STAGE - UX/UI Designer - F/H

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: STAGE - UX/UI Designer - F/H

Company: Thales

Location: La Ciotat, France

Job Type: Internship (INTERN)

Category: Design / User Experience Operations

Date Posted: 2026-09-21

Experience Level: Entry Level (Internship)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This internship focuses on designing user experiences for innovative products that blend Artificial Intelligence (AI) with digital interfaces, a critical area for Go-To-Market (GTM) and product strategy.

• You will be instrumental in user research, applying methodologies to understand user needs and translate them into actionable insights for product development and process optimization.

• The role involves creating innovative conversational and AI-assisted user journeys, directly impacting how businesses interact with complex digital services and improving overall operational efficiency.

• You will contribute to the evolution of a Design System, ensuring consistency and scalability in the design of AI-powered features, which is crucial for efficient product deployment and user adoption.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the core role is UX/UI Design, its application within Thales, a leader in high-tech sectors like Defense, Aerospace, and Digital Security, implies a strong connection to product operations and GTM strategies. The emphasis on AI, generative AI, and conversational interfaces positions this as a forward-looking role with significant potential impact on how Thales's B2B and SaaS products are adopted and utilized, requiring an operations-minded approach to user experience.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct user research, including preparing and leading user interviews, analyzing needs and challenges, and synthesizing findings into personas and user journeys to inform product strategy.

• Define product requirements in collaboration with business teams, ensuring a clear understanding of user needs that aligns with business objectives and operational goals.

• Design innovative user journeys for AI-assisted experiences, exploring interactions between users, intelligent agents, and graphical interfaces to enhance operational workflows.

• Create user flows, wireframes, and interactive prototypes to visualize and test proposed solutions, ensuring they are intuitive and efficient for end-users.

• Participate in ideation workshops and user testing sessions to gather feedback and iterate on designs, directly influencing the product development lifecycle and improving user adoption rates.

• Collaborate closely with Product Managers and developers throughout the design and development process, ensuring seamless integration of UX/UI designs into the final product.

• Contribute to the evolution and documentation of the Design System, ensuring consistency and scalability of design components, particularly for AI-driven features.

• Support the implementation of tools and methods to industrialize the design process in an AI context, aiming for greater efficiency and faster iteration cycles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of tactical design execution and strategic input, common in operations-adjacent roles. The emphasis on "industrializing design" and supporting "tools and methods" points towards an operations focus on process efficiency and scalability within the design function.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Pursuing a Bac +4/5 degree in Design, Ergonomics, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), UX Design, Digital Design, or equivalent.

Experience:

• Demonstrated experience in UX Design principles and methodologies.

• Prior exposure to UX Research or Product Design. Required Skills:

• Strong command of UX Design principles and best practices.

• Proficiency in user research methods, including conducting interviews and synthesizing findings.

• Mastery of Figma for wireframing, prototyping, and design collaboration.

• Ability to create user flows, wireframes, and interactive prototypes.

• Excellent analytical and synthesis skills for translating complex information into intuitive designs.

• Good level of English proficiency for international collaboration and documentation. Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with AI concepts, generative AI, and conversational interfaces.

• Experience with Design Systems and component-based design.

• Understanding of accessibility and ergonomics principles.

• Sensitivity to complex B2B or SaaS product challenges.

• Ability to transform abstract problems into simple, intuitive user experiences.

• Curiosity for emerging technologies and innovation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for Bac +4/5 and specific tool proficiency (Figma) suggests a role that requires foundational knowledge and practical application, typical for internships designed to onboard future talent into specialized operational areas like product design and UX. The "preferred skills" clearly indicate a strategic leaning towards AI and its integration into user experiences, aligning with future product development and market positioning.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase of user research methodologies applied, including examples of user interviews, persona creation, and journey mapping.

• Demonstrations of wireframing, user flow creation, and interactive prototyping for digital products.

• Examples of contributions to or utilization of a Design System, highlighting component design and consistency.

• Case studies that illustrate problem-solving skills, transforming complex requirements into user-friendly solutions. Process Documentation:

• Evidence of participation in user testing and iteration cycles based on feedback.

• Examples of collaboration with cross-functional teams (e.g., Product Managers, Developers) on design projects.

• Documentation of design decisions, outlining the rationale behind user flows and interface choices.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an internship, a formal "portfolio" might be less about completed products and more about demonstrating the process and potential. The emphasis here is on showcasing the understanding and application of UX/UI methodologies, research, prototyping, and collaborative design processes, which are foundational to operationalizing design within a product development lifecycle.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As this is an internship position, compensation will be in the form of a gratification (stipend) determined by the student's level of study, in line with French internship regulations. This is often a fixed monthly amount, supplemented by benefits.

Benefits:

• Internship compensation (gratification) as per legal requirements.

• Access to Thales's inclusive and caring work environment.

• Opportunity to work on impactful international projects with high technological relevance.

• Exposure to cutting-edge AI technologies and their application in user experience.

• Contribution to a company with recognized societal and environmental commitments.

• Potential for professional growth and skill development in a leading technology group.

Working Hours: Approximately 40 hours per week, typical for a full-time internship in France, with potential for hybrid work flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: For internships in France, the term "gratification" is used instead of salary. While specific amounts vary by region and company policy, it's typically a fixed monthly payment. The benefits listed are standard for Thales and align with their employer branding, emphasizing culture and professional development, which are key attractors for early-career professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Technology (Defense & Security, Aerospace & Space, Cyber & Digital). Thales operates at the forefront of innovation, developing high-tech solutions that contribute to a safer, more sustainable, and inclusive world. This sector demands rigorous process adherence, robust security protocols, and continuous innovation, influencing how operations are managed.

Company Size: Thales is a large multinational corporation with nearly 85,000 employees globally, operating in 65 countries. This scale implies established operational frameworks, standardized processes, and opportunities for diverse career paths, but also potential for complex internal structures.

Founded: Thales was founded in 2000 (formed from the defense and aerospace activities of Thomson-CSF and Alcatel). This history signifies a solid foundation in complex industries, with decades of experience in developing and deploying advanced technologies, which translates into mature operational practices.

Team Structure:

• The UX/UI Design team within the PAY Design department is part of the Digital Identity & Security business. This team focuses on designing user experiences for products that simplify and enhance business service management.

• The team structure likely involves senior UX Designers, UX Researchers, and Product Designers who mentor interns. Collaboration is expected across Product Management and Development teams.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, involving close work with Product Managers to define requirements and developers to ensure feasibility and implementation of designs, a key aspect of GTM operations. Methodology:

• Data analysis and insights are crucial, particularly from user research, to drive design decisions and product improvements.

• Workflow planning and optimization are central to the role, focusing on creating intuitive and efficient user journeys, especially with AI integration.

• Automation and efficiency practices are encouraged, including the industrialization of the design process and the development of a scalable Design System.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Thales's positioning in high-security and critical infrastructure sectors means that operational rigor, compliance, and robust processes are paramount. For a design intern, this translates to understanding the importance of design governance, documentation, and the impact of design choices on product reliability and user trust, all of which are critical for GTM success.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an internship role, typically falling into the "Trainee" or "Intern" career level, designed for individuals early in their professional journey. It provides foundational experience in UX/UI design within a large, complex, and technologically advanced organization.

Reporting Structure: The intern will report to experienced UX Designers within the PAY Design team. This provides a direct mentorship and learning pathway, with potential for exposure to design leads and Product Managers.

Operations Impact: While an intern's direct operational impact is usually limited, their work contributes to the foundational design of products that will eventually be part of Thales's GTM strategy. By improving user experience, the intern's contributions can indirectly enhance product adoption, customer satisfaction, and efficiency for end-users of Thales's digital services.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Development: Gain hands-on experience in user research, UX/UI design, prototyping, and Design Systems, with a specific focus on AI-driven applications.

• Industry Exposure: Learn about the intricacies of designing for high-tech B2B and SaaS products in sectors like digital identity and security, understanding the operational constraints and opportunities.

• Mentorship & Networking: Benefit from guidance from experienced professionals and build a network within a global technology leader, which can open doors for future career opportunities.

• Potential for Future Roles: Successful interns may be considered for future entry-level positions or further internships within Thales, particularly if they demonstrate strong aptitude and alignment with the company's operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth opportunities are framed around gaining practical, operational experience in design. The emphasis on AI and complex B2B/SaaS products positions this as a stepping stone into specialized areas of product development and GTM operations where user experience is a key differentiator.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role located in La Ciotat, France, offering a hybrid work arrangement. This means a mix of in-office collaboration and remote work flexibility.

Office Location(s): La Ciotat, France – specifically at the "LA VIGIE" site, located on the Mediterranean coast. This location is noted for housing digital identity and security activities.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is described as international and collaborative, fostering interaction among employees working on digital identity and security solutions.

• As part of the Design team, the intern will have access to design tools and technologies, including Figma, and will be part of a team focused on innovation in AI and user experience.

• Opportunities for interaction with experienced UX Designers, Product Managers, and developers will be frequent, facilitating learning and team integration within the operational workflow.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is likely around 40 hours per week, typical for a full-time internship. The hybrid arrangement suggests some flexibility in how these hours are structured, allowing for focused work both in the office and remotely.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role is important for operations professionals, indicating a balance between collaborative in-office work (crucial for team cohesion and complex problem-solving) and focused remote work (beneficial for deep-dive tasks and individual productivity). The location in La Ciotat, a hub for digital identity and security, suggests a specialized and potentially high-stakes operational environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Submission: Submit your CV and cover letter through the Thales careers portal.

• Initial Screening: Your application and CV will be reviewed by HR and the hiring team to assess qualifications against the role requirements.

• Interview(s): Typically involves one or more interviews. This may include:

  • A discussion with the hiring manager (UX Designer) to assess your design skills, understanding of UX principles, and interest in AI.
  • A technical assessment or portfolio review, where you'll be asked to present your work and discuss your design process.
  • A behavioral interview to gauge your fit with the team culture and Thales's values.

• Offer: If successful, you will receive an internship offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Choose 2-3 projects that best showcase your UX/UI design process, from research to final concepts.

• Highlight Process: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the methodologies used (user research, wireframing, prototyping), your decision-making rationale, and the outcomes or learnings.

• Showcase Figma Skills: Include examples of your work in Figma, demonstrating proficiency in creating user flows, wireframes, and interactive prototypes.

• Emphasize AI Interest: If you have projects related to AI, conversational design, or emerging technologies, highlight them to align with the role's focus.

• Prepare for Questions: Be ready to discuss your design choices, how you handle feedback, and your understanding of user-centered design principles.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand Thales's Domain: Research Thales's business areas (Defense, Aerospace, Digital Identity & Security) and their product offerings. Consider how UX/UI design plays a role in these complex B2B/SaaS environments.

• Familiarize with AI Design: Refresh your knowledge on current trends in AI-driven UX, conversational interfaces, and generative AI applications in design.

• Practice Articulation: Be prepared to clearly and concisely explain your design process and the impact of your work. Practice presenting your portfolio to simulate the interview experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on portfolio review and preparation for case studies or technical discussions is standard for design roles, but for an operations-focused enhancement, it's about understanding how these elements demonstrate an ability to execute and contribute to operational design processes. Highlighting AI interest is key for this specific role.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: The primary tool for wireframing, prototyping, and collaborative design. Proficiency is a core requirement.

• Design System Tools: While not explicitly named, contribution to or utilization of a Design System implies familiarity with tools that manage design components and guidelines.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While direct analytics tools may not be the intern's primary focus, understanding how user research findings translate into product improvements and how design impacts user engagement metrics is crucial. Familiarity with general reporting concepts and data synthesis is beneficial. CRM & Automation:

• No direct CRM or automation tools are specified as primary for this design role. However, understanding how design integrates with product management workflows and development pipelines is key. Awareness of how design systems can streamline product development (an operational efficiency gain) is a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Figma is critical. For an operations perspective, this highlights the need for standardized tools that facilitate collaboration, version control, and efficient handoff to development teams, all key to streamlined product operations.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Trust: Thales emphasizes building a future of trust through high technology. This translates to a culture of rigorous, reliable, and forward-thinking design.

• Collaboration: Working in an international environment requires strong teamwork and the ability to collaborate effectively across diverse teams and geographies.

• Commitment to Excellence: A focus on quality, security, and customer satisfaction is inherent in Thales's industries, driving a culture of high standards in all operational aspects, including design.

• Inclusivity & Well-being: Thales promotes an inclusive and caring environment, valuing diversity and employee well-being, which fosters a supportive operational atmosphere.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Close collaboration with Product Managers and Developers is essential for translating user needs into feasible and impactful product features, a core element of GTM operations.

• Feedback-Driven: The team embraces user testing and feedback loops to iterate on designs, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and learning.

• Knowledge Sharing: As part of a larger design team, there's an expectation of sharing insights, best practices, and contributing to the collective knowledge base, particularly around AI and design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values of "trust" and "commitment to excellence" are particularly relevant in high-tech and defense industries, implying a need for meticulousness and attention to detail in design processes that directly support product reliability and operational integrity.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Designing for Complexity: Working with AI, conversational interfaces, and B2B/SaaS products for demanding industries like defense and security presents complex user needs and technical constraints.

• Balancing Innovation with Rigor: Integrating cutting-edge AI technologies while adhering to established design systems, security protocols, and operational requirements.

• Translating Abstract Concepts: Transforming abstract AI capabilities and complex business requirements into intuitive and user-friendly interfaces.

• Adapting to Large Organization Dynamics: Navigating the processes and workflows of a large multinational corporation.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Skill Development: Deepen expertise in UX/UI design with a focus on AI-driven experiences, conversational design, and generative AI applications.

• Industry Exposure: Gain invaluable experience in the high-tech sector, specifically in digital identity and security, understanding the operational nuances of these markets.

• Mentorship: Benefit from the guidance of experienced UX Designers and learn best practices for user research, prototyping, and design system implementation.

• Networking: Build professional connections within Thales, a global leader, which can be instrumental for future career advancement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are framed around the operational complexities of integrating advanced technology into robust product offerings. The growth opportunities are directly tied to acquiring specialized skills and industry knowledge relevant to product operations and GTM.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a challenging user research project you've worked on. What was the problem, your approach, and what did you learn?" (Focus on your process, analysis, and synthesis skills).

• "How would you approach designing a conversational interface for a complex B2B service, considering AI capabilities?" (Demonstrate understanding of AI, user flows, and potential challenges).

• "Walk us through a project in your portfolio where you had to transform abstract requirements into a concrete user experience. What was your thought process?" (Highlight problem-solving, ideation, and prototyping). Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in Thales, and specifically in this UX/UI design internship focused on AI?" (Show research into Thales's mission, values, and the role's specifics).

• "How do you see your skills contributing to a company that builds 'a future of trust'?" (Connect your design approach to Thales's core values).

• "Describe your experience working in a team environment. How do you handle feedback from peers or supervisors?" (Assess collaboration and receptiveness to input). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Structure each project as a narrative: the problem, your role and process, key decisions, challenges overcome, and the outcome/learnings.

• Visual Clarity: Use clear, concise visuals (wireframes, user flows, prototypes) that effectively communicate your design thinking.

• Focus on Process: Emphasize your methodology and how you arrived at your solutions, rather than just showcasing the final output.

• Connect to AI: If possible, draw parallels between your past projects and the AI/conversational aspects of this role, even if the projects weren't AI-specific.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview preparation advice is tailored to assess not just design skills but also an understanding of operational context, problem-solving capabilities, and cultural fit within a company like Thales, which operates in critical sectors.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations-aligned design position:

• Submit your application through the Thales careers portal, including your CV and a cover letter.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight projects that showcase your UX research, wireframing, prototyping skills, and any exposure to AI or complex B2B/SaaS applications.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your relevant skills, educational background (Bac +4/5), and any prior design experience, using keywords from the job description like "UX Design," "Figma," and "User Research."

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process and your interest in AI. Be ready to discuss your portfolio and your understanding of Thales's mission.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Thales's business units, their commitment to innovation, and their focus on building a "future of trust." Understand how UX/UI design contributes to these operational goals.

⚠️ 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.

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