Sr. UI Designer (Contract)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Sr. UI Designer (Contract)

Company: SanMar

Location: Issaquah, WA

Job Type: Contract

Category: User Interface (UI) Design / Product Design

Date Posted: April 29, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (4-6 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Develop and oversee high-fidelity UI designs and prototypes, ensuring alignment with user needs and business objectives.

• Lead the creation of user-centered visual layouts and engaging interfaces within Figma, maintaining stringent brand consistency.

• Collaborate closely with Product Managers to translate design thinking into actionable development specifications, including detailed annotations.

• Partner with UX Researchers to conduct usability testing, gather user feedback, and iteratively refine designs.

• Leverage data analytics and user research findings to drive informed, user-centric design decisions and enhance digital experiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role focuses on the technical execution and iterative refinement of UI designs within a product development lifecycle, emphasizing collaboration and data-informed decision-making. The "contract" nature suggests a project-based engagement with potential for extension or conversion.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Act as a Subject Matter Expert for UI design, providing guidance and oversight on high-fidelity design and prototyping to meet project deadlines and objectives.

• Lead user-centered design creation in Figma, developing visual layouts and engaging interfaces while ensuring the brand consistency of all design assets.

• Partner with Product Managers to prepare designs for development, including annotations that clarify design thinking and UI behaviors.

• Collaborate with UX Researchers to prototype designs, conduct usability tests, and gather essential feedback from users.

• Enhance user experience through data-driven design decisions, working closely with the analytics team to interpret performance metrics.

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry trends and competitor activities to incorporate innovative solutions into designs.

• Perform other duties as assigned, ensuring compliance with all company policies and standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of individual design contribution, leadership in design execution, and crucial cross-functional collaboration, particularly with Product Management and UX Research. The emphasis on data-driven decisions and iterative testing aligns with modern product development best practices.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's Degree or equivalent experience in a relevant field.

Experience: 4-6 years of UI or product design experience, specifically within a B2B or eCommerce company environment.

Required Skills:

• High-level proficiency in UI design and collaboration tools such as Figma, Sketch, Mural, Miro, Adobe XD, Balsamiq Mockups, or InVision App.

• Demonstrable experience with design systems, including contributions to new patterns and assets, and utilization of existing ones, particularly within the constraints of legacy enterprise software products.

• Ability to articulate, pitch, and defend design decisions and rationale to stakeholders unfamiliar with UI design best practices and methodology.

• Strong understanding and application of user-centered design principles.

• Experience with agile requirements gathering and IT development release processes.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience translating complex design patterns into simple, intuitive solutions.

• Proven ability to use customer research findings, analytics, personas, and journey maps to inform and influence design strategy.

• A strong sense of empathy for users and a user-centric approach to all design work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for experience with design systems, especially those constrained by legacy software, indicates a need for practical problem-solving skills in complex environments. The ability to communicate design rationale to non-designers is critical for stakeholder buy-in.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a range of high-fidelity UI designs and interactive prototypes, demonstrating proficiency in Figma and other relevant tools.

• Include case studies that clearly articulate your problem-solving approach, design process, and the rationale behind key design decisions.

• Present examples of contributions to or utilization of design systems, highlighting how you maintained consistency and scalability.

• Demonstrate experience with translating user research findings, analytics, and personas into tangible design solutions.

Process Documentation:

• Illustrate your process for user-centered design, from initial concept and wireframing through to high-fidelity design and prototyping.

• Detail your methods for incorporating feedback from usability testing and analytics into iterative design improvements.

• Explain your approach to working within agile development cycles, including how you prepare designs for handoff and collaborate with engineering teams.

• Showcase examples of how you managed design consistency and scalability through design systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is crucial for this role, as it serves as tangible proof of design skills, process, and impact. Applicants should be prepared to walk through their process and defend their design choices, focusing on how they solved specific problems and achieved desired outcomes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As this is a contract position, compensation will likely be determined on an hourly or project basis, reflecting the Sr. UI Designer's experience level and the specific scope of work. Based on industry benchmarks for Sr. UI Designers in the Issaquah, WA area with 4-6 years of experience, an estimated hourly rate could range from $50 to $85 USD, depending on the specific contract duration, scope, and SanMar's internal compensation structure for contractors.

Benefits: As a contract employee, benefits may differ from full-time roles. However, SanMar states a general commitment to employee well-being. Potential benefits might include:

• Access to professional development resources.

• Opportunities to work on impactful projects within a reputable company.

• Potential for flexible work arrangements within the hybrid model.

• Networking opportunities within the SanMar organization.

Working Hours: Standard working hours are 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM PST. The role operates on a hybrid model, requiring in-office presence Tuesday through Thursday each week.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation for contract roles is highly variable. The provided range is based on general market data for similar roles in the specified location and experience level. Candidates should expect to discuss their rate expectations during the interview process.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Apparel and Accessories Distribution (Wholesale). SanMar is a major distributor for well-known brands like Nike, The North Face, and Brooks Brothers, as well as providing private label apparel. This industry context means the UI Designer will likely be working on platforms that support business-to-business (B2B) transactions, supply chain logistics, and customer account management.

Company Size: Large. SanMar is a significant player in its industry, suggesting a structured organization with established processes and a dedicated focus on operational efficiency. This size can offer opportunities for broad impact but may also involve navigating larger corporate structures.

Founded: SanMar has a long history, founded in 1971. This longevity indicates stability and a deep understanding of its market, which can translate into a culture that values experience and proven methodologies, while also needing to adapt to modern digital demands.

Team Structure:

• The UI Designer will be part of the UX team, likely working closely with Product Managers, UX Researchers, and Front-end Developers.

• Reporting structure will likely be to a UX Lead or Product Design Manager, with direct collaboration across product development teams.

Methodology:

• Data analysis and insights are crucial, with a stated need to collaborate with the analytics team to inform design decisions.

• Workflow planning and optimization are inherent to UI design, focusing on creating efficient and intuitive user journeys.

• Automation and efficiency practices are expected in the digital product space to streamline user interactions and business processes.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on distribution and B2B eCommerce implies that the UI/UX design will be geared towards functionality, efficiency, and robust transaction capabilities, rather than purely consumer-facing aesthetics. Understanding this B2B context is key for candidates.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at a Senior level, indicating a need for independent contribution, mentorship potential, and a strong grasp of UI design principles and processes. The designer is expected to be an expert in their domain and capable of guiding design efforts.

Reporting Structure: The role likely reports to a UX Manager or Lead within a Product or Digital team. Collaboration will extend to Product Managers, UX Researchers, and Development teams, requiring strong communication and influencing skills across different departments.

Operations Impact: The UI Designer's work directly impacts the usability and effectiveness of SanMar's digital platforms. By creating clear, functional interfaces, they contribute to improved customer experience, increased conversion rates (in B2B eCommerce), operational efficiency for internal users, and overall brand perception in the digital space. Their decisions can influence customer adoption of new features and streamline business processes.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Deepen expertise in Figma, design systems, and user-centered design methodologies. Opportunity to gain exposure to complex enterprise software design challenges.

• Leadership Potential: Take on lead roles in specific design projects, mentor junior designers, and contribute to evolving design standards and processes within SanMar.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain a deeper understanding of B2B eCommerce, supply chain, and wholesale distribution business models, enhancing strategic design thinking. Potential for specialization in areas like B2B portals, order management systems, or inventory management interfaces.

📝 Enhancement Note: As a contract role, direct career progression within SanMar may be limited unless converted to a full-time position. However, the experience gained in a large B2B/eCommerce environment and with complex systems can significantly enhance a designer's resume and future career prospects in operations-adjacent design roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid. Employees are expected to work from SanMar's Eastpointe office in Issaquah, WA, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Additional in-office days may be required based on business needs.

Office Location(s): Issaquah, WA, part of the Seattle metropolitan area. This location offers access to a vibrant tech and business community.

Workspace Context:

• The hybrid model facilitates a balance between focused individual work at home and collaborative, in-person interaction within the office.

• The office environment is described as moderately quiet, suitable for concentration.

• The role involves regular use of computers, requiring the ability to work for extended periods with frequent interruptions.

• Access to standard office technology and collaborative tools (like Mural/Miro for brainstorming) is expected.

Work Schedule: Standard business hours are 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM PST. The contract may require flexibility to meet project deadlines, and occasional travel may be necessary.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid requirement means candidates must be able to commute to Issaquah, WA, for at least three days a week. Understanding the balance between remote and in-office work is important for evaluating fit.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess experience, skills, and alignment with the role's requirements.

• Design Challenge/Portfolio Review: A session where you will present your portfolio, discuss your design process, and potentially complete a design exercise or case study relevant to B2B eCommerce or complex system design. Be prepared to articulate your rationale clearly.

• Hiring Manager/Team Interview: Interviews with the hiring manager and potential team members to assess cultural fit, collaboration style, and deeper technical understanding. Questions will likely focus on your experience with design systems, agile environments, and stakeholder management.

• Final Round (if applicable): May involve a discussion with senior leadership or cross-functional partners to ensure alignment across the organization.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Showcase 3-5 of your strongest projects that best represent your skills in UI design, prototyping, and design systems within a B2B or eCommerce context.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly outline the problem, your role, the process you followed, the tools you used (especially Figma), your design decisions and rationale, and the impact or outcome achieved.

• Highlight Process: Emphasize your user-centered approach, how you incorporated feedback, and how you collaborated with cross-functional teams.

• Design Systems Focus: If you have strong design system experience, dedicate a section or specific examples to showcase this expertise, especially if it relates to enterprise software constraints.

• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate questions about your design choices, how you handle design critiques, and how you work within team constraints.

Challenge Preparation:

• Familiarize Yourself: Research SanMar's existing digital presence and understand their business model (apparel distribution, B2B focus).

• Practice Articulation: Rehearse explaining your design process and decisions concisely and persuasively.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Think about how you would approach common UI design challenges in a B2B eCommerce setting, such as improving navigation, simplifying complex forms, or enhancing data visualization for business users.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily rely on reviewing your portfolio and assessing your ability to articulate your design process and decisions. A strong understanding of B2B eCommerce challenges will be advantageous.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: Essential for high-fidelity design, prototyping, and collaboration. Proficiency is critical.

• Sketch, Adobe XD: Familiarity with these alternatives may be beneficial for broader understanding and collaboration.

• Mural, Miro: Used for collaborative brainstorming, user journey mapping, and workshop facilitation.

• Balsamiq Mockups, InVision App: Useful for low-fidelity wireframing and prototyping, especially in early stages.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly the designer's responsibility, awareness of how UI designs integrate with CRM (e.g., Salesforce) or automation platforms used in B2B sales and marketing would be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: Figma proficiency is paramount. While other tools are mentioned, the core expectation is mastery of Figma for design and prototyping. The ability to interpret data from analytics tools to inform design is also a significant requirement.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• User-Centricity: A strong emphasis on understanding and prioritizing user needs in all design decisions.

• Collaboration: Working effectively with Product Managers, UX Researchers, Developers, and other stakeholders to achieve shared goals.

• Data-Driven Approach: Utilizing analytics and user feedback to inform design strategies and measure success.

• Efficiency & Functionality: Designing interfaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional and efficient for users, particularly in a B2B context.

• Brand Consistency: Maintaining a cohesive brand identity across all digital touchpoints.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with product, research, and engineering teams to ensure seamless integration of designs into the development pipeline.

• Iterative Feedback: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback during design reviews and usability testing sessions.

• Knowledge Sharing: Contributing to the design team's knowledge base and best practices, particularly concerning design systems and UI patterns.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture likely values practical problem-solving, clear communication, and a results-oriented approach, fitting for a large distribution company focused on operational efficiency and B2B relationships.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex B2B/Enterprise Systems: Designing for users who may have specific workflows and require robust functionality from enterprise software can be challenging. Translating complex processes into simple UI is key.

• Legacy Software Constraints: Working with design systems that are constrained by older enterprise software may require creative problem-solving and careful negotiation of design possibilities.

• Balancing User Needs with Business Requirements: Effectively integrating diverse stakeholder needs (product, sales, marketing, operations, and end-users) into a cohesive and effective design.

• Contract Role Dynamics: Adapting quickly to a new team and project, with a defined scope and timeline, while also potentially navigating the transition to full-time employment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deep Dive into B2B eCommerce: Gain extensive experience designing for the unique needs and workflows of B2B customers in the apparel distribution sector.

• Design System Expertise: Enhance skills in maintaining, expanding, and potentially establishing design systems within a large organizational context.

• Agile Development Integration: Refine skills in working within agile methodologies, optimizing the design-to-development handoff process.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Develop stronger stakeholder management and communication skills by working with diverse departments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenges will revolve around navigating the complexities of B2B eCommerce and potentially older enterprise systems, requiring a pragmatic and adaptable design approach.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to design for a complex B2B or legacy enterprise software system. What were the key challenges, and how did you approach them?" (Focus on problem-solving, user research, and iterative design).

• "How do you ensure brand consistency across different digital products and platforms, especially when working with a design system?" (Highlight your understanding of design system principles and governance).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for SanMar, and how does your design philosophy align with our focus on distribution and B2B eCommerce?" (Research SanMar's business model and values).

• "How do you approach collaboration with Product Managers and Developers, especially when there are differing opinions on design direction?" (Showcase your communication, negotiation, and teamwork skills).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly define the problem, your role, the process, the solution, and the impact. Use clear headings and visuals.

• Emphasize Figma Usage: Explicitly mention and show examples of how you used Figma for wireframing, high-fidelity design, prototyping, and collaboration.

• Showcase Design System Contributions: If applicable, dedicate slides to your involvement with design systems, detailing the patterns you created or utilized and how they benefited the product.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use metrics (e.g., conversion rate improvements, task completion times, user satisfaction scores) to demonstrate the success of your designs.

• Be Ready for Live Prototyping/Critique: Some companies may ask you to elaborate on a specific design choice or even make minor edits to a prototype during the interview.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to discuss your specific contributions to design systems and how you navigate the constraints of enterprise software. Your ability to translate complex business needs into user-friendly interfaces will be a key focus.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Greenhouse job board.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight projects demonstrating expertise in UI design, prototyping, and design systems, particularly those involving B2B or eCommerce platforms. Ensure your Figma work is prominently featured.

• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to clearly articulate your 4-6 years of relevant experience, emphasizing achievements in UI design, product design, and collaboration within agile and B2B/eCommerce environments. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Practice presenting your portfolio, focusing on your design process, rationale, and the impact of your work. Prepare answers to common UI design and collaboration questions, especially those related to enterprise software and B2B contexts.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research SanMar's business model, target audience, and existing digital presence to better understand their operational context and tailor your responses during the interview process.

⚠️ 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.