UX Designer II

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UX Designer II Company: Microsoft Location: Hyderabad, Telangana, India Job Type: Full-Time Category: User Experience (UX) Design / Product Design Date Posted: 2025-09-24 Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the creation of next-generation Windows experiences that simplify digital interactions for millions of users.
• Apply a deep understanding of user needs, data insights, and design principles to architect new features and user flows.
• Contribute to and leverage comprehensive design systems to ensure consistency and scalability across product offerings.
• Collaborate effectively within a cross-functional triad (Product Management, Engineering, UX) to deliver high-quality, user-centric solutions.
• Champion inclusive design practices to create experiences that are accessible and beneficial to a diverse user base.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role is specifically focused on the Windows and Devices UX team, indicating a specialization in operating system and hardware-related user experiences. The emphasis on "studio+91" suggests a significant, potentially localized design hub within Microsoft's global operations in India.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Translate complex end-user needs into intuitive and engaging digital experiences for Windows and associated devices.
• Architect and design new features, ensuring seamless integration with existing functionalities and adherence to design system standards.
• Develop universal design toolkits and frameworks to support consistent user interface patterns and interactions.
• Explore and define opportunities for new user segments and emerging use cases within the Windows ecosystem.
• Conduct user research, including usability studies and user interviews, to validate design solutions and gather actionable feedback.
• Contribute to the evolution and maintenance of Microsoft's design systems, ensuring their applicability and scalability.
• Collaborate closely with Product Managers and Engineers to define product strategy, prioritize features, and ensure design execution fidelity.
• Maintain a high standard of pixel perfection and interaction craftsmanship throughout the design process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic product thinking, hands-on design execution, and user advocacy, typical for a mid-level UX Designer role within a large technology organization. The expectation to "explore opportunities for new user segments" suggests a proactive approach to innovation and market expansion.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Interaction Design, Graphic Design, Computer Science, or a related field is typically expected for this level of role. Experience: 2-5 years of professional experience in UX/Product Design, with a strong portfolio showcasing end-to-end design process for digital products, preferably within the software or technology sector.

Required Skills:

• User-Centric Design: Proven ability to empathize with users and translate their needs into effective design solutions.
• Data-Informed Design: Experience utilizing user data, analytics, and feedback to inform design decisions and iterate on solutions.
• Design Systems: Proficiency in working with and contributing to design systems, understanding their importance for scale and consistency.
• Collaboration: Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including Product Management and Engineering.
• Problem Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to tackle complex design challenges.
• Craftsmanship: A keen eye for detail, pixel-perfect execution, and a passion for creating polished, high-quality user interfaces.
• Interaction Design: Expertise in designing intuitive and efficient user interactions and workflows.
• Empathy: A deep understanding and practice of user empathy in the design process.
• Inclusive Design: Commitment to and experience with creating accessible and inclusive digital experiences.

Preferred Skills:

• Usability Studies: Experience planning, conducting, and analyzing usability studies.
• User Interviews: Proficiency in conducting user interviews to gather qualitative insights.
• Feature Architecture: Experience in defining the structure and flow of new product features.
• Toolkit Creation: Ability to create reusable design components and guidelines.
• Windows UX: Familiarity with the Windows operating system's design language and user paradigms.
• Digital Experiences: Experience designing a range of digital products and platforms.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "2-5 years" experience level suggests the role is suitable for individuals who have moved beyond entry-level design tasks and are capable of contributing independently to feature development and system design. The preferred skills like usability studies and user interviews indicate a mature approach to user research and validation.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-4 distinct UX/Product Design projects that demonstrate the full design lifecycle.
• Clearly articulate your role and contributions within each project, especially highlighting collaboration with PM and Engineering.
• For each project, detail the problem statement, user research conducted, design process, key decisions, and final outcomes.
• Include examples of how you leveraged or contributed to design systems for consistency and scalability.
• Demonstrate experience with data-informed design, showing how user data influenced your design iterations.
• Present case studies that highlight your problem-solving skills and your approach to simplifying complex user needs.

Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of process documentation, such as user flow diagrams, wireframes, prototypes, and design specifications.
• Illustrate how you have documented design decisions and rationales for stakeholder alignment.
• Include any process optimization work you've undertaken to improve design workflows or team efficiency.
• Show evidence of how you have translated user feedback and usability testing results into design improvements.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is critical for this role. Candidates should focus on demonstrating a structured and iterative design process, emphasizing how their work directly addressed user needs and business objectives. The inclusion of design system contributions and data-driven decision-making will be highly valued.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: For a UX Designer II role with 2-5 years of experience in Hyderabad, India, the estimated annual salary range would typically be between ₹8,00,000 to ₹15,00,000. This range can vary significantly based on the specific skill set, the depth of experience, and the candidate's performance during the interview process.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage (medical, dental, vision).
• Retirement savings plans/provident fund contributions.
• Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and public holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development, training, and certifications.
• Access to Microsoft's extensive internal learning resources and platforms.
• Employee stock purchase plans or equity options (dependent on role level and company policy).
• Relocation assistance may be provided for candidates moving to Hyderabad.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses and annual salary reviews.

Working Hours: Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday. Microsoft often offers flexibility in work schedules, allowing for adjustments to accommodate personal needs, provided core business hours and team collaboration requirements are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates are based on industry benchmarks for mid-level UX Designers in major Indian tech hubs like Hyderabad, considering Microsoft's reputation as a top employer. The benefits package is typical for a large multinational tech company, emphasizing comprehensive support for employees' well-being and professional growth.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Software & Technology (Cloud Computing, Operating Systems, Productivity Software, Gaming, Hardware). Company Size: Microsoft is a global technology giant with over 220,000 employees worldwide, indicating a large and complex organizational structure with diverse teams and opportunities. Founded: 1975, with a long history of innovation and market leadership, particularly in personal computing and software.

Team Structure:

• The role is within the Windows and Devices UX team at "studio+91" in Hyderabad. This suggests a dedicated, potentially large, design center focused on key product areas.
• Designers typically report to a Design Manager and work within project-based teams.
• The "triad" partnership (PM, Eng., UX) is a core element, fostering close collaboration from concept to launch.
• Cross-functional collaboration extends to marketing, research, and other product groups within Microsoft.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis and Insights: Heavy reliance on user data, A/B testing, telemetry, and user research to drive design decisions.
• Workflow Planning and Optimization: Focus on agile methodologies, iterative design processes, and continuous improvement of workflows.
• Automation and Efficiency Practices: Utilizing design systems, reusable components, and efficient tools to speed up the design and development cycle.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Microsoft's culture is known for its "growth mindset," emphasizing learning, resilience, and a focus on customer impact. The presence of "studio+91" in Hyderabad suggests a significant investment in local talent and design capabilities, offering a unique blend of global standards and local context.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: UX Designer II is a mid-level individual contributor role. It signifies a level of proficiency where designers are expected to manage their own projects, contribute significantly to feature design, and mentor junior designers. This role is a stepping stone towards Senior UX Designer or Lead UX Designer positions.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Design Manager or Group Design Manager, who oversees multiple design teams and projects. The designer will also work closely with Product Managers and Engineering Leads on specific product initiatives.

Operations Impact: UX Designers at Microsoft directly influence the usability, accessibility, and adoption of products that reach billions of users globally. Their work directly impacts customer satisfaction, product success, and Microsoft's ability to achieve its mission of empowering every person and organization. The role contributes to the operational efficiency of product development by ensuring user needs are met early in the design process.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunities to specialize in areas like interaction design, visual design, user research, or design system management.
• Industry Conference and Certification Participation: Support for attending industry events (e.g., CHI, UX India) and pursuing relevant certifications.
• Operations Mentorship and Leadership Development: Potential to mentor junior designers, lead design sprints, or transition into management roles over time.
• Cross-Product Exposure: Opportunities to work on diverse Windows and Devices features, potentially leading to broader product responsibility within Microsoft.

📝 Enhancement Note: Microsoft offers robust career development paths. For a UX Designer II, growth typically involves deepening expertise in core design skills, taking on more complex projects, and potentially moving into leadership roles or specialized design areas. The "operations" context here refers to the systematic and efficient processes involved in product development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Microsoft Hyderabad is known for its modern, state-of-the-art facilities, designed to foster collaboration and innovation. Expect a dynamic, open-plan workspace with dedicated areas for focused work, team meetings, and creative brainstorming.

Office Location(s): The specific office location in Hyderabad will be provided upon further engagement, but Microsoft typically has large, well-equipped campuses in major tech hubs. These locations are usually accessible via public transport and offer ample amenities.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The workspace is designed to encourage interaction, knowledge sharing, and spontaneous discussions among team members.
• Operations Tools and Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (e.g., Figma, Adobe Creative Suite), prototyping tools, and robust internal Microsoft collaboration platforms.
• Operations Team Interaction: Frequent opportunities for design critiques, brainstorming sessions, and pair-designing with fellow UX professionals, product managers, and engineers.

Work Schedule: While the standard is 40 hours per week, Microsoft often promotes a healthy work-life balance. Employees have some flexibility to manage their schedules, ensuring they meet project deadlines and team commitments while accommodating personal needs. This flexibility is crucial for enabling designers to focus during deep work sessions and be present for collaborative activities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a collaborative workspace and access to cutting-edge tools is typical for a company like Microsoft, aiming to attract and retain top design talent. The flexibility in work schedule supports the need for focused design time and team engagement.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Submission: Submit your resume and a link to your online portfolio through the Microsoft Careers portal.
• Portfolio Review: Initial screening will involve a thorough review of your portfolio to assess your design skills, process, and impact.
• Hiring Manager Screen: A conversation with the hiring manager to discuss your background, career aspirations, and fit with the team.
• Design Challenge/Case Study: You may be asked to complete a design exercise or present a case study from your portfolio in detail, focusing on your problem-solving approach and design rationale.
• On-site/Virtual Interviews: A series of interviews with team members, including other designers, PMs, and engineers. These will assess your technical skills, collaboration abilities, and cultural alignment.
• Final Interview: Potentially a final discussion with senior leadership to confirm your fit and readiness for the role.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Effectively: Select projects that best showcase your end-to-end design process, problem-solving skills, and impact. Focus on quality over quantity.
• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your approach, the challenges you faced, your specific contributions, and the measurable outcomes. Use visuals to support your narrative.
• Highlight Collaboration: Emphasize how you worked with PMs and Engineers, and how you incorporated their feedback.
• Showcase Design Systems: If possible, include examples of how you used or contributed to design systems.
• Demonstrate Data-Informed Decisions: Explain how user data, research, or analytics influenced your design choices.
• Be Prepared to Discuss: Be ready to discuss any aspect of your portfolio in depth, including your rationale behind specific design decisions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Problem: If given a design challenge, take time to fully understand the brief, constraints, and objectives.
• Outline Your Approach: Clearly articulate your methodology – how you will tackle the problem, what research you would conduct, and what deliverables you would produce.
• Focus on Process: Emphasize your thought process, decision-making criteria, and how you would collaborate with stakeholders.
• Time Management: Allocate your time wisely across research, ideation, design, and presentation.
• Presentation Skills: Practice presenting your work clearly and concisely, anticipating potential questions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Microsoft interviews are rigorous and focus on assessing both technical design skills and the candidate's ability to integrate into their collaborative, customer-focused culture. A well-structured portfolio that tells a compelling story about your design process and impact is paramount.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this UX Designer II position:

• Visit the Microsoft Careers website (https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/careers/) and search for the job title or ID.
• Submit your updated resume and a comprehensive online portfolio link through the official application portal.
• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio prominently features projects demonstrating user-centric design, data-informed decision-making, and collaboration with engineering and product teams. Tailor your project selection to highlight Windows-specific or complex software design experiences if possible.
• Resume Optimization: Clearly articulate your years of experience and specific skills relevant to the job description, using keywords like "UX Design," "Interaction Design," "User Research," "Design Systems," and "Collaboration." Quantify your achievements with metrics where possible.
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process and decision-making rationale using case studies from your portfolio. Prepare to discuss how you handle feedback and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Microsoft's mission, values, and recent product developments, particularly within the Windows and Devices division, to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural alignment.

⚠️ 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.