Senior Designer - UX

Stellantis
Full-time•Auburn Hills, United States

šŸ“ Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Designer - UX

Company: Stellantis

Location: Auburn Hills, Michigan, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Design Operations / User Experience

Date Posted: 2026-09-01

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

šŸš€ Role Summary

  • Drive the design and development of advanced interactive graphical interfaces for future vehicle Human-Machine Interfaces (HMI).

  • Champion user-centric design principles throughout the entire product development lifecycle, from concept to validation.

  • Lead cross-functional teams and collaboration efforts to ensure intuitive, engaging, and best-in-class user experiences.

  • Leverage a deep understanding of UX/UI design methodologies and emerging technologies to innovate automotive interfaces.

  • Contribute to Stellantis's reputation for world-class products by setting the pace for automotive design innovation.

šŸ“ Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within Stellantis's advanced design division, focusing on the future of vehicle interaction. The emphasis on "Advanced UX/HMI" and "vehicles of tomorrow" suggests a strategic focus on innovation and forward-thinking design, moving beyond current automotive interfaces to explore new paradigms in user engagement.

šŸ“ˆ Primary Responsibilities

  • Define, develop, and implement new use cases, interaction concepts, and functions for advanced vehicle HMI systems.

  • Support advanced UX/HMI related projects by ensuring user needs are met through a user-centric design approach.

  • Actively lead working groups, creativity sessions, and expert evaluations to gather insights and refine design concepts.

  • Orchestrate and conduct user tests to validate design decisions and ensure an intuitive and pleasurable user experience.

  • Collaborate closely with global, cross-functional teams including Brand, Technology, and Innovation colleagues to deliver cohesive product experiences.

  • Propose new HMI concepts and functions based on thorough user research and market trend analysis.

  • Maintain an excellent command of interface design and evaluation, applying a range of UX research approaches and methodologies.

  • Ensure the seamless integration of user experience design with automotive technologies and brand identities.

šŸ“ Enhancement Note: The responsibility for "orchestrating user tests" and "leading working groups" indicates a senior-level role requiring strong leadership, facilitation, and project management skills in addition to core UX/UI expertise. The focus on "defining and proposing new HMI concepts" points to a strategic contribution in shaping the future product roadmap.

šŸŽ“ Skills & Qualifications

Education:

  • Bachelor's Degree in a technical field such as Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Product Design, Graphic Design, Human Factors, Ergonomics, Interaction Design, or User-Centered Design.

  • Master's degree in a related UX/UI design field is preferred. Experience:

  • Minimum of 5 years of professional work experience as a user experience designer, interaction designer, Human Factors lead, information architect, graphic designer, or a similar UX-related role.

  • Experience in automotive or consumer electronics industries is preferred.

  • Experience working within an agile development process is preferred. Required Skills:

  • Excellent command of interface design and evaluation; thorough knowledge and experience of a range of UX research approaches and methodologies.

  • Deep expertise in user-centered design processes and interaction design methods, processes, tools, and best practices.

  • Mastery of rapid prototyping tools, including but not limited to: InVision, Sketch, Figma, and Adobe Creative Cloud.

  • Ability to write and conduct User Interface Testing using HMI protocols.

  • Strong understanding of visual design, information architecture, content strategy, usability, and user research principles.

  • Proficient in both written and spoken English.

  • Passion for emerging technologies, new interaction models, apps, and interactive interfaces of popular consumer electronics. Preferred Skills:

  • Ability to generate interactive prototypes in HTML, JavaScript, & CSS.

  • Proficiency in all UX/UI Design disciplines, including Visual Design, Information Architecture, Content Strategy, Interaction Design, Usability, User Research, and Product Design.

šŸ“ Enhancement Note: The requirement for a "thorough working knowledge of UX/UI Design" and "5 years of professional work experience" clearly delineates this as a senior-level position, demanding not just execution but also strategic input and leadership within design projects. The specific mention of "HMI protocol" for user interface testing indicates a specialized application of UX testing within the automotive context.

šŸ“Š Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • The portfolio must be submitted with the application and is a mandatory requirement for processing.

  • Showcase a range of UX/UI design skills and projects directly relevant to the Senior UX Designer role.

  • Prioritize and present the most current work first, displayed in descending order of recency.

  • Clearly describe individual contributions to each project, especially for collaborative work, differentiating personal involvement from team efforts.

  • Separate professional work from personal projects, maintaining distinct sections for each.

  • Adhere to a specific naming convention for the portfolio file: Lastname-firstname-portfolio.pdf. Process Documentation:

  • Demonstrate a strong understanding of user-centered design processes from ideation through validation.

  • Showcase experience in defining and executing UX research methodologies, including user testing and expert evaluations.

  • Highlight proficiency in rapid prototyping and iterative design workflows.

  • Illustrate the ability to translate complex technical requirements into intuitive user interfaces.

šŸ“ Enhancement Note: The detailed portfolio requirements, including the specific naming convention and emphasis on individual contributions, suggest a rigorous review process focused on assessing the candidate's practical design skills, project ownership, and ability to articulate their design rationale and impact. This level of detail is common for senior creative and technical roles where demonstrated output is critical.

šŸ’µ Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

  • Based on industry benchmarks for Senior UX Designers in the automotive sector in the Auburn Hills, Michigan area, with 5-10 years of experience, the estimated annual salary range is $110,000 - $150,000. This estimate accounts for the cost of living in the region and the specialized skills required for advanced automotive HMI design. Benefits:

  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

  • Generous paid time off (PTO) and holiday schedule.

  • 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match.

  • Employee vehicle discount programs and leasing options.

  • Opportunities for professional development, training, and conference attendance.

  • Access to Stellantis's innovative design labs and advanced technology resources.

  • Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates. Working Hours:

  • Standard full-time work week, typically 40 hours.

  • Flexibility may be offered based on project needs and team collaboration, with potential for occasional overtime during critical project phases.

šŸ“ Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on typical compensation for Senior UX Designers in a major automotive hub like Michigan, considering the specified experience level and the specialized nature of automotive HMI. Benefits are standard for large corporations in the automotive industry, with an emphasis on employee vehicle programs and professional development relevant to the role.

šŸŽÆ Team & Company Context

šŸ¢ Company Culture

Industry: Automotive Manufacturing & Mobility Services. Stellantis is a global automotive group formed by the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group, boasting a diverse portfolio of iconic brands. This industry context means a focus on innovation, efficiency, global collaboration, and a deep understanding of consumer needs in transportation. For operations professionals, this translates to complex supply chains, extensive R&D, and a drive for continuous improvement in manufacturing and product development processes.

Company Size: Stellantis is a large multinational corporation, employing over 80,000 people globally. This scale implies robust internal processes, significant resources for R&D and technology adoption, and a structured career progression framework. For operations roles, this size offers opportunities for specialization, exposure to diverse business units, and the chance to influence large-scale operational strategies.

Founded: Stellantis was officially formed in January 2021. However, its constituent companies, FCA and PSA, have rich histories dating back over a century, with roots in early automotive innovation. This blend of established heritage and new corporate structure fosters a culture that values both legacy and future-forward thinking, encouraging designers to build upon proven foundations while pioneering new concepts.

Team Structure:

  • The Advanced User Experience (UX) / User Interface (UI) Design team is likely a specialized unit within Stellantis's broader Design organization, possibly reporting into a Chief Design Officer or Head of Advanced Design.

  • Team members will collaborate closely with engineering, product planning, brand strategy, and technology innovation departments to integrate UX/UI design into vehicle development.

  • The structure will likely involve a mix of senior designers, specialists in various UX/UI disciplines, and potentially junior designers or interns, all working under design leadership. Methodology:

  • The team operates under a user-centered design methodology, prioritizing user needs and behaviors in all design decisions.

  • Agile development principles are likely integrated, allowing for iterative design, rapid prototyping, and close collaboration with development teams.

  • Data-driven decision-making, informed by user research, testing, and performance analytics, will be a cornerstone of the design process.

Company Website: https://www.stellantis.com/en

šŸ“ Enhancement Note: Stellantis's position as a global automotive giant means the operations and design functions are deeply integrated into complex, high-stakes product development cycles. The company's recent formation suggests a dynamic environment where new processes and collaborations are continuously being established, offering unique opportunities for professionals who can adapt and contribute to shaping these structures.

šŸ“ˆ Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is designated as "Senior Designer - UX," indicating a mid-to-senior level position. Professionals at this level are expected to operate with a high degree of autonomy, lead design initiatives, mentor junior team members, and contribute significantly to strategic design decisions. They are key contributors who can independently manage complex projects, drive consensus, and influence cross-functional stakeholders.

Reporting Structure: The Senior UX Designer will likely report to a Design Manager or Director overseeing Advanced UX/UI for the relevant brand or product segment. They will work closely with peers in other design disciplines (e.g., exterior, interior, color & trim) and collaborate extensively with product managers, engineering leads, and technology strategists. The role emphasizes strong cross-functional collaboration and the ability to influence without direct authority.

Operations Impact: The impact of this role is directly tied to shaping the future user experience of Stellantis vehicles. Successful UX/UI design directly influences customer satisfaction, brand perception, product adoption rates, and potentially vehicle safety and usability. By creating intuitive and engaging interfaces, this role contributes to Stellantis's competitive advantage in the evolving automotive market and drives customer loyalty.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Specialization & Leadership: Progress to lead designer roles, focusing on specific vehicle platforms, brands, or advanced HMI technologies (e.g., AI-driven interfaces, AR/VR integration).

  • Management Track: Transition into a management role, leading a team of UX/UI designers, overseeing design strategy, and managing larger design projects.

  • Cross-Functional Expertise: Develop deeper expertise in related fields such as Human Factors engineering, Product Strategy, or Innovation Management within the automotive sector.

  • Industry Influence: Become a thought leader within the automotive UX community, presenting at conferences, publishing research, and contributing to industry standards.

šŸ“ Enhancement Note: The "Senior" title implies a trajectory towards leadership, either through specialized expertise or team management. The automotive industry's rapid technological evolution, particularly in areas like autonomous driving and in-car connectivity, presents significant opportunities for UX designers to expand their skill sets and impact.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This position is based on-site at Stellantis's Auburn Hills, Michigan, facility, which likely houses advanced design studios, engineering labs, and corporate offices. The environment is expected to be professional, collaborative, and focused on innovation, providing access to state-of-the-art design tools and automotive development resources.

Office Location(s): The primary location is 1000 Chrysler Drive, Auburn Hills, Michigan, 48326, United States. This facility is a major hub for Stellantis's design and engineering operations in North America.

Workspace Context:

  • The workspace will foster a highly collaborative environment, encouraging frequent interaction with a diverse team of designers, engineers, and product strategists.

  • Access to cutting-edge design software, hardware, and potentially virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR) labs for immersive design and testing.

  • Opportunities for hands-on interaction with vehicle prototypes and physical design models to inform and validate digital interface designs.

  • A dynamic atmosphere where creativity, problem-solving, and a shared passion for automotive excellence are encouraged.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time, typically involving a standard 40-hour work week. While core hours are expected for team collaboration and meetings, there may be flexibility to manage project timelines, with potential for occasional extended hours during critical development phases or product launch cycles.

šŸ“ Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement for an automotive design role is common, as it facilitates hands-on work with physical prototypes, direct collaboration with engineering teams, and access to specialized studio equipment. The Auburn Hills location is a significant center for automotive design and engineering in the US.

šŸ“„ Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  • Initial Screening: Application review, including a thorough assessment of the submitted portfolio against the specified requirements.

  • Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager to assess overall fit, experience, and understanding of UX/UI principles in an automotive context.

  • Design Team/Peer Interviews: Technical interviews with other designers and potentially engineers to evaluate design skills, problem-solving abilities, and collaboration style. This may include a portfolio presentation.

  • Challenge/Presentation: Candidates may be asked to present a case study from their portfolio or complete a design exercise to demonstrate their approach to complex UX challenges.

  • Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss strategic alignment and long-term vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Relevance is Key: Curate your portfolio to highlight projects that best demonstrate your experience in automotive UX/UI, HMI design, interaction design, and user-centered processes.

  • Showcase Your Process: Clearly articulate your design thinking, research methodologies, ideation stages, prototyping techniques, and validation methods. Explain why you made certain design decisions.

  • Quantify Impact: Where possible, include metrics or outcomes that demonstrate the success and impact of your designs (e.g., improved usability scores, user satisfaction improvements, efficiency gains).

  • Contribution Clarity: For team projects, be explicit about your specific role and contributions. Use phrases like "I was responsible for...", "My contribution included...", or "I led the development of...".

  • Visual Storytelling: Use high-quality visuals, mockups, and prototypes to tell a compelling story about your design journey and solutions. Ensure the presentation is clean, organized, and adheres to the specified naming convention.

Challenge Preparation:

  • Anticipate HMI Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach designing interfaces for complex automotive scenarios (e.g., navigation, infotainment, driver assistance systems, connectivity features).

  • User-Centered Problem Solving: Practice breaking down design problems, identifying user needs, and proposing user-centric solutions with clear rationale.

  • Tool Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your experience with the specified prototyping tools (Figma, Sketch, InVision, Adobe CC) and potentially demonstrate your skills if required.

  • Automotive Context: Research Stellantis's brands, current vehicle offerings, and any publicly available information on their future design language or technology initiatives to tailor your responses.

šŸ“ Enhancement Note: The detailed portfolio requirements and the emphasis on clarity regarding individual contributions are critical. Applicants should treat the portfolio not just as a showcase of finished work but as a narrative of their design process and problem-solving capabilities, tailored specifically for the automotive UX domain.

šŸ›  Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

  • Prototyping & Design: Figma, Sketch, InVision, Adobe Creative Cloud (Photoshop, Illustrator, XD). Mastery of at least one of these is expected.

  • User Interface Testing: Familiarity with HMI protocol for conducting user interface testing.

  • Design Software: Proficiency in industry-standard design and wireframing tools.

Analytics & Reporting:

  • While not explicitly stated as primary tools for this role, experience with user analytics platforms and usability testing tools that provide quantitative data would be beneficial for informing design decisions and measuring impact. CRM & Automation:

  • Not directly relevant to this UX design role, but understanding how design integrates with product development workflows and project management systems (e.g., Jira, Confluence) could be advantageous. Emerging Technologies:

  • Familiarity with tools and workflows for designing for emerging interaction models, applications, and interactive interfaces, particularly those relevant to consumer electronics and automotive technology.

  • Potential for working with tools related to HTML, JavaScript, and CSS for interactive prototyping is a plus.

šŸ“ Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Figma, Sketch, InVision, and Adobe Creative Cloud highlights the core toolset required. The "plus" for HTML/JavaScript/CSS indicates a leaning towards more interactive and potentially front-end-integrated design capabilities, which is valuable in modern product development.

šŸ‘„ Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

  • Passion for World-Class Products: A deep-seated drive to create exceptional automotive designs that evoke pride and passion.

  • Innovation & Reinvention: Encouragement to "think bigger, push harder, continually invent, and reinvent" automotive technologies and designs.

  • User-Centricity: A fundamental commitment to understanding and meeting user needs in every design decision.

  • Collaboration & Transparency: Establishing effective working relationships built on trust and open communication with internal and external partners.

  • Excellence & Delivery: A focus on high-quality output and a proven ability to deliver results in a fast-paced environment.

Collaboration Style:

  • Cross-Functional Integration: Expected to work seamlessly with Brand, Technology, Innovation, and Design colleagues globally.

  • Consensus Building: The ability to "drive decisions through consensus" is a key expectation, requiring strong communication and negotiation skills.

  • Influence & Change Management: Possessing the skills to influence stakeholders and drive positive change within the design and development processes.

  • Agile Mindset: Adaptability and a willingness to work within agile frameworks, embracing iterative feedback and rapid development cycles.

šŸ“ Enhancement Note: Stellantis's culture, as described, emphasizes a blend of passion, innovation, and professional execution. For operations and design roles, this translates to an environment that values both creative ambition and the disciplined processes required to bring complex automotive products to market.

⚔ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • Balancing Innovation with Feasibility: Designing cutting-edge HMI experiences while ensuring they are technically feasible, cost-effective, and align with brand identity and regulatory requirements.

  • Global Collaboration Complexity: Working effectively with diverse international teams, managing different time zones, cultural nuances, and varying technological capabilities.

  • Rapid Technological Evolution: Keeping pace with the fast-changing landscape of automotive technology, AI, connectivity, and user interface paradigms.

  • Stakeholder Alignment: Navigating the needs and priorities of multiple stakeholders (e.g., brand managers, engineering, marketing) to achieve design consensus.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Advanced HMI Technologies: Opportunities to specialize in areas like AI-driven interfaces, augmented reality (AR) for driver information, advanced voice control, and predictive user experiences.

  • Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Deepen understanding of automotive engineering, product strategy, and marketing to gain a holistic view of product development.

  • Leadership Development: Potential to transition into team leadership, project management, or strategic design roles within Stellantis.

  • Industry Engagement: Participation in automotive design conferences, workshops, and industry forums to stay abreast of trends and network with peers.

šŸ“ Enhancement Note: The automotive industry is at a critical juncture with electrification, autonomy, and digital integration. This role offers a chance to be at the forefront of these changes, tackling complex design challenges that will define the future of driving.

šŸ’” Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • "Describe your process for designing a new HMI feature for a vehicle, from initial concept to final validation." (Focus on user-centered design, research, prototyping, and testing methodologies).

  • "How would you approach balancing innovative UX concepts with the practical constraints of automotive development (e.g., cost, manufacturing, safety regulations)?" (Highlight your ability to be both creative and pragmatic).

  • "Can you walk us through a challenging UX project you led, focusing on how you managed stakeholders and achieved consensus for your design decisions?" (Prepare a strong case study demonstrating leadership and influence). Company & Culture Questions:

  • "What excites you about designing for the automotive industry, and specifically for Stellantis?" (Research Stellantis's brands, recent innovations, and design philosophy).

  • "How do you stay current with emerging technologies and interaction models relevant to automotive UX?" (Demonstrate your passion for continuous learning and industry trends).

  • "Describe a time you had to adapt your design approach based on feedback from cross-functional teams or user testing." (Showcase your flexibility and receptiveness to feedback). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Narrative Flow: Structure your presentation to tell a clear story for each project: the problem, your role, your process, the solution, and the outcome/impact.

  • Focus on "Why": For each design decision, explain the rationale behind it, linking it back to user needs, business goals, or technical considerations.

  • Demonstrate HMI Expertise: Clearly articulate how your skills translate to the specific challenges of automotive HMI design. Use automotive examples where possible.

  • Conciseness and Clarity: Be mindful of time. Focus on the most impactful projects and present them clearly and concisely. Be prepared for in-depth questions on any part of your portfolio.

šŸ“ Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for a blend of strong design fundamentals, a user-centric mindset, practical experience with relevant tools, and the ability to navigate the complexities of large-scale automotive product development. The portfolio presentation is a critical component where candidates must demonstrate their strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.

šŸ“Œ Application Steps

To apply for this Senior UX Designer position:

  • Submit your application through the provided link on the Stellantis careers portal.

  • Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to prominently feature automotive UX/UI, HMI design, and user-centered process examples. Ensure it adheres strictly to the naming convention and content guidelines provided.

  • Resume Optimization: Highlight your 5+ years of relevant experience, proficiency in specified tools (Figma, Sketch, Adobe CC, etc.), and any automotive or consumer electronics design background. Use keywords from the job description.

  • Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, problem-solving approach, and collaboration skills, using specific examples from your portfolio. Be ready to discuss your passion for automotive innovation.

  • Company Research: Thoroughly research Stellantis, its brands (Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, SRT), and any recent design or technology announcements to demonstrate your genuine interest and understanding of their direction.

āš ļø 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.

Application Requirements

Candidates must hold a Bachelor's degree in a relevant technical field and possess at least 5 years of professional experience in UX/UI or interaction design. Proficiency in rapid prototyping tools and a strong portfolio demonstrating interface design excellence are mandatory.