Product Designer (m/w/d) - 80%

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Product Designer (m/w/d) - 80%
Company: smino AG
Location: Zürich, Switzerland
Job Type: Part-Time (80%) / Festanstellung
Category: Product Design / UX/UI Design
Date Posted: May 12, 2026
Experience Level: 2-5 Years
Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Product Design & User Experience: Focus on analyzing user needs and business requirements to derive concrete UX concepts for a B2B SaaS platform within the construction industry.
• User Research & Validation: Conduct comprehensive user research, including interviews and analysis of usage data, and validate design solutions through rigorous usability testing.
• Prototyping & Design Systems: Develop concepts for web and mobile interfaces, translating them into detailed wireframes, mockups, and interactive prototypes using Figma, adhering to the established design system.
• AI Integration in Design: Leverage AI tools to synthesize user feedback, structure research data, and accelerate hypothesis validation for product discovery, while actively experimenting with AI workflows for efficiency and quality enhancement.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically for a Product Designer with a strong emphasis on UX/UI, particularly within a B2B SaaS context for the construction sector. The 80% work arrangement indicates a part-time role that requires efficient time management and prioritization. The explicit mention of AI tools and prompt engineering suggests a forward-thinking company looking to integrate cutting-edge technologies into its design processes.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough analysis of user needs and business requirements to inform the development of effective UX/UI concepts for smino's B2B SaaS platform.
• Plan and execute user research initiatives, including qualitative interviews, data analysis, and synthesis of findings to gain actionable insights.
• Design intuitive and engaging user interfaces for both web and mobile applications, ensuring a seamless user experience for construction professionals.
• Create detailed wireframes, mockups, and interactive prototypes in Figma, meticulously adhering to the company's existing design system guidelines.
• Prepare and structure design assets and documentation for efficient handover to the development team, ensuring clarity and completeness.
• Validate design concepts and user flows through systematic usability testing, identifying areas for improvement and iterating on solutions.
• Collaborate closely with Product Owners, the Design Lead, and software developers to ensure alignment and successful product development.
• Actively champion the user's perspective in all product-related decision-making processes, advocating for user-centric design principles.
• Employ AI tools strategically to enhance the efficiency of user feedback synthesis, research data structuring, and the validation of product discovery hypotheses.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on design role that requires end-to-end ownership from research and conceptualization to prototyping and validation. The emphasis on collaboration with Product Owners and Developers, along with the structured handover process, indicates a well-defined product development lifecycle. The specific mention of AI tool utilization for research and hypothesis validation points to an innovative approach to product discovery.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a background in Design, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Computer Science, or a related field is often beneficial. Experience: 2-5 years of professional experience in UX/UI Design, with a strong preference for experience within a B2B SaaS environment.

Required Skills:

• Figma Proficiency: Expert-level skills in using Figma for wireframing, UI design, prototyping, and managing design systems.
• User Research Expertise: Proven experience in conducting and analyzing user interviews, surveys, and usage data to derive actionable insights.
• Usability Testing: Demonstrated ability to plan, execute, and interpret results from usability testing sessions.
• UX/UI Design Principles: Strong understanding of user-centered design principles, information architecture, and interaction design.
• Prototyping Skills: Ability to create high-fidelity interactive prototypes to effectively communicate design concepts.
• Design System Adherence: Experience working with and contributing to established design systems.
• German Language Proficiency: Fluent communication skills in German (essential for user interaction and internal collaboration).
• English Language Proficiency: Professional working proficiency in English (at least B2 level), for technical documentation and international team collaboration.
• Structured & Independent Work: A highly organized and self-driven approach to work, with strong problem-solving capabilities.
• Team Collaboration: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• AI Workflow Experimentation: A proactive curiosity for new technologies, with a demonstrated willingness to experiment with AI tools and workflows to enhance design processes.

Preferred Skills:

• Advanced UX Research: Prior experience in in-depth UX research methodologies, including advanced analysis and synthesis techniques.
• B2B SaaS Experience: Previous direct experience designing for B2B Software-as-a-Service platforms, ideally within the European market.
• Mobile UI Design: Specific experience and expertise in designing user interfaces for mobile applications.
• Prompt Engineering: Understanding of prompt engineering principles and how to effectively use AI models as co-creation partners in UI design.
• AI SDLC Flow Experience: Familiarity with the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) in an AI context.
• Construction Industry Knowledge: Familiarity with the construction industry's workflows, challenges, and user needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a blend of core design skills and an openness to new technologies. Proficiency in Figma and user research/testing are paramount. The language requirements are critical for effective communication. The preference for AI-related skills and industry experience highlights the company's focus on innovation and domain specificity.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 comprehensive case studies demonstrating your UX/UI design process from problem definition to final solution.
• Highlight projects that clearly articulate user needs, your design approach, and the impact of your solutions, ideally from B2B SaaS or complex digital product environments.
• Include wireframes, user flows, mockups, and interactive prototypes to illustrate your design capabilities and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrate your experience with Figma, including how you leverage its features for efficient design and prototyping.
• If possible, include examples of how you've incorporated user research findings or usability testing results into your design iterations.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Provide examples of how you've mapped out user journeys, designed intuitive workflows, and optimized user interactions for efficiency and ease of use.
• System Implementation & Standards: Illustrate your understanding of working within design systems, ensuring consistency, and preparing designs for seamless integration with development teams.
• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Include case studies where you've used data or testing results to measure the effectiveness of your designs and drive iterative improvements.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is crucial for this role, as it serves as direct evidence of design skills and process. The emphasis should be on demonstrating a user-centered design methodology, proficiency with core design tools like Figma, and the ability to translate user needs into practical, well-designed solutions. Including examples that touch upon AI integration or efficiency improvements would be a significant advantage.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: For a Product Designer with 2-5 years of experience in Zurich, working 80% (approximately 32 hours per week), the estimated gross annual salary typically ranges from CHF 80,000 to CHF 100,000. This translates to an hourly rate of approximately CHF 48 to CHF 60, considering the 80% workload.

Benefits:

• Modern Office: Access to a contemporary office space located centrally in Zurich, conveniently close to the ETH Polyterasse.
• Innovative Work Environment: Be part of an innovative, modern, and international company with an inspiring atmosphere and startup culture.
• Startup Flair: Experience the dynamic and fast-paced environment of a growing tech company.
• Flat Hierarchies: Enjoy a work environment with minimal bureaucracy and direct access to decision-makers.
• Hybrid Work Model: Benefit from a flexible hybrid work environment, allowing for a balance between office-based and remote work.
• Home Office Option: The flexibility to work from home as part of the hybrid arrangement.
• State-of-the-Art IT Equipment: Receive brand-new IT equipment, with the option to choose your own device (BYOD - Choose your own device).

Working Hours: The role is specified as 80%, which translates to approximately 32 hours per week. While the exact daily schedule can be discussed within the hybrid framework, core working hours will likely align with standard business operations, with flexibility offered through the hybrid model.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates are based on market research for Product Designers in Zurich, Switzerland, considering the specified experience level and the 80% part-time arrangement. Benefits reflect the company's emphasis on a modern, flexible, and tech-forward work environment.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Software / Construction Technology (ConTech) / B2B SaaS. smino operates at the intersection of software development and the construction industry, providing a digital solution to streamline project coordination and communication. This places them within the growing field of Construction Technology (ConTech). Company Size: While not explicitly stated, the description implies a growing startup with "full-gas expansion" and "startup flair," likely ranging from 20-100 employees. This size offers a balance of structure and agility. Founded: The company name "smino" is derived from the Greek word "sminos" (σμήνος), meaning "swarm," emphasizing collaboration and collective effort. The company's mission is to build a better world through strong teams and successful complex construction projects.

Team Structure:

• Cross-functional Collaboration: The role requires close collaboration with Product Owners, the Design Lead, and Developers, indicating a cross-functional team structure common in agile environments.
• Agile Environment: The emphasis on iterative design, user feedback, and close team interaction suggests an agile development methodology.
• Lean & Flat Hierarchies: The description mentions "flat hierarchies," implying that communication channels are direct and team members have opportunities to influence product direction.
• Specialization Areas: The team likely includes specialists in Product Management, Design (UX/UI), Engineering (Frontend/Backend), and potentially Customer Success or Sales, all working towards common project goals.

Methodology:

• User-Centric Design: A core methodology driven by understanding user needs and validating solutions through research and testing.
• Agile Development: Iterative development cycles, continuous feedback loops, and adaptability to changing requirements.
• Data-Informed Decisions: Utilizing user data and research findings to guide product strategy and design choices.
• AI-Augmented Workflows: Proactively integrating AI tools to enhance research, analysis, and design efficiency.

Company Website: https://smino.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: smino positions itself as an innovative, collaborative, and growth-oriented company within the ConTech space. The culture appears to be a blend of startup energy and a professional approach to product development, with a strong emphasis on user value and technological advancement, particularly AI.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Mid-Level Product Designer. It requires 2-5 years of experience, indicating a need for independent contribution and problem-solving beyond junior-level tasks, but not yet at a senior or lead capacity. The focus is on executing design tasks effectively and contributing to product strategy. Reporting Structure: The Product Designer will report to the Design Lead and work closely with the Product Owner. This structure allows for mentorship and guidance while ensuring alignment with product vision and business objectives. Operations Impact: As a Product Designer, your impact will be direct on user adoption, satisfaction, and the overall usability of the smino platform. By creating intuitive and efficient user experiences, you will contribute to higher customer retention, increased productivity for construction professionals, and ultimately, the company's revenue growth and market position. You will be the voice of the user, ensuring the product effectively solves real-world problems in the construction industry.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in UX research methodologies, advanced prototyping techniques, or specific areas of UI design.
• AI Design Integration: Become a go-to expert within the company for leveraging AI in design workflows, potentially leading initiatives in this area.
• Product Strategy Contribution: As you gain more experience and understanding of the B2B SaaS construction market, you will have opportunities to influence product roadmap decisions and strategy.
• Leadership Potential: With proven success and expanded responsibilities, there could be pathways towards Senior Product Designer or Design Lead roles in the future.
• Cross-functional Learning: Gain exposure to product management, engineering, and business strategy through close collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers solid growth potential within a specialized and emerging field. The emphasis on AI integration presents a unique opportunity for skill development and specialization that could be highly valuable in the future job market.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The company offers a modern office space located centrally in Zurich, described as having a "startup flair" and an "inspiring work atmosphere." This suggests a dynamic, collaborative, and potentially open-plan environment. Office Location(s): The office is situated in the center of Zurich, conveniently near the ETH Polyterasse. This prime location offers excellent accessibility via public transport and proximity to amenities. Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The office serves as a central point for team collaboration, allowing for spontaneous interactions and brainstorming sessions.
• Tech-Enabled: Expect access to brand-new IT equipment, including a "Choose your own device" policy, ensuring you have the tools needed for efficient design work.
• Hybrid Integration: The workspace is designed to support a hybrid model, facilitating seamless transitions between in-office collaboration and remote work.

Work Schedule: The role is 80%, meaning approximately 32 hours per week. This part-time arrangement offers flexibility, and the hybrid model further enhances work-life balance. While specific daily hours can be negotiated, expect alignment with typical business operations for effective team collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment at smino AG combines the vibrancy of a startup with the professionalism of a modern tech company. The central Zurich location and hybrid model are attractive perks for professionals seeking flexibility and a stimulating workspace.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application & Screening: Submit your CV, cover letter (optional but recommended), and crucially, your portfolio. Recruiters will review for essential qualifications and fit.
• Portfolio Review & Technical Interview: Expect a detailed review of your portfolio. This will likely be followed by an interview with the Design Lead and potentially the Product Owner to discuss your design process, problem-solving skills, and experience with Figma, user research, and AI tools.
• Case Study/Design Challenge: You may be asked to complete a design exercise or present a case study from your portfolio in detail, focusing on your thought process and decision-making.
• Team & Cultural Fit Interview: This stage will involve meeting with potential team members (developers, Product Owner) to assess your collaboration style, communication skills, and alignment with smino's values (Excellence & Engagement, Respect & Appreciation, Perseverance & Lightness).
• Final Interview: Potentially a final discussion with a senior leader to confirm fit and discuss terms.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Process, Not Just Polish: Clearly articulate the problem you were solving, your research methods, design decisions, iterations, and the outcomes. Use storytelling to guide the reviewer through your thought process.
• Highlight B2B SaaS & Construction Relevance: If possible, emphasize projects that demonstrate your understanding of complex user needs in a B2B context, or ideally, within the construction industry.
• Demonstrate Figma Proficiency: Ensure your prototypes are interactive and showcase your ability to create efficient, well-organized Figma files.
• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use data, metrics, or user feedback to demonstrate the positive impact of your designs.
• Address AI Integration: If you have projects where you've experimented with AI in design, be prepared to discuss your approach and the results.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the smino Product: Familiarize yourself with smino's current platform and its target users in the construction industry.
• Focus on User-Centricity: Prepare to articulate how you would approach understanding and solving user problems within this domain.
• Practice AI Integration: Think about how you would leverage AI tools for research synthesis, idea generation, or user feedback analysis in a design context.
• Communication Clarity: Be ready to clearly explain your design decisions and rationale, especially when discussing trade-offs or dealing with constraints.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process emphasizes a strong portfolio and the ability to articulate design thinking. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with core design tools and methodologies, as well as their interest and aptitude for integrating AI into the design workflow.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: The core design tool for wireframing, UI design, prototyping, and maintaining the design system. Proficiency is a mandatory requirement.
• Prototyping Tools: While Figma's prototyping capabilities are primary, familiarity with other prototyping tools might be beneficial for specific use cases.
• Design Systems: Experience in working with, contributing to, or establishing design systems is essential for maintaining consistency and efficiency.

Analytics & Reporting:

• User Analytics Platforms: Familiarity with tools like Google Analytics, Mixpanel, Amplitude, or similar platforms for analyzing user behavior and product usage data.
• User Feedback Tools: Experience with tools for collecting and synthesizing user feedback (e.g., surveys, in-app feedback widgets, NPS tools).

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not a direct requirement for the designer, understanding how product usage data flows into CRM systems (like Salesforce, HubSpot) can provide valuable context for B2B SaaS design.
• Project Management Tools: Experience with tools like Jira, Asana, or Trello for managing design tasks, tracking progress, and collaborating with development teams.
• AI Tools: Explicitly mentioned as a key area of interest. This could include AI assistants for research synthesis, content generation (e.g., for user personas), image generation, or potentially AI-powered design assistance tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily centered around design and user experience tools, with a significant emphasis on Figma. The explicit inclusion of AI tools indicates a forward-looking approach to design technology. Familiarity with analytics and project management tools will aid in collaboration and data-driven decision-making.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence & Engagement: A commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes with a talented team, taking initiative, making decisions, and proactively addressing challenges with dedication and responsibility. For designers, this means striving for high-quality, user-centric designs and actively contributing to product success.
• Respect & Appreciation: Fostering a culture of mutual respect, support, and recognition. This involves acknowledging good performance, celebrating successes together, and maintaining open communication. Designers should expect an environment where their contributions are valued and their potential is nurtured.
• Perseverance & Lightness: Embracing challenges as opportunities to strengthen the team, maintaining self-confidence, positivity, and flexibility to achieve a state of "lightness" where obstacles are overcome efficiently. Designers are expected to be resilient, adaptable, and able to navigate complex design problems with a positive outlook.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The team operates with strong cross-functional collaboration, meaning designers will work closely with product management, engineering, and potentially other stakeholders, requiring clear communication and a shared understanding of goals.
• Process Review & Feedback: An open culture for reviewing processes and exchanging feedback is implied, encouraging continuous improvement and learning. Designers should be comfortable giving and receiving constructive criticism.
• Knowledge Sharing: Expect a collaborative environment where knowledge is shared freely, fostering a learning culture across the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: smino's values are geared towards building a high-performing, supportive, and innovative team. A Product Designer joining smino should embody a proactive, collaborative, and user-focused mindset, while embracing the company's commitment to continuous improvement and positive work dynamics.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing User Needs with Business Goals: As with most product roles, a key challenge will be translating diverse user needs and business objectives into cohesive and effective design solutions within the construction context.
• Rapid AI Integration: Staying abreast of and effectively integrating rapidly evolving AI technologies into the design workflow presents an ongoing learning challenge and opportunity.
• Designing for a Niche Industry: Developing a deep understanding of the specific workflows, pain points, and technical requirements of the construction industry to create truly impactful designs.
• Part-Time Efficiency: Maximizing impact and contribution within an 80% work capacity requires excellent prioritization, time management, and focus.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• AI in Design Specialization: Become a leader in applying AI tools and techniques to product design within the construction tech sector.
• Advanced UX Research & Strategy: Develop expertise in more sophisticated research methodologies and contribute to higher-level product strategy.
• Cross-functional Exposure: Gain deeper insights into product management, engineering processes, and business development within a growing SaaS company.
• Industry Trends: Stay at the forefront of ConTech and AI advancements, potentially through industry events, online courses, or internal knowledge sharing.
• Mentorship: Benefit from guidance from the Design Lead and experienced Product Owners, accelerating professional growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are directly tied to the innovative nature of the role and the industry. These challenges also present clear avenues for significant professional growth and specialization, particularly in the burgeoning field of AI in design.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance conflicting user needs or business requirements. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Prepare with a specific case study demonstrating prioritization and trade-off analysis.)
• "How do you approach user research for a complex B2B product, especially if direct user access is limited?" (Focus on methodologies like competitive analysis, heuristic evaluation, and leveraging existing data.)
• "Imagine you need to design a new feature for smino's platform to improve task assignment for site managers. Walk us through your process, including how you'd use AI tools." (Be ready to outline user research, ideation, prototyping, and validation steps, emphasizing AI application.)
• "How do you stay updated on new design trends and technologies, particularly AI in design?" (Mention specific resources, communities, or personal experimentation.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to smino AG and our mission in the construction industry?" (Research smino's product, values, and market position.)
• "How do you embody our values of Excellence & Engagement, Respect & Appreciation, and Perseverance & Lightness in your work?" (Provide concrete examples from your professional experience.)
• "Describe your ideal collaboration style with Product Owners and Developers." (Highlight communication, feedback, and problem-solving approaches.)
• "How do you see your role contributing to the success of a growing startup like smino?" (Focus on impact, proactivity, and adaptability.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, clearly define the problem, your role, the process undertaken, key decisions made, challenges faced, and the final outcome/impact.
• Focus on Your Process: Emphasize how you arrived at your solutions, not just the final screens. Detail your research, ideation, iteration, and testing methods.
• Highlight Figma Skills: Be prepared to navigate your Figma files to show organization, component usage, and prototyping capabilities.
• Quantify Results: Whenever possible, use metrics, data, or user testimonials to demonstrate the effectiveness of your designs.
• AI Integration Examples: If applicable, clearly showcase how you've used AI tools in your workflow and what benefits it brought.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of user-centered design, proficiency with Figma, a proactive approach to AI integration, and the ability to articulate design thinking and collaborate effectively within a team environment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Product Designer position:

• Click the "Jetzt bewerben" button to upload your application documents quickly.
• Craft a compelling portfolio: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, showcases your end-to-end design process, highlights your Figma proficiency, and includes at least one case study demonstrating B2B SaaS or AI integration in design. Tailor your case study selection to align with smino's focus on construction tech and innovative workflows.
• Optimize your CV and cover letter: Clearly articulate your 2-5 years of experience in UX/UI design, specifically mentioning B2B SaaS, Figma, user research, and usability testing. Highlight your German and English language skills and your proactive approach to AI tools.
• Prepare for a portfolio walkthrough: Be ready to discuss your case studies in detail, explaining your design decisions, research methodologies, and the impact of your work. Practice presenting how you would integrate AI into design workflows for a product like smino.
• Research smino AG: Understand their product, target market (construction industry), company values, and recent developments to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit during the interview process.

⚠️ 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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