and potential for cross-office collaboration.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is designed to foster collaboration, creativity, and efficiency. Expect open-plan areas, meeting rooms, and potentially private spaces for focused work.
• Access to state-of-the-art design tools and technology, including powerful workstations and relevant software, would be standard.
• Opportunities for interaction with a diverse range of professionals across design, development, strategy, and client services teams would be frequent.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week. The "Remote Work Possibility" suggests that while core hours might exist for team synchronization, there could be flexibility in daily start and end times, provided project deadlines and collaborative needs are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid and remote-friendly nature of the work environment is a key aspect for operations professionals. It implies a reliance on digital collaboration tools and a culture that trusts employees to manage their time effectively while delivering results.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and fit. Be prepared to articulate your design philosophy and highlight key projects relevant to eCommerce and digital product design.
• Design Challenge/Portfolio Review: A deeper dive into your portfolio, often involving a presentation of selected case studies. You may be asked to walk through your process, explain design decisions, and discuss how you handled feedback or challenges. A practical design exercise or take-home challenge might also be part of this stage.
• Team/Manager Interview: Discussion with potential team members and the hiring manager to assess cultural fit, collaboration style, and technical skills. Questions will likely focus on your experience with design systems, client interaction, and problem-solving approaches.
• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss your long-term career aspirations and overall fit with Verndale's vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 of your strongest projects that best showcase your UI design skills, process, and impact, with a focus on digital products and eCommerce.
• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly outline the problem, your role, the process you followed, your design solutions, and the outcomes or learnings. Use visuals effectively to support your narrative.
• Highlight Process: Detail your approach to user research, wireframing, prototyping, UI design, and design system development. Show your thinking, not just the final output.
• Demonstrate Collaboration: If possible, showcase projects where you worked closely with developers or other team members, explaining how you managed hand-offs and integrated feedback.
• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, include metrics or results that demonstrate the effectiveness of your designs (e.g., improved conversion rates, user engagement, task completion times).
• Figma Proficiency: Ensure your portfolio or accompanying materials clearly indicate your proficiency with Figma.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss your experience with design systems, including how you've contributed to or utilized them.
• Prepare to articulate your understanding of responsive design and how you approach designing for different breakpoints.
• Review common eCommerce user flows and potential design challenges to anticipate scenario-based questions.
• Familiarize yourself with Verndale's client work and agency philosophy to tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes a strong portfolio and the ability to articulate design rationale and process. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate not only creative skills but also an understanding of the operational aspects of design, including collaboration, hand-offs, and impact measurement.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: Essential for UI design, prototyping, collaboration, and design system management. Proficiency is a core requirement.
• Adobe Creative Suite: Photoshop and Illustrator are commonly used for asset creation, image editing, and vector graphics.
• Prototyping Tools: While Figma is primary, familiarity with other tools like InVision, Sketch (if previously used), or Adobe XD may be beneficial.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Google Analytics: Understanding how to interpret website data to inform design decisions is a plus.
• Hotjar/Crazy Egg: Familiarity with user behavior analytics tools to understand user interactions on designed interfaces.
• Data Visualization Tools: Basic understanding of tools like Tableau or Power BI for interpreting performance metrics.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot): While not a direct requirement, understanding how design impacts CRM data capture or user journeys within CRM-managed processes can be advantageous.
• Project Management Tools (e.g., Jira, Asana, Trello): Essential for managing tasks, workflows, and team collaboration on projects.
• Collaboration Platforms (e.g., Slack, Microsoft Teams): Critical for day-to-day communication and team interaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Figma is paramount. While not explicitly stated, familiarity with analytics tools and project management software is highly valuable for a designer working within an agency that values data-driven decision-making and efficient project execution.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Client-Centricity: A commitment to understanding and exceeding client expectations through impactful digital experiences.
• Collaboration: A strong emphasis on teamwork, open communication, and collective problem-solving across disciplines.
• Innovation: Encouraging creative thinking, exploration of new technologies, and pushing the boundaries of digital design.
• Excellence & Craftsmanship: A dedication to high-quality execution, attention to detail, and delivering polished, effective designs.
• Continuous Learning: A culture that supports professional growth, skill development, and staying current with industry trends.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Designers work closely with strategists, developers, SEO specialists, and account managers to ensure cohesive project delivery.
• Feedback-Driven: Openness to receiving and giving constructive feedback through regular critiques and team discussions to refine designs.
• Agile & Iterative: Embracing flexible workflows that allow for adaptation and continuous improvement based on project needs and client input.

📝 Enhancement Note: Verndale's culture likely promotes a dynamic and collaborative environment. The values emphasize a blend of creative excellence and client-focused results, which are critical operational drivers in a digital agency.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Client Needs: Effectively translating diverse client requirements and brand guidelines into compelling, user-friendly designs.
• Managing Multiple Projects: Juggling competing priorities, deadlines, and stakeholder feedback across several concurrent projects.
• Keeping Pace with Technology: Staying updated with rapidly evolving design tools, platforms (like Shopify), and digital trends to maintain a competitive edge.
• Seamless Handoffs: Ensuring that design intent is accurately translated to development, minimizing iteration loops and potential build issues.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepening expertise in areas like interaction design, animation, accessibility, or specific platform design (e.g., Sitecore, Shopify).
• Industry Conferences & Workshops: Attending events and training sessions to learn new techniques, tools, and industry best practices.
• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from senior designers and creative leads within the agency.
• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Working on a variety of client projects across different industries provides broad experience and portfolio growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for a designer in a fast-paced agency environment. The growth opportunities highlight the potential for specialized development and career advancement within the digital experience design field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Process: "Walk me through your process for designing a new eCommerce product page, from initial brief to final hand-off." Focus on user research, wireframing, prototyping, UI design, and collaboration with developers.
• Design Systems: "Describe your experience with design systems. How have you contributed to or utilized them in past projects? What are the key components of a successful design system?"
• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a client wants to increase conversion rates on their website. How would you approach redesigning a key user flow to achieve this goal?" Be prepared to discuss A/B testing and data-driven design decisions.
• Collaboration: "Describe a time you had a disagreement with a developer or client about a design decision. How did you handle it, and what was the outcome?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• Verndale's Work: "What are your thoughts on Verndale's recent client work, specifically in the eCommerce space?" Research their portfolio beforehand.
• Team Fit: "How do you prefer to receive feedback on your designs? How do you contribute to a collaborative team environment?"
• Motivation: "What interests you most about this UI Designer role at Verndale, and what do you hope to achieve here?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your presentation logically: Project Goal -> Your Role -> Process -> Solutions -> Outcomes.
• Visuals: Use high-quality mockups and prototypes. Show the evolution of your designs if possible (e.g., wireframes to final UI).
• Narrative: Clearly articulate why you made specific design decisions, linking them back to user needs, business goals, or design principles.
• Conciseness: Be mindful of time. Focus on the most impactful aspects of each project.
• Engagement: Be prepared for questions and engage in a dialogue about your work.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of the design process, collaborative workflows, and the ability to articulate design rationale and impact. Tailoring your preparation to Verndale's client work and agency values will be crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this UI Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Verndale careers portal.
• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio prominently features 2-3 strong case studies relevant to digital product and eCommerce design, highlighting your UI skills and process.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize your 2-4 years of digital design experience, proficiency in Figma, and experience with design systems and responsive design. Quantify achievements where possible.
• Interview Practice: Prepare to walk through your portfolio with confidence, explaining your design decisions and demonstrating your understanding of user-centered design and collaboration with development teams.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Verndale's services, client work, and company culture to articulate your interest and alignment during the interview process.

⚠️ 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.