Praktikum UI-Design für nutzerzentrierte Softwarelösungen (m/w/d)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Praktikum UI-Design für nutzerzentrierte Softwarelösungen (m/w/d)

Company: Volkswagen AG

Location: Wolfsburg, Germany

Job Type: Internship

Category: UI/UX Design

Date Posted: 2026-10-01

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Support the design and enhancement of an internationally deployed software solution for the Volkswagen Group's production facilities.

• Develop user-centered interfaces for digital applications, creating wireframes, mockups, and interactive prototypes using Figma.

• Assist in planning, executing, and analyzing user tests to gather feedback and refine designs.

• Analyze user requirements and translate them into intuitive operating concepts, focusing on user experience and efficiency.

• Actively engage with modern AI-powered tools for ideation, variant development, and concept refinement within the UX/UI process.

• Contribute to the advancement of Artificial Intelligence applications within the UX/UI workflow.

📝 Enhancement Note: This is an internship role focused on UI Design within the context of user-centered software solutions for production environments. The role emphasizes practical application of design tools, user testing, and integration of AI in the design process. The target audience is students seeking hands-on experience in a large, international automotive manufacturing company.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Collaborate on the design and ongoing development of a globally utilized software solution tailored for Volkswagen Group's production environments.

• Create user-centered interfaces for various digital applications, including the generation of wireframes, detailed mockups, and interactive prototypes, primarily using Figma.

• Provide support in the comprehensive process of user testing, from initial planning and participant recruitment to execution and thorough analysis of findings.

• Conduct detailed analysis of user needs and requirements, translating these insights into intuitive and effective user interface concepts.

• Leverage contemporary AI-driven tools to enhance ideation sessions, explore design variations, and refine conceptual frameworks for software solutions.

• Participate in strategic discussions and initiatives aimed at advancing the utilization of Artificial Intelligence within the broader UX/UI development lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of core UI/UX design tasks with a forward-looking emphasis on AI integration. The international scope of the software solution implies a need for cultural sensitivity and adaptability in design approaches.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Currently enrolled as a student (or in a gap year) in UX/UI Design, Interaction Design, Communication Design, Product Design, or a closely related field.

Experience: Previous practical experience in designing digital user interfaces and a demonstrated interest or experience with AI-powered design or creative processes (e.g., ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, Figma AI, or similar tools).

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in design and prototyping tools, with a strong emphasis on Figma.

• Ability to analyze user requirements and translate them into intuitive design concepts.

• Experience or keen interest in utilizing Artificial Intelligence tools within the UX/UI design process.

• Analytical and structured approach to problem-solving and task execution.

• Basic understanding of Agile methodologies and digital product development principles.

• English language proficiency at a B2 level. Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with accessibility standards (WCAG) and best practices.

• Experience with Information Architecture principles.

• Knowledge of Design Systems and their application.

• Understanding of User Journey Mapping and its role in design.

• Experience in Stakeholder Management and cross-functional communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of foundational design skills, tool proficiency (Figma), and an innovative mindset regarding AI integration. The requirement for English B2 level is crucial for effective communication within an international team and with global production sites.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase of user-centered design projects with a clear demonstration of the design process from research to final UI.

• Examples of wireframes, mockups, and interactive prototypes created using tools like Figma.

• Case studies illustrating how user feedback was incorporated to iterate and improve designs.

• Demonstrations of how AI tools were used to generate ideas, explore design variations, or assist in the creative process.

• Projects that highlight an understanding of user requirements analysis and problem-solving. Process Documentation:

• Descriptions of how user research and testing were conducted, including analysis and integration of findings.

• Examples of workflow design for digital applications, illustrating the translation of requirements into user interfaces.

• Documentation of how design systems or style guides were used or developed.

• Evidence of collaboration with development teams or other stakeholders during the design process.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this is an internship, a portfolio demonstrating practical skills in UI design, prototyping (especially Figma), and an understanding of user-centered methodologies is expected. The inclusion of AI in design processes should be a highlight if possible.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The gross hourly wage for internships (including mandatory internships) and thesis projects will be in line with the current minimum wage. Based on the German minimum wage effective from January 1, 2024, this is approximately €12.41 per hour. (Note: This is an estimated range based on the provided information and German minimum wage laws. Actual compensation may vary.)

Benefits:

• Valuable practical experience in UI/UX design within a leading global automotive manufacturer.

• Opportunity to work on an international, impactful software solution.

• Exposure to modern AI-driven design methodologies and tools.

• Mentorship from experienced UX/UI designers and product development professionals.

• Insight into digital transformation initiatives within production environments.

• Potential for networking within the Volkswagen Group.

Working Hours: Approximately 40 hours per week, typical for a full-time internship.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary is explicitly tied to the German minimum wage, which is a common practice for internships. The benefits are strongly focused on learning and development opportunities, which are paramount for an internship role.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Automotive Manufacturing / Technology. Volkswagen AG is a global automotive manufacturer with a significant focus on digital transformation, advanced manufacturing technologies, and software development to enhance production processes.

Company Size: Volkswagen AG is one of the world's largest automotive manufacturers, employing hundreds of thousands of people globally. This implies a large, structured organization with diverse teams and extensive resources.

Founded: 1937. Volkswagen has a long history, now deeply invested in future-oriented technologies and digital solutions for its operations.

Team Structure:

• The role is within the "Zukunftsorientierte Arbeitsgestaltung" (Future-Oriented Work Design) department.

• You will be part of a dedicated UX/UI team, working within an interdisciplinary environment that includes UX Research, UX Design, and Product Development.

• Collaboration will extend to international users at production sites across the Volkswagen Group. Methodology:

• Emphasis on user-centered design methods, working closely with end-users.

• Active exploration and application of modern AI-supported design methods.

• Collaborative approach to integrating user feedback, design principles, and technological requirements.

• Involvement in agile methodologies and digital product development.

Company Website: https://www.volkswagenag.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Working at a company like Volkswagen AG offers exposure to large-scale, complex projects with significant impact. The "Future-Oriented Work Design" department suggests a focus on innovation and shaping the future of work within manufacturing.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level internship role, designed for students to gain foundational practical experience in UI/UX Design. It serves as an excellent stepping stone for future roles in design, product development, or operations technology within the automotive or tech industries.

Reporting Structure: You will report to a UX/UI team lead or a designated mentor within the "Zukunftsorientierte Arbeitsgestaltung" department. Collaboration will be with cross-functional team members including UX researchers, other designers, and product developers.

Operations Impact: While an intern, your contributions will directly impact the usability and efficiency of software solutions used in international production environments. This provides a tangible sense of impact and relevance for your work.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Deepen expertise in Figma, UI/UX design principles, user testing, and gain hands-on experience with AI design tools.

• Industry Exposure: Gain invaluable insight into the digital transformation of manufacturing processes at a global leader.

• Networking: Build connections within the Volkswagen Group's tech and product development teams.

• Future Roles: Successful interns may be considered for future internship opportunities or entry-level positions within Volkswagen Group, depending on performance and business needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an internship, the growth is primarily focused on skill acquisition and gaining practical, real-world experience rather than formal career progression within a set timeline. The exposure to AI in design is a significant growth area for the future.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is on-site in Wolfsburg, Germany. This indicates a traditional office environment within Volkswagen AG's facilities.

Office Location(s): Wolfsburg, Germany. This is a major hub for Volkswagen AG, likely offering a well-equipped corporate campus.

Workspace Context:

• You will be part of a collaborative UX/UI team, likely working in an open-plan or team-based office setting conducive to interaction and idea sharing.

• Access to modern design tools and technology, including Figma and potentially AI-specific hardware or software.

• Opportunities for direct interaction with product development teams, researchers, and potentially end-users from production sites.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is expected to be around 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday, aligning with typical full-time internship expectations. Flexibility may be offered within reasonable limits, but the role is designated as on-site.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement suggests an environment that fosters direct collaboration and immersion in the company's operational and design culture. Wolfsburg as a location means being at the heart of a major automotive industrial complex.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Submission: Submit your CV, current enrollment certificate (or gap year confirmation), and latest transcript. For mandatory internships, include a confirmation from your university.

• Initial Screening: Review of submitted documents to assess qualifications against role requirements.

• Technical/Design Assessment: Likely a portfolio review and potentially a brief design exercise or case study presentation focusing on UI design principles, Figma usage, and understanding of user-centered design.

• Behavioral/Team Fit Interview: Conversation with the hiring manager (Danuta Hummel) or team members to assess your interest, analytical skills, understanding of AI in design, and cultural fit within the team.

• Final Decision: Offer extended based on overall assessment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Figma Proficiency: Clearly showcase projects where Figma was used for wireframing, mockups, and prototyping.

• Demonstrate User-Centricity: Explain your design process, emphasizing how user needs and feedback shaped your decisions.

• Showcase AI Integration: If you have projects using AI tools for ideation or design, present them and explain the benefits and challenges.

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline the problem, your role, the process, your solutions, and the outcomes (or expected outcomes).

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

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Thinking: Understand the core principles of design thinking and how they apply to software development.

• AI in Design: Be ready to discuss your thoughts on how AI can enhance the UX/UI process and potential ethical considerations.

• Problem-Solving: Prepare to discuss how you would approach a given design challenge, focusing on user needs and technical feasibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on Figma, user testing, and AI integration will likely be central to the portfolio review and any potential design challenges. Demonstrating a structured thought process and a proactive learning attitude is key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: This is the core tool for UI design, wireframing, mockups, and prototyping. Proficiency is a must.

• AI Design Tools: Candidates are expected to have experience or a strong interest in tools like ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, or Figma AI for ideation, content generation, and variant exploration.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly mentioned as a primary tool for the intern, understanding how user feedback from testing translates into actionable insights is important. Familiarity with basic analytics concepts related to user behavior would be beneficial. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly relevant to this UI design internship. The focus is on the front-end user experience and design tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specific mention of Figma and AI tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot indicates the technology stack and the expected technical skills for this role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• User-Centricity: A fundamental value, ensuring that all software solutions are designed with the end-user's needs and efficiency in mind.

• Innovation: Encouraging the exploration and adoption of new technologies, particularly AI, to enhance design processes and product outcomes.

• Collaboration: Fostering teamwork across disciplines (UX Research, UX Design, Product Development) and with international stakeholders to achieve common goals.

• Efficiency: Striving to create software that simplifies and optimizes complex production processes.

• Data-Driven Decisions: Using insights from user research and testing to inform design choices.

Collaboration Style:

• Interdisciplinary: Working closely with UX Researchers and Product Developers, bridging the gap between user insights, design execution, and technical implementation.

• Global Mindset: Collaborating with users from diverse international production sites, requiring an understanding of different cultural contexts and operational nuances.

• Agile Environment: Likely working within agile frameworks, involving iterative development, feedback loops, and continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture values innovation, user focus, and collaborative problem-solving, all within the context of transforming production processes through digital solutions.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• International Scope: Designing for a diverse global user base with varying technical literacy and operational contexts.

• AI Integration: Effectively and ethically integrating AI tools into the design workflow to enhance efficiency and creativity without compromising user experience or control.

• Balancing Requirements: Synthesizing user needs, technical constraints, and business objectives into cohesive and effective UI designs.

• Rapid Technological Change: Keeping pace with advancements in UI design tools and AI technologies.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• AI in Design Specialization: Gaining practical experience and insights into the cutting edge of AI application in UX/UI design.

• Global Product Development: Understanding the complexities of developing and deploying software solutions across multiple international locations.

• User Research Techniques: Enhancing skills in planning, conducting, and analyzing user tests to gather actionable feedback.

• Industry Best Practices: Learning from experienced professionals within a leading automotive manufacturer.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are directly linked to the role's innovative aspects (AI) and its international scope, presenting significant learning opportunities for an intern.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you used user feedback to significantly improve a design. What was your process?"

• "How would you approach designing a new feature for a production line worker who has limited digital experience?"

• "What are your thoughts on using AI tools like ChatGPT for generating design concepts or content? What are the potential benefits and drawbacks?"

• "Walk us through a UI design project in your portfolio. What were the key decisions you made and why?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in an internship at Volkswagen AG, specifically in this department?"

• "What do you know about Volkswagen's digital transformation efforts in production?"

• "How do you see yourself contributing to a collaborative, international team environment?"

• "What excites you most about the prospect of using AI in the design process?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Process: Don't just show final screens; explain your journey from understanding the problem to finding the solution.

• Quantify Impact (if possible): Even for student projects, discuss how your design aimed to improve usability, efficiency, or user satisfaction.

• Highlight Figma Skills: Be ready to demonstrate specific features or workflows you used in Figma.

• Showcase AI Use Cases: If you've experimented with AI in design, prepare a clear explanation of how you used it and what the results were.

• Be Concise and Clear: Present your strongest projects and be ready to answer questions directly.

📝 Enhancement Note: Expect questions that probe your understanding of user-centered design, your practical skills with Figma, your innovative thinking regarding AI, and your ability to fit into a large, international corporate structure.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this UI Design Internship at Volkswagen AG:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Volkswagen Group jobs portal.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 of your strongest UI design projects that best showcase your skills in Figma, user-centered design, and ideally, any experience with AI in design. Ensure each project clearly outlines the problem, your role, your process, and the outcome.

• Tailor Your CV: Highlight relevant coursework, projects, and any prior experience related to UI/UX design, digital product development, and AI tools. Ensure your English language level (B2) is clearly stated.

• Prepare for Interview Questions: Practice articulating your design process, your understanding of user needs, your proficiency with Figma, and your thoughts on AI's role in design. Be ready to discuss your motivations for applying to Volkswagen AG.

• Research Volkswagen AG: Familiarize yourself with the company's current initiatives, especially in digital transformation and production innovation. Understand the context of "Zukunftsorientierte Arbeitsgestaltung."

⚠️ 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.