Product Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Product Designer

Company: 7shifts

Location: Toronto, ON, Canada; Saskatoon, SK, Canada

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Product Design / UX/UI

Date Posted: 2026-09-18

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

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the end-to-end product design lifecycle, from initial customer research to post-launch iteration, ensuring solutions address tangible restaurant operational challenges.

• Collaborate intimately with cross-functional squads, including Product Managers and Engineers, to translate complex problems into intuitive and impactful user experiences.

• Leverage AI tools extensively across the design process, including research synthesis, concept generation, pattern refinement, and code contribution, to enhance efficiency and innovation.

• Contribute actively to the evolution and maintenance of the design system, ensuring consistency and accelerating design velocity across the team.

• Develop deep expertise within a specific product area, proactively identifying opportunities and articulating solutions that may not be immediately apparent to customers.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned for a Product Designer who is comfortable with a hands-on, builder-first approach, integrating AI as a core component of their workflow. The emphasis on owning the full design process and working within cross-functional "squads" suggests an agile, iterative environment common in modern SaaS companies. The hybrid work model implies a need for strong self-management and communication skills.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth user research by engaging directly with restaurant operators, managers, and teams to uncover pain points related to time and cost inefficiencies, using these insights to inform design decisions.

• Rapidly prototype and test design concepts with real users to validate ideas early, iterating based on feedback to refine solutions before significant development investment.

• Take ownership of the user experience within your product area, making critical design decisions and actively partnering with Product and Engineering through the implementation phase.

• Cultivate specialized knowledge in your product domain, enabling you to anticipate customer needs, identify unmet opportunities, and propose innovative solutions.

• Integrate AI tools daily to synthesize research findings, generate creative design concepts, optimize UI patterns, and contribute directly to the product's codebase.

• Enhance the company's design system by introducing new patterns and sharing learnings from your squad's work, thereby improving overall design efficiency and consistency.

• Actively participate in design reviews, share AI prompts and workflows, and elevate the team's collective design craft through constructive critique and knowledge sharing.

• Ship product updates frequently, understanding the balance between speed of delivery and quality, and actively engaging with customer usage data for continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a proactive, problem-solving orientation, emphasizing direct customer engagement and a "builder-first" mentality. The explicit mention of AI integration across multiple stages of the design process is a key differentiator. Ownership and deep product knowledge are stressed, indicating a desire for designers who can operate with a high degree of autonomy.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a strong portfolio demonstrating a deep understanding of design principles and processes is paramount. Candidates with degrees in Design, HCI, Computer Science, or related fields may find their background aligns well.

Experience: A minimum of 3 years of professional experience as a Product Designer, with a proven track record of shipping work within cross-functional teams, ideally in a SaaS environment.

Required Skills:

• Product Design: Demonstrated ability to manage the full product design lifecycle from research through to iteration.

• User Research: Proficiency in conducting qualitative and quantitative user research, including customer interviews and usability testing, to uncover insights.

• Prototyping: Expertise in rapid prototyping to test and validate design concepts quickly.

• Figma: Advanced proficiency in Figma for creating high-fidelity designs and contributing to design systems.

• SaaS Experience: Experience designing for Software-as-a-Service products, understanding user needs within recurring business models.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively with Product Managers, Engineers, and other stakeholders in an agile environment.

• AI Integration: Active and demonstrable experience using AI tools across the design process (e.g., research synthesis, concept generation, code contribution).

• Design Systems: Experience contributing to and leveraging design systems for consistency and efficiency.

• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate design decisions clearly and defend them effectively while being open to feedback.

Preferred Skills:

• Restaurant-Tech Industry: Prior experience in the restaurant technology sector or direct experience working within a restaurant setting.

• Claude: Familiarity with or experience using Claude or similar advanced AI models for design tasks.

• Data Synthesis: Ability to synthesize complex data from various sources into actionable design insights.

• Interaction Design: Strong understanding of interaction design principles and best practices.

• Agile Methodology: Deep understanding and practical application of Agile development processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for AI integration is a significant aspect, suggesting the company is at the forefront of adopting new technologies. The preference for restaurant-tech experience indicates that domain knowledge will be highly valued, potentially reducing ramp-up time and increasing impact. The mention of "Claude" specifically points to a particular AI tool they are utilizing or exploring.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated portfolio showcasing your design process, not just final outputs.

• Detailed case studies demonstrating how you identified and solved specific user or business problems within a SaaS context.

• Examples of your research methodology, ideation stages, prototyping efforts, and iteration cycles.

• Evidence of your ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and manage design ownership.

• Demonstrations of how you have leveraged AI tools to enhance your design process and outcomes. Process Documentation:

• Showcase projects where you've documented workflows, user journeys, and interaction patterns.

• Present examples of how you've used design to optimize existing processes or introduce new, more efficient ones for users.

• Include artifacts that illustrate your contribution to or creation of design system components, demonstrating a systematic approach to UI development.

• Highlight projects where you've tracked and demonstrated the impact of your design solutions on key metrics (e.g., user engagement, task completion time, error reduction).

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on process and AI integration in the portfolio is critical. Candidates should be prepared to walk through their thought process, highlighting how they arrived at their solutions, the role AI played, and the measurable impact of their work. This goes beyond just showcasing final UI screens.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: CAD $80,000 - $115,000 per year. This range is designed to accommodate candidates from those building core skills to those demonstrating mastery of the role. The company typically targets candidates at the "accomplished" level for external hires, indicating an expectation of strong job-related skills and minimal ramp-up time.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health and Dental Insurance.

• Lifestyle Spending Accounts to support personal wellness and interests.

• Generous Parental Leave Program designed with flexibility in mind.

• Flexible Vacation Policy encouraging work-life balance and rejuvenation.

• Home Office Setup allowance to ensure a productive remote work environment.

• Access to Professional Coaching and Development Planning to support career growth.

Working Hours: Approximately 40 hours per week, with flexibility expected given the hybrid work model and the nature of SaaS development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is specified, with a clear indication of the typical hiring level. The benefits package is robust and focuses on employee well-being, professional development, and work-life integration, which are attractive aspects for mid-level professionals. The "90 Day Shift" program allowing remote work from almost anywhere is a unique perk worth noting.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Restaurant Technology (Restaurant-Tech), SaaS. 7shifts operates within the dynamic and often challenging restaurant industry, providing essential software solutions to improve operational efficiency and team management.

Company Size: 7shifts is a Series C, VC-backed SaaS company. This indicates a growing, well-funded organization with established processes but still retaining some of the agility and fast-paced nature of a startup.

Founded: The founding date is not explicitly provided, but as a Series C company, it has a history of growth and market traction.

Team Structure:

• The Product Design team reports to the Senior Director, Product Design and Research.

• Designers work within "squads," which are cross-functional teams typically comprising a Product Manager, Engineering Manager, and Engineers, fostering close collaboration.

• The company emphasizes a hybrid work environment, with offices in Saskatoon and Toronto, suggesting a blend of in-person collaboration and remote work. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: A strong emphasis on using customer research and data to inform design decisions and measure impact.

• Agile Development: Work is conducted within cross-functional squads, implying agile methodologies for iterative development and frequent releases.

• AI Integration: AI is a core and daily practice across the design process, from research to coding.

• Systematic Design: Contribution to and utilization of a design system for consistency and efficiency.

Company Website: https://www.7shifts.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to be a blend of innovation (AI integration), customer focus (restaurant operators), and collaborative execution (squads). Being a Series C company suggests opportunities for growth and impact within a stable financial framework. The hybrid model and specific office locations are key logistical details.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a Mid-Level (2-5 years experience) with potential for growth into senior or lead roles. The "accomplished level" hiring target implies expectations of demonstrated proficiency and autonomy. The compensation range reflects this growth path, allowing for increases as skills and impact expand.

Reporting Structure: The Product Designer reports to the Senior Director, Product Design and Research. Within their "squad," they collaborate closely with a Product Manager and Engineering Manager.

Operations Impact: Product Designers at 7shifts directly influence how restaurants operate, aiming to reduce costs, save time, and improve team performance through the software. Their work has tangible business impact by enhancing customer retention, acquisition, and overall satisfaction within the restaurant industry.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific product areas or advanced design methodologies, including AI-driven design.

• Leadership Development: Potential to grow into Senior Product Designer roles, mentor junior designers, or lead design initiatives within squads.

• Cross-functional Advancement: Develop a strong understanding of product management and engineering processes, potentially leading to broader product roles or team lead positions.

• Industry Expertise: Gain significant knowledge and experience in the restaurant-tech sector, a valuable niche within the SaaS market.

• Design System Ownership: Take on greater responsibility for the evolution and governance of the design system.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth trajectory is clearly defined, moving from an accomplished mid-level contributor to potential leadership roles. The emphasis on AI and the specific industry domain offers unique specialization opportunities. The compensation structure is tied to performance and growth, incentivizing continuous development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work environment. This means a blend of remote work and in-office collaboration. The company has physical offices in Saskatoon and Toronto.

Office Location(s): Toronto, ON, Canada and Saskatoon, SK, Canada. Candidates should be comfortable working from one of these locations on a hybrid basis.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: The hybrid model suggests intentional use of office space for collaboration, team meetings, and design reviews, fostering connection with colleagues.

• Technology & Tools: Employees are provided with the latest Apple technology and a home office setup, ensuring they have the necessary tools for both remote and in-office work.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with design peers, product teams, and other departments, both virtually and in person.

Work Schedule: The role is structured around a standard 40-hour work week, but the hybrid nature and the demands of product development may require flexibility. The company offers a flexible vacation policy, encouraging employees to take time off to recharge.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature is a key characteristic, requiring individuals to be self-disciplined for remote work while also engaging in in-office collaboration. The provision of technology and home office setup supports this model. The specific office locations are important for candidates to consider their commute and work preferences.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and alignment with role requirements.

• Portfolio Presentation: A session where candidates present their portfolio, detailing their design process, problem-solving approach, and impact, with a specific focus on how AI was integrated. Expect to discuss case studies thoroughly.

• Cross-functional Interviews: Conversations with Product Managers, Engineers, and potentially other designers to assess collaboration skills, technical understanding, and cultural fit.

• Hiring Manager/Director Interview: A final discussion with the Senior Director, Product Design and Research to delve deeper into strategic thinking, leadership potential, and alignment with the team's vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Process: Clearly articulate the problem, your research findings, the ideation process, design decisions, and the iterative journey.

• Highlight AI Integration: Dedicate sections or specific examples to demonstrate how you've effectively used AI tools throughout the design lifecycle. Quantify benefits where possible (e.g., time saved, concepts generated).

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, include metrics or qualitative feedback that demonstrate the success of your designs and their impact on users or business goals.

• Tell a Story: Structure your case studies as narratives that engage the reviewer and clearly communicate your role and contributions.

• Tailor to 7shifts: Research 7shifts' product and target audience (restaurants) and try to highlight relevant skills or projects in your presentation.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for a potential design exercise or take-home challenge that might simulate a real-world problem faced by restaurant operators.

• Practice articulating your design thinking and rationale concisely and persuasively.

• Anticipate questions about how you would approach ambiguous problems or integrate new technologies like AI into existing workflows.

• Prepare questions for the interviewers about the team, company culture, product roadmap, and design challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes practical application and process demonstration, particularly concerning AI integration and problem-solving within the SaaS context. A strong portfolio that tells a story and quantifies impact, with a clear explanation of AI's role, will be crucial for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: The core tool for UI design, prototyping, and design system management. Proficiency is essential.

• Claude (or similar advanced AI models): Expected to be used extensively for research synthesis, concept generation, content refinement, and potentially code assistance.

• Prototyping Tools: Beyond Figma, familiarity with other rapid prototyping tools may be beneficial.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While specific tools aren't listed, designers will likely interact with analytics platforms to understand user behavior and product performance. This could include tools like Amplitude, Mixpanel, or internal dashboards.

• Proficiency in interpreting data to inform design decisions is key. CRM & Automation:

• While not directly a designer's primary tool, understanding how products integrate with CRM systems or impact automated workflows can be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Figma and Claude highlights the key technologies for this role. A designer's ability to effectively leverage these tools, especially AI, will be a significant factor in their success and evaluation. Familiarity with data analysis and interpretation is also critical for informing design.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer-Centricity: A deep commitment to understanding and solving the real problems faced by restaurant operators, focusing on time and cost savings.

• Innovation & Experimentation: Encouraging the use of new technologies like AI and fostering an environment where experimentation and iteration are valued.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively within cross-functional squads and contributing to a supportive design community.

• Ownership & Impact: Taking responsibility for design outcomes and striving to make a meaningful difference in the product and for customers.

• Continuous Learning: Embracing a growth mindset, staying updated on design trends, and actively developing new skills.

Collaboration Style:

• Squad-Based: Designers operate within small, agile, cross-functional teams, fostering close working relationships with Product Managers and Engineers.

• Feedback-Oriented: Regular design reviews and critique sessions are part of the process, encouraging constructive feedback and shared learning.

• Transparent Communication: Open sharing of ideas, prompts, workflows, and learnings is encouraged to elevate the entire team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to value practical problem-solving, innovative approaches (especially AI), and strong teamwork. The emphasis on "Shifties" (employees) and their growth, challenge, culture, and equity suggests a supportive and performance-driven environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Speed and Quality: Effectively shipping frequently while ensuring high-quality, well-researched, and impactful designs in a fast-paced SaaS environment.

• Integrating AI Seamlessly: Moving beyond superficial use of AI to deeply embed it into the design workflow in a way that genuinely enhances creativity and efficiency.

• Domain Complexity: Mastering the nuances of the restaurant industry and its operational challenges to design truly effective solutions.

• Ambiguity in SaaS Development: Navigating evolving product roadmaps and market demands with adaptability and strategic design thinking.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• AI Design Specialization: Become a leader in applying AI to product design within the SaaS industry.

• Product Strategy Acumen: Develop a deeper understanding of product strategy and business impact through close collaboration with Product Managers.

• Mentorship & Leadership: Opportunities to mentor junior designers and potentially grow into design leadership roles.

• Industry Immersion: Gain invaluable experience and network within the growing restaurant-tech sector.

• Design System Evolution: Contribute significantly to the growth and strategic direction of 7shifts' design system.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities to tackle complex design challenges in a growing industry, with a strong emphasis on adopting cutting-edge technology like AI. The growth paths are clearly outlined, focusing on both technical skill enhancement and leadership development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you used AI to significantly improve your product design process. What was the outcome?" (Focus on specific tools, processes, and quantifiable results).

• "How would you approach designing a new feature for restaurant managers to reduce scheduling errors, considering both their time constraints and budget limitations?" (Demonstrate your research and ideation process, and how you'd use AI to explore solutions).

• "Walk me through a complex design problem you solved. How did you collaborate with engineers and product managers, and what was your role in ensuring the solution shipped correctly?" (Highlight your ownership, communication, and iterative approach). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about 7shifts and the restaurant-tech industry specifically?" (Showcase research into the company's mission and the industry's challenges).

• "How do you see AI impacting the future of product design, and how do you stay current with these advancements?" (Demonstrate your forward-thinking approach and commitment to learning).

• "Describe your ideal hybrid work environment and how you ensure effective collaboration with remote and in-office colleagues." (Address your self-management and communication strategies). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure your presentation around 2-3 key case studies that best showcase your process, AI integration, and impact.

• For each case study, clearly state the problem, your role, your process (especially research and ideation), design decisions, and outcomes.

• Be prepared to discuss the specific AI tools and techniques you used, how they influenced your decisions, and any challenges you encountered.

• Quantify your impact whenever possible, using metrics or strong qualitative evidence.

• Practice your presentation to ensure it flows well, stays within time limits, and clearly communicates your value.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should heavily focus on demonstrating practical application of AI in design, a deep understanding of the product development lifecycle, and strong collaboration skills. Quantifiable results and a clear narrative for portfolio case studies are essential.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Product Designer position:

• Submit your application through the Greenhouse portal linked via the job posting.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 strong case studies that highlight your end-to-end design process, with a specific focus on how you've integrated AI tools and the impact of your work. Ensure it's easily accessible online.

• Optimize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to emphasize your 3+ years of SaaS product design experience, your proficiency with Figma and AI tools, and your ability to collaborate cross-functionally. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Presentation: Practice presenting your portfolio case studies, focusing on clear articulation of problems, solutions, process, and measurable outcomes, especially concerning AI integration.

• Research 7shifts: Understand their product, target market (restaurants), mission, and values. Prepare thoughtful questions to demonstrate your engagement and interest.

⚠️ 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.

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