Working Student (w/m/d) - UX Design

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Working Student (w/m/d) - UX Design
Company: IONOS EN
Location: Karlsruhe, Germany
Job Type: Student/Working Student
Category: UX Design / Product Operations
Date Posted: 2025-08-20
Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)
Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This Working Student role is positioned within the Product Operations or UX/Product Design team, focusing on enhancing the user experience of IONOS's digital products and platforms.
• The role involves applying user-centered design principles and leveraging AI-powered tools for usage analysis and optimization, indicating a forward-thinking approach to product development.
• Key responsibilities include the design and implementation of user interfaces, conducting UX research, and analyzing usability tests to drive continuous improvement.
• This position offers a valuable opportunity for an enrolled student to gain hands-on experience in a leading European cloud infrastructure and hosting provider, contributing to the digitalization efforts of SMBs and enterprises.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "UX Design," the mention of "AI-powered tools for usage analysis and optimization" and "analysis of UX processes using Artificial Intelligence" suggests a strong overlap with Product Operations or a specialized UX Operations function, focusing on the data-driven and process-oriented aspects of user experience. The "Working Student" designation implies a part-time commitment, likely around 20 hours per week, common for students in Germany.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and implement user-centered design solutions for a variety of digital products and platforms, ensuring intuitive and engaging user experiences.
• Collaborate with the UX research team to translate user insights and feedback into actionable design improvements and product enhancements.
• Conduct analysis of usability tests, user feedback, and usage data to identify areas for continuous improvement in the user journey and product interface.
• Ensure design consistency of elements, user guidance, and brand identity across all IONOS digital touchpoints and customer-facing applications.
• Analyze and optimize UX processes by integrating and applying Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered tools for usage analysis, A/B testing, and design iteration.
• Utilize AI-powered tools such as chatbots, GPT models, automated usability testing platforms, and machine learning for enhanced user experience analytics and design optimization.
• Contribute to the development of information architecture and interaction design for new features and existing products.
• Support the creation of wireframes, prototypes, and mockups using industry-standard design tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of traditional UX design tasks with a strong emphasis on leveraging AI for process improvement and data analysis. This suggests the role is not just about visual design but also about understanding and optimizing the process of design and user feedback.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Currently enrolled as a student (m/f/d) in a relevant field such as Design, Computer Science, Media Informatics, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), or a closely related discipline.

Experience:

• Previous experience in UX design, user interface (UI) design, or interaction design, ideally gained through internships, university projects, or personal portfolio work.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in common UX design tools such as Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD, or similar.
• Strong understanding of user-centered design principles, interaction design, and information architecture.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct and analyze usability testing and interpret user feedback.
• Excellent design consistency skills and an eye for aesthetics and detail.
• Solid teamwork and communication skills, with the ability to articulate design decisions and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
• A proactive and independent work style, with a strong sense of responsibility and ownership.
• Creativity and a genuine passion for design and improving user experiences.
• Familiarity with applying AI-powered tools (e.g., chatbots, GPT, automated usability testing, Machine Learning in UX) for usage analysis and design optimization.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with AI-powered tools for UX analytics, workflow automation, or design optimization.
• Knowledge of front-end development basics (HTML, CSS, JavaScript) to better understand implementation constraints.
• Experience in analyzing user data and creating user journey maps.
• Familiarity with agile development methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on AI tools is a critical differentiator. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of how AI can be applied to UX processes, not just as a user of AI tools, but in analyzing their impact on efficiency and user satisfaction.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 UX design projects that demonstrate a strong understanding of the user-centered design process, from research and ideation to prototyping and testing.
• Projects should highlight your ability to create user interface designs and interaction designs that are both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional.
• Include examples of how you have used user feedback and usability testing results to iterate on designs and improve the overall user experience.
• For projects involving AI, clearly articulate your role in applying AI-powered tools for usage analysis, process optimization, or design enhancement, and the impact achieved.
• Demonstrate proficiency in information architecture through website structure, navigation design, or complex data visualization.

Process Documentation:

• Be prepared to discuss your personal UX design workflow and how you approach problem-solving for user experience challenges.
• Explain your methods for gathering and synthesizing user research, including usability testing methodologies and data analysis techniques.
• Detail your approach to ensuring design consistency across different platforms and touchpoints.
• Discuss how you would integrate AI-powered tools into existing UX workflows to improve efficiency and effectiveness, citing specific examples if possible.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio should not just be a collection of final designs but should also illustrate the process behind them, especially concerning user research, iteration, and the application of AI tools. Candidates should be ready to walk through their design thinking and how they measured success or impact.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• As a working student position in Germany (Karlsruhe), the salary would typically fall within the range of €12-€18 per hour, depending on the specific year of study, relevant experience, and the scope of responsibilities. For a 20-hour work week, this translates to approximately €960 - €1,440 per month before taxes.

Benefits:

• Hybrid Working Model: Offers a blend of remote and in-office work, providing flexibility.
• Flexible Working Hours: Trust-based working hours allow for adaptation to academic schedules and personal needs.
• Subsidized Canteen: On-site dining options at a reduced cost for employees.
• Free Drinks: Access to complimentary beverages in the office.
• Modern Office Space: Well-equipped and contemporary workspace with excellent transport links.
• Employee Discounts: Opportunities to save on various activities and IONOS products.
• Employee Events: Participation in social and professional events like summer and winter parties, and workshops.
• Numerous Training and Development Opportunities: Access to learning resources for skill enhancement and career growth.
• Various Health Offers: Including sports and health courses to promote employee well-being.

Working Hours:

• This is a part-time position, typically around 20 hours per week, consistent with a working student role. The flexible working hours allow for adjustments to accommodate academic commitments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on typical working student wages in Germany for roles requiring specialized skills like UX design and AI familiarity. The benefits package is comprehensive and indicative of a company that values employee well-being and professional development.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Cloud Infrastructure, Cloud Services, Hosting Services, Digitalization Partner for SMBs. IONOS operates in the competitive technology sector, focusing on providing scalable and reliable digital solutions. Company Size: IONOS is a significant player in the European market, serving around six million customers across 18 markets. While specific employee numbers for IONOS EN (European operations) aren't detailed, the parent company (United Internet AG) is a large enterprise, suggesting IONOS itself is a substantial organization with established processes and a robust infrastructure. This size implies opportunities for structured learning and exposure to enterprise-level operations. Founded: IONOS was founded in 1988 (as 1&1), evolving significantly over the years to become a leading European provider of cloud solutions. This long history suggests a stable company with deep industry expertise and a proven track record of adaptation and growth, particularly in embracing new technologies like AI.

Team Structure:

• The UX Design working student will likely be part of a larger Product or Engineering department.
• Within this department, they might report to a UX Lead, Product Manager, or a Senior UX Designer who oversees the student's work and provides guidance.
• Collaboration is expected with fellow UX/UI designers, product managers, developers, and potentially marketing or data analytics teams. The emphasis on a "friendly working culture and flat hierarchies with a strong team spirit" suggests an open and collaborative environment.

Methodology:

• IONOS likely employs agile methodologies (e.g., Scrum, Kanban) for product development, encouraging iterative design and continuous feedback loops.
• Data analysis and user-centric approaches are paramount, especially with the integration of AI-powered tools for process optimization and usage analysis.
• There’s a clear focus on efficiency and continuous improvement, driven by technology and data-driven insights.

Company Website: https://www.ionos.de/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on SMBs and its broad service portfolio (domains, hosting, e-commerce, cloud solutions) mean the UX team likely works on diverse digital products, offering a wide range of learning experiences. The integration of AI into UX is a key cultural indicator of the company's commitment to innovation.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is an entry-level position, specifically a Working Student, designed for individuals early in their academic and professional journey. It provides foundational experience in UX design, product operations, and the application of emerging technologies like AI within a professional setting. Reporting Structure: The working student will report to a more experienced team member, such as a Senior UX Designer, UX Lead, or Product Manager. This structure ensures guidance, mentorship, and structured feedback, crucial for learning and development in an operations-adjacent role. Operations Impact: While the primary focus is on design execution and learning, the student's contributions to user research, usability testing, and the application of AI for UX optimization can directly impact product usability, customer satisfaction, and potentially conversion rates or customer retention, thereby influencing operational efficiency and business outcomes.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Deepen expertise in UX design tools (Figma), user-centered design methodologies, interaction design, and information architecture. Gain practical experience with AI-powered tools for UX analytics and process optimization.
• Industry Exposure: Learn about the cloud infrastructure and hosting industry, understanding the digitalization needs of SMBs and enterprises.
• Professional Network: Build relationships with experienced UX designers, product managers, and engineers, fostering a professional network.
• Potential for Future Roles: Successful working students often have opportunities for internships or even full-time positions upon graduation, provided performance is strong and business needs align. This role can be a stepping stone into UX Design, Product Management, or Product Operations careers.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a working student, the "growth" is primarily about skill acquisition and exposure. The company's investment in training and development opportunities suggests a commitment to nurturing talent, which is a significant plus for students looking to build a career foundation.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: IONOS offers a modern office environment, likely with open-plan workspaces designed to foster collaboration, alongside dedicated areas for focused work. The "hybrid working model" indicates a flexible approach to where work is performed. Office Location(s): The primary location mentioned is Karlsruhe, Germany. This city is a significant technology hub in Germany, known for its universities and research institutions, providing a stimulating environment for tech professionals. Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Focus: Spaces are likely designed to encourage interaction, brainstorming, and knowledge sharing among team members, essential for UX and product development.
• Technology Integration: Access to modern IT equipment, design software, and potentially specialized AI tools and platforms will be available to support the student's tasks.
• Team Interaction: Opportunities to work closely with experienced professionals, participate in team meetings, design critiques, and cross-functional project discussions.

Work Schedule:

• The role involves a part-time commitment, approximately 20 hours per week, with flexible working hours. This allows students to balance their academic responsibilities with practical work experience. The focus is on output and achieving project goals rather than strict adherence to a 9-to-5 schedule.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model and flexible hours are key advantages for students. The modern office in Karlsruhe, a tech-centric city, adds to the appeal of the work environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of applications, including CV and enrollment certificate, to assess basic qualifications and academic standing.
• Technical/Skills Interview: This stage will likely involve a discussion about the candidate's UX design skills, familiarity with Figma and other design tools, understanding of user-centered design, and experience with AI in UX. Expect questions about past projects and design choices.
• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where the candidate presents their portfolio. This is a critical step to showcase practical skills, design process, and problem-solving abilities. Be prepared to discuss specific projects in detail, including the challenges faced and solutions implemented.
• Cultural Fit/Team Interview: An opportunity to assess teamwork, communication, and alignment with IONOS's company culture and values. This might involve meeting with potential team members or a hiring manager.
• Final Interview (if applicable): Potentially a final discussion with senior management or the direct supervisor to confirm fit and expectations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure and Storytelling: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project. For each project, clearly outline the problem, your role, the process followed (research, ideation, design, testing), key decisions made, and the outcome or impact.
• Show, Don't Just Tell: Use visuals (wireframes, mockups, prototypes, user flows) to illustrate your design thinking. Explain why you made certain design choices.
• Highlight AI Integration: If you have projects involving AI, clearly explain your contribution, the tools used, and the results achieved. This is a key differentiator for this role.
• Focus on Process: Demonstrate a strong understanding of the UX design process, including research methodologies, usability testing, and iteration based on feedback.
• Conciseness and Clarity: Be prepared to present your portfolio effectively within a given timeframe, focusing on the most relevant and impactful projects.

Challenge Preparation:

• You may be asked to complete a small design exercise or a case study related to a specific UX challenge, potentially involving the analysis of user data or the application of AI principles.
• Be ready to articulate your thought process, problem-solving approach, and how you would arrive at a user-centered solution.
• Practice presenting your ideas clearly and concisely, as if explaining them to a team or stakeholder.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is paramount. Candidates should select projects that best demonstrate their skills in Figma, user-centered design, and ideally, any experience or understanding of AI in UX. Being able to articulate the "why" behind design decisions is crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• UX Design: Figma (explicitly mentioned), Sketch, Adobe XD. Proficiency in at least one is essential.
• Prototyping: InVision, Marvel, or Figma's built-in prototyping features.
• Research & Analysis: Tools for usability testing (e.g., UserTesting.com, Lookback), survey tools (e.g., SurveyMonkey, Typeform), and potentially analytics platforms (e.g., Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics).
• AI-Powered Tools: This is a key area. Candidates should be familiar with or eager to learn about:
  • Chatbots/GPT models: For content generation, user interaction simulation, or research assistance.
  • Automated Usability Testing: Platforms that use AI to identify usability issues.
  • Machine Learning in UX: Understanding how ML can be applied to personalize experiences, predict user behavior, or optimize interfaces.
  • Usage Analytics Tools: Platforms that leverage AI for deeper insights into user behavior.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics, Mixpanel, or similar for tracking user behavior on digital platforms.
• Data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) might be used by the wider team.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly a UX tool, understanding how CRMs (like Salesforce, HubSpot) and marketing automation platforms impact user journeys and data collection can be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Figma and the emphasis on AI tools are the most critical technical requirements. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience or learning aptitude with these specific technologies.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• User-Centricity: A core principle is to understand and prioritize the user's needs and experience in all design decisions.
• Data-Driven Approach: Utilizing usage data, usability testing, and AI analytics to inform design strategies and measure success.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Valuing open communication, shared responsibility, and mutual support within the team and across departments.
• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Embracing new technologies like AI and actively seeking ways to optimize processes and enhance product offerings.
• Efficiency & Agility: Working effectively within agile frameworks to deliver value iteratively and adapt to changing requirements.
• Quality & Aesthetics: Maintaining high standards for design quality, consistency, and visual appeal.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Expect to collaborate closely with Product Managers, Developers, Researchers, and potentially Marketing teams. This requires strong communication and the ability to translate design concepts for different audiences.
• Feedback Culture: An environment where constructive feedback is regularly exchanged, both given and received, to foster growth and improve designs.
• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of insights, best practices, and learnings, particularly regarding new technologies like AI in UX.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's values emphasize learning and innovation, which is highly beneficial for a working student. The collaborative style suggests an environment where asking questions and seeking guidance is encouraged.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Academic and Work Commitments: Managing workload effectively to meet both academic deadlines and project deliverables for IONOS.
• Learning New Tools and Processes: Rapidly acquiring proficiency in Figma, AI-powered UX tools, and IONOS's specific development workflows.
• Translating Abstract Concepts: Effectively translating user research findings and AI-driven insights into concrete design solutions.
• Working in a Large Organization: Navigating the processes and communication channels of a large company to ensure efficient collaboration.
• Staying Current with AI in UX: Keeping abreast of the rapidly evolving landscape of AI applications in user experience design and research.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Hands-on Experience: Gaining practical, real-world experience in UX design and product operations within a leading tech company.
• Mentorship: Receiving guidance and feedback from experienced professionals in the UX and product teams.
• Skill Specialization: Developing expertise in areas like AI for UX analysis, usability testing, interaction design, and Figma.
• Industry Insight: Understanding the business needs and user behaviors within the cloud services and hosting industry.
• Networking: Building professional connections that can support future career aspirations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary growth opportunity lies in practical skill development and exposure to professional operations and design practices. The challenges are typical for a student role but are mitigated by the company's focus on training and development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Process: Be ready to walk through your end-to-end UX design process for a project in your portfolio. Focus on how you identified user needs, conducted research, iterated on designs, and validated solutions.
• Figma Proficiency: Discuss your experience with Figma, including specific features you use for wireframing, prototyping, and design handoff.
• AI in UX: Prepare to discuss your understanding of how AI can be applied to UX design and research. This could include examples of AI tools you've encountered or hypothetical applications for analyzing user data, automating feedback collection, or personalizing user interfaces.
• Problem-Solving: Be prepared for a hypothetical design challenge. Think about how you would approach understanding the problem, identifying user needs, brainstorming solutions, and iterating based on feedback.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: Discuss how you collaborate with others, handle feedback, and contribute to a team environment. Provide examples of successful collaborations.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Research IONOS's mission, values, and its position in the European market. Understand its target audience (SMBs, enterprises) and its service offerings.
• Be ready to explain why you are interested in working for IONOS specifically and how your skills align with their goals, particularly their focus on digitalization and innovation.
• Consider how your personal working style and values align with the company's culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Project Selection: Choose 2-3 strong projects that best showcase your skills relevant to this role, especially those involving user-centered design, Figma, and any AI-related aspects.
• Narrative: Frame each project as a story. Start with the problem, explain your approach and design decisions (the "why"), and conclude with the outcome or lessons learned.
• Visuals: Use high-quality visuals (screenshots, mockups, prototypes) to illustrate your work. Ensure they are clear and easy to understand.
• Conciseness: Practice your presentation to ensure it fits within the allotted time. Focus on key insights and impactful contributions.
• AI Focus: If applicable, clearly articulate your role in using or understanding AI tools in the UX context for these projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interviewer will be looking for not just design skills but also a strategic understanding of how design impacts the user and the business, and how emerging technologies like AI can enhance these processes. Demonstrating curiosity and a willingness to learn is key for a student role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the IONOS job portal.
• Tailor your CV: Highlight relevant coursework, projects, and any experience with UX design tools (especially Figma), user-centered design principles, and AI applications in UX. Quantify achievements where possible.
• Prepare your portfolio: Ensure your portfolio is polished, easily accessible (e.g., PDF or online link), and clearly showcases your best UX design work, emphasizing your process and problem-solving skills.
• Craft a compelling cover letter: Briefly explain why you are a good fit for IONOS, express your enthusiasm for UX design and AI, and mention your student status and availability.
• Research IONOS: Familiarize yourself with the company's products, services, and market position to better tailor your application and prepare for interview questions.
• Practice your portfolio presentation: Be ready to articulate your design process, justify your decisions, and discuss any experience with AI tools in UX.

⚠️ 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.