RQ11616 - UX Designer - Junior

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: RQ11616 - UX Designer - Junior

Company: Maarut

Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Job Type: Contract

Category: User Experience (UX) Design / User Interface (UI) Design

Date Posted: September 11, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Design and develop user-friendly, visually appealing, and effective interfaces for digital products, ensuring a great user experience.

• Conduct comprehensive user research, including interviews and surveys, to inform product functionality and design iterations.

• Translate user research findings into tangible design artifacts such as sitemaps, user flows, customer journey maps, wireframes, mockups, and interactive prototypes.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including developers, QA specialists, and business stakeholders, to deliver intuitive and impactful user experiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title specifies "Junior," the ai_experience_level provided (5-10 years) suggests a mid-level to senior UX Designer role, indicating potential for significant responsibility and impact. This discrepancy should be clarified, but the enhanced description will reflect the broader experience range. The role's emphasis on the Ontario Design System and Digital Service Standard points towards a public sector or government-adjacent project.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Create effective, user-friendly, and visually appealing interfaces for various digital platforms, including web and mobile applications.

• Design the overall functionality of products, employing a user-centered approach and iterating based on user testing and feedback.

• Conceive, conduct, and manage end-to-end user research initiatives, from participant recruitment to synthesis of findings.

• Translate user research, interviews, and surveys into detailed sitemaps, user flows, customer journey maps, wireframes, mockups, and interactive prototypes.

• Design user interfaces for a range of projects, including digital displays, publications, media, and other creative materials as needed.

• Iterate on designs rapidly based on user feedback and testing to ensure optimal user experience and product performance.

• Facilitate the client’s product vision through research, ideation, sketching, prototyping, and user testing of digital product experiences.

• Identify design problems and devise elegant, efficient, and user-centric solutions.

• Make strategic design and user-experience decisions related to core and new product functions and features.

• Gather user feedback to configure and optimize existing interfaces, ensuring continuous improvement.

• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including developers and business stakeholders, to achieve project goals and deliver cohesive user experiences.

• Manage competing priorities and client relationships in a deadline-driven environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The extensive list of responsibilities, particularly those involving end-to-end user research, strategy, and stakeholder management, points to a role that requires more than just execution. The "Junior" title may be a misnomer given the depth of experience suggested by the responsibilities and the ai_experience_level of 5-10 years. The emphasis on user testing and iteration suggests a mature product development lifecycle.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: [Specific educational requirements are not detailed in the provided data. Candidates are advised to highlight relevant degrees in Design, Human-Computer Interaction, Psychology, or related fields, or equivalent practical experience.]

Experience: 5-10 years of professional experience in UX design, interactive design, UI design, or a similar role, with a strong focus on designing for web and mobile applications. Prior experience in public service or Ontario Public Service (OPS) is highly desirable.

Required Skills:

• Proven experience in creating GUI designs based on user interaction and performance metrics.

• Demonstrated experience as a UX designer, interactive designer, UI designer, or similar role, with a portfolio showcasing work on web and mobile applications.

• Ability to define and lead UX projects, including design workshops and alignment sessions with stakeholders and business users.

• Proficiency with design and prototyping tools such as Figma, Canvas, and similar platforms.

• Thorough understanding of the limitations and appropriate use of web development technologies.

• Experience designing online programs with an emphasis on the emotional aspects of human experience.

• Experience conceiving and conducting user research, interviews, and surveys.

• Expertise in translating research findings into sitemaps, user flows, user journey maps, wireframes, mockups, and prototypes.

• Experience designing the overall functionality of a product and iterating based on user testing.

• Experience designing and delivering wireframes, user stories, user flows, user journeys, mockups, and prototypes optimized for a wide range of devices and interfaces.

• Experience facilitating product vision through research, ideation, sketching, prototyping, and user testing.

• Ability to identify design problems and devise elegant solutions.

• Experience making strategic design and user-experience decisions for core and new product functions and features.

• Experience gathering user feedback to configure existing interfaces.

• Strong team player with a track record for meeting deadlines, managing competing priorities, and client relationship management. Preferred Skills:

• Knowledge of accessibility testing and standards.

• Ability to work with the Ontario Design System.

• Knowledge of digital service standards.

• Experience with complex design challenges, particularly with legacy systems and nuanced stakeholder/approval relationships.

• Proficiency in designing with accessibility in mind, meeting WCAG 2.1 AA requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Must Haves" list is extensive and reiterates many points from the "General Skills" section, suggesting these are critical requirements. The ai_key_skills list provides a strong foundation for tailoring resumes and interview preparation. The preference for Ontario Public Service (OPS) experience indicates a potential need for understanding government procurement processes and public sector user needs.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 end-to-end UX/UI projects that demonstrate your design process from research to final implementation.

• Projects should highlight your ability to translate user needs and business requirements into intuitive and effective user interfaces.

• Include case studies that detail the problem statement, your research methodology, design decisions, iterations, and the impact of your solutions.

• Projects should clearly illustrate your proficiency with design and prototyping tools like Figma and Canvas.

• Demonstrate experience with user research, wireframing, prototyping, user flows, and customer journey mapping. Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of user research reports, synthesis documents, and user testing feedback summaries.

• Include documentation of design iterations and the rationale behind them, particularly in response to user feedback or technical constraints.

• Showcase how you document user flows, wireframes, and prototypes for stakeholder review and developer handoff.

• Demonstrate an understanding of how to align design processes with web development technologies and accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG 2.1 AA).

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the emphasis on user research, iterative design, and stakeholder collaboration, a portfolio demonstrating a structured and user-centered design process is crucial. The "Junior" title is again at odds with the expectation of managing projects and leading workshops, suggesting candidates should emphasize their project leadership capabilities and strategic thinking in their portfolio.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on the provided location (Toronto, Ontario, Canada), experience level (5-10 years), and contract nature of the role, the estimated annual salary range for a UX Designer is CAD $75,000 - CAD $110,000. This estimate is derived from industry benchmarks for similar contract positions in the Toronto area, considering the specific skills and responsibilities outlined.

Benefits: As this is a contract position, standard employment benefits may not be included. However, typical benefits for contract roles can include:

• Competitive hourly or daily rate.

• Potential for contract extension based on performance and project needs.

• Opportunities to work on significant government or public sector projects.

• Exposure to specialized design systems and standards (e.g., Ontario Design System).

Working Hours: The role is expected to involve approximately 40 hours per week, aligning with standard full-time working hours. While specific flexibility is not detailed, on-site contract roles typically adhere to the client's core business hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on general market data for UX Designers in Toronto with 5-10 years of experience. Contract rates can vary significantly based on the specific agency, project duration, and negotiation. It's recommended to research current contract rates for similar roles on platforms like LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and specialized tech/design job boards in Toronto. The absence of explicit benefits for contract roles is common, and candidates should clarify any potential offerings during the interview process.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Technology & Consulting, with a potential focus on Government & Public Sector services given the mention of the Ontario Design System and Digital Service Standard. Maarut Inc. appears to be a consulting firm that provides technology and staffing solutions.

Company Size: [Company size information is not directly provided in the input data. Maarut's website suggests a range of services, implying a mid-sized to larger consulting firm.]

Founded: [Company founding date is not provided in the input data. Maarut's website indicates a history of providing services, suggesting an established presence.]

Team Structure:

• The UX Designer will likely be part of a project-specific team, collaborating closely with developers, project managers, business analysts, and potentially other designers.

• Reporting will likely be to a Project Lead or a Design Manager within Maarut, and potentially to a client-side stakeholder for project-specific guidance.

• Cross-functional collaboration is a key aspect, requiring seamless interaction with technical and business teams to ensure successful product development and user adoption. Methodology:

• The role emphasizes a user-centered design methodology, involving continuous user research, testing, and iteration.

• Collaboration with stakeholders and business users is integral to aligning design efforts with product vision and business objectives.

• Adherence to specific design systems and standards (e.g., Ontario Design System, digital service standards) will guide the design process.

Company Website: www.maarutinc.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on technology and consulting, coupled with the specific mention of government-related design standards, suggests that Maarut is likely involved in projects for public sector clients. This implies a need for candidates to be comfortable with formal processes, documentation, and potentially navigating complex stakeholder environments.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: While titled "Junior," the 5-10 years of experience and responsibilities suggest a Mid-Level UX Designer or even a Senior UX Designer role, depending on the scope of project leadership expected. This level typically involves significant autonomy in design execution and contribution to strategic design decisions.

Reporting Structure: The UX Designer will report to a project lead or manager within Maarut, with day-to-day guidance and feedback also coming from client-side stakeholders. This structure emphasizes client-focused delivery and project-specific alignment.

Operations Impact: The UX Designer's impact will be measured by their ability to create intuitive, user-friendly interfaces that enhance user experience, drive adoption of digital products, and contribute to the overall success of client projects. This includes improving user satisfaction, efficiency of task completion, and alignment with business objectives.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas such as accessibility design, user research methodologies, or interaction design patterns.

• Project Leadership: Potential to lead design efforts on larger or more complex projects, taking on more strategic responsibilities.

• Industry Exposure: Gain valuable experience working with public sector clients and understanding unique government digital service standards and design systems.

• Contract Extension/Full-Time Conversion: Depending on performance and client needs, there may be opportunities for contract extension or conversion to a full-time role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The potential for growth is significant, especially if the "Junior" title is indeed a misrepresentation and the role truly requires mid-to-senior level expertise. Candidates should inquire about career progression paths within Maarut and for contract-to-hire possibilities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, indicating a traditional office environment where the UX Designer will work from a Maarut office or a client's dedicated workspace in Toronto.

Office Location(s): Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Specific details about the office facilities or client site are not provided.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is likely to be collaborative, requiring close interaction with team members, including developers and project managers.

• Access to necessary design tools and technology will be provided, likely including high-performance workstations and relevant software licenses.

• Opportunities for direct interaction with project stakeholders, including business users and potentially end-users during research phases, will be present.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is expected. While on-site, there may be some flexibility in daily start/end times, but adherence to project deadlines and client meeting schedules will be paramount.

📝 Enhancement Note: As an on-site role, candidates should expect a structured work environment with regular team interactions and adherence to office protocols. The proximity to team members can facilitate quicker feedback loops and collaborative problem-solving.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess suitability for the role and experience level.

• Technical Interview: Discussions focused on UX/UI principles, design process, problem-solving skills, and proficiency with design tools. Expect questions about your approach to user research, wireframing, prototyping, and accessibility.

• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session where you will present 1-2 key projects from your portfolio, detailing your process, design decisions, and outcomes. Be prepared to articulate the "why" behind your design choices.

• Stakeholder/Cultural Fit Interview: Conversations with project managers or client representatives to assess your communication skills, ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams, and fit with the project's or company's culture.

• Final Assessment: May involve a skills test or a discussion about your approach to specific design challenges relevant to the project.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 2-3 projects that best showcase your end-to-end UX/UI design process, problem-solving abilities, and impact. Prioritize projects that align with the requirements (web/mobile applications, user research, accessibility, Ontario Design System if applicable).

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the design process, your contributions, the challenges faced, and the measurable outcomes or learnings. Use visuals effectively.

• Highlight Process: Emphasize your user-centered approach, research methodologies, iterative design process, and how you incorporated user feedback.

• Demonstrate Tool Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your experience with Figma, Canvas, and other relevant tools.

• Address Accessibility: Clearly explain how you incorporated accessibility principles and met standards like WCAG 2.1 AA, if applicable.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for potential design challenges that may involve sketching out a solution to a given problem, critiquing an existing design, or discussing how you would approach a specific user research task.

• Practice articulating your design thinking clearly and concisely, even under time constraints.

• Research the Ontario Design System and digital service standards to be ready to discuss their application or how you would learn and integrate them.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on portfolio presentation and specific design systems suggests a rigorous evaluation process where practical application and process understanding are key. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate not just design skills but also the strategic thinking and communication abilities required to work effectively in a client-facing or public sector environment.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design & Prototyping: Figma, Canvas, and similar industry-standard tools are essential. Candidates should be proficient in creating wireframes, mockups, interactive prototypes, and design systems within these platforms.

• User Research Tools: Experience with tools for conducting user interviews, surveys, and usability testing (e.g., UserTesting.com, SurveyMonkey, Lookback).

• Collaboration Tools: Familiarity with project management and collaboration software like Jira, Confluence, Slack, or Microsoft Teams for effective communication with cross-functional teams.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly listed, an understanding of how to interpret user analytics (e.g., Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics) to inform design decisions is beneficial.

• Ability to contribute to or understand design-related reports and assessments. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this UX role, but an understanding of how user interfaces interact with backend systems and CRM data can be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Figma and Canvas is a critical requirement. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their workflow and best practices within these tools. Familiarity with accessibility testing tools and methodologies is also highly valued.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• User-Centricity: A core value that drives all design decisions, ensuring the end-user's needs and experience are prioritized.

• Collaboration: Emphasis on working effectively with diverse teams (developers, stakeholders, clients) to achieve shared project goals.

• Efficiency & Effectiveness: Striving for elegant solutions that are both functional and efficient, aligning with digital service standards.

• Continuous Improvement: A commitment to iterative design, user feedback, and learning from testing to enhance product quality.

• Accessibility: A fundamental value, ensuring designs are inclusive and meet required accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG 2.1 AA).

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with developers, QA, and business stakeholders throughout the design lifecycle.

• Open Communication: Fostering an environment where design concepts, feedback, and challenges can be discussed openly and constructively.

• Feedback-Driven: Welcoming and incorporating feedback from team members and stakeholders to refine designs.

• Process Adherence: Working within established project methodologies and adhering to client-specific standards like the Ontario Design System.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on user-centricity, collaboration, and adherence to standards like the Ontario Design System suggests a professional and structured team environment. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate how they embody these values in their work and interactions.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing User Needs with Technical Constraints: Effectively navigating the limitations of web development technologies and legacy systems while still delivering an optimal user experience.

• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Expectations: Aligning the product vision and design decisions with the varied needs and priorities of different stakeholders, including clients and internal teams.

• Adhering to Strict Standards: Working within the guidelines of the Ontario Design System and digital service standards, which may require adaptation and careful application.

• Iterating on Complex Designs: Managing the process of user testing and design iteration for complex projects, potentially involving nuanced approval processes.

• Contract Role Transition: For candidates seeking long-term employment, navigating the transition from a contract role to a permanent position, either with Maarut or the client.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deep Dive into Government Design: Gaining specialized experience with public sector design systems and accessibility requirements.

• Advanced UX Methodologies: Opportunity to refine skills in user research, journey mapping, and prototyping through hands-on project work.

• Cross-functional Expertise: Learning from developers and business analysts to gain a broader understanding of the product development lifecycle.

• Portfolio Enhancement: Building a strong portfolio with impactful projects, particularly those involving public sector or complex system design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the need for adaptability, strong problem-solving skills, and excellent communication. The growth opportunities are tied to specialization and gaining experience in specific, high-demand areas within the UX field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for designing a new feature from initial concept to user testing." (Focus on user research, ideation, wireframing, prototyping, and iteration.)

• "How do you ensure a design is accessible and meets standards like WCAG 2.1 AA?" (Discuss your knowledge, tools, and testing methods.)

• "Walk us through a challenging UX/UI project you led. What was the problem, your solution, and the outcome?" (Prepare a detailed case study from your portfolio.)

• "How do you balance user needs with business requirements and technical constraints?" (Provide specific examples of trade-offs and negotiation.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Maarut and our work with government clients?" (Research Maarut's website and any public sector projects they highlight.)

• "How do you approach collaboration with developers and stakeholders?" (Emphasize communication, feedback integration, and alignment.)

• "What are your thoughts on the Ontario Design System and digital service standards?" (Show you've researched them and understand their importance.)

• "How do you handle feedback on your designs, especially if it's critical?" (Demonstrate professionalism, openness to feedback, and iterative thinking.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: For each project, follow a clear narrative: Problem -> Your Role -> Process -> Solution -> Outcomes/Learnings.

• Visuals: Use high-quality mockups, wireframes, user flows, and prototypes. Avoid clutter.

• Storytelling: Explain the "why" behind your design decisions. Connect your work to user needs and business objectives.

• Conciseness: Be mindful of time. Focus on the most impactful aspects of your work.

• Interactivity: If possible, demonstrate interactive prototypes to showcase the user experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a solid understanding of UX principles, a structured design process, and the ability to articulate design decisions effectively. Candidates should be ready to discuss their experience with specific tools and standards mentioned in the job description.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Zoho Recruit link.

• Tailor your resume: Highlight experience in UX/UI design for web and mobile applications, user research, wireframing, prototyping, and proficiency with Figma and Canvas. Emphasize any experience with accessibility standards and the Ontario Design System.

• Prepare your portfolio: Curate 2-3 strong case studies that showcase your end-to-end design process, problem-solving skills, and impact. Ensure they clearly demonstrate your ability to translate user needs into effective designs.

• Research Maarut and the Ontario Design System: Familiarize yourself with Maarut's services and their potential work in the public sector. Understand the principles and guidelines of the Ontario Design System and digital service standards.

• Practice your portfolio presentation: Be ready to articulate your design process, rationale, and outcomes clearly and concisely during an interview.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details, especially regarding experience level and compensation, should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions. The discrepancy between the "Junior" title and the implied experience level is a key point to clarify.