Working Student (f/m/d) AI & UX Innovation in Procurement

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Working Student (f/m/d) AI & UX Innovation in Procurement

Company: Uniper

Location: Düsseldorf, Germany

Job Type: Internship / Working Student

Category: Procurement Operations / Digital Transformation

Date Posted: April 14, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Support the design and development of cutting-edge AI-based procurement solutions, focusing on user adoption and practical application within the energy sector.

• Contribute to the enhancement of user experience (UX) for internal procurement tools, digital dashboards, and interactive learning modules.

• Assist in the creation and implementation of gamified learning formats to foster AI understanding and engagement among procurement professionals.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Digital, Legal, Finance, and Compliance, to integrate AI and UX innovations into procurement workflows.

• Evaluate and iterate on AI and UX solutions based on user feedback and data analysis to drive continuous improvement in procurement processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a "Working Student," indicating it's an excellent opportunity for current students to gain practical experience while pursuing their studies. The focus on AI, UX, and Procurement within the energy sector suggests a forward-thinking department aiming to leverage technology for operational efficiency and innovation. While not a traditional Revenue Operations or Sales Operations role, the underlying principles of process improvement, data utilization, and stakeholder management are highly transferable to any operations function.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the conceptualization and development of AI-driven procurement tools, with a strong emphasis on user-centric design principles for seamless integration and adoption.

• Design intuitive user interfaces (UI) and enhance user journeys for internal procurement platforms, analytics dashboards, and digital training materials.

• Develop and implement engaging gamification strategies, including quizzes, challenges, and simulations, to accelerate the adoption of AI technologies and knowledge transfer within the procurement department.

• Conduct thorough testing and evaluation of AI/UX solutions, analyze user feedback and usage data, and formulate actionable proposals for iterative enhancements.

• Facilitate effective communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders across Procurement, Digital Transformation, Legal, Finance, and Compliance to translate complex business requirements into user-friendly technological solutions.

• Support the creation of digital workflows and interactive content that simplifies procurement processes and improves overall operational efficiency.

• Analyze user interaction data to identify trends, pain points, and opportunities for optimization within AI and UX implementations.

• Contribute to the documentation of AI features, UX guidelines, and best practices for procurement innovations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical contribution (AI/UX design) and operational enablement (adoption, training, collaboration). The focus on "usability, clarity, and user adoption" is critical for driving the success of new technologies within a large organization like Uniper. The expectation to "translate business needs into user-friendly AI solutions" requires a strong understanding of both technical capabilities and business objectives.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Currently enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's program in fields such as Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, UX/UI Design, Human-Computer Interaction, Business Informatics, Digital Media, Psychology, or a closely related discipline.

Experience: Demonstrated interest in applied AI and user experience within a business context. Prior academic projects or personal initiatives involving AI tools or UX design are beneficial.

Required Skills:

• Strong academic foundation in AI, Computer Science, UX/UI Design, or a related technical/design field.

• Keen interest in the practical application of Artificial Intelligence and User Experience principles.

• Enthusiasm for gamification concepts and their potential to enhance learning and engagement.

• Ability to experiment, learn quickly, and iterate on solutions in a dynamic environment.

• Proficient communication skills, capable of articulating technical concepts to non-technical audiences and collaborating effectively with diverse teams.

Preferred Skills:

• Hands-on experience with AI tools such as Microsoft Copilot, generative AI platforms, or no-code/low-code development tools.

• Foundational understanding of UX/UI design principles, including user journey mapping, usability heuristics, and feedback loop mechanisms.

• Familiarity with gamification elements like motivation, reward systems, progress tracking, and challenge design.

• Exposure to digital workflows, content management systems, or interactive learning platforms.

• Basic understanding of procurement processes or supply chain operations.

• German language proficiency is a significant advantage.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a strong academic background combined with a proactive and experimental mindset. The "plus" for AI tool experience and UX/gamification concepts suggests that candidates with practical exposure will stand out. The role is suitable for students looking to bridge academic knowledge with real-world application in a corporate setting.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase projects demonstrating an understanding of AI concepts and their potential applications, even if theoretical or academic.

• Include examples of user interface designs, wireframes, or mockups that illustrate UX/UI principles for digital tools or applications.

• Present any academic or personal projects involving gamification elements, highlighting the design of engagement mechanics or learning modules.

• Document any experience with AI tools (e.g., prompt engineering, using AI assistants) or low-code/no-code platforms, demonstrating practical application.

Process Documentation:

• Detail the process followed in academic projects, from problem identification and research to design, implementation, and evaluation.

• Document your approach to user feedback collection and integration into iterative design processes.

• Illustrate how you would approach the development of a digital workflow or learning module within a corporate procurement context, considering user adoption.

• Outline your methodology for testing and evaluating new tools or features, including data analysis and reporting of findings.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a working student role, the portfolio will likely focus on academic projects, personal initiatives, or coursework. The emphasis is on demonstrating conceptual understanding, design thinking, and a proactive approach to learning and problem-solving, rather than extensive professional experience. Showcasing the process behind the work is key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As this is a "Working Student" position, compensation will adhere to German labor laws for student employment and Uniper's internal guidelines for such roles. Typical rates for working students in Germany can range from €12-€18 per hour, depending on the field of study, experience, and specific responsibilities.

Benefits:

• Attractive salary commensurate with a working student role and German market standards.

• Opportunity to gain significant practical experience in AI, UX, and Procurement within a leading energy company.

• Flexible working arrangements, allowing for a balance between studies and work.

• Access to modern and ergonomic equipment for your workspace.

• Support for balancing private life and work, including potential for sabbaticals, part-time options, and family services.

• Opportunities for professional development through regular training and workshops.

• Modern company pension scheme with employer-funded contributions.

• Health-related benefits, including flu vaccinations, preventive health services, and an employee assistance program.

• Access to car and bike leasing offers, as well as e-car charging stations.

• Collaborative and diverse international work environment.

• Coaching and support for personal and professional growth.

Working Hours: Approximately 40 hours per week, with flexibility to align with academic schedules where possible, subject to team and role requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary for working student roles in Germany is typically set by law and company policy, often based on a per-hour rate that increases with semester count. The provided range is an estimate based on industry standards for student roles in major German cities. The benefits listed are comprehensive and reflect Uniper's commitment to employee well-being and development.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Energy & Utilities. Uniper is a major player in energy generation and trading, focusing on transforming the energy landscape towards sustainability and security of supply. This context implies a dynamic environment driven by technological advancements and regulatory changes.

Company Size: Large Enterprise. Uniper operates internationally with a significant employee base, indicating a structured environment with established processes, but also opportunities for impact within specialized departments.

Founded: Uniper was formed in 2016 as a spin-off from E.ON, with a history rooted in established energy infrastructure. This blend of new strategic direction and deep industry experience shapes its culture.

Team Structure:

• The Procurement Department is likely structured to manage various categories of goods and services essential for Uniper's operations.

• The AI & UX Innovation team within Procurement is a specialized unit focused on digital transformation, likely collaborating closely with central Digital/IT departments.

Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making is paramount, especially in areas involving AI and UX analysis.

• Agile methodologies may be employed for the development and iteration of new digital solutions.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential for integrating new technologies into existing business processes.

• A focus on continuous improvement and user-centric design will guide the development of AI and UX initiatives.

Company Website: https://www.uniper.energy/

📝 Enhancement Note: Uniper's focus on the energy transition suggests a culture that values innovation, sustainability, and adaptability. The "Working Student" role offers a unique window into how a large, established company navigates digital transformation in a critical sector. The emphasis on diverse teams and international colleagues points to an inclusive and global work environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level, student position designed to provide foundational experience in technology-driven procurement and digital innovation. It's an excellent stepping stone for students interested in roles within operations, digital transformation, AI implementation, or UX design in large corporations.

Reporting Structure: The Working Student will report to a manager or lead within the Procurement Department, likely overseeing digital innovation or AI initiatives. This manager will provide guidance, mentorship, and project direction.

Operations Impact: While the role is focused on learning and support, contributions in designing user-friendly AI solutions and enhancing UX can directly impact procurement team efficiency, adoption rates of new technologies, and the overall digital maturity of the department. Successful projects could lead to tangible improvements in user satisfaction and process streamlining.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Deepen expertise in applied AI tools (Copilot, Generative AI), UX/UI design principles, gamification strategies, and digital workflow design within a corporate setting.

• Industry Exposure: Gain valuable insights into the energy sector, procurement operations, and the challenges and opportunities of digital transformation in a large enterprise.

• Networking: Build relationships with professionals in Procurement, Digital, IT, and other cross-functional departments, expanding professional networks.

• Potential for Future Roles: Successful performance and demonstrated aptitude may open doors for future internships, thesis projects, or entry-level positions within Uniper's digital or operations teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is primarily educational, offering hands-on experience that can significantly shape a student's future career path in technology and operations. The growth opportunities are focused on skill acquisition and practical application within a real-world business context.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid. This implies a blend of working from the Uniper office in Düsseldorf and remotely, offering flexibility.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is Düsseldorf, Germany. This location offers a vibrant business environment and good infrastructure.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role involves working closely with a dedicated team and collaborating with various cross-functional departments, fostering a dynamic and interactive workspace.

• Technology Access: Expect access to modern IT infrastructure, including necessary software and hardware for AI and UX development, and potentially specialized tools provided by Uniper.

• Innovation Focus: The environment is geared towards innovation, encouraging experimentation, learning, and the application of new technologies to solve business challenges.

Work Schedule: The standard working hours are approximately 40 hours per week. The hybrid nature allows for flexibility, enabling students to balance their academic commitments with their responsibilities, subject to team coordination and operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work model is a key aspect, offering a modern work-life balance. The emphasis on collaboration and innovation suggests an environment where new ideas are welcomed and where team members actively engage with each other to achieve project goals.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review to assess academic background, relevant skills, and expressed interest in AI/UX/Procurement.

• First Interview: Likely a conversation with the hiring manager or a team lead to discuss your profile, motivations, understanding of AI/UX, and suitability for the "Working Student" role. Expect questions about your studies and any relevant projects.

• Technical/Case Study (Potential): You might be asked to present a brief overview of a relevant academic project, discuss your experience with a specific AI tool, or tackle a small conceptual problem related to UX design or AI application in procurement.

• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: A chance to meet potential team members and assess how you would integrate into the team dynamics. Questions may focus on collaboration, problem-solving approach, and learning agility.

• Final Offer: Following successful interviews and reference checks.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 2-3 projects that best showcase your skills in AI conceptualization, UX/UI design, or gamification.

• Highlight Process: For each project, clearly explain the problem, your approach, the tools you used, the outcome, and what you learned. Use diagrams, mockups, or screenshots.

• Quantify Impact (If Possible): Even for academic projects, mention any measurable results or improvements achieved.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize aspects of your projects that align with Uniper's focus on AI, UX, and procurement innovation.

• Be Prepared to Discuss: Be ready to elaborate on any aspect of your portfolio and answer questions about your design choices and technical decisions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Context: Research Uniper, its mission in the energy transition, and the general challenges in procurement digitalization.

• AI & UX Fundamentals: Refresh your knowledge on core AI concepts (e.g., machine learning basics, generative AI capabilities) and UX principles (user-centered design, usability testing).

• Gamification Basics: Familiarize yourself with common gamification elements and their application in user engagement and learning.

• Communication Skills: Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely, especially when discussing technical or design concepts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a working student role is typically less intensive than for experienced hires but still requires thorough preparation. The portfolio is crucial for demonstrating practical understanding and potential, especially if professional experience is limited.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AI Tools: Experience or familiarity with tools like Microsoft Copilot, other generative AI platforms (e.g., ChatGPT, Bard), and potentially AI content creation platforms.

• No-code/Low-code Platforms: Exposure to tools that allow for rapid development of applications or workflows without extensive coding (e.g., Power Platform, Mendix, OutSystems).

• UX/UI Design Tools: Familiarity with design software such as Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD, or similar for wireframing, prototyping, and UI design.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Basic proficiency in tools like Excel, potentially BI tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau) if experienced, for analyzing user data and feedback.

• Web Analytics: Understanding of how to interpret user behavior data from digital platforms.

CRM & Automation:

• Procurement Systems: While not expected to be an expert, understanding the general purpose of procurement software (e.g., SAP Ariba, Coupa) would be beneficial.

• Collaboration Platforms: Proficiency with tools like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, and other internal communication and project management software.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specific tools will depend on Uniper's internal stack, but the emphasis is on a willingness to learn and adapt. Familiarity with common AI assistants, design tools, and collaboration platforms is key. The role is about contributing to the adoption and development of these tools within procurement.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Transformation: A drive to explore and implement new technologies like AI to modernize procurement processes.

• User-Centricity: A commitment to designing solutions that are intuitive, efficient, and meet the needs of procurement professionals.

• Collaboration: Strong emphasis on teamwork, cross-functional partnerships, and knowledge sharing to achieve common goals.

• Data-Driven Approach: Utilizing data and feedback to inform decisions, measure impact, and drive continuous improvement in AI and UX initiatives.

• Sustainability & Efficiency: Contributing to Uniper's broader mission by optimizing processes and resource utilization through technology.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with stakeholders from Procurement, Digital, IT, Legal, and Finance to ensure solutions are aligned with business objectives and compliant with regulations.

• Feedback-Driven: Openness to giving and receiving constructive feedback to refine designs and improve user experiences.

• Agile & Iterative: A willingness to work in flexible, iterative cycles, adapting to changing requirements and user feedback.

• Knowledge Sharing: Contributing to a culture of learning by sharing insights, best practices, and learnings from experiments with AI and UX tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: Uniper's values, as reflected in the job description, emphasize forward-thinking, collaboration, and a commitment to its mission. The team culture likely supports learning, experimentation, and the practical application of technology to solve real-world business problems in the energy sector.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Bridging Academia and Industry: Translating theoretical knowledge from studies into practical, applicable solutions within a corporate environment.

• Adoption of New Technologies: Helping procurement professionals embrace and effectively use new AI-powered tools, overcoming potential resistance or learning curves.

• Cross-functional Alignment: Navigating diverse stakeholder needs and priorities to ensure AI and UX initiatives are well-integrated and supported across departments.

• Rapid Technological Evolution: Keeping pace with the fast-changing landscape of AI and UX tools and methodologies.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Practical AI/UX Application: Gaining invaluable hands-on experience in designing, developing, and testing AI and UX solutions within a real-world business context.

• Industry Immersion: Deep understanding of procurement processes and challenges within the energy sector, a critical industry undergoing significant transformation.

• Mentorship: Guidance from experienced professionals in AI, UX, and procurement, fostering professional growth and skill development.

• Exposure to Enterprise Systems: Learning about the integration of new technologies with existing enterprise-level systems and processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents a significant opportunity for learning and development, particularly for students looking to specialize in the intersection of technology and business operations. The challenges are framed as opportunities for growth and skill enhancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a project where you applied AI concepts or UX design principles. What was the challenge, your approach, and the outcome?" (Focus on process, tools, and learnings).

• "How would you approach designing an AI-powered feature for procurement users to help them find information faster?" (Assess problem-solving and user-centric thinking).

• "What are your thoughts on gamification in a business context? How could it be used to encourage the adoption of new AI tools in procurement?" (Evaluate understanding of engagement strategies).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for Uniper and specifically in the Procurement department?" (Demonstrate research and alignment with Uniper's mission).

• "How do you stay updated on advancements in AI and UX?" (Showcase curiosity and proactive learning).

• "Describe a time you worked in a diverse team. How did you contribute to its success?" (Assess collaboration and interpersonal skills).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Concise Overview: Briefly introduce each project, its objective, and your role.

• Visual Aids: Use mockups, wireframes, or screenshots to illustrate your design work. For AI concepts, use diagrams or flowcharts.

• Outcome & Learning: Clearly state the results (even if academic) and what you learned from the process.

• Relevance: Highlight aspects of your projects that directly relate to AI, UX, procurement, or innovation.

• Engage: Be prepared for questions and actively involve the interviewers in your presentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of technical interest, design thinking, proactive learning, and strong communication skills, all within the context of Uniper's business and its digital transformation journey.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Working Student position:

• Submit your application through the Uniper careers portal via the provided link.

• Tailor your CV: Highlight relevant coursework, academic projects, and any practical experience (even personal projects) related to AI, UX/UI design, gamification, or business informatics. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare a concise portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that best demonstrate your skills in AI concepts, user interface design, or gamification. Focus on showcasing your process and learnings.

• Research Uniper: Understand the company's mission, its role in the energy transition, and its commitment to innovation. This will help you tailor your responses and express genuine interest.

• Practice your pitch: Be ready to articulate your motivation for this role, your understanding of AI/UX, and how your skills align with Uniper's needs. Practice presenting your portfolio projects clearly and concisely.

⚠️ 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.