Pessoa Product Designer: Discovery, Research e Service Design

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Pessoa Product Designer: Discovery, Research e Service Design

Company: Pimp My Carroça

Location: São Paulo, State of São Paulo, Brazil

Job Type: Tempo integral (Contractor)

Category: Product Design / UX Research / Service Design

Date Posted: 2026-09-17

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

Remote Status: Hybrid (Predominantly remote with occasional in-person meetings and field visits in São Paulo)

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the discovery, research, and validation phase for the Cataki 2.0 project, focusing on evolving the Cataki application's functionality beyond its current scope.

• Conduct in-depth field research and contextual inquiry with diverse user groups, including waste pickers, cooperatives, internal teams, and sponsors, to understand real-world operations and challenges.

• Develop comprehensive user journeys, service blueprints, and process maps to visualize current operations, identify pain points, and define opportunities for improvement.

• Facilitate co-creation sessions and ideation workshops to foster collaboration and gather insights from stakeholders.

• Translate research findings and stakeholder input into actionable product strategies, hypotheses, and low-to-medium fidelity prototypes for validation.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is project-based, with an initial four-month duration, requiring a partial dedication of 16-20 hours per week. The focus is heavily on research and discovery, not UI design or extensive screen production. The candidate will work within a social impact organization, requiring sensitivity and understanding of vulnerable populations and limited digital literacy contexts.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Plan and execute user research initiatives, including interviews, contextual observations, and field studies, to gather insights into the operational realities of waste pickers and associated stakeholders.

• Map existing operational workflows, identifying key actors, tools, rules, data points, failure modes, and dependencies within the Pimp My Carroça ecosystem, particularly focusing on Cataki+.

• Construct detailed user journeys and service blueprints for prioritized operational flows, visualizing interactions and service touchpoints.

• Facilitate brainstorming and co-creation sessions with internal teams, waste pickers, cooperatives, and partners to generate innovative solutions.

• Synthesize research data, problems, hypotheses, and opportunities into a clear, actionable framework for product development.

• Create and iterate on low-to-medium fidelity prototypes to test concepts and gather user feedback, ensuring alignment with user needs and operational constraints.

• Conduct concept and usability testing on prototypes, documenting findings and evidence to inform product decisions.

• Identify critical data points and evidence required for the product to effectively support operations and measure impact.

• Collaborate closely with the Product team to define the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) scope, prioritize features, and prepare requirements for the development team.

• Document all learnings, decisions, limitations, and open questions to ensure knowledge continuity and support future project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary output will be research documentation, process maps, prototypes, and strategic recommendations for the MVP, rather than polished UI designs. The role requires a strong ability to navigate ambiguity and work with evolving processes within a mission-driven organization.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Not explicitly specified, but a background in Design, Human-Computer Interaction, Social Sciences, or a related field is highly beneficial.

Experience: 2-5 years of experience in Product Discovery, UX Research, or applied research for products and services.

Required Skills:

• Proven experience in Product Discovery methodologies and UX Research techniques (interviews, contextual observation, field studies).

• Demonstrated ability to map user journeys, operational workflows, and service blueprints.

• Strong facilitation skills for ideation, co-creation, and workshop sessions.

• Capability to translate research findings into actionable product decisions and functional prototypes.

• Excellent synthesis and communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences effectively.

• Autonomy and comfort working in environments with developing processes and ambiguity.

• High sensitivity and ethical approach when conducting research with vulnerable populations.

• Understanding of accessibility principles, low digital literacy, and connectivity limitations. Preferred Skills:

• Experience working within the non-profit sector, cooperatives, public services, or social impact initiatives.

• Prior involvement in B2B2C products or field operations.

• Knowledge of circular economy principles, recycling processes, or reverse logistics.

• Familiarity with data indicators, internal tools, and data-driven product development.

• Experience with AI tools and rapid prototyping techniques (e.g., vibe coding).

📝 Enhancement Note: The "2-5 years" experience level suggests a mid-level professional who can operate with a degree of independence but may still benefit from guidance on complex strategic decisions. The emphasis on "sensitivity for researching with people in vulnerable contexts" is a critical differentiator for this role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase projects demonstrating robust Product Discovery and UX Research methodologies.

• Include examples of user journey mapping, service blueprints, and process flow documentation.

• Present case studies that highlight the translation of research findings into actionable product strategies or prototypes.

• Demonstrate experience in facilitating workshops and co-creation sessions.

• Illustrate the ability to work with and synthesize data from diverse sources, including qualitative field research. Process Documentation:

• Evidence of planning and executing research studies, including research plans and participant recruitment strategies.

• Examples of how current operations were mapped and analyzed to identify pain points and opportunities.

• Documentation of prototype creation, user testing, and iteration cycles.

• Clear articulation of how research informed product prioritization and MVP definition.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio should emphasize the process of discovery and research, rather than just the final visual design. For this role, demonstrating how research led to strategic product decisions and an understanding of operational complexities is paramount.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As this is a project-based role with estimated partial dedication (16-20 hours/week) in Brazil, a typical hourly rate for a mid-level UX Researcher/Product Designer with specialized skills in social impact and service design in São Paulo would range from R$ 80 to R$ 150 per hour, depending on experience and specific expertise. This would translate to a monthly project fee of approximately R$ 5,120 to R$ 12,000 for 16-20 hours/week.

Benefits:

• Reimbursement for travel expenses related to field visits.

• Potential for contract extension and continued engagement based on project performance.

• Opportunity to contribute significantly to a meaningful social impact mission.

• Flexible work arrangement, predominantly remote.

Working Hours: Estimated at 16-20 hours per week, with flexibility in scheduling, but requiring availability for occasional in-person meetings and field visits in São Paulo.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on market rates for contract UX/Product Design roles in São Paulo, Brazil, considering the mid-level experience and specialized focus. The "Tempo integral" employment type is listed, but the description clarifies it's a contractor role with partial dedication (16-20 hours/week), which is a common hybrid model.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Social Impact, Technology, Art & Design, Environmental & Sustainability.

Company Size: Small to Medium-sized (implied by a movement/project-based structure and the need for a versatile designer).

Founded: 2012 (Pimp My Carroça), with Cataki launched in 2017, indicating established experience in its mission.

Team Structure:

• The role is part of the "Projeto Cataki 2.0" team, suggesting a dedicated project team.

• Collaboration is expected with internal teams, waste pickers, cooperatives, sponsors, and partners.

• The designer will work closely with the Product team for MVP definition and development scope.

• The reporting structure is likely project-based, with the designer reporting to a project lead or product manager. Methodology:

• Focus on user-centered design, with a strong emphasis on Product Discovery and UX Research.

• Collaborative and co-creative approach, involving diverse stakeholders in the design process.

• Data-driven decision-making, using evidence gathered from research to inform product strategy.

• Iterative development and validation of solutions.

• Commitment to social impact and fair remuneration for waste pickers.

Company Website: pimpmycarroca.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Pimp My Carroça operates with a strong social mission. The Cataki app is a key technological initiative within this mission. The culture likely values innovation, community engagement, and a hands-on approach to problem-solving, especially given the field research component.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at a Mid-Level, focusing on specialized Product Discovery and UX Research within a specific project. It offers a chance to delve deep into a complex operational problem within the social impact sector.

Reporting Structure: The Product Designer will report to a project lead or Product Manager within the Cataki 2.0 project team. They will collaborate closely with other project members and stakeholders.

Operations Impact: The work directly contributes to enhancing the Cataki platform, aiming to improve the income and recognition of waste pickers. This role has a tangible impact on the operational efficiency of waste management and the livelihoods of marginalized communities.

Growth Opportunities:

• Deepen expertise in Product Discovery, UX Research, and Service Design within the social impact domain.

• Gain experience in navigating complex operational challenges and working with diverse user groups, including those with limited digital literacy.

• Develop skills in facilitating co-creation and cross-functional collaboration in a mission-driven environment.

• Potential for contract extension and further involvement in the Cataki project or other initiatives within Pimp My Carroça.

• Build a portfolio with impactful projects in social innovation and technology.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this is a project-based role, it provides a significant opportunity for specialized skill development and impact. The growth is less about hierarchical advancement and more about deepening expertise and contributing to a cause.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Predominantly remote, with occasional in-person meetings and field visits required in São Paulo.

Office Location(s): Field visits and potential meetings in São Paulo, Brazil. The physical address provided (Rua Padre Justino 653) is likely an operational hub or office.

Workspace Context:

• The primary workspace will be remote, requiring self-discipline and effective communication tools.

• Field visits will involve direct engagement with the operational environment of waste pickers and cooperatives.

• Occasional in-person meetings in São Paulo will facilitate team collaboration and stakeholder engagement.

• Access to necessary digital tools for research, prototyping, and communication will be essential.

Work Schedule: Flexible, with an estimated commitment of 16-20 hours per week. This allows for integration with other professional activities, provided project deadlines are met and availability for key meetings and field visits is maintained.

📝 Enhancement Note: This hybrid model requires a candidate who is comfortable with remote work and can manage their schedule effectively, while also being available for essential on-site activities in São Paulo.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and portfolio to assess relevant experience in Product Discovery, UX Research, and Service Design.

• Portfolio Presentation & Discussion: A session where the candidate presents selected projects, focusing on their research process, problem-solving approach, and impact. Expect questions about how they navigated ambiguity, engaged with users, and translated findings into product recommendations.

• Skills-Based Interview: Deeper dive into specific skills such as user interviewing, journey mapping, prototype testing, and facilitation. May include scenario-based questions related to the Cataki 2.0 context.

• Cultural Fit & Mission Alignment: Discussion to gauge understanding and passion for Pimp My Carroça's social mission and the Cataki project's goals. Assessment of sensitivity towards vulnerable communities.

• Final Discussion/Offer: Clarification of project scope, deliverables, and contract terms.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate 2-3 projects that best demonstrate your Product Discovery, UX Research, and Service Design expertise.

• For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, your research methodology, key insights, and the impact of your work.

• Highlight how you translated research into tangible outputs like journey maps, service blueprints, or prototypes.

• Emphasize any experience working with diverse user groups, especially those in vulnerable situations or with limited digital literacy.

• Be prepared to discuss your process for handling ambiguity and evolving requirements. Challenge Preparation:

• While not explicitly stated, be prepared for potential questions that assess your problem-solving skills in a real-world, resource-constrained environment.

• Think about how you would approach understanding the operational challenges of waste pickers and how technology could support them.

• Consider how you would measure the success of Cataki 2.0 from both a user and business/mission perspective.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on research, discovery, and understanding real operations suggests that interviewers will be looking for strategic thinkers who can deeply empathize with users and translate complex needs into practical product solutions.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Prototyping Tools: Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD, or similar for low-to-medium fidelity prototypes.

• Research & Collaboration Tools: Miro, Mural, Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides), Notion, or similar for mapping, ideation, documentation, and team collaboration.

• User Research Platforms: Tools for conducting remote interviews and usability testing (e.g., Zoom, Google Meet, Lookback, UserTesting.com).

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary focus, familiarity with basic data analysis and reporting tools may be beneficial for synthesizing research findings and tracking project progress. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly relevant to this role's core responsibilities, but understanding how user data might be managed and used in a product context is helpful.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role emphasizes process and strategy over specific tool mastery. Proficiency in common UX/Product Design and collaboration tools is expected, with an emphasis on tools that facilitate research synthesis and communication.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Social Impact: A deep commitment to improving the lives and livelihoods of waste pickers.

• Collaboration: Working together with diverse stakeholders to achieve shared goals.

• Innovation: Seeking creative solutions to complex social and operational challenges.

• Empathy: Understanding and respecting the experiences of all users, especially those in vulnerable situations.

• Data-Driven: Using evidence and insights to guide decision-making and product development.

• Efficiency: Optimizing processes and resources to maximize positive impact.

Collaboration Style:

• Highly collaborative, involving active participation from waste pickers, cooperatives, internal teams, and partners.

• Open communication and feedback exchange are crucial for co-creation and iterative design.

• Emphasis on shared learning and knowledge building within the project team and with external stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Pimp My Carroça is likely to be mission-driven, community-focused, and hands-on, with a strong emphasis on collective impact and respect for the contributions of waste pickers.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Working with Vulnerable Populations: Conducting research with individuals facing socio-economic challenges requires sensitivity, ethical considerations, and trust-building.

• Navigating Ambiguity: The project is in an early discovery phase, meaning processes and requirements may evolve, requiring adaptability and comfort with uncertainty.

• Bridging Digital Divides: Designing solutions that are accessible and usable for individuals with low digital literacy and limited connectivity.

• Balancing Stakeholder Needs: Synthesizing diverse and sometimes conflicting needs from waste pickers, cooperatives, sponsors, and internal teams.

• Measuring Impact: Defining and capturing relevant metrics to demonstrate the success of Cataki 2.0 beyond user satisfaction.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Skill Development: Gaining deep expertise in Product Discovery, UX Research, and Service Design within a unique social impact context.

• Industry Exposure: Understanding the intricacies of the waste management and recycling sector in Brazil.

• Cross-Cultural Communication: Enhancing skills in communicating and collaborating with diverse user groups.

• Impact-Driven Design: Learning to design solutions that create tangible social and economic value.

• Project Management: Developing skills in managing project timelines, deliverables, and stakeholder expectations in a contract role.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a unique opportunity to tackle complex, real-world problems with a strong social purpose, fostering significant personal and professional growth in specialized areas of design and research.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you conducted Product Discovery for a complex service or operational process. What was your approach, and what were the key challenges?" (Focus on methodology, user engagement, and synthesis.)

• "How would you approach understanding the daily operations and pain points of a waste picker in São Paulo, considering potential language barriers or limited digital access?" (Assess empathy, research planning, and cultural sensitivity.)

• "Imagine you need to design a feature for Cataki that helps cooperatives manage their logistics more efficiently. What steps would you take from research to proposing an MVP?" (Demonstrate end-to-end discovery process, problem framing, and solution ideation.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Pimp My Carroça's mission and the Cataki project specifically?" (Show genuine interest and alignment with the social mission.)

• "How would you ensure that the Cataki 2.0 product truly serves the needs of waste pickers and other stakeholders?" (Highlight user-centricity and collaborative approaches.)

• "Describe your experience working with diverse teams or communities. How do you foster inclusivity and ensure all voices are heard?" (Assess collaboration and cultural competence.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: Structure your portfolio presentations around narrative arcs – problem, process, insights, solution, impact.

• Show Your Process: Clearly articulate why you chose certain research methods and how your findings led to specific design decisions.

• Quantify Impact (where possible): Even for research roles, try to indicate the outcome or influence of your work (e.g., "informed the prioritization of X feature," "identified Y key user need").

• Highlight Adaptability: Showcase projects where you had to adapt your approach due to constraints or evolving requirements.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Have detailed notes and documentation ready for the projects you present.

📝 Enhancement Note: Expect interviewers to probe deeply into your research methodology, your ability to empathize with diverse users, and your strategic thinking in translating user needs into product direction.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Product Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided SmartRecruiters link.

• Tailor your CV: Highlight experience in Product Discovery, UX Research, Service Design, and any work with social impact or complex operations. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Curate your Portfolio: Select 2-3 strong case studies that best showcase your skills in research, journey mapping, service blueprints, and translating insights into product strategy. Ensure it's easily accessible (e.g., PDF, personal website).

• Prepare your Story: Practice presenting your portfolio projects, focusing on your process, insights, and the impact of your work. Be ready to discuss your approach to user research with diverse and potentially vulnerable populations.

• Research Pimp My Carroça: Understand their mission, the Cataki app, and the social context of waste pickers in Brazil. Articulate why you are passionate about this specific mission.

⚠️ 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.