Senior UX/UI Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior UX/UI Designer

Company: Balsam Brands

Location: Manila, Philippines (Remote)

Job Type: Contract

Category: UX/UI Design & Digital Experience Operations

Date Posted: 2026-08-11

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Fully Remote

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on delivering user-centric, high-quality digital designs for Balsam Brands' websites, requiring a strong command of UX/UI principles and design software.

• The Senior UX/UI Designer will independently manage design priorities, collaborate cross-functionally, and advocate for end-user needs and accessibility best practices.

• Responsibilities include creating ad assets, iterating on designs based on feedback, and maintaining style guides and pattern libraries for brand consistency.

• The position demands a self-motivated individual with excellent communication skills, capable of working with a flexible schedule and meeting project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is Senior UX/UI Designer, the responsibilities and nature of the engagement (independent contractor via Upwork) place this role within a specialized operations function focused on digital experience optimization. The emphasis on delivering designs with specifications for developers, maintaining style guides, and ensuring consistency aligns with GTM operations and digital asset management functions.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Independently conceptualize, sketch, and create high-fidelity mockups and pixel-perfect designs for Balsam Brands' websites, adhering strictly to brand guidelines and user-centered design principles.

• Develop detailed design specifications, including icons and graphic assets, for seamless handoff to development teams across various digital channels.

• Actively participate in brainstorming sessions, generating multiple design concepts to effectively address business goals and user requirements.

• Maintain and update style guides, pattern libraries, and design systems to ensure a consistent and cohesive brand experience across all digital touchpoints.

• Advocate for user needs, accessibility best practices (WCAG standards), and inclusive design principles throughout the design process.

• Manage multiple design projects simultaneously, prioritizing tasks effectively to meet tight deadlines and project timelines in a remote, independent contractor setting.

• Articulate and present design decisions clearly and persuasively to stakeholders, incorporating feedback and constructive criticism to refine user interfaces and experiences.

• Perform ad hoc design tasks, support team projects, and engage in training activities as assigned to contribute to the broader UX/UI function.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a focus on operationalizing design execution. The emphasis on "delivering high-quality, user-centric, and pixel-perfect designs," "providing final UX/UI designs with specifications for developers," and "following and updating style guides and pattern libraries" highlights the operational aspect of ensuring consistent and effective digital brand representation, which is crucial for Go-To-Market (GTM) operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Web Design, Graphic Design, Human-Computer Interaction, or a related field; equivalent practical experience will also be considered.

Experience: Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in UX/UI design, with a demonstrable track record of delivering user-centered digital experiences.

Required Skills:

• Portfolio: A comprehensive online portfolio showcasing at least 5 years of UX/UI design work, clearly indicating individual contributions versus team efforts.

• Design Software Proficiency: Expert-level skills in Figma, Adobe Photoshop, and Adobe Illustrator, with a strong emphasis on creating well-organized, layer-structured, and clearly named files.

• Web Technologies: Competency in HTML and CSS for understanding implementation constraints and collaborating effectively with developers.

• Design Principles: Deep understanding and passion for typography, color theory, grid layouts, and visual hierarchy.

• Mobile & Responsive Design: Thorough knowledge of mobile design standards and best practices for responsive web design across various devices and screen sizes.

• User-Centered Design: Proven ability to apply a user-centered approach, translating customer goals, business requirements, and technical constraints into effective design solutions.

• Feedback Management: Ability to receive, process, and respond constructively to creative feedback and critiques.

• Organizational Skills: Strong ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and maintain meticulous attention to detail.

• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for articulating design decisions and collaborating effectively.

• Self-Motivation: A highly self-motivated and independent work ethic, capable of thriving in a remote contractor environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with prototyping tools beyond Figma (e.g., InVision, Adobe XD).

• Familiarity with accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG 2.1 AA) and their practical application in design.

• Experience in e-commerce or direct-to-consumer (DTC) digital platforms.

• Basic understanding of front-end development frameworks beyond HTML/CSS.

• Experience working within an Agile development environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "impeccable eye for detail and consistency" and "following and updating style guides and pattern libraries" points towards the operational need for design governance. Proficiency in specific tools like Figma, Photoshop, and Illustrator is critical for the consistent execution of design standards, a key component in digital operations.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Case Studies: Detailed case studies demonstrating the entire UX/UI design process from problem definition, user research, ideation, wireframing, prototyping, user testing, to final design implementation.

• Deliverable Examples: Showcase of final UX/UI designs with clear specifications provided to developers, including detailed mockups, icons, and graphic assets for web and digital channels.

• Style Guide/Pattern Library Contributions: Examples of contributions to or creation of style guides, pattern libraries, or design systems, highlighting efforts to ensure brand consistency and design governance.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Portfolios should include examples that demonstrate how the designer tackled specific design challenges, translated business requirements into design solutions, and advocated for user needs.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Visualization: Ability to present clear visual representations of the design process, including user flows, wireframes, and information architecture.

• Design Handoff Protocols: Examples of how design specifications are documented and communicated to development teams to ensure accurate implementation.

• Iteration & Feedback Loops: Documentation or presentation of how design iterations were managed based on feedback from stakeholders, users, and constructive criticism.

• Consistency Enforcement: Evidence of how design consistency was maintained across multiple projects or digital touchpoints, potentially through the use of design systems or style guides.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role focused on operationalizing design, the portfolio is paramount. It needs to showcase not just aesthetic output but also the systematic approach to design execution, documentation, and collaboration with development. This aligns with the operations need for clear processes and demonstrable results.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $10.94 USD per hour. This rate is fixed and non-negotiable.

Estimated Annual Salary (based on 40 hours/week): Approximately $22,755.20 USD per year.

Benefits:

• Flexible Work Schedule: The role offers flexibility in setting working hours, allowing contractors to align with agreed-upon deliverables and project timelines, facilitating a better work-life balance.

• Independent Contractor Status: As an independent contractor, you have the autonomy to manage your own work structure and choose your projects.

• Remote Work Opportunity: This position is fully remote, eliminating the need for commuting and allowing work from any approved location within the Philippines.

• Professional Development via Upwork: Access to potential learning resources, networking opportunities, and a platform for professional growth through the Upwork ecosystem.

• Direct Project Engagement: Opportunity to work directly with a global company and contribute to impactful digital experiences.

Working Hours: Flexible schedule based on agreed-upon deliverables and timelines. The role is designed for approximately 40 hours per week, with the flexibility to manage personal work hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hourly rate of $10.94 USD is explicitly stated. For regional context, this translates to approximately 635 Philippine Pesos per hour (using an approximate exchange rate of 1 USD = 58 PHP). This rate is significantly below the average for a Senior UX/UI Designer in Metro Manila, suggesting this role is targeted towards individuals seeking remote contract work with specific flexibility and global exposure, rather than traditional local employment benefits and compensation standards. The role emphasizes flexibility and autonomy typical of contract work.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: E-commerce, Home Goods, Retail. Balsam Brands operates in the competitive online retail space, focusing on creating exceptional customer experiences for their direct-to-consumer (DTC) brands. This requires a constant focus on digital presence, brand storytelling, and user engagement.

Company Size: Balsam Brands is a growing company. While specific numbers aren't provided, their operational presence in multiple countries and multiple hiring locations suggests a substantial and expanding organization. This implies a structured environment with established processes, even for contractor roles.

Founded: Balsam Brands was founded in 2003. This long history indicates stability, experience in the e-commerce sector, and a mature approach to business operations and brand building.

Team Structure:

• The Senior UX/UI Designer reports to the Director of UX/UI, indicating a clear reporting line within a dedicated design department.

• This role requires "strong cross-functional collaboration," suggesting interaction with marketing, product development, and engineering teams to ensure cohesive digital experiences.

• As an independent contractor, the individual will likely operate with a high degree of autonomy within the UX/UI team, contributing specialized design expertise. Methodology:

• User-Centric Design: The core methodology emphasizes understanding brand, products, and users to create effective designs. This translates to a data-informed approach where user needs are prioritized.

• Iterative Design: The process involves brainstorming, sketching, creating mockups, and iterating based on feedback, reflecting a standard agile or iterative design workflow.

• Brand Consistency: A key operational focus is ensuring designs adhere to brand guidelines and style guides, maintaining a unified brand identity across all digital assets.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Balsam Brands' focus on e-commerce and DTC implies a strong emphasis on digital customer experience. The operational need for a Senior UX/UI Designer stems from the requirement to maintain and enhance this digital storefront, ensuring it's not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional and conversion-oriented.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as "Senior," indicating a level of experience and autonomy beyond junior or mid-level designers. It requires independent delivery, project ownership, and the ability to articulate complex design decisions.

Reporting Structure: The Senior UX/UI Designer reports directly to the Director of UX/UI. This suggests a clear hierarchy within the design function, with opportunities for mentorship from a senior leader and direct contribution to strategic design initiatives.

Operations Impact: The role's impact is critical for the company's revenue and customer acquisition/retention. High-quality UX/UI designs directly influence user engagement, conversion rates, brand perception, and overall customer satisfaction on Balsam Brands' websites. Effective design operations are integral to the success of their e-commerce business model.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas of UX/UI design, such as e-commerce optimization, mobile-first design, or accessibility standards.

• Portfolio Expansion: Building a robust portfolio with high-impact projects for a reputable e-commerce company, which can be leveraged for future career advancements.

• Cross-functional Exposure: Gaining experience by collaborating with various departments, understanding how design integrates with marketing, product, and sales operations.

• Potential for Long-Term Engagement: While a contract role, successful performance and alignment with the company's needs could lead to ongoing project work or future opportunities within Balsam Brands.

• Mastery of Design Systems: Contributing to and understanding the operational aspects of design systems can lead to specialized career paths in design governance and operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: As a contract role, traditional "growth opportunities" like promotions are different. Growth here is primarily about skill enhancement, portfolio building, and potentially securing more substantial contracts. The "Senior" title implies a capacity for leadership within projects, even without direct reports.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a fully remote role, operating as an independent contractor. There is no physical office environment in the traditional sense. The work is performed remotely from the contractor's chosen location.

Office Location(s): The role is open to individual independent contractors located within specific provinces in the Philippines: Metro Manila, Bataan, Batangas, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, Pampanga, Rizal, and Tarlac.

Workspace Context:

• Remote Autonomy: Contractors are expected to manage their own workspace, ensuring it is conducive to focused work and efficient design execution.

• Technology Dependence: The role heavily relies on the contractor's personal equipment (laptop, backup device) and a reliable, high-speed internet connection (minimum 50MBPS DSL, Fiber, or Broadband). This underscores the operational requirement for a stable digital infrastructure.

• Collaboration Tools: While not explicitly stated, collaboration will likely occur through digital communication and project management tools (potentially integrated with Upwork), requiring strong digital communication skills.

Work Schedule: The schedule is flexible, based on agreed-upon deliverables and timelines. This allows contractors to manage their time effectively, provided project milestones are met. The expectation is for approximately 40 hours per week, but the timing is adaptable.

📝 Enhancement Note: The strict requirements for internet speed and personal equipment highlight the operational necessities for a remote contractor role. The company is outsourcing a critical function and relies on the contractor to provide the necessary infrastructure, ensuring minimal disruption to their digital operations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Upwork Application: The initial application is managed through the Upwork platform. Candidates are advised not to create an Upwork account until instructed.

• Portfolio Review: A critical component will be the thorough review of the candidate's online portfolio. Emphasis will be placed on the quality of work, clarity of individual contributions, and demonstration of the design process.

• Skills Assessment: Potential interviews or assessments may focus on Figma, Photoshop, Illustrator proficiency, understanding of HTML/CSS, and the application of UX/UI principles.

• Cross-functional Understanding: Candidates may be asked to discuss their approach to collaborating with developers and other stakeholders.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Expect questions or exercises that require applying design thinking to hypothetical business or user challenges.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Individual Contributions: Clearly delineate which projects were solely your work and which involved team collaboration, specifying your exact role and contributions.

• Showcase Process, Not Just Polish: Include wireframes, user flows, research insights, and iterations to demonstrate your design methodology and problem-solving approach.

• Quantify Impact (If Possible): Where applicable, include metrics or outcomes that show the positive impact of your designs on user engagement or business goals.

• Organized File Structure: Be prepared to discuss or demonstrate the organization of your design files (layers, naming conventions) as a testament to your professional workflow.

• Tailor to E-commerce: If possible, highlight projects relevant to e-commerce, DTC brands, or similar digital platforms.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Challenge Simulation: Be ready for potential design challenges that mimic real-world tasks, such as designing a specific feature or improving an existing user flow.

• Communication Practice: Practice articulating your design rationale clearly and concisely, as this is crucial for remote collaboration.

• Tool Proficiency Readiness: Ensure your primary design tools (Figma, Photoshop, Illustrator) are readily accessible and you are comfortable navigating them under potential time constraints.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process is non-traditional, being managed via Upwork. The portfolio is the primary gatekeeper, and its review will focus on both the output and the operational process behind it, including organization and collaboration capabilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: Essential for UI design, prototyping, and collaborative workflows. Proficiency in creating design systems, components, and interactive prototypes is expected.

• Adobe Photoshop: Required for image editing, manipulation, and creating detailed graphic assets. Emphasis on organized layers and efficient workflows.

• Adobe Illustrator: Necessary for creating vector graphics, icons, logos, and other scalable visual elements.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While direct analytics tools are not specified for this role, understanding how designs impact key metrics (e.g., conversion rates, bounce rates, time on page) is crucial. The designer must be able to interpret data and feedback to inform design decisions. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this design role, but an understanding of how user journeys and digital touchpoints integrate with CRM and marketing automation platforms can be beneficial for a holistic view. Other Relevant Technologies:

• HTML & CSS: Fundamental knowledge is required for effective collaboration with developers and understanding front-end implementation capabilities.

• Prototyping Tools: Proficiency in Figma's prototyping features is key; familiarity with other tools like InVision or Adobe XD is a plus.

• Collaboration Platforms: Familiarity with platforms like Slack, Asana, Trello, or similar tools used for remote team communication and project management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Figma, Photoshop, and Illustrator, along with HTML/CSS, defines the core technical requirements. These are standard tools for digital design operations, ensuring that the output is not only creative but also technically feasible and maintainable.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• User Advocacy: A core value is to consistently champion the end-user's needs, ensuring that designs are intuitive, accessible, and provide a positive experience.

• Brand Integrity: Maintaining and enhancing the brand's visual identity and messaging across all digital touchpoints is paramount. This requires a meticulous approach to design consistency.

• Efficiency and Organization: As an independent contractor, self-discipline, strong organizational skills, and efficient workflow management are critical operational values.

• Collaboration and Communication: While working independently, effective communication and the ability to collaborate constructively with remote teams are essential for project success.

• Continuous Improvement: A willingness to adapt to feedback, learn new design techniques, and stay updated with industry trends is valued.

Collaboration Style:

• Remote Collaboration: The role necessitates strong virtual collaboration skills, utilizing digital tools to communicate ideas, share progress, and receive feedback.

• Cross-Functional Integration: Designers are expected to work effectively with product managers, developers, and marketing teams, bridging the gap between user needs and technical implementation.

• Feedback-Driven Iteration: The culture likely embraces constructive criticism as a means to refine designs, with an expectation that designers can both give and receive feedback professionally.

• Independent Contribution: While collaboration is key, there's a strong emphasis on independent execution and ownership of design tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "user-centric approach," "brand guidelines," and "strong organizational skills" directly translates to operational values. The company relies on these values to ensure consistent, high-quality digital experiences delivered efficiently by remote contractors.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Remote Work Management: Successfully managing time, staying motivated, and maintaining clear communication in a fully remote, independent contractor capacity can be challenging.

• Balancing User Needs with Business Goals: Effectively translating diverse user requirements and business objectives into cohesive and practical design solutions requires careful strategic thinking.

• Adhering to Strict Brand Guidelines: Consistently applying brand standards across various digital assets while still allowing for creative expression can be a delicate operational balance.

• Technical Constraints: Working within the limitations of HTML/CSS and development capabilities requires practical design solutions that are both innovative and feasible.

• Managing Feedback: Navigating constructive criticism and incorporating feedback from multiple stakeholders while maintaining design integrity requires strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deepen E-commerce UX Expertise: Gain significant experience in designing for online retail, understanding conversion optimization, and improving customer journeys within an e-commerce context.

• Master Design Systems: Contribute to or learn from the operational aspects of design systems, enhancing skills in creating scalable and maintainable design assets.

• Expand Tool Proficiency: Further refine skills in Figma, Photoshop, and Illustrator, and potentially explore advanced features or complementary design tools.

• Develop Remote Collaboration Skills: Enhance abilities in virtual communication, project management, and working effectively in a distributed team environment.

• Portfolio Enhancement: Build a strong portfolio with demonstrable results for a recognized global brand, which can serve as a significant asset for future career opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are inherent to the operational nature of a remote design role. The growth opportunities are focused on skill development and portfolio building, which are key for contractors looking to advance their careers in specialized design operations.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for translating a business requirement into a user-centered design solution. Walk us through a specific example from your portfolio." (Focus on structured problem-solving, user research, and iterative design).

• "How do you ensure brand consistency across different digital platforms and assets? What role do style guides and pattern libraries play in your workflow?" (Highlight your understanding of design governance and operationalizing brand standards).

• "Imagine a situation where a stakeholder provides feedback that conflicts with your user research findings. How would you approach this scenario?" (Demonstrate your ability to advocate for the user while managing stakeholder relationships).

• "Discuss your experience with accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG). How do you integrate accessibility into your design process?" (Showcase your commitment to inclusive design and its operational implementation). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working with Balsam Brands and our product offerings?" (Research their brands and demonstrate genuine interest).

• "How do you stay motivated and organized when working independently as a remote contractor?" (Highlight your self-management skills and work ethic).

• "Describe your ideal working relationship with developers and other team members." (Emphasize collaborative communication and a shared understanding of project goals). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, clearly define the problem, your role, the process you followed, the solutions you designed, and the outcomes achieved.

• Visual Aids are Key: Use high-quality mockups, wireframes, and user flows to illustrate your points. Be prepared to zoom in on specific details.

• Highlight Your Technical Workflow: Be ready to discuss your file organization, layer naming conventions, and how you prepare assets for developer handoff. This demonstrates operational rigor.

• Focus on Impact: Whenever possible, connect your design decisions to business goals or user experience improvements. Quantify results if you have them.

• Be Prepared for Live Design Challenges: If a live design exercise is part of the process, practice quick ideation, wireframing, and articulating your thought process under time pressure.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for this role should focus on demonstrating not just creative talent but also operational discipline, clear communication, and the ability to work autonomously within a defined framework. The portfolio presentation is a critical opportunity to showcase these operational skills.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations-focused design position:

• Submit Your Application via Upwork: Follow the instructions provided to apply through the Upwork platform. Do not create an Upwork account until instructed.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select your strongest UX/UI design projects, ensuring you clearly articulate your individual contributions, the design process, and any measurable outcomes. Tailor your portfolio to highlight experience in e-commerce and DTC brands if possible.

• Optimize Your Resume/Profile: Ensure your Upwork profile or any submitted resume clearly highlights your 5+ years of experience, proficiency in Figma, Photoshop, Illustrator, HTML/CSS, and your experience with user-centered and responsive design. Use keywords relevant to UX/UI design and digital operations.

• Prepare Your Design Narrative: Practice presenting your portfolio case studies, focusing on your problem-solving approach, design decisions, and collaboration skills. Be ready to discuss your workflow and how you ensure design consistency and quality.

• Research Balsam Brands: Familiarize yourself with Balsam Brands' company mission, their various brands, and their existing digital presence to demonstrate genuine interest and understanding of their market.

⚠️ 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. The role is for an independent contractor via Upwork, with specific technical and connection requirements, and a fixed hourly rate.