Sr Designer - UX - New York

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Sr Designer - UX

Company: Photon

Location: New York (On-site)

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: UX/UI Design Operations

Date Posted: 2026-08-13

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead the design of intricate user flows and high-fidelity screens for core enterprise workflows, focusing on AI-first interaction patterns.

• Translate high-level design strategy into meticulously crafted screens and prototype-ready assets, ensuring a cohesive user experience across all devices.

• Drive the evolution of the company's design system to incorporate emerging AI capabilities and interaction paradigms.

• Act as a strategic thought leader, influencing the product brief, setting design visions, and proactively defining solutions for complex, undefined problems.

• Serve as a charismatic and credible partner to product and engineering teams, effectively communicating design rationale, challenging scope, and discussing technical feasibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Sr Designer - UX," the responsibilities and required skills strongly indicate a senior-level individual contributor role with a significant strategic and leadership component, often found in GTM or product operations-adjacent design functions within enterprise software companies. The emphasis on "owning direction," "selling the work," and "challenging scope" suggests a role that requires not just execution but also strategic influence and communication. The "New York" location implies a vibrant tech hub environment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and iterate on user flows, wireframes, and high-fidelity mockups for complex enterprise business (IB) workflows, ensuring intuitive and efficient user journeys.

• Develop polished screen designs and prototype-ready assets that accurately represent the intended user experience and align with the product strategy.

• Ensure seamless multi-device coherence, optimizing designs for desktop, mobile, and offline states to provide a consistent experience.

• Extend and evolve Photon's established design system, specifically focusing on integrating and defining new AI-first interaction patterns and components.

• Take ownership of design direction, proactively shaping project briefs, setting compelling design visions, and leading initiatives where the problem definition is fluid or incomplete.

• Effectively communicate and "sell" design solutions to stakeholders, including product managers, engineers, and leadership, using strong charismatic leadership and clear articulation.

• Apply a "broken tooth comb operator" approach, leveraging strong UX/UI design skills alongside a practical understanding of strategic constraints, delivery timelines, and early-stage ideation.

• Act as a credible and collaborative partner to product and engineering teams, engaging in constructive dialogue to challenge scope, prioritize features, and discuss technical feasibility.

• Demonstrate self-propelling leadership by building clarity, generating momentum, and independently driving work forward without constant managerial direction.

• (Bonus) Contribute to the design and rapid prototyping of AI tooling and features, leveraging emerging technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of core UX/UI design execution and strategic leadership. The emphasis on "enterprise applications," "AI-first interaction patterns," and "design systems" points towards a role within a mature software organization focused on complex B2B solutions. The "IB workflows" likely refers to Investment Banking or similar financial services, suggesting a need for precision and data handling expertise.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Design, Human-Computer Interaction, Computer Science, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.

Experience: 6-10 years of progressive experience in UX/UI design, with a significant focus on complex enterprise applications.

Required Skills:

• Proven expertise in designing user flows, wireframes, and high-fidelity screens for complex enterprise software.

• Demonstrated experience in designing data-heavy interfaces and AI-assisted user experiences.

• Advanced proficiency in Figma (or equivalent industry-standard design and prototyping tools like Sketch, Adobe XD).

• Strong understanding and practical application of WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) and other accessibility standards.

• Experience with enterprise-level design systems, including extending and contributing to their evolution.

• Ability to translate design strategy into tangible design assets and actionable prototypes.

• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with a charismatic and persuasive style.

• Proven ability to act as a self-propelling leader, driving projects forward with clarity and momentum.

• Experience collaborating effectively with product managers and engineering teams to discuss feasibility and negotiate scope. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with AI tooling and rapid prototyping methodologies.

• Familiarity with Investment Banking (IB) workflows or similar complex financial services applications.

• Prior experience in a "broken tooth comb operator" capacity, balancing strategic vision with delivery constraints.

• A track record of shaping project briefs and defining vision for initially undefined problems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirement of 6-10 years, coupled with the emphasis on strategic leadership and influencing scope, positions this as a senior-level role. The mention of "enterprise applications" and "data-heavy and AI-assisted interfaces" is critical for candidates to highlight in their portfolios and resumes. The "bonus" skill of AI tooling experience is a strong differentiator.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 comprehensive case studies demonstrating end-to-end UX/UI design process for complex enterprise applications.

• Clearly articulate user flows, wireframes, high-fidelity mockups, and interactive prototypes for each case study.

• Include examples of how design strategy was translated into actionable design solutions and how the design system was utilized or extended.

• Demonstrate a deep understanding of accessibility considerations (WCAG) and how they were integrated into the design process.

• Highlight experience with data-heavy or AI-assisted interfaces, explaining the design challenges and solutions implemented.

• Specifically include projects that showcase the ability to design for multi-device coherence (desktop, mobile, offline states). Process Documentation:

• For each case study, detail the problem statement, user research methodologies, design iterations, and final solutions.

• Explain the collaborative process with product and engineering teams, including how scope and feasibility were discussed.

• Provide insights into how the design system was leveraged or contributed to, especially in the context of AI-first interactions.

• Document the rationale behind design decisions, linking them to user needs, business objectives, and technical constraints.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a senior UX designer role, especially one involving enterprise and AI, the portfolio is paramount. It needs to go beyond just visuals and demonstrate strategic thinking, process, and impact. The emphasis on "AI-first interaction patterns" and "enterprise design systems" means case studies should explicitly address these areas.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: USD $36,000 - $129,000 per year.

Explanation of Range: This range reflects the compensation for a Senior UX Designer role in New York, considering the specified experience level (5-10 years), the complexity of enterprise and AI-focused design, and the potential for strategic leadership. The lower end may represent candidates with foundational experience within the 5-year bracket and less direct AI/enterprise experience, while the upper end is for highly experienced candidates with a strong portfolio and proven impact in complex, data-intensive, and AI-driven design environments.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Medical, Vision, and Dental Insurance plans.

• 401k Retirement Plan with company contributions.

• Variable Pay and Incentives, potentially tied to project success or company performance.

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) policy.

• Paid Holidays.

• Note: These benefits are available for full-time employees.

Working Hours: Approximately 40 hours per week, standard for a full-time position. Flexibility may be expected based on project demands and deadlines, common in senior design roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is quite broad. For a Senior UX Designer in New York with 6-10 years of experience, especially in enterprise and AI, the compensation is typically higher. However, the range provided is adhered to. The explanation clarifies how the range is interpreted based on experience and the specific demands of the role. The benefits listed are standard for full-time roles in the US.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Technology, likely FinTech or Enterprise Software (given "IB workflows" and "AI-first interaction patterns").

Company Size: Not explicitly stated, but the Oracle Cloud ATS suggests a large enterprise. The presence of a dedicated design system and focus on AI implies a mature organization.

Founded: Not explicitly stated, but the use of an Oracle Cloud HR system often indicates established companies.

Team Structure:

• The role implies a dedicated UX/UI design team within Photon, likely reporting into a Head of Design or Product.

• Collaboration is expected with Product Management and Engineering teams, indicating a cross-functional, agile development environment.

• The emphasis on "extending Citi’s design system" (though this might be a placeholder or an example from the original prompt if Photon is a consultancy or has a very specific client) suggests a structured approach to design and a focus on scalability and consistency. If "Photon" is the actual company name, this reference might be a red herring or indicative of past client work. Methodology:

• Data-driven design decisions, informed by user research and analytics.

• Agile and iterative design processes, with a focus on rapid prototyping and feedback loops.

• Emphasis on extending and maintaining a robust design system for consistency and efficiency.

• Strategic approach to problem-solving, tackling undefined problems and shaping project direction.

Company Website: Photon.com (assumed, based on domain_derived)

📝 Enhancement Note: The "IB workflows" and "design system" references, especially if "Citi" was mentioned, suggest a potential consultancy or a company deeply embedded in enterprise financial services. Assuming "Photon" is the actual company, the focus on AI and enterprise applications indicates a B2B software product company. The culture likely values innovation, collaboration, and strong design leadership.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Individual Contributor (IC) with potential for leadership. This role is positioned above a standard UX Designer, requiring strategic input, ownership, and the ability to influence direction and stakeholders. It’s a critical role within the product development lifecycle, bridging strategy and execution.

Reporting Structure: Likely reports to a Design Manager, Director of Product Design, or Head of UX. Works closely with Product Managers and Engineering Leads.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on the usability, efficiency, and adoption of core enterprise workflows. By designing intuitive and AI-enhanced interfaces, the Sr. Designer contributes to increased productivity, reduced errors, improved user satisfaction, and ultimately, revenue generation and cost savings for clients or the company. The ability to "sell the work" and influence scope means they can shape product roadmaps and drive impactful innovations.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Track: Potential to move into a Lead Designer role, managing a small team or a specific product area, or a Design Manager position.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in AI-driven design, enterprise UX, or specific industry domains (e.g., FinTech).

• Strategic Influence: Become a key voice in product strategy and roadmap planning, influencing the direction of Photon's offerings.

• Mentorship: Guide and mentor junior designers, fostering a culture of learning and development within the design team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role is clearly defined as senior, with expectations of leadership and strategic contribution beyond pure execution. Growth opportunities would naturally involve increased responsibility, team leadership, and deeper strategic involvement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site in New York. This suggests a traditional office setting designed for collaboration, with dedicated workspaces and meeting areas.

Office Location(s): New York, a major hub for technology and design, offering access to a vibrant professional community and potential for networking.

Workspace Context:

• Expect a collaborative environment where interaction with product managers, engineers, and fellow designers is frequent.

• Access to standard design tools and technologies (Figma, prototyping software, etc.) will be provided.

• The workspace is likely optimized for focused individual work as well as team-based brainstorming and critique sessions.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time hours (approx. 40/week) are expected, with potential for occasional flexibility to meet project deadlines. The on-site nature encourages spontaneous collaboration and team cohesion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in New York implies a dynamic, in-person work environment common in many tech companies, fostering direct collaboration and team synergy.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruiter call to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.

• Portfolio Presentation & Technical Interview: A core part of the process will be a presentation of your portfolio, focusing on 2-3 key case studies. Be prepared to walk through your design process, decision-making, and the impact of your work. Expect deep dives into your experience with enterprise applications, AI interfaces, design systems, and accessibility.

• Cross-Functional Interviews: Interviews with Product Managers and Engineering Leads to assess collaboration skills, ability to challenge scope, and understanding of technical feasibility.

• Leadership/Strategy Interview: A discussion with a senior leader (e.g., Head of Design, VP of Product) focusing on your strategic thinking, ability to shape vision, and leadership potential.

• Final Round: Potentially a culture fit interview or a final discussion with hiring manager.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select case studies that best represent your experience with complex enterprise applications, data-heavy interfaces, AI, and design systems. Highlight your role in shaping the project's direction.

• Tell a Story: For each case study, clearly articulate the problem, your process (research, ideation, iteration), your specific contributions, the challenges faced (especially technical or scope-related), and the measurable impact or outcome.

• Demonstrate AI & Enterprise Nuances: Explicitly address how you approached designing for AI interactions and the specific challenges of enterprise-level software.

• Showcase System Thinking: Explain how you utilized or extended design systems and adhered to accessibility standards.

• Prepare for "Selling": Practice articulating your design decisions confidently and persuasively, as if you were presenting to stakeholders who need to be convinced of the design's value.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready for potential design exercises or case studies, either take-home or live. These will likely focus on a complex problem requiring you to define the scope, ideate solutions, and present your approach.

• Practice articulating your thought process, demonstrating how you would tackle an undefined problem and collaborate with cross-functional teams.

• Prepare to discuss trade-offs between ideal design solutions and practical implementation constraints.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is geared towards assessing not just design skills but also strategic thinking, leadership, and collaboration within an enterprise context. The portfolio presentation is critical and should highlight specific relevant experiences.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: Essential for UI design, wireframing, prototyping, and collaboration. Proficiency is a must.

• Prototyping Tools: Experience with tools like InVision, Principle, or Axure may be beneficial for advanced prototyping needs.

• Design System Management: Familiarity with how design systems are built, maintained, and utilized within an organization.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a direct responsibility, understanding how to interpret user analytics and A/B testing results to inform design decisions is valuable. Familiarity with tools like Google Analytics, Amplitude, or Mixpanel could be a plus. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the UX Designer role, but understanding the broader business context of enterprise applications and how users interact with them within CRM or workflow systems is beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: Figma is explicitly mentioned as required. The other tools are standard for a senior UX role in a tech company.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• User-Centricity: A deep commitment to understanding and solving user problems through design.

• Excellence & Craftsmanship: A dedication to producing high-quality, polished designs with attention to detail.

• Collaboration & Partnership: A belief in working closely with product and engineering to achieve shared goals.

• Innovation & Forward-Thinking: Embracing new technologies like AI and pushing the boundaries of interaction design.

• Ownership & Accountability: Taking initiative, driving projects forward, and being accountable for design outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Seamless collaboration with Product Management and Engineering is paramount. The designer is expected to be an active participant in team discussions and decision-making.

• Constructive Critique: A culture that encourages open feedback and constructive criticism among designers and with other teams.

• Proactive Communication: Regularly sharing progress, insights, and potential roadblocks to ensure alignment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description emphasizes a proactive, collaborative, and high-craftsmanship culture, typical of successful product design teams.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Designing for Complexity: Navigating and simplifying intricate enterprise workflows can be a significant challenge.

• AI Integration: Designing intuitive and trustworthy AI-first interactions requires innovation and careful consideration of user expectations and potential biases.

• Balancing Vision with Constraints: Effectively advocating for innovative design solutions while respecting technical limitations, budget, and timelines.

• Evolving Design Systems: Keeping pace with technological advancements and incorporating new interaction patterns into an established design system.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Ensuring buy-in and alignment across diverse stakeholders with varying priorities.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• AI Design Specialization: Opportunities to become a subject matter expert in designing AI-powered user experiences.

• Enterprise UX Mastery: Deepen expertise in complex, data-intensive application design.

• Leadership Development: Training and mentorship for aspiring design leaders.

• Industry Conferences & Workshops: Access to events focused on UX, AI, and enterprise design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the cutting-edge nature of the role, particularly with AI integration, and the strategic demands placed on a senior designer.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to define the design direction for a project where the problem was not clearly defined. What was your process?" (Assesses problem-definition and leadership).

• "How do you balance pushing design innovation with the practical constraints of engineering feasibility and delivery timelines in an enterprise environment?" (Assesses strategic thinking and collaboration).

• "Walk us through a complex enterprise workflow you designed. What were the key user pain points, and how did your design address them?" (Assesses core UX skills and strategic application). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What excites you about designing for AI-first interactions and enterprise applications at Photon?" (Assesses company research and alignment).

• "How do you approach collaboration with Product Managers and Engineers, especially when there are disagreements on scope or direction?" (Assesses teamwork and communication).

• "How do you measure the success of your designs, particularly in an enterprise context where ROI might be complex to quantify?" (Assesses impact measurement and business acumen). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure is Key: Begin with a high-level overview of the project's goals and your role, then dive into the problem, your process, key design decisions (supported by visuals), and finally, the outcomes and learnings.

• Highlight AI/Enterprise Specifics: Dedicate specific points to how your work addresses AI capabilities and the nuances of enterprise software design.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use metrics (even if estimated or qualitative) to demonstrate the impact of your design solutions.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about your specific contributions, the rationale behind every decision, and how you handled challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating strategic thinking, collaborative problem-solving, and a deep understanding of enterprise and AI design challenges.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Oracle Cloud application link.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio prominently features case studies related to complex enterprise applications, data-heavy interfaces, AI-assisted design, and design system contributions. Tailor the introduction to highlight your senior-level experience and strategic capabilities.

• Resume Optimization: Clearly articulate your 6-10 years of UX/UI experience, emphasizing achievements in enterprise software, AI, and design system development. Use keywords like "user flows," "high-fidelity screens," "Figma," "WCAG," "AI-first interactions," and "enterprise design systems."

• Interview Preparation: Practice presenting your portfolio with a focus on storytelling, strategic rationale, and quantifiable impact. Prepare specific examples for questions about leadership, collaboration, and problem-solving in complex environments.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Photon's mission, product offerings (if publicly available), and any known work in AI or enterprise solutions. Understand their potential market and client base.

⚠️ 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.