UX Designer

Utility Warehouse
Full-timeLondon, United Kingdom

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UX Designer

Company: Utility Warehouse

Location: London, England, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full-time

Category: UX/Product Design

Date Posted: 2026-03-30T13:32:01.581

Experience Level: Mid-level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

  • Drive end-to-end UX design delivery within dedicated product teams, ensuring cohesive and impactful user experiences.

  • Conduct user research and synthesize insights to inform design decisions, balancing user needs with business objectives.

  • Execute high-quality UX/UI design, from wireframing and prototyping to ensuring accessibility and clear UX copy.

  • Collaborate closely with product managers and engineers to facilitate seamless design handoffs and iterative development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a mid-weight UX Designer, implying a need for demonstrated ownership of design delivery and a growing ability to manage complex projects independently. The emphasis on "multiple product teams" suggests a dynamic environment requiring adaptability and strong stakeholder management skills.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

  • Develop and execute comprehensive research plans, including usability testing, to validate design solutions and gather user feedback.

  • Synthesize research findings into actionable insights, clearly articulating user problems and design recommendations to product teams.

  • Apply and adapt established design processes, such as the Triple Diamond, to effectively manage project timelines and deliverables.

  • Create low and high-fidelity wireframes and interactive prototypes to explore design concepts and test hypotheses.

  • Ensure UI accessibility by adhering to usability best practices, including proper color contrast, clear typography, and distinct interactive states.

  • Produce thorough design documentation, considering edge cases and writing clear, concise UX copy.

  • Facilitate effective engineering handoffs by clearly communicating interaction details and design specifications.

  • Proactively seek and incorporate feedback from design peers and stakeholders throughout the design process.

  • Contribute positively to team culture by modeling company values and embracing continuous learning.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic research, hands-on design execution, and crucial collaboration. The mention of "Triple Diamond" indicates a structured design thinking approach, while the emphasis on "edge cases" and "UX copy" points to a need for meticulous attention to detail.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a strong portfolio demonstrating a solid understanding of full-cycle user-centered design principles is paramount.

Experience: Mid-weight UX/Product Designer with 2-5 years of experience in user-centered design, including research, UX, and UI. Experience in customer acquisition journeys within high-volume consumer services domains is highly valued.

Required Skills:

  • Proficiency in full-cycle user-centered design (Research, UX, UI).

  • Expert-level skills in wireframing (low and high fidelity) and prototyping.

  • Strong command of Figma for design, wireframing, and prototyping.

  • Demonstrated ability to conduct usability testing and synthesize research findings into actionable insights.

  • Experience in creating clean, logical, and accessible designs following usability best practices.

  • Ability to write clear and concise UX copy.

  • Proven experience in collaborating effectively with Product and Engineering teams.

  • Capability to clearly demonstrate design process, methodology, and strategy.

Preferred Skills:

  • Familiarity with broader user journeys beyond immediate product touchpoints.

  • Experience in designing for complex systems with interconnected touchpoints.

  • Understanding of how individual design elements contribute to a cohesive whole.

  • Proactive engagement in contributing to positive team culture and learning from feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Technical Mastery" section strongly emphasizes Figma proficiency and a comprehensive understanding of the entire design lifecycle. The "Business & Domain Knowledge" requirement for customer acquisition in high-volume consumer services is a critical differentiator for this role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • A curated portfolio showcasing a minimum of 2-3 significant UX/Product Design projects.

  • Projects should clearly demonstrate full-cycle user-centered design, from initial research and concepting to final delivery and iteration.

  • Evidence of wireframing (low and high fidelity) and interactive prototyping skills, ideally with Figma examples.

  • Case studies that clearly articulate the user problem, your role, the design process followed (e.g., Triple Diamond), key decisions, and the impact/outcomes.

Process Documentation:

  • Detailed explanations of your design methodology and process, particularly how you adapt them to project deadlines.

  • Clear articulation of how you approach engineering handoffs and collaborate with development teams.

  • Examples of how you ensure UI accessibility and adhere to usability best practices.

  • Documentation of how you synthesize research insights into actionable recommendations for product teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is critical for demonstrating not just design output but also the candidate's thought process and ability to execute a structured design approach. Specific emphasis on Figma and the full design lifecycle is expected.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Competitive salary benchmarked against the industry. Salary will be shared openly during the first conversation.

Benefits:

  • Competitive salary

  • Performance bonus: Annual discretionary bonus ranging from 15-40%.

  • Flexible working arrangements.

  • Optional four-day working week (90% pay for 90% impact).

  • Opportunity to work abroad for up to three weeks, twice every tax year.

  • 25 days of holiday plus bank holidays (increasing with tenure), with an option to trade up to five days annually.

  • UW discounts on services and a free Cashback Card.

  • Matched-contribution pension scheme.

  • Life assurance (up to 4x salary).

  • Family-first policies designed for family thriving.

  • Flexible benefits allowance for private health insurance, dental insurance, or gym membership.

  • Paid sabbaticals (eight weeks after four years of service).

  • Dedicated learning and development budget.

  • Bi-annual promotion cycles.

  • Inclusion in belonging groups.

  • Participation in company-wide events.

Working Hours: Expected to be around 40 hours per week, with flexibility and options like a four-day week and remote work abroad.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company offers a comprehensive benefits package with a strong emphasis on work-life balance and employee well-being, including unique options like a four-day week and work-from-anywhere policies. The explicit mention of sharing salary openly early in the process is a positive indicator for transparency.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Utilities (Energy, Broadband, Mobile, Insurance) - focused on simplifying services for consumers.

Company Size: The company is aiming to double in size, indicating a period of significant growth and opportunity.

Founded: Not specified, but the company is established enough to have a clear mission and structured benefits.

Team Structure:

  • The UX Designer will span multiple product teams, indicating a matrixed or agile structure where designers are embedded within cross-functional squads.

  • Close collaboration with Product Managers, Engineers, and other stakeholders is a core aspect of the team's operational model.

Methodology:

  • A strong emphasis on user-centered design principles and processes (e.g., Triple Diamond).

  • Data-driven decision-making, utilizing user research and usability testing to validate design solutions.

  • Agile development methodologies are implied by the "squad" structure and iterative design approach.

  • Focus on creating cohesive, human-centered experiences across a complex product suite.

Company Website: uw.co.uk

📝 Enhancement Note: UW is presented as a growth-oriented company with a mission to simplify utilities. The culture appears to value collaboration, user-centricity, and a balanced approach to work and life. The growth phase suggests opportunities for individuals to make a significant impact.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Mid-weight UX/Product Designer role, signifying a level beyond entry-level, where individuals are expected to take ownership of their work, contribute meaningfully to projects, and begin to influence design decisions. It's a stepping stone towards Senior Designer roles.

Reporting Structure: The UX Designer will be closely embedded within product teams, working alongside Product Managers and Engineers. They will likely report into a UX Lead or Design Manager, with direct collaboration across multiple squads.

Operations Impact: The UX Designer's impact is crucial in shaping how customers interact with and understand UW's services, directly influencing customer clarity, confidence, and trust. This role aims to improve core transactional experiences and key communications, contributing to customer satisfaction and retention, and ultimately, business growth.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Skill Development: Opportunities to deepen expertise in full-cycle user-centered design, conduct advanced research, and refine UI/UX craft. Exposure to complex systems and diverse customer journeys will broaden skill sets.

  • Career Progression: Clear pathways exist for promotion to Senior UX Designer roles, potentially leading to specialized areas or team leadership. Bi-annual promotion cycles suggest structured advancement opportunities.

  • Leadership Potential: Through successful project delivery, strong collaboration, and contribution to team culture, individuals can develop leadership qualities, potentially mentoring junior designers or leading design initiatives.

  • Learning & Development: A dedicated learning and development budget is provided, encouraging continuous professional growth through courses, conferences, or certifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a solid foundation for career growth within UX design, emphasizing practical application, continuous learning, and a structured promotion framework within a rapidly expanding company.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is specified as "On-site," indicating a preference for in-office collaboration, though flexible working and work-from-abroad options are also available.

Office Location(s): London, England, United Kingdom. Specific details about the office environment (e.g., open-plan, dedicated design space) are not provided but are implied to be a collaborative setting.

Workspace Context:

  • Collaborative Environment: Expect close collaboration with product teams, engineers, and potentially other designers, fostering a dynamic and interactive workspace.

  • Tools & Technology: Access to necessary design tools, particularly Figma, is a given. The company likely provides a robust tech stack to support design and development workflows.

  • Team Interaction: Regular interaction with cross-functional teams within product squads, facilitating knowledge sharing and collective problem-solving.

Work Schedule: While typically 40 hours per week, the company offers significant flexibility, including an optional four-day working week, suggesting a focus on output and work-life balance rather than strict adherence to a five-day schedule.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" designation suggests that regular office presence is expected, likely to facilitate close collaboration. However, the company's flexible policies, including remote work abroad, indicate a modern approach to work arrangements that balances in-office synergy with personal flexibility.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  • Initial Screening: Likely involves a review of your CV and portfolio, focusing on UX/Product Design experience, Figma proficiency, and understanding of user-centered design.

  • Portfolio Presentation/Walkthrough: A key stage where you'll present selected projects, detailing your process, problem-solving approach, design decisions, and outcomes. Be prepared to discuss your role and impact.

  • Design Challenge: May involve a practical exercise or case study to assess your design thinking, problem-solving skills, and ability to articulate design solutions under timed conditions.

  • Stakeholder Interviews: Conversations with Product Managers, Engineers, and potentially other designers to assess collaboration style, technical understanding, and cultural fit.

  • Final Interview: Likely with a senior leader to discuss overall fit, career aspirations, and alignment with company values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Curate Selectively: Choose 2-3 projects that best showcase your skills, process, and impact, especially those related to consumer services or customer acquisition.

  • Tell a Story: Structure your case studies with a clear narrative: problem, your role, process, challenges, solutions, and measurable outcomes. Quantify impact where possible.

  • Highlight Process: Clearly articulate your design methodology (e.g., Triple Diamond), research synthesis, and how you arrived at your final design decisions.

  • Showcase Figma Skills: Be ready to demonstrate your proficiency with Figma, including wireframing, prototyping, and component usage.

  • Emphasize Collaboration: Discuss how you worked with Product and Engineering, and how you incorporated feedback.

  • Address Accessibility: Detail how you ensured your designs were accessible and followed best practices.

Challenge Preparation:

  • Understand the Context: If given a design challenge, thoroughly understand the problem statement, target users, and business goals.

  • Outline Your Approach: Before diving into solutions, clearly outline your proposed design process and research methods.

  • Focus on Rationale: Be prepared to justify every design decision with user needs, business goals, or usability principles.

  • Consider Edge Cases: Demonstrate foresight by considering potential edge cases and how your design addresses them.

  • Practice Communication: Rehearse presenting your thoughts clearly and concisely, as if explaining to a product team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process heavily emphasizes the portfolio and practical application of UX design principles. Candidates should prepare to deeply discuss their past work and demonstrate their problem-solving capabilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

  • Figma: Essential for wireframing, prototyping, UI design, and collaboration. Proficiency is a core requirement.

  • Prototyping Tools: While Figma is primary, familiarity with other prototyping tools may be beneficial for exploring different interaction patterns.

  • Design Systems: Experience working with or contributing to design systems is implied by the need for consistency and quality.

Analytics & Reporting:

  • User Research Platforms: Tools for conducting usability tests and gathering user feedback (e.g., UserTesting.com, Maze).

  • Analytics Tools (General Understanding): While not explicitly stated as a primary tool, a general understanding of how user behavior is tracked and analyzed (e.g., Google Analytics, Mixpanel) would be advantageous for understanding impact.

CRM & Automation:

  • Product Management Tools: Familiarity with tools like Jira or Asana for managing tasks and workflows within product teams.

  • Collaboration Platforms: Tools such as Slack or Microsoft Teams for day-to-day communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: Figma is the non-negotiable core tool. The role also implies a need for proficiency in user research tools and a general understanding of how design impacts product analytics and team workflows.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

  • Collaboration: A strong emphasis on working together across product teams, with Product and Engineering, to achieve shared goals.

  • User-Centrism: Placing the user at the heart of all design decisions, driven by research and empathy.

  • Quality & Craftsmanship: Commitment to creating clean, logical, accessible, and detailed designs that adhere to usability best practices.

  • Continuous Improvement: A culture of seeking and giving feedback, learning from mistakes, and iterating on designs and processes.

  • Impact-Driven: Focusing on delivering work that contributes to team and business goals, understanding the value of design in driving business outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

  • Embedded within Product Teams: Working daily with Product Managers and Engineers, fostering tight-knit cross-functional relationships.

  • Feedback-Oriented: Proactively seeking and providing constructive feedback within the UX team and with cross-functional partners.

  • Transparent Communication: Clearly communicating design decisions, processes, and handoff details to ensure alignment and efficiency.

  • Human-Centred Approach: Applying empathy not only to users but also to colleagues, contributing positively to the overall team environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture values a collaborative, user-focused, and quality-driven approach. The UX Designer is expected to be a team player who actively contributes to both the design output and the positive team dynamic.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • Balancing Multiple Product Teams: Managing design responsibilities across different product areas, each with unique user needs and business goals.

  • Complex System Design: Contributing to a cohesive user experience across a suite of interconnected utility services, requiring a holistic view.

  • Pace of Growth: Adapting to a company that is doubling in size, which can mean evolving processes, team structures, and project priorities.

  • Ensuring Consistency: Maintaining design consistency and quality across various touchpoints and user journeys within the UW platform.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Deepen UX/UI Expertise: Gain extensive experience in end-to-end design, research synthesis, and accessible design practices.

  • Broaden Domain Knowledge: Develop a deep understanding of the utilities sector and customer acquisition strategies in high-volume consumer services.

  • Cross-Functional Acumen: Enhance skills in collaborating with product management and engineering, understanding their perspectives and processes.

  • Career Advancement: Utilize the structured bi-annual promotion cycles and dedicated learning budget to progress towards Senior UX Designer roles and beyond.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to a growing company in a complex industry, offering significant opportunities for professional development and skill enhancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • "Describe a time you had to balance competing user needs with business goals. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your process, decision-making, and impact).

  • "Walk us through your process for conducting user research and translating insights into design solutions. Can you give an example using Figma?" (Highlight your research-to-design pipeline and tool proficiency).

  • "How do you ensure your designs are accessible and adhere to usability best practices? Provide an example of how you've addressed accessibility in a past project." (Demonstrate your attention to detail and commitment to inclusive design).

Company & Culture Questions:

  • "What interests you about Utility Warehouse and our mission to simplify utilities?" (Research the company's mission, values, and recent news).

  • "How do you contribute to a positive team culture?" (Refer to collaboration, feedback, and modeling values).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Structure: Begin with an overview of the company/product, the problem statement, your specific role, and the project's goals.

  • Process Visualization: Clearly map out your design process, using visuals and diagrams. Explain why you made certain choices at each stage.

  • Show, Don't Just Tell: Use mockups, wireframes, and prototypes to illustrate your design solutions. If possible, show before-and-after comparisons or user testing results.

  • Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, present metrics or outcomes that demonstrate the success of your designs (e.g., increased conversion, reduced errors, improved satisfaction scores).

  • Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about specific design decisions, trade-offs, collaboration challenges, and how you handled feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to articulate their design process rigorously, demonstrate their Figma skills, and clearly connect their work to user needs and business objectives. Understanding UW's mission in the utilities sector is also key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this UX Designer position:

  • Submit your application through the provided link on jobs.smartrecruiters.com.

  • Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight 2-3 projects that best demonstrate your full-cycle UX/Product Design experience, focusing on consumer services, customer acquisition journeys, and your proficiency with Figma.

  • Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your 2-5 years of experience, relevant skills (UX/UI, wireframing, prototyping, Figma, research), and quantifiable achievements. Use keywords from the job description such as "user-centered design," "usability testing," and "accessibility."

  • Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, rationale behind decisions, and how you collaborate with cross-functional teams. Prepare to present your portfolio with confidence, focusing on storytelling and impact.

  • Company Research: Gain a deep understanding of Utility Warehouse's mission, services, and target audience. Be ready to discuss why you are a good cultural fit and how your skills align with their growth objectives.

⚠️ 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

Candidates must be a middle-weight UX/Product Designer with solid understanding of full-cycle user-centered design, including research, UX, and UI, possessing best-in-class skills in wireframing and prototyping using Figma. Success requires focusing on business goals, demonstrating clear process methodology, and having experience in customer acquisition journeys within high-volume consumer services.