UX/UI Designer - Freelance - Lively

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UX/UI Designer - Freelance

Company: Electric Square (Lively Studio)

Location: Royal Leamington Spa, England, United Kingdom (Remote within EU Timezone)

Job Type: CONTRACTOR

Category: Game Development Operations / GTM Creative Operations

Date Posted: April 1, 2026

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

Remote Status: Hybrid (Remote within EU Timezone)

🚀 Role Summary

• This freelance UX/UI Designer role focuses on crafting compelling user experiences and interfaces for a new, action-packed racing game project.

• The position requires a strong understanding of game design principles and the ability to translate player needs into intuitive and emotionally satisfying game interfaces.

• Collaboration with cross-functional teams, including game designers, developers, engineers, and artists, is critical for success in this role.

• The role emphasizes a data-driven approach, using player feedback and commercial goals to inform design decisions and ensure a high-quality player experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role is listed as UX/UI Designer, its focus on player engagement, commercial goals, and cross-functional collaboration within game development positions it within a GTM Creative Operations context. The emphasis on designing for a specific product's success and iterating based on player feedback aligns with operational efficiency and market responsiveness, common themes in GTM and Revenue Operations. The "Freelance" nature and location requirement within the EU timezone also suggest a focus on efficient project delivery and resource optimization.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Research, design, and rigorously test user experiences to ensure optimal player engagement and satisfaction for the new racing game.

• Develop intuitive and visually appealing UI (User Interface) screens, layouts, and final graphics that align with the game's theme and art style.

• Create detailed wireframes and interactive prototypes to effectively communicate UI concepts and user flows to the development team.

• Collaborate closely with game designers, developers, artists, and engineers to ensure seamless integration of UI elements and a cohesive player experience from concept to launch.

• Define and establish a coherent UI style guide that is both intuitive for players and complements the overall game aesthetic.

• Actively gather player feedback through playtesting and user research, leveraging these insights to refine the UI and ensure it meets both player enjoyment and commercial objectives.

• Contribute to the overall design quality and UX best practices within the Lively studio, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative design and operational execution. The emphasis on "research, design, and test," "collaborate closely," "gather player feedback," and "leverage these insights to refine" points to a process-oriented approach common in operations roles focused on product-market fit and continuous improvement. The "commercial goals" aspect underscores the link to GTM objectives.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Formal academic qualifications in design or a related field are a plus, but demonstrable experience and a strong portfolio are prioritized.

Experience: Appreciable and applicable experience in game development, with a preference for having shipped at least one title of reasonable scale.

Required Skills:

• Proven ability to design, prototype, and refine user experiences and interfaces within a game development context.

• Strong proficiency in Unity's UI system, including canvases, world scales, anchoring, hierarchies, prefabs, and timelines.

• Demonstrated experience in creating wireframes and interactive prototypes to convey design concepts.

• Practical understanding of UI/UX design principles across various devices and platforms relevant to gaming.

• Excellent collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively within a cross-functional team of developers, designers, and artists.

• A passion for creating unforgettable and lovable gaming experiences.

• Ability to give and receive constructive criticism in a professional and productive manner.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with user research methodologies and playtesting for games.

• Familiarity with game analytics tools and how to leverage data for UI/UX improvements.

• Understanding of UI style guide creation and maintenance for large projects.

• Experience in action-packed racing game genres.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on Unity UI system and shipping titles indicates a need for practical, production-ready skills. The "portfolio of example projects" requirement is a key indicator for operations roles that require demonstrable output and problem-solving capabilities. The blend of "passion," "curiosity," and "constructive criticism" points to an operational mindset focused on continuous improvement and team synergy.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing example projects where you were responsible for producing the UI and/or UX.

• Case studies that clearly articulate the design process, from initial concept and research to final implementation and shipped quality.

• Demonstrations of how user feedback and commercial goals were integrated into the design iteration process.

• Examples of UI style guides or systems you have developed and maintained.

Process Documentation:

• Showcase ability to document UI/UX design processes, including research methodologies, wireframing, prototyping, and testing phases.

• Examples of how you translated complex game mechanics into intuitive user interfaces.

• Evidence of collaboration processes with development teams, including how feedback was incorporated into design iterations.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations roles, a portfolio is not just about showcasing finished work but also about demonstrating the process and methodology used to achieve results. This section emphasizes the need for candidates to articulate their problem-solving approach, iterative design thinking, and ability to collaborate effectively to deliver on product and business objectives. The "commercial goals" aspect is particularly important for operations.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As a freelance contractor, compensation will be competitive and commensurate with experience. Based on industry standards for freelance UX/UI Designers in the UK with 2-5 years of experience, with specific expertise in game development and Unity, the estimated hourly rate would typically range from £35 to £60 per hour. This equates to an approximate annual equivalent of £72,800 - £124,800 for full-time engagement, though actual rates may vary based on project scope, duration, and specific skill negotiation.

Benefits:

• Opportunity to work on an exciting new game title with a focus on player engagement.

• Flexible working arrangement within EU time zones, allowing for remote work.

• Collaboration with a talented and passionate game development team.

• Potential for ongoing freelance opportunities based on performance and project needs.

• Access to a supportive and award-winning studio environment (Lively/Electric Square).

Working Hours: Full-time (approximately 40 hours per week), with flexibility in scheduling due to the remote nature of the role within EU time zones.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimation is based on UK freelance rates for mid-level UX/UI designers specializing in game development, factoring in the specific requirements (Unity, game experience) and location. The benefits listed are tailored to what a freelance contractor might expect and what is directly implied by the job description. "Comprehensive Benefits Package" mentioned in the input data is usually for full-time employees; for freelancers, "opportunity," "flexibility," and "collaboration" are more relevant "benefits."

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Game Development (specifically focused on creating games with character and emotional depth).

Company Size: Electric Square is part of Keywords Studios, a global network of game development and support services. Lively is likely a specific studio within Electric Square, contributing to the larger organization's diverse portfolio. The exact size of the Lively studio is not specified, but it operates within a larger, established company structure.

Founded: Electric Square was founded in 2007. Keywords Studios was founded in 1998. This indicates a company with significant experience and established processes within the gaming industry.

Team Structure:

• The UX/UI Designer will be part of the Lively game development team, reporting to a Design Lead or Project Manager.

• The team is structured for cross-functional collaboration, integrating designers, developers, engineers, and artists to achieve project goals.

Methodology:

• Data-driven design approach, utilizing player feedback and insights to refine user experiences and ensure commercial success.

• Iterative design process, involving continuous research, prototyping, testing, and refinement.

• Collaborative workflow, fostering open communication and shared problem-solving among team members.

• Focus on creating games with "character," implying a commitment to emotional depth and unique player experiences.

Company Website: https://www.electricsquare.com/ (Electric Square) and https://www.keywordsstudios.com/ (Keywords Studios).

📝 Enhancement Note: The context of being part of Electric Square and Keywords Studios implies access to robust infrastructure, established processes, and potentially a wider network of expertise, which is beneficial for operations roles that rely on standardized workflows and resources. The mention of "award-winning environment" and "celebrating difference" suggests a culture that values employee well-being and diversity, important for team cohesion and operational efficiency.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a mid-level, suitable for a UX/UI Designer with 2-5 years of dedicated experience, particularly within the games industry. The responsibilities involve significant autonomy in design execution and collaboration, indicating a level of trust and expectation for independent problem-solving.

Reporting Structure: The UX/UI Designer will report to a Design Lead or Project Manager within the Lively studio. They will work closely with other disciplines (developers, game designers, artists) but the primary reporting line will be within the design or project management hierarchy.

Operations Impact: The UX/UI Designer's impact is directly tied to the player's experience and, consequently, the commercial success of the game. By creating an intuitive, engaging, and emotionally satisfying interface, they contribute to player retention, positive reviews, and ultimately, revenue generation. Their ability to translate player feedback into design improvements directly influences the game's market performance.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in Unity UI systems, advanced prototyping techniques, or specific game genres (e.g., racing games).

• Leadership: Potentially transition into a Senior UX/UI Designer role, mentoring junior designers and leading UI efforts on larger projects.

• Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Gain deeper insights into game design, development pipelines, and player psychology through close collaboration.

• Project Variety: As a freelancer, there's an opportunity to work on diverse projects across different studios within the Keywords network, broadening experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations-focused roles, growth often means increased scope, process ownership, and strategic influence. Here, growth is framed within the context of a creative industry, emphasizing skill specialization, leadership within design teams, and cross-functional understanding that benefits overall project operations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as "Hybrid" with a primary location in Royal Leamington Spa, England. However, the explicit requirement for candidates to be "based within the EU time zone" and the "TELECOMMUTE" location type strongly indicate a predominantly remote working arrangement, with potential for occasional on-site collaboration if geographically feasible and required.

Office Location(s): The primary studio location is Royal Leamington Spa, England. However, the operational requirement for EU time zone coverage means candidates can be located anywhere within this zone, facilitating remote work.

Workspace Context:

• Remote Collaboration: The role necessitates a well-equipped home office setup and strong self-discipline for remote work.

• Digital Tools: Heavy reliance on digital tools for design, prototyping, communication, and project management.

• Team Interaction: Regular virtual meetings, stand-ups, and collaboration sessions with the dispersed design and development teams.

• Creative Freedom: An environment that encourages creative expression and the pursuit of "unforgettable, utterly lovable gaming experiences."

Work Schedule: Full-time, approximately 40 hours per week. The "TELECOMMUTE" and "EU time zone" requirements suggest flexibility in daily scheduling as long as core collaboration hours are met and deliverables are achieved. This allows individuals to manage their time efficiently, which is crucial for operations roles focused on productivity and output.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid/remote nature is a key operational consideration. It implies the need for strong communication protocols, digital infrastructure, and self-management skills, all vital for successful remote operations. The "EU time zone" requirement is a direct operational constraint, likely for synchronizing with development teams and ensuring timely project delivery.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and portfolio to assess relevant experience, skills, and alignment with job requirements.

• Portfolio Presentation & Discussion: Candidates will likely present their portfolio, discussing specific projects, design decisions, and the impact of their work. Expect questions on your process, problem-solving approach, and collaboration style.

• Technical/Skill Assessment: Potentially a practical exercise or a deeper dive into Unity UI implementation and design principles.

• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Discussion with members of the Lively studio team to assess collaboration style, passion for games, and cultural alignment.

• Final Decision: Based on overall assessment of skills, experience, portfolio, and cultural fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Process: Clearly articulate your design thinking, research methods, problem-solving strategies, and iterative improvements for each project. Use case studies to tell a story.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, highlight the results of your designs. For example, how did your UI changes improve player engagement, reduce friction, or contribute to commercial goals?

• Highlight Collaboration: Provide examples of how you worked with developers, artists, and designers, demonstrating your ability to communicate effectively and integrate feedback.

• Demonstrate Unity Proficiency: Include specific examples of UI elements or systems built within Unity, showcasing your technical command.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize projects that align with the requirements of this specific role, such as those involving game interfaces, characterful design, or mobile/console platforms.

Challenge Preparation:

• UI Design Challenge: Be prepared for a potential design challenge that requires you to create a UI concept or iterate on an existing design based on a given brief, possibly within a limited timeframe.

• Unity UI Focus: If a technical challenge is presented, it will likely focus on Unity's UI system. Ensure you are ready to discuss or demonstrate your practical knowledge.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Anticipate questions about how you would approach common UI/UX challenges in game development, such as balancing aesthetics with functionality, or improving user onboarding.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations roles, the interview process often includes practical exercises or case studies to assess problem-solving and strategic thinking. The emphasis on portfolio demonstration and process explanation is crucial for evaluating a candidate's ability to execute and deliver results systematically.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Unity: Essential for game development and UI implementation. Proficiency with Unity's UI system (Canvases, Anchoring, Hierarchies, Prefabs, Timelines) is a core requirement.

• Prototyping Tools: Figma, Adobe XD, Sketch, or similar for creating wireframes and interactive prototypes.

• Design Software: Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator) for creating UI assets and graphics.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Familiarity with game analytics platforms (e.g., GameAnalytics, Unity Analytics) to understand player behavior and inform design decisions.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly a CRM role, understanding how user data and feedback loops contribute to a larger product/business strategy is beneficial. This might include familiarity with feedback collection tools or project management systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong command of the specified technology stack, particularly Unity's UI capabilities, is non-negotiable. For operations, understanding how these tools integrate and facilitate efficient workflows is key. The mention of analytics underscores the data-driven aspect of the role, aligning with operational performance measurement.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Player-Centricity: A deep commitment to understanding and serving the player, ensuring every design decision enhances their experience.

• Excellence in Craft: A dedication to producing high-quality, polished user interfaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Valuing open communication, mutual respect, and shared responsibility to achieve collective goals.

• Innovation & Curiosity: Encouraging exploration of new ideas, creative problem-solving, and a continuous learning mindset.

• Data-Informed Decisions: Using player feedback and analytics to guide design choices and drive product improvement.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively partnering with developers, game designers, artists, and engineers to ensure a cohesive product vision.

• Constructive Feedback: Openness to giving and receiving feedback to improve designs and foster team growth.

• Agile & Iterative: Working within an agile framework, embracing iterative development cycles and adapting to changes based on feedback and project needs.

• Shared Ownership: Fostering a sense of collective responsibility for the game's success, where all team members contribute to its quality and market performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values emphasize a blend of creative passion and operational discipline. For an operations professional, understanding how these values translate into daily work—e.g., how "player-centricity" drives design decisions that impact retention, or how "data-informed decisions" lead to process optimization—is crucial for assessing cultural fit and operational effectiveness.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Technical Constraints: Designing innovative UI that is feasible within Unity's technical limitations and the project's scope.

• Translating Abstract Concepts: Effectively visualizing and designing interfaces for abstract game mechanics or emotional themes within the racing genre.

• Cross-Disciplinary Communication: Ensuring clear and concise communication of design intent to diverse technical and artistic teams.

• Remote Collaboration Dynamics: Maintaining strong team cohesion and effective communication in a predominantly remote, freelance setting.

• Meeting Commercial Goals: Aligning user experience design with the product's business objectives and market demands.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Unity UI Mastery: Deepen expertise in advanced Unity UI features and optimization techniques.

• Game Design Fundamentals: Gain a more comprehensive understanding of game design principles and mechanics.

• User Research Techniques: Develop skills in conducting effective playtesting and user interviews to gather actionable insights.

• Cross-Studio Exposure: Potential to learn from diverse projects and teams within the Keywords Studios network.

• Freelance Business Skills: Develop project management, client communication, and contract negotiation skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: Identifying challenges and growth opportunities is key for operations roles, as it highlights areas for process improvement, skill development, and strategic planning. Here, challenges are framed around execution and collaboration, while growth is focused on deepening technical expertise and broadening professional capabilities within the industry.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance conflicting stakeholder requirements (e.g., artistic vision vs. technical feasibility) in a game UI project. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Assesses problem-solving, negotiation, and operational compromise.)

• "Walk us through your process for designing a key UI element for a game, from initial concept to final implementation. What tools did you use, and how did you incorporate feedback?" (Evaluates process methodology, tool proficiency, and iterative design.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What specifically about Lively's approach to game development and creating 'games full of character' resonates with you?" (Assesses cultural fit and genuine interest.)

• "How do you ensure your UI designs contribute to the commercial goals of a game, beyond just aesthetic appeal?" (Probes understanding of business impact and GTM alignment.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Structure your portfolio presentations around compelling narratives for each project, highlighting the problem, your solution, the process, and the results.

• Visual Clarity: Use high-quality visuals, clear annotations, and concise explanations. Ensure prototypes are functional and easy to navigate.

• Quantify Impact: Present metrics or user feedback that demonstrate the success of your designs. If direct metrics aren't available, discuss how your designs were intended to achieve specific outcomes.

• Focus on Process: Emphasize your design methodology, how you adapted to challenges, and how you collaborated with others. This is crucial for operations roles that value systematic execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for operations roles often involves anticipating questions that assess not just technical skill but also strategic thinking, problem-solving methodology, and the ability to drive measurable results. The emphasis on process, collaboration, and business impact is key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this freelance UX/UI Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workable link.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio is up-to-date and highlights your most relevant game UI/UX projects, with a particular focus on Unity experience and any racing game work.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize your experience in game development, your proficiency with Unity's UI system, and your ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, showcasing your portfolio with clear case studies, and preparing to discuss how your work contributes to commercial goals and player engagement.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Electric Square and Lively's game portfolio and design philosophy to demonstrate genuine interest and a good cultural fit.

⚠️ 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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