Product Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Product Designer

Company: Orchard

Location: New York, New York, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Product Design / UX Design

Date Posted: 2026-09-09

Experience Level: 1-3 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Design and develop end-to-end agent-facing features within the real estate transaction lifecycle, focusing on simplifying complex workflows.

• Leverage AI design systems and tools (Claude, Codex, Cursor) for rapid prototyping and validation of user flows, moving beyond traditional Figma-based workflows.

• Conduct direct user research with real estate agents to gather insights, test assumptions, and drive product iteration velocity.

• Translate validated concepts into production-ready designs in Figma, ensuring a seamless user experience for agents and customers.

• Analyze user data to inform design decisions and measure the impact of product improvements on agent efficiency and deal closure rates.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role emphasizes a modern design approach, integrating AI tools for rapid prototyping and direct user interaction for research, which is a significant differentiator from standard Product Designer roles. The focus on agent-facing internal tools within the complex real estate transaction domain is a key aspect of this position.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the design process for agent-facing features, from initial concept exploration and user flow mapping to final visual design and post-launch iteration, in close collaboration with Product Managers and Engineers.

• Develop intuitive interfaces that empower agents to identify and present the most suitable Orchard products to customers, thereby increasing adoption and deal velocity.

• Design systems and workflows that enable agents to effectively manage their pipeline of live deals, clearly outlining the next best action and its rationale.

• Create interactive prototypes using AI design tools (Claude, Codex, Cursor) to quickly test hypotheses and gather agent feedback, ensuring the design aligns with practical agent needs.

• Translate validated AI-driven prototypes and concepts into polished, production-ready designs within Figma, adhering to established design systems and brand guidelines.

• Conduct qualitative and quantitative user research, including direct agent interviews, usability testing, and data analysis, to inform design strategy and validate product direction.

• Champion a user-centric design approach by actively seeking out agent feedback and treating research as a catalyst for rapid product development and iteration.

• Simplify the user experience for agents and customers by abstracting the inherent complexities of real estate transactions into an accessible and efficient digital interface.

• Collaborate closely with engineering teams to ensure the successful implementation of designed features, providing clear specifications and design support throughout the development lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on approach to design, requiring the candidate to be comfortable with AI prototyping tools and direct user engagement. The emphasis on "design for the next action" and simplifying complex transactions points to a focus on workflow optimization and efficiency for internal users.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a strong portfolio demonstrating equivalent practical experience and design acumen is paramount. A background in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Graphic Design, Interaction Design, or a related field is beneficial.

Experience: 1 to 3 years of professional experience in designing digital products, with a preference for roles involving internal tools, B2B platforms, or workflow-heavy systems.

Required Skills:

• Proven experience in end-to-end product design, from conceptualization to launch and iteration.

• Proficiency in Figma for detailed design, wireframing, and prototyping.

• Hands-on experience and active use of AI design tools such as Claude, Codex, or Cursor for rapid prototyping and workflow development.

• Demonstrated ability to conduct user research, including interviews, usability testing, and synthesizing findings into actionable design insights.

• Strong product thinking skills, with the ability to understand user needs, business goals, and translate them into effective design solutions.

• Excellent customer empathy, with a deep understanding of user motivations and pain points, particularly in professional service contexts.

• Familiarity with data analysis and a willingness to use data to inform design decisions and measure impact.

• Strong written communication skills, essential for articulating design rationale, collaborating with stakeholders, and documenting design processes.

• Ability to take feedback constructively, ask clarifying questions, and proactively communicate challenges or roadblocks. Preferred Skills:

• Experience designing for the real estate industry or complex transaction-based workflows.

• Familiarity with building and maintaining design systems.

• Experience working in an Agile development environment.

• Understanding of front-end development principles to facilitate collaboration with engineers.

• Experience with A/B testing design variations to optimize user engagement and conversion rates.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for active use of AI design tools is a significant differentiator. The emphasis on "customer empathy" and "product thinking" suggests the need for a designer who can deeply understand the agent's perspective and contribute to strategic product decisions, not just execute visual designs.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated portfolio showcasing 3-5 distinct projects that demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the design process, from problem definition to solution implementation.

• Each project should clearly articulate the problem statement, target user (preferably agents or similar professionals), design challenges, your specific role and contributions, and the impact of your design.

• Include case studies that highlight your ability to develop intuitive workflows and simplify complex processes for end-users.

• Showcase your proficiency with design tools, particularly Figma, and explicitly demonstrate how you've utilized AI tools (Claude, Codex, Cursor) in your design workflow for prototyping or ideation.

• Present evidence of strong product thinking, customer empathy, and a keen eye for craft and detail in your final designs. Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate your approach to user research and how you translate research findings into design decisions.

• Provide examples of your prototyping methodologies, showcasing how you use tools to iterate and validate concepts rapidly.

• Illustrate your ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams (Product, Engineering) throughout the design lifecycle.

• Include examples of how you've used data to inform design choices or measure the success of your designs.

• Showcase your understanding of how to maintain simplicity in the user interface while managing underlying system complexity.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio requirements are heavily weighted towards demonstrating a hands-on, iterative design process that leverages AI tools and direct user feedback. Candidates should prepare to walk through their design decisions and the rationale behind their choices, particularly how they addressed complexity and improved agent workflows.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $100,000 - $120,000 USD per year. This range is specific to New York City and may vary based on the candidate's knowledge, skills, and experience.

Benefits:

• Stock options: Opportunity to own a part of Orchard's growth.

• Medical benefits: Comprehensive health insurance coverage.

• Financial benefits: Various financial wellness programs and support.

• Other benefits: Potentially including dental, vision, 401(k) matching, paid time off, parental leave, and professional development opportunities, depending on the specific position offered.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week. The role is based in a hybrid model, requiring a balance of in-office and remote work. Specific in-office days will be determined by team coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is explicitly stated for New York City. The benefits package is described as comprehensive, including equity, medical, and financial components, which are attractive to early to mid-career professionals in tech. The hybrid work arrangement implies a need for self-discipline and effective remote collaboration.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Real Estate Technology (PropTech), FinTech. Orchard is revolutionizing the home buying and selling process by integrating technology, agent expertise, and innovative financial products.

Company Size: 150+ full-time employees and 600+ real estate agents. This indicates a growing company with a significant operational footprint, allowing for impact while maintaining a relatively agile environment.

Founded: Orchard was founded to address the inherent inefficiencies and stress in traditional real estate transactions. The company's mission is to make home buying and selling stress-free, fair, and simple.

Team Structure:

• The Product Design team is led by a Lead Product Designer, under whom this role will report.

• Collaboration is expected across Product Management, Engineering, and potentially Data Science/Analytics teams.

• The company fosters a culture of direct access to users (agents) and data, encouraging team members to validate assumptions independently. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Decisions are informed by user research and quantitative data, with a focus on measuring impact and velocity.

• Iterative Development: The company embraces a cycle of rapid prototyping, agent feedback, and continuous iteration to refine product offerings.

• AI-Assisted Design: Integration of AI tools for faster prototyping and exploration of design solutions.

• User-Centricity: A strong emphasis on understanding and serving the needs of real estate agents and their customers.

Company Website: Orchard.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Orchard's culture appears to be fast-paced, innovative, and user-focused, with a strong emphasis on leveraging technology and data to improve a traditionally complex industry. The hybrid model and direct access to agents and data are key cultural indicators for potential candidates.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an entry to mid-level Product Designer, suitable for individuals with 1-3 years of experience. It offers a direct path to contributing significantly to core product features and gaining hands-on experience in a dynamic startup environment.

Reporting Structure: The Product Designer will report directly to the Lead Product Designer, who will provide mentorship, regular feedback, and guidance on craft and career development. This structure suggests a supportive learning environment with opportunities for skill progression.

Operations Impact: The Product Designer will have a direct impact on the efficiency and effectiveness of Orchard's real estate agents, who are the primary users of the designed tools. By simplifying workflows and improving the agent experience, the designs will contribute directly to increased deal volume, agent satisfaction, and ultimately, Orchard's business growth and market position.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to become proficient in cutting-edge AI design tools (Claude, Codex, Cursor) and integrate them into a professional design workflow.

• Domain Expertise: Deepen understanding of the real estate transaction process and B2B workflow systems, becoming a specialist in agent-facing tools.

• Ownership & Impact: As the candidate builds context and trust, there will be opportunities for increased ownership of features and product areas, leading to greater strategic influence.

• Mentorship: Receive direct guidance from the Lead Product Designer, fostering professional growth in design craft, user research, and product thinking.

• Career Progression: Potential to advance to a Senior Product Designer role, leading larger initiatives, mentoring junior designers, and contributing to product strategy.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a strong foundation for a Product Designer's career, particularly for those interested in workflow optimization and B2B internal tools. The direct mentorship and emphasis on leveraging new technologies like AI provide significant growth potential.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Orchard operates a hybrid work model, with a primary office located in New York City. This means a combination of in-office collaboration and remote work.

Office Location(s): New York City. Specific details about the office amenities or neighborhood are not provided but are typical for a tech company in a major metropolitan hub.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model necessitates effective collaboration tools and practices. Expect a mix of in-person brainstorming sessions, workshops, and remote virtual meetings.

• Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (Figma) and cutting-edge AI prototyping tools. The company emphasizes providing the necessary resources for designers to be productive and innovative.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities to interact closely with agents, product managers, and engineers, fostering a cross-functional and integrated work experience.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week. While the role is hybrid, the emphasis on direct agent interaction and rapid prototyping suggests a need for flexibility and responsiveness to user needs and feedback cycles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the work environment requires candidates to be self-motivated and adept at managing their time and communication across different work settings. The NYC office location provides access to a vibrant tech ecosystem.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will review your application and portfolio. Focus on highlighting relevant experience with digital products, AI tools, and workflow systems.

• Portfolio Review & Design Challenge: You will likely be asked to present your portfolio, walking through specific case studies that demonstrate your design process, problem-solving skills, and use of AI tools. A design challenge, potentially involving a workflow optimization scenario, may be presented to assess your practical skills and approach.

• Team Interviews: Interviews with the Lead Product Designer and potentially other team members (Product Managers, Engineers) to assess technical skills, cultural fit, and collaboration style. Expect questions about your design philosophy, how you handle feedback, and your experience with user research.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader to discuss overall fit and strategic alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight AI Integration: Clearly showcase projects where you've used Claude, Codex, or Cursor. Explain the benefits and challenges of using these tools in your design process.

• Show, Don't Just Tell: For each project, explain the "why" behind your design decisions, the trade-offs you made, and how you measured success. Use data and user feedback to support your claims.

• Focus on Workflow: Emphasize projects that demonstrate your ability to simplify complex user workflows, a key requirement for this role.

• Demonstrate Empathy: Articulate how you understood the user (agents) and their pain points, and how your designs addressed these needs.

• Craftsmanship: Ensure your final designs are polished and demonstrate attention to detail, even in AI-generated prototypes.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Agent Workflow: Familiarize yourself with the typical tasks and challenges faced by real estate agents. Think about how technology can support them in managing leads, client communication, deal progression, and closing.

• Practice AI Prototyping: Get hands-on with Claude, Codex, or Cursor. Experiment with building simple user flows to understand their capabilities and limitations.

• Problem-Solving Framework: Be prepared to articulate a structured approach to problem-solving, starting with understanding the problem, exploring solutions, prototyping, testing, and iterating.

• Data Interpretation: Think about how you would use data (e.g., conversion rates, task completion times) to evaluate the success of a design.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to demonstrate not only their Figma skills but also their ability to leverage emerging AI design tools and conduct user research effectively. The interview process will likely focus on practical application and problem-solving within the context of real estate agent workflows.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: The primary tool for detailed design, wireframing, prototyping, and creating production-ready assets. Proficiency is essential for translating concepts into shippable products.

• AI Design Systems (Claude, Codex, Cursor): Crucial for rapid prototyping, exploring design variations, and building interactive flows quickly. Active and demonstrated use is a key requirement.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: While specific tools aren't listed, candidates should be comfortable using data to inform design decisions. This could include tools for analyzing user behavior, A/B testing results, and performance metrics.

• Dashboards: Experience with or understanding of how to contribute to dashboards that visualize key performance indicators (KPIs) related to agent productivity and deal progression.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: Familiarity with CRM concepts and workflows is beneficial, as the role involves designing tools for pipeline management.

• Workflow Automation: Understanding of how to design systems that automate repetitive tasks and streamline processes for agents.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of AI design tools (Claude, Codex, Cursor) is a strong indicator of the company's forward-thinking approach to design. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience and comfort level with these technologies, as well as their ability to integrate them into a broader design toolkit.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Simplicity & Clarity: A core value is to make complex processes simple and clear for users, abstracting the underlying complexity of real estate transactions.

• Data-Driven: Decisions are grounded in data and user insights, emphasizing measurable outcomes and continuous improvement.

• User-Centricity: A deep commitment to understanding and serving the needs of their agents and customers.

• Innovation & Agility: Embracing new technologies like AI and adopting iterative processes to stay ahead in a competitive market.

• Collaboration: Working effectively across teams to achieve shared goals and deliver exceptional user experiences.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Partnership: Close collaboration with Product Management and Engineering is expected, with designers actively participating in all stages of product development.

• Direct User Engagement: A culture of direct interaction with real estate agents to gather feedback, validate ideas, and ensure designs meet practical needs.

• Open Communication: Encouraging questions, feedback, and proactive communication about challenges to foster a supportive and efficient team environment.

• Shared Ownership: Team members are encouraged to take ownership of their work and contribute to the overall success of Orchard's products.

📝 Enhancement Note: Orchard's values emphasize a pragmatic and innovative approach to design, focused on delivering tangible value to users through simplicity, data, and collaboration. The emphasis on direct agent interaction highlights a commitment to understanding the user in their real-world context.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Complexity and Simplicity: Designing intuitive interfaces for agents while managing the inherent complexities of real estate transactions requires sophisticated problem-solving and design thinking.

• Adoption of New Technologies: Integrating AI design tools effectively into existing workflows and ensuring seamless collaboration with engineers requires adaptability and continuous learning.

• Rapid Iteration: The fast-paced environment and emphasis on rapid prototyping mean designers must be comfortable with quick turnarounds and iterative feedback loops.

• Data Interpretation: Effectively translating raw data into actionable design insights and measuring the impact of design changes can be challenging.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• AI Design Mastery: Becoming a skilled practitioner in using AI tools for design prototyping and ideation, a rapidly evolving field.

• Workflow Optimization Expertise: Developing deep expertise in designing for complex B2B workflows, particularly within the real estate domain.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Gaining experience working closely with product managers, engineers, and data analysts, understanding their perspectives and contributing to a holistic product development process.

• Mentorship from Lead Designer: Receiving direct guidance and feedback from an experienced designer on craft, career path, and strategic thinking.

• Impactful Projects: Contributing to core product features that directly enhance the productivity and success of Orchard's real estate agents.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of AI, design, and a complex industry. Candidates will be challenged to push the boundaries of traditional design practices while contributing to a company focused on innovation and user empowerment.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you simplified a complex workflow for users. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Prepare a case study highlighting your workflow design skills, ideally using AI tools if applicable.)

• "How do you approach user research to validate design assumptions, especially when working with internal or B2B users?" (Focus on your methods for gathering feedback and using it to drive design decisions.)

• "Walk us through a project where you used AI tools in your design process. What were the benefits, challenges, and how did it impact your workflow?" (Be ready to demonstrate your practical experience with Claude, Codex, or Cursor.)

• "How do you balance the need for a simple user interface with the underlying complexity of a real estate transaction?" (Discuss your strategies for abstraction and user-centric design.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Orchard's mission to simplify home buying and selling?" (Research Orchard's value proposition and articulate your alignment.)

• "How do you see AI tools evolving the field of product design, and how would you leverage them at Orchard?" (Showcase your forward-thinking perspective on design technology.)

• "Describe your ideal collaboration style with product managers and engineers." (Emphasize your ability to work cross-functionally and communicate effectively.)

• "How do you handle constructive criticism or feedback on your designs?" (Highlight your receptiveness to feedback and iterative approach.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly define the problem, your role, your process (including AI tool usage), your solutions, and the quantifiable results or learnings.

• Highlight AI Integration: Dedicate specific slides or talking points to showcase how you used Claude, Codex, or Cursor. Explain the specific contributions of these tools to your design outcome.

• Focus on Impact: Quantify your impact whenever possible. Use metrics related to efficiency, user satisfaction, or adoption rates. If direct metrics aren't available, discuss qualitative impact and user feedback.

• Showcase Process, Not Just Pixels: Emphasize your thought process, research methods, and iteration cycles.

• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate questions about your design decisions, alternative solutions considered, and how you would approach similar challenges in the future.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of core design skills, proficiency with AI tools, strong user empathy, and a strategic approach to problem-solving within a B2B context. The ability to articulate your design process and its impact is paramount.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Product Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided Greenhouse link.

• Tailor your resume: Highlight your experience with digital product design, workflow systems, user research, and specifically mention your proficiency with Figma and AI design tools (Claude, Codex, Cursor). Use keywords from the job description.

• Curate your portfolio: Ensure your portfolio prominently features projects that demonstrate your end-to-end design process, customer empathy, product thinking, and successful use of AI tools for prototyping or ideation. Prepare to walk through your case studies in detail.

• Prepare for a design challenge: Familiarize yourself with common product design challenges related to workflow optimization and B2B systems. Practice articulating your thought process and solutions clearly.

• Research Orchard: Understand their mission, product offerings, and target users (real estate agents). Be ready to discuss why you are a good fit for their culture and how you can contribute to their goals.

⚠️ 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.