Senior Product Designer - Air Taxi

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Product Designer - Air Taxi

Company: Joby Aviation

Location: San Carlos, California, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Product Design / User Experience (UX) / Software Design

Date Posted: 2026-09-09

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the product design and development of core operational applications that will power Joby's air taxi service, impacting global operations from ideation to release.

• Optimize the user experience for critical internal tools, including flight operations scheduling portals, pilot Electronic Flight Bags (EFB), and terminal/ramp logistics management systems.

• Drive the design strategy for both current helicopter operations and future eVTOL commercial launches, ensuring scalability and efficiency across multiple platforms (Web, iOS, Android).

• Leverage cutting-edge AI tools to enhance productivity and accelerate the product development lifecycle within a fast-paced, startup-like environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role is positioned within the "Air Taxi Systems" team, indicating a focus on the software infrastructure that supports the physical air taxi operations. This implies a need for designers who can think holistically about the user journey, from pilot and ground crew interactions to the backend operational management. The emphasis on AI tooling suggests a forward-thinking team that values innovation and efficiency in design processes.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and iterate on user interfaces and workflows for the flight operations tooling and pilot resource management systems.

• Develop intuitive and efficient user experiences for pilot, terminal, and ramp applications, ensuring seamless integration with operational needs.

• Optimize the user experience (UX) of current helicopter operations and future eVTOL operations by conducting user research, usability testing, and data analysis.

• Collaborate closely with the flight test team to understand and refine their complex scheduling and execution needs, translating them into effective software solutions.

• Provide expert design guidance and mentorship to internal product development teams, fostering a strong design culture.

• Strategically employ state-of-the-art AI tools (e.g., Claude, ChatGPT, Gemini) to enhance design efficiency, speed up iteration cycles, and improve the overall product development process.

• Translate complex operational requirements into user-friendly and scalable software designs.

• Contribute to the definition and refinement of design systems and best practices for internal applications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic design leadership and hands-on execution. The mention of "optimizing UX of our ongoing helicopter and future eVTOL operations" suggests a critical need for a designer who can bridge the gap between existing operational realities and future-scale ambitions, requiring strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: BA/BS in Design, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), or equivalent practical experience.

Experience: 5+ years of relevant professional experience in product design, UX/UI design, or a closely related field.

Required Skills:

• Proven experience designing across multiple platforms, including Web, iOS, and Android applications.

• High proficiency with industry-standard design and prototyping tools such as Sketch, Figma, and the Adobe Creative Suite.

• Demonstrated expertise in utilizing current AI tools (e.g., Claude, ChatGPT, Gemini, GLM 5.2) for design ideation, content generation, and workflow optimization.

• Solid understanding of HTML and CSS, enabling effective communication with engineering teams and an appreciation for front-end feasibility.

• Basic understanding of coding principles and an awareness of what is technically feasible and scalable in design layouts.

• Strong portfolio showcasing a range of user-centered design projects, with an emphasis on complex operational systems or multi-platform applications. Preferred Skills:

• A background as a pilot or a strong interest in aviation, aerospace, or new transportation technologies.

• Experience designing for complex scheduling, logistics, or resource management systems.

• Familiarity with user research methodologies and usability testing.

• Experience in a fast-paced, startup-like environment or in scaling products for global markets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for AI tool proficiency is a significant differentiator, suggesting that candidates will be expected to integrate these tools into their daily workflow from day one. The "basic understanding of coding" and "what is feasible" points to the need for a designer who can collaborate effectively with engineers and understand technical constraints.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio demonstrating end-to-end product design process, from initial concept and user research to final UI implementation and iteration.

• Case studies that highlight complex problem-solving, particularly in areas related to operational efficiency, multi-platform experiences, or system integration.

• Examples of how you have leveraged user feedback and data to drive design decisions and improve user outcomes.

• Visual representations of your design thinking, including wireframes, prototypes, user flows, and high-fidelity mockups.

• Evidence of collaboration with engineering and product management teams, showcasing your ability to translate technical requirements into elegant design solutions. Process Documentation:

• Showcase your ability to document design processes, including user research findings, design rationale, and A/B testing results.

• Demonstrate experience in creating and maintaining design systems or style guides to ensure consistency and scalability across applications.

• Provide examples of how you have contributed to process improvements within design or development workflows.

• Highlight your approach to iterative design, including how you gather feedback and implement changes post-launch.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's focus on operational applications and the emphasis on AI tools, portfolios should ideally include examples of how the candidate has used technology to streamline design processes or solve complex operational challenges. Demonstrating an understanding of scalability and cross-platform consistency will be crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $139,000 - $214,500 per year (base pay).

Benefits:

• Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) as part of the compensation package.

• Comprehensive paid time off (PTO).

• Robust healthcare benefits.

• 401(k) plan with a company match.

• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP).

• Short-term and long-term disability coverage.

• Life insurance.

• Additional benefits as typically offered by a growing aerospace company.

Working Hours: Standard full-time hours are expected, likely around 40 hours per week, with flexibility for project-driven needs and on-site collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is a target base pay and does not include the value of RSUs, which can significantly increase the total compensation package, especially for a growth-stage company like Joby Aviation. The benefits package is quite comprehensive, reflecting a commitment to employee well-being and long-term financial security.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Aerospace, Aviation Technology, Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), Electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL).

Company Size: Joby Aviation is a rapidly growing company, employing hundreds to potentially over a thousand individuals, indicative of a dynamic and scaling organization.

Founded: Joby Aviation was founded in 2009, positioning it as an established yet innovative pioneer in the eVTOL and air taxi space, with over a decade of development and refinement.

Team Structure:

• The Air Taxi Systems team is a specialized group focused on the software and operational backbone of the air taxi service.

• This team likely comprises product managers, software engineers, UX/UI designers, and operations specialists, fostering a cross-functional and collaborative environment.

• Reporting structures will be typical of a growing tech company, with clear lines of responsibility and opportunities for direct impact. Methodology:

• The company employs a blend of agile development methodologies for software, combined with rigorous aerospace engineering standards for hardware and safety.

• Data-driven decision-making is paramount, especially in the design and optimization of operational systems.

• There's a strong emphasis on leveraging modern technology, including AI, to drive efficiency and innovation in both product development and operational execution.

Company Website: www.jobyaviation.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Joby Aviation operates at the cutting edge of a nascent industry. This implies a culture that values innovation, rapid iteration, safety, and a pioneering spirit. For a designer, this means working in an environment that is both technically demanding and operationally focused, with a clear mission to revolutionize transportation.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This Senior Product Designer role represents a mid-to-senior level position within the product design function. It demands significant autonomy, strategic input, and the ability to lead design initiatives for critical operational software. The role is crucial for the company's commercial launch success.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Product Designer will likely report to a Design Lead, Head of Product Design, or potentially a Director of Product for the Air Taxi Systems. Collaboration will be extensive with Product Managers, Engineering Leads, and key stakeholders in Flight Operations.

Operations Impact: The work of this designer directly influences the efficiency, safety, and scalability of Joby's air taxi service. Successful design of operational tools will reduce flight delays, improve pilot experience, optimize ground logistics, and ultimately contribute to the commercial viability and customer satisfaction of the service.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in aviation technology, complex operational systems design, or AI-driven design workflows.

• Leadership: Potential to move into a Lead Product Designer role, managing a team or a specific product domain, or into a Product Management track.

• Skill Expansion: Opportunities to learn about aerospace engineering, regulatory compliance, and the intricacies of launching a new transportation service globally.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Potential to move into Product Management, Program Management, or even operational roles as the company scales.

📝 Enhancement Note: As an early-stage player in a revolutionary industry, Joby Aviation offers unique growth opportunities. The "startup-like environment within a well-funded aerospace pioneer" suggests a chance to shape processes and products from the ground up, offering significant career acceleration compared to more established companies.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, indicating a preference for in-person collaboration, team synergy, and access to physical resources. The office environment is likely a mix of modern workspace design to foster creativity and collaboration, alongside the practical needs of an aerospace engineering and technology company.

Office Location(s): The primary location is San Carlos, California, a hub for technology and innovation in the Bay Area, offering access to a vibrant talent pool and a supportive ecosystem.

Workspace Context:

• Expect a collaborative workspace designed to encourage interaction between product designers, engineers, product managers, and operations teams.

• Access to state-of-the-art design tools, AI platforms, and potentially advanced prototyping or testing facilities.

• Opportunities for hands-on engagement with the product and its users, including potential visits to operational sites or flight tests.

• A fast-paced, dynamic environment where cross-functional communication and problem-solving are key.

Work Schedule: While a standard 40-hour work week is typical, the demands of a high-growth technology company, especially one launching a novel service, may require flexibility. However, the emphasis is on delivering results and collaborative engagement within the team's operational hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement suggests a company culture that values direct interaction, spontaneous problem-solving, and team cohesion, which is often crucial for complex, multi-disciplinary projects like those at Joby Aviation.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will review your application and portfolio to assess basic qualifications and alignment with the role.

• Design Challenge/Portfolio Review: You will likely be asked to present your portfolio, detailing your design process, problem-solving approach, and impact on previous projects. A specific design challenge related to operational efficiency or user experience in aviation may be given.

• On-site/Virtual Interviews: Multiple rounds of interviews with the hiring manager, potential team members (designers, engineers, product managers), and possibly senior leadership. These will focus on design skills, technical understanding, collaboration abilities, and cultural fit.

• AI Tool Integration Discussion: Expect questions about your experience with AI tools in design and how you envision using them in this role.

• Final Round: Often involves a broader discussion about company vision, strategic thinking, and long-term career aspirations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 2-3 projects that best showcase your skills relevant to this role—complex operational systems, multi-platform design, and user-centered problem-solving.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the design process, key decisions, challenges faced, and the measurable impact of your design.

• Highlight AI Usage: If possible, include examples of how you've used AI tools to enhance your design process or outcomes.

• Showcase Collaboration: Emphasize how you worked with engineers, product managers, and stakeholders.

• Prepare for Technical Depth: Be ready to discuss your understanding of HTML/CSS and technical feasibility.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Domain: Research Joby Aviation, the eVTOL industry, and the challenges of air taxi operations.

• Focus on Efficiency and Scalability: For any design challenge, prioritize solutions that are efficient, scalable, and user-friendly for operational contexts.

• Think Holistically: Consider the entire user journey and system interactions, not just isolated screens.

• Practice Articulation: Be prepared to clearly and concisely explain your design rationale and decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on AI tools and understanding of technical feasibility suggests interviewers will probe deeply into how candidates approach complex problem-solving with modern technologies and engineering constraints in mind. A strong understanding of the operational context of air travel will be a significant advantage.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design & Prototyping: Figma, Sketch, Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects). Proficiency in at least Figma or Sketch is essential.

• AI Tools: Claude, ChatGPT, Gemini, GLM 5.2, and other generative AI platforms for ideation, content creation, code assistance, and workflow automation.

• Collaboration & Project Management: Tools like Jira, Asana, Trello, or similar for tracking design tasks and project progress.

• Version Control (for design assets): Potentially tools like Abstract or Git-based solutions for managing design file versions.

Analytics & Reporting:

• User Analytics: Tools like Mixpanel, Amplitude, Google Analytics, or in-house solutions for tracking user behavior within the operational applications.

• Data Visualization: Tools like Tableau, Looker, or Power BI for creating dashboards and reports on application usage and performance, though direct use might be less common for designers than understanding the outputs.

CRM & Automation:

• While less directly used by designers, understanding how CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce) and workflow automation tools integrate with operational platforms can be beneficial for context.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of AI tools is a critical requirement. Candidates should be ready to discuss specific examples of how they have integrated these tools into their design workflow to improve efficiency, generate ideas, or assist in content creation. Familiarity with how design outputs integrate into engineering workflows (HTML/CSS understanding) is also key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety & Reliability: Paramount in aerospace; all design decisions must prioritize these aspects.

• Efficiency & Optimization: Driving operational excellence through thoughtful design of tools and workflows.

• Innovation & Pioneering Spirit: Embracing new technologies (like AI) and approaches to solve complex problems in a new industry.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively across disciplines to achieve shared goals.

• User-Centricity: Deeply understanding the needs of pilots, ground crew, and passengers to create intuitive and effective experiences.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilizing data and insights to inform design choices and measure impact.

Collaboration Style:

• Highly collaborative, with designers working closely with product managers to define requirements, engineers to ensure feasibility, and flight operations personnel to validate solutions.

• Open communication and feedback loops are essential, fostering an environment where ideas can be shared and refined.

• A proactive approach to problem-solving, where teams come together to tackle challenges swiftly.

• Emphasis on clear documentation and knowledge sharing to ensure consistency and understanding across the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Joby Aviation is likely to be fast-paced, mission-driven, and focused on execution. For a designer, this means being adaptable, communicative, and having a strong sense of ownership over the product's success, with a keen eye on how design impacts real-world operations and safety.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Designing for a Novel Industry: Creating intuitive interfaces for a completely new mode of transportation, where user mental models are still forming.

• Balancing Innovation with Safety & Regulation: Integrating cutting-edge technology and design while adhering to strict aerospace safety standards and FAA regulations.

• Scalability Across Global Markets: Designing systems that can adapt to diverse operational environments, regulations, and user needs in different countries.

• Integrating AI Tools Effectively: Learning and implementing AI tools in a way that genuinely enhances, rather than hinders, the design process and product quality.

• Cross-Functional Communication: Effectively translating complex technical and operational requirements into design solutions and communicating design decisions to diverse stakeholders.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deep Dive into Aerospace: Gain in-depth knowledge of aviation, flight operations, and the eVTOL industry.

• Mastery of AI in Design: Become an expert in leveraging advanced AI tools for product design and development.

• Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Work alongside world-class engineers, product managers, and operations specialists, fostering continuous learning.

• Impactful Product Launch: Be part of a historic effort to launch a new form of transportation, with direct visibility into the company's success.

• Career Advancement: Opportunities for leadership roles as the company and design team grow.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are significant but also represent unique opportunities for professional growth. Candidates who thrive in ambiguity, enjoy complex problem-solving, and are eager to push the boundaries of design and technology will find this role particularly rewarding.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex operational system you've designed. What were the key challenges and how did your design address them?" (Focus on your process, problem-solving, and impact).

• "How do you approach designing for multiple platforms (Web, iOS, Android) to ensure a consistent yet optimized user experience?" (Highlight your understanding of platform conventions and design systems).

• "How would you leverage AI tools like ChatGPT or Gemini to streamline the design process for this role, specifically for designing flight operations software?" (Be specific with examples related to ideation, content, or workflow).

• "Imagine you need to design a new feature for our pilot's EFB. Walk us through your design process from initial concept to a proposal for engineering." (Demonstrate your end-to-end design thinking). Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in Joby Aviation and the air taxi industry specifically?" (Show genuine passion and research).

• "How do you stay updated on the latest design trends and AI technologies?" (Demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning).

• "Describe a time you had to collaborate with engineers who had different priorities or technical constraints. How did you reach a solution?" (Focus on communication and compromise).

• "What are your thoughts on the balance between rapid iteration in a startup environment and the rigorous safety standards of aerospace?" (Show an understanding of the industry's unique demands). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure is Key: Organize your presentation logically: Problem -> Your Role -> Process -> Solutions -> Impact -> Learnings.

• Quantify Impact: Use metrics whenever possible to demonstrate the success of your designs (e.g., reduced task completion time, increased user satisfaction, improved efficiency).

• Show, Don't Just Tell: Use visuals effectively. Walk through your wireframes, prototypes, and final UI, explaining your rationale at each step.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about specific design decisions, technical trade-offs, and alternative solutions you considered.

• Highlight AI Integration: If applicable, point out specific instances where AI tools aided your process or improved outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate not only strong design fundamentals but also a forward-thinking approach to technology, particularly AI, and a mature understanding of how design impacts real-world operational efficiency and safety within a regulated industry.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Product Designer position at Joby Aviation:

• Submit your application: Navigate to the provided careers page and submit your resume and a link to your online portfolio.

• Tailor your Resume: Ensure your resume highlights your experience with product design, UX/UI, multi-platform design, AI tools, and any relevant experience in complex systems or regulated industries. Use keywords from the job description.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 of your strongest projects that best align with the responsibilities and requirements of this role. Focus on showcasing your process, problem-solving skills, and impact, especially in operational or complex software contexts.

• Prepare Your Presentation: Practice walking through your portfolio projects, clearly articulating your design decisions, collaboration experience, and any use of AI tools. Be ready to discuss your understanding of the air taxi industry and Joby Aviation's mission.

• Research Joby Aviation: Thoroughly understand their company mission, recent developments, the eVTOL market, and the challenges of air taxi operations. This will inform your application and interview responses.

⚠️ 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.