Werkstudent User Interface Design (UX/UI) (m/w/d)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Werkstudent User Interface Design (UX/UI) (m/w/d)

Company: REWE Group

Location: Köln, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany

Job Type: Part-time, Temporary (Werkstudent)

Category: User Interface / User Experience Design

Date Posted: August 29, 2025

Experience Level: Entry-Level / Junior

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on supporting the design and development of user-centric digital products, specifically the REWE App and cashier-less supermarket technologies.

• The position involves creating high-quality, error-free, and accessible user interface designs with a strong emphasis on consistency across the product.

• Key responsibilities include translating ideas into tangible concepts, interactive prototypes, and final designs, while also contributing to the planning and execution of UX tests.

• The role offers an opportunity to contribute to the evolution of the company's design system and library, ensuring visual appeal and consistency.

📝 Enhancement Note: This is a "Werkstudent" position in Germany, typically for students pursuing a degree. It implies a part-time role (around 20 hours/week) integrated with academic studies, offering practical, hands-on experience within a professional IT environment. The focus on UX/UI design for consumer-facing applications like the REWE App suggests a strong emphasis on user experience and interface aesthetics.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Create clean, error-free, and accessible user interface (UI) designs, ensuring consistency throughout the product lifecycle.

• Support the development of concepts, interactive prototypes, and final designs to make ideas tangible for product development.

• Assist in planning and executing user experience (UX) tests, leveraging results to refine and improve designs and concepts.

• Contribute to the ongoing development and maintenance of the company's design library and design system for improved form and consistency.

• Collaborate with experienced designers to understand and implement user-centered product development methodologies.

• Ensure that designs meet the needs of millions of users, enhancing their shopping experience or daily work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "fehlerfreie und barrierefreie Designs" (error-free and accessible designs) and "Konsistenz im gesamten Produkt" (consistency across the entire product) highlights the critical need for meticulous design execution. The mention of "Ideen greifbar zu machen" (making ideas tangible) and "Konzepten, interaktiven Prototypen und Designs" points towards a hands-on role in the early to mid-stages of the design process.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Currently enrolled in at least the 3rd semester of a relevant study program, such as Digital Design, User Experience Design, Digital Media, or a closely related field.

Experience:

• Basic knowledge of user-centered product development, including UX/UI methods, theories, and workflows.

Required Skills:

• Strong initiative, reliability, and a structured, detail-oriented approach to work.

• Foundational understanding of User Experience (UX) and User Interface (UI) principles and methodologies.

• Proficiency in at least one interface design program, with a strong preference for Figma. Familiarity with Sketch or Adobe XD is also valuable.

• Ability to create visually appealing, consistent, and user-friendly interfaces.

• Understanding of usability principles and a commitment to improving accessibility in digital products.

Preferred Skills:

• A portfolio showcasing examples of your work, projects, or case studies demonstrating design skills and problem-solving approaches.

• Familiarity with design system development and maintenance.

• Experience with user testing methodologies and incorporating feedback into design iterations.

• A keen eye for current UI trends and a proactive approach to expanding knowledge in usability and accessibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a portfolio, even if it includes academic projects, is crucial for assessing a candidate's practical design abilities. The explicit mention of Figma as the primary tool is a key technical requirement. The combination of "Eigeninitiative und Verl\u00e4sslichkeit" (initiative and reliability) with a "strukturierte und detailverliebte Arbeitsweise" (structured and detail-loving work style) indicates the company values both proactive contribution and high-quality output.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrable examples of UI design work, showcasing visual aesthetics and user flow understanding.

• Case studies that detail the design process, problem identification, proposed solutions, and outcomes.

• Prototypes or interactive mockups that illustrate user journeys and interaction design.

• Evidence of applying user-centered design principles and consideration for usability.

Process Documentation:

• Ability to contribute to the documentation of design processes and workflows.

• Understanding of how to hand off designs to development teams effectively.

• Awareness of design system documentation and best practices for maintaining consistency.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated as a formal requirement for submission, the mention of an "idealerweise ein Portfolio mit Beispielen deiner Arbeiten, Projekte oder Case Studies" (ideally a portfolio with examples of your work, projects, or case studies) strongly suggests that a portfolio will be a key component during the evaluation process. This portfolio should highlight practical application of UX/UI principles.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As this is a "Werkstudent" position in Germany, compensation is typically paid hourly and is generally below a full-time professional salary but competitive for student roles. For Cologne, Germany (as of late 2023/early 2024), a typical hourly rate for a Werkstudent in UX/UI Design can range from €12 to €18, depending on the semester, specific skills, and company.

• Research Methodology: This estimate is based on general German labor market data for student positions in IT/Design, factoring in cost of living in Cologne and industry benchmarks for entry-level design roles. Specific company policies and the candidate's academic progress will influence the final offer.

Benefits:

• Echte Insights: Integration into the team from the start, with opportunities to take on responsible tasks.

• Persönliche Weiterentwicklung: Gaining practical experience, learning from colleagues, and fostering personal growth.

• Zukunftsperspektiven: Building a professional network and setting a milestone for future career development.

• Gesundheitsmanagement: Access to preventative health check-ups, sports, health, and cooking classes.

• Betriebsrat: Representation of employee interests within the REWE Group.

• Vernetzt: Participation in company-wide networks (e.g., LGBTIQ network "di.to. – different together", women's network "f.ernetzt") for career and personal development exchange.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position, typically around 20 hours per week, designed to accommodate academic studies. Exact scheduling can be discussed to align with university commitments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Werkstudent" nature of the role means compensation will be structured hourly. The benefits listed are standard for REWE Group employees and are particularly valuable for students seeking a supportive and growth-oriented environment. The company emphasizes practical insights and future prospects, aligning well with the goals of students in such roles.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail, E-commerce, Technology (specifically digital services for retail). REWE Group is a major player in the German and European retail market, with REWE Digital focusing on innovation and technology to enhance the retail experience.

Company Size: REWE Group is a large enterprise with tens of thousands of employees globally. REWE Digital, as the IT and innovation arm, likely comprises several hundred to over a thousand employees, indicating a substantial and well-resourced digital division.

Founded: REWE Group was founded in 1927. REWE Digital represents its modern commitment to digital transformation and technological advancement in the retail sector.

Team Structure:

• The Werkstudent will be part of a team of experienced designers within REWE Digital's IT department.

• This team likely works closely with product managers, developers, and other stakeholders involved in the REWE App and cashier-less supermarket projects.

Methodology:

• User-centered design principles are paramount, with a focus on creating intuitive and engaging experiences for millions of users.

• Agile methodologies are likely employed, involving iterative development, cross-functional collaboration, and continuous feedback loops.

• Emphasis on data-driven decisions, utilizing UX test results to inform design choices and improvements.

Company Website: https://www.rewe-digital.com/de

📝 Enhancement Note: REWE Group's extensive history in retail provides a stable foundation, while REWE Digital signifies its forward-thinking approach to technology. Working within a large corporation offers exposure to robust processes, diverse teams, and significant project scale, which is highly beneficial for a student's development. The focus on innovation within a traditional sector presents unique design challenges.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is an entry-level position specifically for students, providing foundational experience in the UX/UI design field within a large corporate setting. It's an ideal stepping stone for individuals looking to build a career in digital product design.

Reporting Structure: The Werkstudent will report to a Senior Designer or Team Lead within the UX/UI department of REWE Digital. This provides direct mentorship and guidance.

Operations Impact: While this is a student role, the work directly impacts the user experience of millions of REWE customers through the REWE App and innovative store technologies. Successful designs contribute to customer satisfaction, engagement, and potentially operational efficiency in stores.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Gain hands-on experience with industry-standard design tools (Figma), UX methodologies, and best practices in UI design, usability, and accessibility.

• Industry Exposure: Deepen understanding of the retail technology sector and the challenges of designing for a large customer base.

• Mentorship: Learn from experienced professionals in a collaborative team environment, receiving feedback and guidance to refine design skills.

• Networking: Build connections within REWE Digital and the broader REWE Group, which can lead to future internship or employment opportunities.

• Potential Future Roles: Successful Werkstudent engagement could lead to internships or even full-time junior positions upon graduation, depending on performance and business needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Werkstudent" role is designed to offer substantial practical experience that complements academic learning. The emphasis on insights, personal development, and future perspectives strongly suggests that REWE Digital views these roles as potential talent pipelines, offering clear growth pathways for motivated students.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is on-site in Cologne, Germany. REWE Digital likely operates out of modern office spaces designed to foster collaboration and innovation.

Office Location(s): Köln, specifically within postal code 51063. This is a key hub for REWE's digital operations.

Workspace Context:

• Expect a collaborative and dynamic work environment within the IT and digital innovation division.

• Access to modern design tools and technologies, including Figma, will be provided.

• Opportunities for interaction with designers, product managers, and developers to foster a holistic understanding of product development.

• The company culture encourages learning and initiative, providing a supportive atmosphere for students to contribute and grow.

Work Schedule: Part-time, around 20 hours per week, with flexibility to accommodate university schedules. This allows for a balance between work and academic responsibilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of the role in Cologne is a significant factor, offering direct immersion into the company's operational environment and team dynamics. This contrasts with remote roles and is often preferred by students seeking hands-on learning and direct mentorship. The company's commitment to "Home of IT" suggests a focus on creating a productive and engaging workspace for its technology teams.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Application Submission: Submit resume and ideally a portfolio through the company's career portal.

2. Initial Screening: HR and/or the hiring manager will review applications and portfolios to assess qualifications and fit.

3. First Interview (likely with Hiring Manager/Senior Designer): This interview will focus on your background, motivation, understanding of UX/UI principles, and relevant experience. It may include questions about your portfolio.

4. Portfolio Review/Design Task: You might be asked to present your portfolio in detail, explaining your design process and decision-making. Alternatively, a small design challenge or case study review could be part of the process to assess practical skills.

5. Final Interview (potentially with team members): This stage may involve meeting more team members to assess cultural fit and collaborative potential. Questions might delve deeper into problem-solving approaches.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project in your portfolio, clearly outline the problem statement, your role, the design process followed, key decisions made, and the final outcome or learnings.

• Showcase Process: Highlight your thought process, user research, wireframing, prototyping, and iteration stages, not just the final polished designs.

• Focus on Figma: If you have Figma projects, emphasize them, as it's the company's primary tool.

• Highlight Impact: If possible, quantify the impact of your designs (e.g., improved usability metrics, positive user feedback).

• Be Ready to Discuss: Prepare to talk through your design choices, challenges faced, and how you overcame them.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Context: Be prepared for potential design challenges related to mobile app interfaces or retail technology.

• Think User-Centric: Always approach problems from the user's perspective.

• Communicate Your Process: Clearly articulate your thought process, even if you don't complete the entire task within the given time. Explain your assumptions and next steps.

• Familiarize with REWE App: Consider downloading and reviewing the current REWE App to understand its existing UX/UI.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio and the mention of "Ideen greifbar zu machen" suggests that the interview process will likely involve practical assessments of design skills and the ability to translate concepts into tangible outputs. Being prepared to walk through a portfolio and discuss design decisions is critical.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: Explicitly mentioned as the primary interface design program used by REWE Digital. Proficiency is highly valued.

• Sketch/Adobe XD: Familiarity with these tools is considered beneficial, indicating a broader understanding of design software.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly relevant to this UX/UI Design role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Figma proficiency is a key technical requirement. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their skills and experience with this tool, especially in the context of creating user interfaces and prototypes.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• User-Centricity: A core value, ensuring that all design decisions prioritize the needs and experiences of millions of users.

• Quality & Consistency: Striving for high-quality, error-free, and visually consistent designs across all digital products.

• Initiative & Reliability: Valuing team members who are proactive, take ownership, and can be relied upon to deliver.

• Detail-Oriented: A meticulous approach to design is essential for creating polished and functional interfaces.

• Collaboration & Learning: Fostering an environment where team members learn from each other and work together effectively.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional collaboration with experienced designers, product managers, and developers is expected.

• Open communication and a willingness to share ideas and provide constructive feedback are likely encouraged.

• The team likely operates with a sense of shared responsibility for product success.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's values, particularly user-centricity and a focus on quality and detail, are directly reflected in the responsibilities and desired candidate traits for this role. This suggests a culture that rewards thoughtful design execution and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing User Needs with Business Goals: Designing for a large, diverse user base while aligning with REWE's business objectives.

• Maintaining Consistency: Ensuring a cohesive user experience across different features of the REWE App and other digital touchpoints.

• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Staying current with the latest UX/UI trends and technologies in the fast-paced digital retail landscape.

• Working in a Large Organization: Navigating the processes and stakeholder landscape of a major retail group.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Practical Skill Enhancement: Deepening expertise in Figma, prototyping, and user-centered design methodologies through hands-on project work.

• Industry Knowledge: Gaining insights into the digital transformation of the retail sector.

• Mentorship: Receiving guidance from experienced UX/UI designers to hone design skills and career path.

• Exposure to Real-World Projects: Contributing to products used by millions, providing valuable portfolio pieces and experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for roles in large tech-focused organizations within established industries, offering significant learning opportunities as candidates navigate them. The growth opportunities are substantial for a student role, focusing on practical skill acquisition and industry exposure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Tell me about a project in your portfolio where you faced a significant design challenge. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on problem-solving, process, and results.)

• "Why are you interested in UX/UI design, and what specifically about the REWE App or REWE Digital excites you?" (Demonstrate research and genuine interest.)

• "How do you ensure your designs are user-centered and accessible?" (Highlight knowledge of principles and methods.)

• "Describe your experience with Figma. What are some of its key features you find most useful for UI design?" (Showcase technical proficiency.)

• "How do you handle feedback on your designs, especially constructive criticism?" (Assess adaptability and collaboration.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about REWE Group and REWE Digital?" (Show you've done your research.)

• "How do you see yourself contributing to our team's collaborative environment?" (Emphasize teamwork and communication.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Curate Select Projects: Choose 2-3 strong projects that best showcase your skills relevant to the role (mobile app design, user flows, prototyping).

• Tell a Story: For each project, explain the "why" behind your design decisions. Use a clear narrative structure: Problem -> Process -> Solution -> Outcome.

• Highlight Figma Usage: Showcase specific Figma features you used (e.g., components, auto-layout, prototyping) and how they helped you achieve your design goals.

• Focus on User Impact: Explain how your design choices aimed to improve the user experience and meet user needs.

• Be Concise and Enthusiastic: Present clearly and confidently, showing your passion for design.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparing specific examples from your portfolio that directly address user-centricity, problem-solving, and your use of Figma will be critical. Understanding REWE's business and digital presence will also be a strong advantage.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Werkstudent User Interface Design position:

• Submit your application through the provided career link on the REWE Group website.

• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a portfolio that clearly showcases your UI/UX design skills, with a strong emphasis on projects utilizing Figma. Include case studies that detail your design process, problem-solving approach, and outcomes.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant coursework, any prior design experience (even academic projects), familiarity with UX/UI principles, and proficiency in design tools like Figma. Ensure German language skills are clearly stated.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, motivations for applying to REWE Digital, and how your skills align with the role's requirements. Be ready to discuss your portfolio in detail and potentially complete a design exercise.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with REWE Group's business, its digital initiatives, and the REWE App. Understanding their market position and user base will help tailor your application and interview responses.

⚠️ 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.