Senior Designer Advanced UX Team

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Designer, Advanced UX Team

Company: General Motors (GM)

Location: Warren, Michigan, United States (GM Global Technical Center - Design Ctr)

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Design Operations / User Experience Design

Date Posted: July 30, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5+ years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is pivotal in shaping the future of in-vehicle human-machine interfaces (HMI) through advanced UX and conceptual design.

• The position demands a blend of creative ideation, systems thinking, and technical execution within a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

• Focuses on developing scalable design systems, visual languages, and interface frameworks for next-generation mobility experiences.

• Requires strong proficiency in advanced prototyping tools and a robust portfolio showcasing end-to-end UX process and visual storytelling.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Senior Designer," the responsibilities and required skills clearly place this role within the User Experience (UX) Design and Human-Machine Interface (HMI) domain, specifically focusing on advanced and future-state concepts within the automotive industry. The emphasis on "Advanced UX Team" and "Human Interface Design" points to a specialized operations function within the product development lifecycle, driving innovation in user interaction.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop innovative UX concepts, visual directions, and narrative flows for future in-vehicle experiences, utilizing storyboards and clear visual communication.

• Create and maintain scalable design systems, visual languages, and interface frameworks to ensure consistency and repeatability across various platforms and features.

• Produce high-quality concept visuals, including 2D illustrations, UI explorations, motion studies, and basic 3D models or animations to bring future interactions to life.

• Build, test, and iterate on low- to high-fidelity prototypes to validate interaction patterns, demonstrate feature flows, and support decision-making processes.

• Refine user flows, interaction models, and motion behaviors based on feedback, user insights, and cross-functional team input.

• Deliver polished design assets such as layouts, sketches, motion graphics, and user journeys suitable for collaboration and potential handoff to development or engineering teams.

• Present design concepts and strategies effectively to cross-functional teams including design, engineering, product management, and external suppliers.

• Continuously research and present emerging trends in UX, mobility, gaming, and consumer technology to inspire new design directions and influence product strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong focus on process, system design, and cross-functional collaboration, which are core tenets of operations roles, albeit within a design context. The emphasis on "scalable design systems," "interface frameworks," and "iterating on user flows" points to a structured approach to design operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Design (e.g., Interaction Design, Graphic Design, Industrial Design), Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), or a related field, or equivalent practical experience. Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in UX Design, Product Design, Human Interface Design, or closely related fields, with a proven track record of delivering innovative user experiences. Required Skills:

• Deep understanding and practical application of UX Design principles and methodologies.

• Expert proficiency in Figma for UI design, wireframing, and prototyping.

• Advanced proficiency in prototyping tools such as ProtoPie to create complex, interactive simulations.

• Strong visual storytelling and narrative design capabilities, demonstrated through portfolios.

• Systems thinking and ability to design scalable design systems and interface frameworks.

• Experience in creating and iterating on low- to high-fidelity prototypes.

• Proficiency in creating concept visuals, including 2D illustrations and UI explorations.

• Experience with motion studies and demonstrating motion behaviors.

• Excellent collaboration and communication skills for effective presentation and cross-functional teamwork.

• Ability to research and integrate insights from emerging trends in UX, mobility, gaming, and consumer tech. Preferred Skills:

• Proficiency in After Effects for motion graphics and animation.

• Experience with Vizcom, Sketch, Adobe XD, Adobe Photoshop, and Adobe Illustrator.

• Working knowledge of 3D modeling workflows and software.

• Experience with video creation and editing tools (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro).

• Understanding of engineering and software development constraints within the automotive or technology sectors.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "design systems," "interface frameworks," and "scalable solutions" are critical operations concepts. The requirement for a "thoughtfully curated design portfolio" that demonstrates "end-to-end UX process and systems thinking" directly aligns with operations' need for documented processes and measurable outcomes.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A robust, curated design portfolio (online or privately shared) is mandatory.

• Must demonstrate a comprehensive understanding and execution of the end-to-end UX process, from initial concept to final polished assets.

• Showcase strong systems thinking, including the ability to design and articulate scalable design systems and interface frameworks.

• Provide clear examples of prototyping capabilities, ranging from low-fidelity wireframes to high-fidelity interactive prototypes.

• Highlight exceptional visual storytelling and narrative design skills through compelling case studies or project examples.

• Include examples of complex interaction design challenges and how they were solved effectively. Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate the ability to document and articulate design processes, including user research, ideation, prototyping, and iteration phases.

• Showcase experience in creating and managing design systems and style guides to ensure consistency and efficiency across projects.

• Ability to present design decisions and their rationale, linking them to user needs and business objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements for a portfolio demonstrating "end-to-end UX process and systems thinking" are direct parallels to what operations roles seek in candidates – evidence of structured problem-solving, process implementation, and measurable results. The focus on "scalable design systems" and "interface frameworks" points to operations' interest in efficiency and standardization.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for Senior UX Designers in the automotive sector in the Detroit metropolitan area, with 5+ years of experience, the estimated salary range is approximately $120,000 - $170,000 annually. This may vary based on specific qualifications, interview performance, and GM's internal compensation structure. Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement savings plan (e.g., 401k) with company match.

• Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Potential for relocation assistance (as indicated by "may be eligible for relocation benefits").

• Employee vehicle discount programs.

• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.

• Access to GM's internal design resources and innovation labs. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time role, typically 40 hours per week.

• The on-site requirement suggests a traditional office-based schedule, with potential for some flexibility depending on team needs and project timelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on typical compensation for senior-level design roles in the automotive industry in the specified location. Benefits are standard for large corporations like GM. The "on-site" designation implies a fixed work schedule, but operations roles often have some flexibility for deep work or critical deadlines.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Automotive Manufacturing and Technology. GM is a global leader in designing, manufacturing, and selling vehicles, with a strong focus on innovation in areas like electric vehicles (EVs), autonomous driving, and connected car technology.

Company Size: Large Enterprise (GM is a Fortune 100 company with tens of thousands of employees globally). This means established processes, significant resources, and opportunities for impact across a vast organization.

Founded: 1908, with a long history of innovation and leadership in the automotive industry. This deep heritage is complemented by a forward-looking vision for the future of mobility.

Team Structure:

• The role is within the Human Interface Design (HID) team, specifically the Advanced UX group.

• This team likely operates within the broader Product Development or Engineering organization.

• Expect close collaboration with other design disciplines (e.g., Industrial Design, Color & Trim), engineering teams (software, hardware), product managers, and potentially research and innovation departments.

• The structure supports rapid ideation and prototyping for future concepts. Methodology:

• Emphasis on conceptual visualization and rapid prototyping to explore next-generation interactions.

• Blends creativity, systems thinking, and technical craft for innovative mobility experiences.

• Data-driven insights are used to validate concepts, though the initial stages are heavily driven by creative exploration and user needs.

• Agile or hybrid methodologies may be employed for iterative design and development cycles.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: GM's size and industry position suggest a structured environment with clear processes for product development, but the "Advanced UX" team implies a more experimental and innovation-focused approach. Understanding GM's current strategic pillars (Zero Crashes, Zero Emissions, Zero Congestion) is crucial for aligning design philosophies.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Designer. This level typically implies significant autonomy, the ability to mentor junior designers, and a key role in defining design strategy and direction within the team.

Reporting Structure: Likely reports to a Design Manager or Director within the Human Interface Design or Advanced UX group. Will work closely with product leads and engineering stakeholders.

Operations Impact: This role directly influences the user experience of future GM vehicles, impacting customer satisfaction, brand perception, and the adoption of new technologies. The design concepts developed can shape product roadmaps and engineering priorities.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in advanced UX, HMI design, motion design, or 3D visualization within the automotive context.

• Leadership: Progress to Design Lead, Principal Designer, or management roles within the UX/HMI domain.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain deeper understanding of engineering, software development, and product strategy through close collaboration.

• Innovation: Contribute to cutting-edge projects in areas like autonomous driving interfaces, AI-powered HMI, and immersive in-car experiences.

• Mentorship: Guide and mentor junior designers, contributing to the team's overall skill development and operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations professionals, this role represents a unique opportunity to influence the "user-facing operations" of automotive products. Growth paths emphasize specialization in a critical area of product development and potential leadership in user experience strategy, which has significant operational implications for product adoption and customer support.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site at the GM Global Technical Center (GTC) in Warren, Michigan. This is a major hub for GM's research, development, and design activities, fostering a collaborative and innovative atmosphere.

Office Location(s): Warren, Michigan, United States. This location is a central point for many automotive R&D functions.

Workspace Context:

• The GTC is designed to facilitate collaboration, with shared workspaces, design studios, and meeting rooms.

• Access to state-of-the-art design tools, software, and potentially hardware labs for prototyping and testing.

• Opportunities for informal and formal interactions with a diverse group of engineers, designers, and product specialists.

• A culture that encourages the sharing of ideas and cross-pollination of concepts from various disciplines. Work Schedule:

• Full-time, on-site position. The standard expectation is to work from the designated GM facility.

• While core hours likely apply, the nature of an "Advanced UX Team" might involve periods of focused, intensive work on prototypes and concepts, potentially requiring flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement at a major technical center emphasizes a hands-on, collaborative environment. For operations candidates, understanding how physical workspace design impacts workflow efficiency, communication, and problem-solving is key.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio for required skills and experience.

• Portfolio Presentation: Candidates will likely be asked to present their portfolio, walking through key projects, design process, and problem-solving approaches. This is crucial for assessing systems thinking and storytelling.

• Technical Interviews: Discussions focused on specific UX/HMI design skills, prototyping tools (Figma, ProtoPie), and design systems.

• Cross-functional Interviews: Conversations with engineers, product managers, or other designers to assess collaboration style, communication, and ability to integrate feedback.

• Behavioral/Situational Interviews: Questions designed to understand how the candidate handles challenges, works in a team, and aligns with GM's culture and values.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership to assess strategic thinking and overall fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects. Prioritize those showcasing end-to-end UX, systems thinking, and advanced prototyping.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the process followed, the challenges encountered, your solutions, and the impact/outcomes. Use visuals effectively.

• Highlight Process: Explicitly detail your UX process, including research, ideation, wireframing, prototyping (low- to high-fidelity), user testing, and iteration.

• Demonstrate Systems Thinking: Show how you approach designing for scalability and consistency, perhaps by showcasing design system contributions or framework development.

• Showcase Tools: Clearly indicate which tools you used for each stage (Figma, ProtoPie, After Effects, etc.) and your level of expertise.

• Prepare for Q&A: Be ready to discuss your design decisions, trade-offs, and how you handle feedback and constructive criticism.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for potential design exercises or case studies, either pre-interview or during the interview process. These might involve solving a specific UX problem related to automotive HMI or refining an existing concept.

• Practice articulating your design rationale concisely and persuasively.

• Understand GM's current design language and future vision (e.g., Ultium platform, Super Cruise).

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is paramount. For operations candidates, think of your portfolio as a "process portfolio" – evidence of how you structure work, solve problems, implement improvements, and achieve measurable results. Use case studies to demonstrate your ability to optimize workflows and drive efficiency.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: Expert proficiency required for UI design, wireframing, collaboration, and prototyping.

• ProtoPie: Advanced proficiency required for creating complex, high-fidelity interactive prototypes that simulate real-world user experiences.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly mentioned for design, an understanding of how UX research and user feedback are analyzed to inform design decisions is beneficial. Tools like Amplitude, Mixpanel, or internal analytics platforms might be used by product teams. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this design role, but awareness of how user feedback loops are managed and how design assets integrate into development pipelines is valuable. Other Preferred Tools:

• After Effects: For motion graphics and animation.

• Vizcom: Potentially for 3D visualization and design review.

• Sketch, Adobe XD: Familiarity with other design and prototyping tools.

• Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator: Standard graphic design tools for asset creation.

• Adobe Premiere Pro: For video creation and editing.

• 3D Modeling Software: Working knowledge beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specific tools (Figma, ProtoPie) are critical. Operations roles often involve mastering a specific tech stack to enable efficiency and data flow. This highlights the importance of tool proficiency for this design operations function.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation: Driving forward-thinking solutions for the future of mobility.

• Collaboration: Working seamlessly with diverse, cross-functional teams to achieve shared goals.

• User-Centricity: Deep focus on understanding and addressing user needs and creating intuitive experiences.

• Excellence: Commitment to high-quality design and execution, pushing the boundaries of what's possible.

• Efficiency: Designing for scalability and repeatability through robust design systems and frameworks.

Collaboration Style:

• Highly collaborative, requiring strong communication and presentation skills.

• Open to feedback and iterative design processes.

• Expected to influence and inspire stakeholders across different departments.

• Emphasis on sharing knowledge and inspiration from external trends.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values emphasize a blend of creative exploration and structured execution, which is characteristic of successful design operations teams. Understanding how these values translate into daily work practices is key for cultural fit.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Innovation with Constraints: Developing cutting-edge concepts while adhering to automotive engineering, manufacturing, and regulatory constraints.

• Cross-Functional Alignment: Ensuring buy-in and seamless integration of advanced UX concepts with diverse engineering and product teams.

• Rapid Iteration: Maintaining high design quality and speed in a fast-paced, evolving technology landscape.

• Defining Future Standards: Establishing new interaction paradigms and design systems that will set the standard for future vehicle generations.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Skill Development: Opportunities to master cutting-edge design and prototyping tools.

• Industry Exposure: Staying at the forefront of automotive and technology UX trends through research and collaboration.

• Mentorship: Learning from experienced designers and potentially mentoring junior talent.

• Strategic Influence: Contributing to the strategic direction of future vehicle interfaces and user experiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: These challenges and opportunities highlight the dynamic nature of this role, requiring adaptability and continuous learning, which are essential traits for operations professionals navigating technological advancements and market shifts.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex interaction design challenge you faced and how you approached solving it using your end-to-end UX process." (Focus on process, problem-solving, and outcomes.)

• "How do you approach building and maintaining a scalable design system? Provide an example." (Assess systems thinking and operational efficiency.)

• "Walk us through a project in your portfolio that best demonstrates your visual storytelling and narrative design skills." (Evaluate communication and conceptualization abilities.)

• "How do you integrate feedback from engineering or product teams into your design iterations, especially when it conflicts with your initial vision?" (Gauge collaboration and adaptability.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What excites you most about the future of automotive UX and General Motors' role in it?" (Showcase passion and research.)

• "How do you stay current with emerging trends in UX, mobility, and consumer technology, and how have you incorporated them into your work?" (Demonstrate proactive learning.)

• "Describe a time you had to present a bold or unconventional design idea to stakeholders. How did you gain their buy-in?" (Assess influencing and communication skills.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your presentation logically: Introduction (problem/goal), Your Role, Process & Solutions (with visuals), Challenges & Iterations, Outcomes/Impact.

• Storytelling: Frame each project as a narrative. Explain the "why" behind your decisions.

• Tool Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your use of Figma, ProtoPie, and other relevant tools, and how they enabled your workflow.

• Systems Focus: Highlight instances where you applied systems thinking or contributed to design systems.

• Conciseness: Allocate time for each project and be prepared to answer questions succinctly. Aim for clarity and impact over exhaustive detail.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparing for these questions involves not just recalling past projects but framing them through an operations lens: how did your process lead to efficiency, how did you manage handoffs, what were the measurable impacts, and how did you scale solutions.