Senior Product Designer (contract)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Product Designer (Contract)

Company: Bilue

Location: Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

Job Type: Contract

Category: Product Design / UX/UI Design

Date Posted: 2026-07-28

Experience Level: Senior (5-10 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the end-to-end product design for a complex financial web portal and its accompanying native iOS and Android applications.

• Conduct focused usability studies on existing platforms and translate findings into actionable UI improvements.

• Develop high-fidelity UI screens, interactive prototypes, and reusable design system components within Figma.

• Ensure a consistent, yet platform-native, user experience across web and mobile interfaces, adhering to Apple HIG and Material Design principles.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including engineers, delivery leads, and client stakeholders, to drive successful product delivery within a defined timeframe.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a contract position focused on a specific project involving a financial institution's digital platforms. The emphasis is on rapid, high-quality delivery within a 10-week timeframe, requiring a senior designer capable of independent decision-making and strong stakeholder management. The hybrid work model suggests a balance between focused individual work and team collaboration.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Own the design strategy and execution for a responsive web portal (mobile, tablet, desktop) and native iOS/Android applications for a financial services client.

• Execute comprehensive usability studies on the current web portal to identify pain points and opportunities for enhancement, directly informing UI/UX improvements.

• Deconstruct and simplify complex financial workflows, designing intuitive and user-friendly interfaces that meet regulatory and user needs.

• Create detailed, pixel-perfect, high-fidelity UI screens, interactive prototypes, and reusable components utilizing Figma's design system capabilities.

• Apply platform-specific design conventions (Apple Human Interface Guidelines, Material Design) judiciously, ensuring native experiences are respected while maintaining brand consistency.

• Strategize and implement design solutions that ensure a unified user experience across web and native mobile platforms without compromising the integrity of each.

• Present, articulate, and defend design rationale and decisions effectively to client stakeholders, incorporating feedback constructively.

• Foster close, collaborative relationships with Bilue and client-side engineers, designers, and project managers to ensure seamless design-to-development handoff and iterative feedback loops.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for a designer who can manage multiple platforms simultaneously and translate complex, regulated requirements into elegant user experiences. The emphasis on usability studies and translating findings into UI improvements indicates a research-informed design approach.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• While no specific degree is mandated, a strong educational background in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Interaction Design, Graphic Design, or a related field is highly beneficial. Equivalent practical experience will be considered. Experience:

• A minimum of 5-10 years of proven experience as a Senior Product Designer, UX Designer, or UI Designer, with a significant track record of designing complex digital products.

• Demonstrated experience in delivering projects within tight deadlines and with minimal oversight, characteristic of a senior-level, contract role. Required Skills:

• Figma Proficiency: Deep expertise in Figma, including advanced capabilities in building and maintaining design systems, component architecture, and collaborative workflows.

• Native App Design Expertise: Genuine hands-on experience designing native iOS and Android applications, with a solid understanding of Apple HIG and Material Design principles and their practical application.

• Responsive Web Design: Proven ability to design responsive interfaces for mobile, tablet, and desktop, with a focus on intent-driven design rather than simple resizing.

• Design Thinking & Usability: Strong foundation in design thinking methodologies, user research, and conducting usability studies to inform design decisions.

• UI Execution: A high standard of visual design execution, delivering pixel-perfect, polished UI screens and prototypes.

• Communication & Stakeholder Management: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively present design decisions and manage expectations with technical and non-technical stakeholders.

• Solution-Oriented Mindset: Ability to translate complex requirements (especially in regulated environments) into clear, practical, and creative design solutions.

Preferred Skills:

• Financial Services/Regulated Industry Experience: Prior experience designing for financial institutions or other regulated sectors, with an understanding of accessibility standards (WCAG) and trust-building design elements.

• AI-Accelerated Workflow: Demonstrated experience and ability to articulate the use of AI tools to enhance design speed and quality across the design process.

• Prototyping Tools: Proficiency in various prototyping tools beyond Figma, if applicable, for dynamic demonstrations.

• Accessibility Expertise: In-depth knowledge of WCAG guidelines and experience implementing accessible design solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize practical, hands-on experience over formal education. The explicit mention of AI-accelerated workflows suggests a forward-thinking approach to design tools and processes, which candidates should be prepared to discuss. A portfolio showcasing both design thinking and high-quality visual execution is critical.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated portfolio that prominently showcases strong design thinking, problem-solving methodologies, and a high standard of visual execution across multiple projects.

• Specific case studies demonstrating the end-to-end design process for complex digital products, ideally including web and native mobile applications.

• Examples of how user research and usability findings directly influenced design decisions and led to measurable improvements.

• Demonstrations of UI screens, interactive prototypes, and well-structured design systems or component libraries built in Figma.

• Evidence of designing for regulated environments or complex workflows, highlighting how user needs and constraints were balanced. Process Documentation:

• Case studies should clearly articulate the design process followed, including research methods, ideation stages, iteration cycles, and final implementation.

• For each project, detail the specific tools and techniques used, with a particular emphasis on Figma's capabilities and any AI tools incorporated.

• Showcase the ability to document design decisions, rationale, and user flows in a clear, concise manner suitable for cross-functional team understanding.

• Highlight how design consistency was maintained across different platforms (web, iOS, Android) and how platform conventions were applied.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is paramount for this contract role. Candidates must be able to clearly articulate their process, demonstrate impact through case studies, and showcase proficiency in Figma and native design principles. The ability to demonstrate how AI tools are integrated into their workflow is also a key differentiator.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for senior contract product designers in Sydney, Australia, with 5-10 years of experience, the estimated hourly rate would typically range from AUD $70 to AUD $100 per hour, or an equivalent project-based fee. This range accounts for the contract nature of the role, the senior level required, and the specialized skills in demand. Benefits:

• As a contract role, traditional employee benefits may not apply. However, typical contractual engagements may include:

  • Competitive hourly/project rate.

  • Opportunity to work on high-profile projects for a reputable digital consultancy and a significant financial institution.

  • Exposure to complex financial workflows and user challenges.

  • Potential for future contract extensions or engagements based on performance.

  • Flexible hybrid work arrangement. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are expected, likely around 40 hours per week. The hybrid model allows for flexibility in structuring these hours, balancing focused work with team collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on market rates for contract Senior Product Designers in Sydney. Candidates should be prepared to negotiate their rate based on their experience and the project's scope. It's crucial to clarify what benefits, if any, are included in the contract.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Digital Consultancy / Technology Services. Bilue specializes in designing and building user-friendly technology solutions for well-known Australian businesses, focusing on impact and customer outcomes.

Company Size: Bilue operates with a lean, agile structure, likely employing between 50-200 individuals, with offices in Sydney and Melbourne, and a presence in Manila. This size fosters a collaborative, low-politics environment.

Founded: While the founding date isn't specified, Bilue positions itself as a modern, values-led digital consultancy.

Team Structure:

• The design team at Bilue is likely composed of skilled UX/UI designers, product designers, and potentially researchers.

• This role will involve close collaboration within a project team, likely including a Delivery Lead, fellow designers, and engineers from both Bilue and the client's organization.

• The structure emphasizes autonomy and direct collaboration, with leadership being hands-on and approachable. Methodology:

• Bilue emphasizes a "people-first and purpose-driven" culture, encouraging curiosity and collaboration.

• They value excellence over ego and foster a high-trust environment with low politics, promoting open communication and mutual support.

• The approach to design is user-centric, grounded in real user insight, and balanced with creative solutions that are realistically deliverable.

• They advocate for AI-accelerated workflows to enhance efficiency and sharpen design outcomes.

Company Website: bilue.com.au

📝 Enhancement Note: Bilue's culture is described as down-to-earth, values-led, and focused on collaboration and individual growth. For a contract role, understanding this culture is key to successful integration and collaboration with the existing team and client.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior Contract Product Designer role, demanding a high level of autonomy, strategic input, and execution capability. It's an opportunity to lead design on a significant project within a specialized domain (financial services).

Reporting Structure: The designer will report to a Delivery Lead within Bilue and will also work closely with client stakeholders and engineering teams. The structure is designed for direct collaboration and minimal hierarchical friction.

Operations Impact: The designer's impact will be direct and visible, significantly influencing the user experience of a critical financial portal and its associated mobile applications. Success will be measured by the quality of the delivered UI, user satisfaction, and adherence to project timelines.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in native app design (iOS/Android), responsive web design, and design systems within a regulated industry context.

• AI Tool Integration: Further refine and demonstrate proficiency in leveraging AI tools for accelerated and enhanced design workflows.

• Client Relationship Management: Gain experience in managing client expectations and presenting to senior stakeholders in the financial sector.

• Project Leadership: Demonstrate leadership in design execution on a complex, high-stakes project, potentially paving the way for future senior contract roles or engagements.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a contract role, this position offers significant opportunities for skill enhancement and demonstrating high-level design leadership. The focus is on immediate impact and delivering tangible results within the project scope.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work model, combining remote work with in-office collaboration.

Office Location(s): Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. The specific office address is Level 13, 4 Bligh Street, Sydney, 2000.

Workspace Context:

• The hybrid model allows for focused, individual work remotely while maintaining team cohesion and collaborative opportunities through in-office days.

• This environment is described as low-drama and high-trust, encouraging open communication and back-and-forth between team members.

• Access to Bilue's design tools and technology stack, including Figma, is a given. Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time working hours (approx. 40 hours per week) are expected, with flexibility afforded by the hybrid model. The 10-week contract duration implies an intensive but focused work period.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role requires self-discipline and effective communication for remote work, while also valuing in-person collaboration. Candidates should be comfortable with this blend and prepared to articulate how they thrive in such environments.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: likely a review of your resume and portfolio against the core requirements.

• Portfolio Presentation & Discussion: A session where you'll walk through selected case studies from your portfolio, explaining your design process, decisions, and impact. Be prepared to discuss your experience with Figma, native design, and complex workflows.

• Technical/Skills Assessment: This may involve a short design exercise or a deeper dive into your Figma skills and understanding of design systems.

• Stakeholder/Team Interview: You'll likely meet with a Delivery Lead and potentially a client representative to assess your consultative approach, communication style, and cultural fit.

• Final Decision: Based on a holistic review of your skills, experience, portfolio, and cultural alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 2-3 of your strongest case studies that best represent your senior-level skills in product design, UX/UI, native app design, and responsive web design. Prioritize projects that showcase complex problem-solving within financial or regulated industries if possible.

• Tell a Story: For each case study, clearly outline the problem, your role and responsibilities, the design process you followed (research, ideation, iteration), your design decisions and rationale, and the impact/outcome of your work. Use visuals (screenshots, prototypes) effectively.

• Highlight Figma & Native Expertise: Explicitly demonstrate your proficiency in Figma, including your approach to design systems and component architecture. Showcase your understanding of Apple HIG and Material Design, explaining how you applied them and when you deviated.

• Discuss AI Integration: Be ready to explain how you use AI tools in your workflow to enhance speed and quality, providing specific examples.

• Focus on Process & Impact: Emphasize your design thinking and problem-solving skills, not just the aesthetics. Quantify impact where possible (e.g., improved conversion rates, reduced task completion time).

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for potential scenario-based questions where you'll need to outline your approach to a specific design challenge, such as simplifying a complex financial transaction or improving the usability of a specific feature.

• Practice articulating your design rationale concisely and persuasively, as if presenting to a client.

• Familiarize yourself with common financial services UI patterns and accessibility considerations (WCAG).

📝 Enhancement Note: The focus for this role is heavily on the portfolio and the ability to articulate design decisions and processes clearly. Candidates should prepare to discuss their experience with Figma, native platforms, and how they leverage AI in their workflow.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: This is the core design tool. Deep proficiency is essential, including advanced features like component architecture, design systems, prototyping, and collaborative features.

• Prototyping Tools: While Figma has robust prototyping capabilities, familiarity with other tools like InVision, Adobe XD, or Principle might be beneficial for certain types of demonstrations.

• AI Design Tools: The role explicitly mentions an "AI-accelerated workflow." Candidates should be prepared to discuss specific AI tools they use for ideation, asset generation, workflow automation, or other design-related tasks.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary responsibility for a designer, an understanding of how design impacts user behavior and key metrics (e.g., conversion rates, task success rates, user engagement) is beneficial. Familiarity with analytics platforms like Google Analytics or Amplitude might be helpful for context. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly relevant to the designer's core tasks, but understanding the business context of a financial institution's digital platforms is important.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Figma is non-negotiable. The explicit mention of "AI-accelerated workflow" is a significant differentiator, and candidates should be ready to discuss their practical application of AI in their design process.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence, Not Ego: A commitment to high-quality work and delivery, prioritizing team success and mutual respect over individual recognition.

• Curiosity Encouraged: A mindset of continuous learning, exploration, and a willingness to ask questions and seek new solutions.

• Collaboration is Second Nature: An emphasis on teamwork, open communication, and shared problem-solving across disciplines and with clients.

• Low Politics, High Trust: A transparent and supportive work environment where individuals are empowered and trusted to do their best work.

• People-First, Purpose-Driven: A focus on employee well-being and creating solutions that deliver meaningful impact for users and businesses.

Collaboration Style:

• Generous Collaboration: Openly sharing design thinking, providing constructive feedback, and actively supporting colleagues.

• Cross-Functional Integration: Working closely with engineers, delivery leads, and client teams to ensure alignment and seamless execution.

• Consultative Approach: Engaging stakeholders effectively, managing expectations, and proactively flagging risks.

• Hybrid Model Dynamics: Adapting collaboration to a mix of remote and in-office interactions, ensuring effective communication and team cohesion.

📝 Enhancement Note: Bilue's culture prioritizes collaboration, trust, and a user-centric approach to design. As a contract designer, demonstrating an ability to integrate seamlessly into this culture and contribute positively to team dynamics will be crucial for success.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Tight Deadline (10 Weeks): Delivering a comprehensive design uplift for a complex financial portal and apps within a short timeframe requires efficient workflow, strong prioritization, and confident decision-making.

• Complex Regulated Environment: Designing for a financial institution involves navigating strict regulations, compliance requirements, and a strong emphasis on security and trust, which can constrain creative freedom.

• Balancing Native vs. Web Consistency: Maintaining a cohesive brand and user experience across distinct platforms (web, iOS, Android) while respecting platform-specific conventions is a common design challenge.

• Translating Complex Workflows: Simplifying intricate financial processes into intuitive and user-friendly interfaces requires deep user empathy and strong information architecture skills.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Domain Expertise: Gaining exposure to the intricacies of financial services user journeys and regulatory compliance.

• Advanced Figma Skills: Further honing expertise in design systems, component architecture, and collaborative workflows within Figma.

• AI Tool Mastery: Deepening practical application of AI tools for design acceleration and exploring new possibilities.

• Stakeholder Management: Enhancing skills in presenting to and influencing senior stakeholders in a corporate environment.

• Cross-Platform Design: Refining expertise in designing for responsive web and native mobile platforms simultaneously.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge is the compressed timeline combined with the complexity of the project domain. Success will hinge on the designer's ability to manage these constraints effectively and leverage their senior-level experience.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for conducting a usability study on an existing web portal and how you would translate those findings into actionable UI improvements."

• "How do you approach balancing the need for brand consistency with adhering to platform-specific design conventions (e.g., Apple HIG, Material Design) across web and native mobile apps?"

• "Walk me through a time you had to simplify a complex workflow for a regulated industry. What were the challenges, and how did you ensure clarity and compliance?"

• "Given a 10-week contract, how would you prioritize your design tasks to ensure timely delivery of a high-quality product uplift?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "How do you typically integrate into a new project team, especially in a contract role, and foster collaboration?"

• "Bilue values 'Excellence, Not Ego' and 'Low Politics, High Trust.' How do these values resonate with your work style and past experiences?"

• "Can you provide an example of a time you used AI tools to significantly speed up or improve your design process? What tools did you use, and what was the outcome?"

• "How would you approach managing expectations with client stakeholders on a fast-paced project?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, follow a clear problem-solution-outcome structure. Begin with the business/user problem, detail your role and the design process, showcase your design solutions (UI, prototypes), and conclude with the impact or results.

• Demonstrate Figma Mastery: Show actual Figma files or detailed walkthroughs of your design systems, component libraries, and interactive prototypes. Highlight how you leverage Figma for collaboration.

• Explain Your "Why": For every design decision, articulate the rationale behind it. Connect your decisions back to user needs, business goals, or technical constraints.

• Showcase Native Design Nuances: Explicitly point out where you applied platform conventions and why. If you deviated, explain the justification.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about specific design choices, user testing methodologies, or technical implementation considerations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating senior-level problem-solving, strong communication skills, and a clear understanding of the design process. Be prepared to discuss your experience with Figma, native design, AI tools, and your ability to deliver under pressure.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Product Designer contract position:

• Submit your application through the provided SmartRecruiters link.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 of your strongest case studies that highlight your senior-level experience in product design, UX/UI, native app design, and responsive web design. Ensure they clearly demonstrate your design thinking, process, and impact, with a focus on Figma and native platform conventions.

• Optimize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to emphasize your experience with complex digital products, financial services (if applicable), native app design, responsive design, and proficiency in Figma. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare Your Pitch: Practice walking through your portfolio case studies, focusing on clear storytelling, articulating your design rationale, and demonstrating your understanding of user-centered design and AI-accelerated workflows. Be ready to discuss your approach to tight deadlines and regulated environments.

• Research Bilue: Familiarize yourself with Bilue's website, their company culture, and their approach to digital consultancy. Understand their values and how you can align with them.

⚠️ 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.