Senior UX/UI Designer (m/w/d)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior UX/UI Designer (m/f/d)

Company: SUNZINET

Location: Köln, Hamburg, Germany

Job Type: Full time

Category: UX/UI Design, Digital Transformation

Date Posted: 2026-09-25

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the end-to-end design of digital experiences, from initial ideation through to final interface implementation, with a strong emphasis on user-centricity and visual appeal.

• Integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a core component of the design workflow, leveraging AI for ideation, rapid prototyping, variant generation, and quality assurance.

• Develop and present compelling concepts, visual designs, and interactive prototypes for client pitches, aiming to win new business and foster strong client relationships.

• Work with and contribute to existing design systems, ensuring consistency, scalability, and efficiency across projects while pushing creative boundaries.

• Collaborate closely with clients and internal cross-functional teams, providing expert consultation on UX/UI best practices, design strategy, and overall digital experience enhancement.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Senior UX/UI Designer, indicating a need for significant autonomy, client-facing experience, and a proactive approach to integrating new technologies like AI into design processes. The emphasis on pitches suggests a strong sales support component within the design function.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, design, and iterate on user interfaces and user experiences for a variety of digital products and platforms, ensuring a high level of visual appeal and intuitive functionality.

• Utilize AI tools and prompt engineering techniques to accelerate the design process, generate creative concepts, explore design variations, and build functional prototypes that align with client objectives.

• Take ownership of the design phase for client pitches, including developing persuasive visual narratives, crafting engaging prototypes, and delivering impactful presentations that articulate design solutions and their business value.

• Contribute to the development, maintenance, and evolution of design systems, ensuring adherence to brand guidelines and promoting design consistency and reusability across the agency.

• Actively engage with clients to understand their business needs, user challenges, and strategic goals, translating these insights into effective and innovative design solutions.

• Provide design leadership and mentorship to junior designers, fostering a culture of continuous learning and excellence within the design team.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including strategists, developers, and project managers, to ensure seamless integration of design into the overall project lifecycle and deliver high-quality digital products.

• Stay abreast of the latest trends in UX/UI design, AI in design, and digital transformation to continuously enhance the agency's service offerings and client value.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of "pitches" and "clients" indicates a significant client-facing component. The emphasis on AI integration suggests that candidates will be expected to be early adopters and proficient users of AI tools in their design process, not just theoretical enthusiasts.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a strong educational background in Design, Human-Computer Interaction, Digital Media, or a related field is highly beneficial, coupled with demonstrable practical experience.

Experience: A minimum of 2-5 years of professional experience in UX/UI design, with a proven track record of designing and delivering digital products or platforms.

Required Skills:

• Proven experience in UX/UI design, encompassing user research, wireframing, prototyping, and visual design for digital products and platforms.

• Advanced proficiency in Figma, including experience with design systems, component libraries, and collaborative workflows.

• Demonstrated passion for and practical experience with Artificial Intelligence (AI) in design, including ideation, visual generation, prototyping, and iterative refinement using AI tools.

• Expertise in crafting compelling visual narratives and clear storytelling through design to effectively communicate ideas and solutions.

• Strong understanding of design systems, their principles, and their application in ensuring consistency and scalability.

• Excellent presentation and communication skills, with the ability to articulate design concepts, strategies, and rationale to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, including clients.

• Experience in leading or significantly contributing to client pitches, including concept development and visual presentation. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with prompt engineering for AI design tools to achieve reproducible and high-quality design outputs.

• Familiarity with other design and prototyping tools beyond Figma.

• Understanding of front-end development principles to facilitate better collaboration with engineering teams.

• Experience in consulting or agency environments, working with diverse clients and project types.

• Knowledge of marketing, CRM, e-commerce, or employee experience platforms and their design considerations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "2-5 years" experience level suggests a mid-to-senior role where candidates are expected to be largely independent but may still be developing leadership skills. The emphasis on AI and prompt engineering is a key differentiator for this role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a range of UX/UI design projects, demonstrating a clear progression from problem definition to solution implementation.

• Case studies that highlight your design thinking process, user-centered approach, and problem-solving methodologies.

• Visual examples of your work that display a strong aesthetic sensibility, attention to detail, and brand alignment.

• Evidence of your ability to work with and contribute to design systems, showcasing consistency and scalability in your designs.

• Demonstrations of your proficiency in Figma, including complex layouts, interactive prototypes, and component-based design. Process Documentation:

• Case studies that clearly outline the design challenges, your specific role, the methodologies employed (including AI integration), and the tangible outcomes or impact of your work.

• Examples of how you've used AI tools in your design workflow, detailing the prompts used, the iterative process, and the resulting improvements in efficiency or creativity.

• Documentation of your approach to client interaction and collaboration, illustrating how you translate client needs into design solutions.

• Examples of design system contributions or best practices you've implemented.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is critical for this role, especially to demonstrate AI integration. Candidates should prepare to walk through their process and explain the rationale behind their design decisions and AI tool usage.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The fixed salary band for this position is between €46,800 and €50,400 per year, dependent on your experience and skillset.

Benefits:

• 30 days of vacation per year 🌴

• Home Office options 🏠

• Flexible working hours (Gleitzeit) ⏰

• Opportunity for Workation 🌍

• Membership in the Urban Sports Club 💪

• Personal training and development budget 🎓

• Regular agency events and team-building activities 🎉

• Modern workplace with state-of-the-art technology 💻

• Company bike or company car (available after the probationary period) 🚲🚗

• Dog-friendly office environment 🐶

• Free parking available at the Cologne office location 🅿️

Working Hours: Standard full-time employment, with flexible working hours (Gleitzeit) allowing for adaptability. The typical working week is 40 hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range (€46,800 - €50,400) is for a Senior UX/UI Designer in Germany. This range is competitive for mid-level to senior roles in design agencies, especially in cities like Cologne and Hamburg, considering the cost of living and industry benchmarks. The benefits package is comprehensive and typical for a leading digital agency in Germany.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Digital Transformation, Digital Agency, Technology, Marketing, Consulting. SUNZINET operates within a dynamic sector focused on helping established brands navigate and leverage digital advancements.

Company Size: Approximately 160 employees. This size suggests a company with established processes and a solid market presence, yet still agile enough to foster a collaborative and personal work environment.

Founded: Over 25 years ago. This long history indicates stability, deep industry expertise, and a proven ability to adapt to evolving digital landscapes.

Team Structure:

• The UX/UI design team is part of a larger agency structure of ~160 specialists.

• Roles are likely interdisciplinary, with close collaboration between designers, strategists, AI specialists, developers, and marketing experts.

• Reporting structure is not explicitly defined but likely involves a Design Lead or Creative Director, with direct client interaction for senior roles. Methodology:

• AI-Powered Design: A core methodology involves integrating AI into the design workflow for ideation, variant generation, prototyping, and quality assurance.

• User-Centricity: Emphasis on creating digital experiences that are user-friendly, engaging, and meet user needs effectively.

• Agile Development: Projects are likely managed using agile principles, fostering iterative development and flexibility.

• Design Systems: A focus on building and utilizing design systems to ensure consistency, efficiency, and scalability across projects.

• Client-Centric Approach: Strong emphasis on understanding client goals and delivering solutions that drive business impact.

Company Website: [SUNZINET company website URL not provided, but likely sunzinet.com based on domain_derived]

📝 Enhancement Note: SUNZINET positions itself as a leader in digital transformation, working with prominent brands. The company culture is described as innovative, collaborative, and focused on growth, with a significant emphasis on integrating AI into design processes.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is a Senior UX/UI Designer, indicating a position of significant responsibility and autonomy. It's a level where individuals are expected to lead design initiatives, mentor junior colleagues, and play a key role in client engagements, particularly in pitches.

Reporting Structure: While not explicitly detailed, a Senior UX/UI Designer would typically report to a Head of Design, Creative Director, or a similar leadership role within the agency. They would also work closely with Project Managers and Account Managers.

Operations Impact: The impact of this role is directly tied to creating compelling digital experiences that drive client success. This includes enhancing user engagement, improving conversion rates, strengthening brand perception, and directly contributing to winning new business through successful pitches. The integration of AI is a key factor in driving efficiency and innovation, further amplifying the impact.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to lead design projects, mentor junior designers, and potentially move into a Design Lead or Art Director role.

• AI Specialization: Deepen expertise in applying AI to design workflows, becoming a go-to specialist for AI-driven design solutions.

• Client Consulting: Develop advanced client advisory skills, becoming a trusted partner in digital strategy and experience design.

• Cross-functional Expertise: Expand knowledge in related areas like marketing, CRM, or e-commerce through interdisciplinary project work.

• Continuous Learning: Access to a personal training budget and participation in agency events and industry conferences to stay current with trends.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Senior level implies a clear path for further growth into leadership or specialized expert roles within the agency, supported by the company's commitment to professional development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The company offers a hybrid work model, combining in-office collaboration with remote flexibility. The office in Cologne is described as modern and well-equipped.

Office Location(s): Köln (Cologne) and Hamburg, Germany. The Cologne office specifically offers free parking.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The agency culture encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, with opportunities to work alongside specialists from various fields.

• Technology & Tools: A modern workplace equipped with up-to-date technology, essential for design and AI workflows.

• Team Interaction: Regular agency events and a dog-friendly office foster a positive and social atmosphere, encouraging team interaction beyond project work.

Work Schedule: Full-time position with flexible working hours (Gleitzeit) and hybrid work options, allowing for a good work-life balance and adaptability for deep work sessions, whether at home or in the office.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model and flexible hours are designed to support productivity and well-being, catering to the needs of creative professionals who may benefit from varied work settings.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Screening of CV and portfolio for essential qualifications, particularly UX/UI experience, Figma proficiency, and AI design integration.

• Portfolio Presentation & Discussion: A key stage involving a presentation of selected portfolio projects. Candidates will be expected to articulate their design process, the role of AI in their work, and their strategic thinking. This often includes a live demonstration or walkthrough of Figma files.

• Skills Assessment/Design Challenge: Candidates may be given a small design challenge or a case study to work on, either in a timed session or as a take-home assignment, to evaluate their problem-solving skills and design approach.

• Team & Culture Fit Interview: Meeting with potential team members and leadership to assess cultural alignment, collaboration style, and communication skills.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss overall fit, career aspirations, and finalize terms.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight AI Integration: Clearly showcase projects where AI was used. Detail the specific AI tools, the prompts employed, and the impact on the design outcome (e.g., faster iteration, novel ideas, improved quality).

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, explain the problem, your role, your process (including AI's part), the challenges faced, your solutions, and the measurable results or learnings.

• Showcase Figma Expertise: Include examples of complex Figma projects, design system components, and interactive prototypes. Be prepared to discuss your Figma workflow and best practices.

• Demonstrate Strategic Thinking: Go beyond aesthetics; explain why you made certain design decisions and how they align with user needs and business objectives.

• Tailor to SUNZINET: Research SUNZINET's work, clients, and values. If possible, subtly tailor your portfolio presentation to align with their known strengths and project types.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brief: Carefully analyze any design challenge or case study prompt. Identify the core problem and objectives.

• Prioritize and Scope: Given time constraints, focus on demonstrating your core skills and thought process rather than trying to deliver a fully polished final product.

• Communicate Your Process: Even in a take-home challenge, clearly document your steps, assumptions, and decisions. For timed challenges, verbalize your thought process.

• Embrace AI: If appropriate for the challenge, consider how AI tools could be used to accelerate parts of the process or explore ideas.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process heavily emphasizes the candidate's ability to articulate their design process, especially concerning AI integration and client pitch contributions. A well-prepared portfolio is paramount.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: The core design tool for UI design, prototyping, and design system management. Advanced proficiency is a must.

• AI Design Tools: Various AI platforms for ideation, image generation, text generation, and potentially prototyping assistance. Specific tools may vary, but a willingness to explore and integrate them is key.

• Prototyping Tools: Beyond Figma's native capabilities, potentially tools like Adobe XD, InVision, or Principle for more advanced or specific prototyping needs.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary focus for this UX/UI role, familiarity with analytics platforms (e.g., Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics) to understand user behavior and inform design decisions is beneficial.

• Understanding of A/B testing principles for validating design choices. CRM & Automation:

• Familiarity with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot) and marketing automation platforms might be helpful for understanding client ecosystems, though not a primary requirement.

• Understanding of how digital experiences integrate with broader marketing and sales funnels.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily geared towards design and AI. While direct CRM/automation tool experience isn't listed as mandatory, understanding their role in the client's business is advantageous.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Curiosity: A drive to explore new technologies like AI and find innovative solutions.

• Quality & Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality design work that meets client expectations and industry standards.

• Collaboration & Interdisciplinarity: Working effectively across teams and with clients, valuing diverse perspectives.

• Growth & Development: Encouraging continuous learning and personal/professional advancement for all employees.

• Courage & Boldness: The willingness to think differently and challenge the status quo.

Collaboration Style:

• Interdisciplinary: Seamless integration with strategists, developers, AI specialists, and project managers.

• Client-Facing: Proactive and consultative engagement with clients, building strong working relationships.

• Feedback-Oriented: An environment where constructive feedback is exchanged to improve designs and processes.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that encourages sharing insights, best practices, and learnings, especially regarding new technologies like AI.

📝 Enhancement Note: SUNZINET emphasizes a culture where creativity, innovation (particularly with AI), and collaboration are highly valued. The agency aims to create an environment where employees feel empowered to contribute and grow.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Rapidly Evolving AI Landscape: Keeping pace with the fast-changing AI tools and techniques in design requires continuous learning and adaptation.

• Client Education on AI: Effectively communicating the value and implementation of AI in design to clients who may have varying levels of understanding.

• Balancing AI Efficiency with Creative Originality: Ensuring that AI integration enhances, rather than replaces, unique human creativity and strategic thinking.

• Managing Hybrid Work Dynamics: Maintaining strong team cohesion and client engagement across remote and in-office working arrangements.

• High Client Expectations: Delivering innovative and impactful digital experiences for prestigious brands under demanding timelines.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• AI Design Specialization: Becoming an expert in leveraging AI for creative ideation, rapid prototyping, and design optimization.

• Leadership Track: Developing skills in project leadership, team mentoring, and client strategy.

• Design System Mastery: Contributing to and potentially leading the development of sophisticated design systems.

• Industry Exposure: Participating in conferences, workshops, and client projects that expose you to cutting-edge digital transformation initiatives.

• Dedicated Training Budget: A personal budget for courses, certifications, books, and other learning resources.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents an exciting opportunity to be at the forefront of AI integration in design, offering significant growth potential for those who embrace these new technologies.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex digital product you designed. Walk us through your process, highlighting how you approached user research, ideation, and final UI implementation. How did you ensure the design met both user needs and business goals?"

• "How do you see AI transforming the UX/UI design process in the next 2-3 years? Provide specific examples of AI tools you've used or would use, and explain the benefits and potential drawbacks."

• "Imagine you need to pitch a new AI-driven feature for a client's e-commerce platform. Outline your approach to developing the concept, creating visuals, and presenting it to the client. What key messages would you emphasize?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to SUNZINET specifically, given your experience and career aspirations? How do you see yourself contributing to our culture of innovation and collaboration?"

• "How do you typically collaborate with developers and project managers? Describe a time you had to navigate a disagreement or challenge with a cross-functional team member."

• "Our agency values continuous learning and pushing boundaries. How do you stay updated with design trends and new technologies like AI, and how do you apply this learning in your work?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on AI Impact: For each relevant project, clearly articulate how AI was used, the specific prompts, and the resulting improvements (e.g., speed, ideation range, prototype complexity). Quantify impact where possible.

• Tell a Story: Structure your case studies as narratives. Start with the problem, explain your strategic approach, detail your design process (including AI's role), and conclude with the outcomes and learnings.

• Demonstrate Figma Skills: Be prepared to show interactive prototypes, design system components, and discuss your Figma workflow. Highlight efficiency techniques you employ.

• Know Your Audience: Tailor your presentation to SUNZINET's known work and client types. Emphasize aspects of your work that align with their strengths.

• Practice Your Pitch: Rehearse your presentation to ensure it flows well, stays within time limits, and clearly communicates your value proposition.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be ready to discuss their specific experience with AI in design and how they leverage it strategically. The interview will likely assess not just design skills but also strategic thinking and client-facing capabilities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior UX/UI Designer position:

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

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 of your strongest projects that best demonstrate your UX/UI skills, your experience with Figma, and crucially, your application of AI in the design process. Ensure each project has a clear narrative explaining the problem, your solution, your process, and the outcomes.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight keywords from the job description such as "UX/UI Design," "Figma," "Artificial Intelligence," "Prototyping," "Design Systems," and "Client Pitches." Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Prepare Your Presentation: Practice walking through your portfolio projects, focusing on your design thinking, problem-solving approach, and the specific role AI played. Be ready to discuss your prompt engineering strategies and the benefits derived.

• Research SUNZINET: Familiarize yourself with SUNZINET's website, client portfolio, and recent projects. Understand their approach to digital transformation and AI integration to better align your application and interview responses with their company ethos.

⚠️ 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.