UI Design Director

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UI Design Director

Company: Reingold Inc

Location: Alexandria, Virginia, United States

Job Type: Part-Time

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Management & Leadership / Technology / Marketing

Date Posted: April 22, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the UI workstream for multiple projects, ensuring delivery of exceptional, user-centered design solutions.

• Provide expert guidance and mentorship to design teams, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.

• Drive the development and implementation of scalable design systems and UI best practices.

• Integrate emerging technologies, including AI, into the interactive design and development workflow.

• Collaborate cross-functionally with UX designers, developers, content strategists, and project managers to ensure cohesive digital experiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a senior leadership position focused on UI design strategy and execution within a marketing and creative firm. While the title is "UI Design Director," the description clarifies it's a temporary, part-time role without direct reports, emphasizing mentorship and influence over traditional management. The focus on AI integration and public sector clients is a key differentiator.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee the entire UI design workstream from conceptualization through project delivery, translating client requirements into high-quality, on-brand interactive designs.

• Provide expert feedback and strategic guidance on UI design deliverables, ensuring alignment with user-centered design principles and project objectives.

• Demonstrate and enforce mastery of user-centered design practices and industry-standard tools, with a strong emphasis on Figma's advanced features.

• Apply deep expertise in responsive and mobile-first design principles, and lead the creation, maintenance, and scaling of comprehensive design systems.

• Proactively identify, anticipate, and resolve complex project issues, mitigating risks to ensure projects remain on track and aligned with strategic goals.

• Foster strong collaborative relationships with development teams, UX designers, content strategists, and digital project managers to ensure seamless integration of design and functionality.

• Partner with departments outside of Digital Experience to ensure a unified and cohesive approach to client work and overall brand strategy.

• Champion and develop best practices for UI design, and serve as a thought leader on emerging tools, technologies, and methodologies within the UI discipline.

• Guide the UI team in exploring and integrating AI technologies into the design workflow, evaluating new tools, establishing guidelines, and driving adoption for efficiency and innovation.

• Stay abreast of the latest industry trends, evolving design standards, and technological advancements to maintain Reingold's position at the forefront of digital experience design.

• Contribute strategic design thinking and insights to business development efforts, including proposal development and client pitches.

• Provide accurate budget estimates for UI workstreams, ensuring proper allocation of resources and effort for project scoping.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic leadership, hands-on design oversight, and team mentorship. The emphasis on AI integration and the public sector is notable. The role requires a strong understanding of how UI design impacts broader marketing and client objectives.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a strong educational background in Graphic Design, Interaction Design, Human-Computer Interaction, or a related field is highly recommended, often demonstrated through a robust portfolio.

Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of professional experience in UI/visual design, with a clear trajectory of increasing leadership responsibilities.

Required Skills:

• Expert-level proficiency in Figma, including advanced use of component libraries, design tokens, auto layout, and collaborative workflows.

• Deep understanding and practical application of responsive design principles and mobile-first design strategies.

• Proven experience in building, maintaining, and scaling comprehensive design systems.

• Strong knowledge and practical application of user-centered design (UCD) methodologies across diverse and complex digital projects.

• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively within Agile development frameworks and cross-functional team environments.

• Proven track record of simultaneously managing multiple complex projects, anticipating potential challenges, and proactively driving resolutions.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex design rationale clearly and persuasively to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Preferred Skills:

• Prior experience working within a marketing or creative agency environment, understanding client-service dynamics.

• Experience working with public sector clients, particularly Federal and local government agencies, understanding their unique requirements and procurement processes.

• A strong champion for accessibility standards, including WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) and Section 508 compliance, and inclusive design practices.

• Hands-on experience exploring, experimenting with, or implementing AI-powered design tools and workflows.

• Experience contributing to business development efforts, including the development of proposals and accurate project budget estimations.

• Foundational knowledge of front-end development technologies (e.g., HTML, CSS, JavaScript frameworks) to facilitate effective collaboration with development teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills emphasize advanced Figma proficiency and design system expertise, which are critical for scalable UI design. The preferred skills highlight agency and public sector experience, suggesting the company's client base and operational demands. The mention of AI tools and accessibility standards indicates a forward-thinking and inclusive approach to design.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 significant UI design projects that demonstrate a progression of complexity and leadership.

• Clearly articulate your role and specific contributions within each project, especially highlighting strategic input and team guidance.

• Include case studies that detail the problem, your design process, key decisions, and the measurable outcomes or impact of your UI solutions.

• Demonstrate expertise in Figma, including examples of component libraries, design token implementation, and how design systems were applied.

Process Documentation:

• For each portfolio case study, outline the UI design process followed, from discovery and user research interpretation to wireframing, prototyping, visual design, and handoff.

• Detail how user-centered design principles and accessibility standards (WCAG/Section 508) were integrated into the process.

• Explain how design systems were leveraged for consistency, scalability, and efficiency, including any challenges faced and solutions implemented.

• Describe your approach to collaborating with UX designers, developers, and other stakeholders throughout the design and development lifecycle.

• Illustrate how you provided feedback and mentorship to junior designers within the process.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is paramount for this role, not just for showcasing design quality but also for demonstrating strategic thinking, process rigor, and leadership capabilities. Emphasis should be placed on quantifiable results and the application of design systems and accessibility standards.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: For a Part-Time UI Design Director role in Alexandria, VA, with 10+ years of experience and specialized skills in Figma and design systems, typical hourly rates can range from $70 to $120 USD. Given the senior leadership and specialized nature of the role, an estimated range of $85 - $110 per hour is reasonable. This would translate to approximately $55,250 - $71,500 annually for a 30-hour work week.

Benefits:

• Competitive salaries (hourly rate for this part-time role).

• Comprehensive benefits package, likely including health insurance, dental, vision, and potentially paid time off (details may vary for part-time roles).

• Growth opportunities within the company, including potential for increased hours, project leadership, or skill development.

• Dynamic hybrid work environment, offering flexibility between remote work and in-office collaboration.

• Vibrant workplace culture and community engagement opportunities.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. The specific number of hours per week is not detailed, but a typical part-time arrangement could range from 20-30 hours per week. The hybrid work environment suggests flexibility in scheduling, allowing for a balance between personal and professional commitments.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on industry benchmarks for senior-level design roles in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area, considering the part-time nature and specialized skill set. Benefits are derived from the general company description, with an acknowledgment that part-time benefits may differ.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Marketing & Creative Services, with a strong focus on helping government, nonprofit, and business sector organizations achieve their missions. Reingold operates as a full-service firm, integrating marketing, creative, digital, and technology expertise.

Company Size: Reingold is a medium-sized firm, likely employing between 50-200 professionals, based on the description of a "team of curious, passionate pros" and offering a "community." This size allows for a collaborative environment while providing ample opportunity for individual impact.

Founded: Founded over 40 years ago, Reingold has a long-standing history and established reputation in the industry. This longevity suggests stability, experience, and a deep understanding of client needs and market evolution.

Team Structure:

• The Digital Experience department houses the UI Design Director, indicating a dedicated team focused on digital strategy and execution.

• While this role does not have direct reports, it involves leading the UI workstream and mentoring junior designers, suggesting a flatter hierarchy within the design team.

Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making and leveraging the latest technology and digital media strategies are central to Reingold's approach.

• A strong emphasis is placed on developing compelling and inventive communications campaigns that meet clients' audiences effectively.

• The company culture values curiosity, passion, collaboration, humor, and a positive, fun work environment.

Company Website: http://www.reingold.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Reingold's established history and mission-driven approach create a unique company culture. The emphasis on collaboration, innovation, and a supportive work environment is appealing for professionals seeking impactful roles. The hybrid work model further enhances flexibility.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior leadership role within the Digital Experience department, specifically focusing on UI Design. It's positioned as a Director-level individual contributor, responsible for the strategic direction and quality of UI work across projects, with a significant emphasis on mentorship and thought leadership rather than direct line management.

Reporting Structure: The UI Design Director will likely report to a higher-level leader within the Digital Experience department, such as a VP of Digital Experience, Chief Creative Officer, or Director of Digital Strategy. The role involves influencing and guiding other designers through expertise and example.

Operations Impact: The UI Design Director's work directly impacts client success by ensuring their digital platforms are intuitive, engaging, and effectively communicate their message. Strong UI design contributes to user satisfaction, conversion rates, brand perception, and ultimately, the achievement of client objectives, which is critical for a mission-driven firm like Reingold.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in emerging areas like AI-powered design tools, advanced accessibility, or specific platform design.

• Leadership Influence: Grow influence within the company by leading key initiatives, mentoring future leaders, and contributing to business development strategy.

• Project Scope Expansion: Take on more complex and high-profile projects, potentially leading larger workstreams or strategic design initiatives.

• Potential for Full-Time or Permanent Role: While currently part-time, successful performance could lead to opportunities for full-time employment or more permanent, ongoing roles depending on business needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a unique growth path for experienced UI designers who excel in strategic leadership and mentorship without necessarily wanting traditional people management responsibilities. The opportunity to shape design direction and influence company-wide adoption of new technologies is significant.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Reingold offers a dynamic hybrid work environment. This means a combination of working remotely and from their physical office location in Alexandria, VA. This setup offers flexibility while maintaining opportunities for in-person collaboration.

Office Location(s): The primary office is located in Alexandria, VA (22314), a vibrant area with good accessibility. Specific details regarding office amenities or proximity to public transport would typically be provided during the interview process.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office space is designed to foster collaboration, creativity, and a sense of community, encouraging interaction among team members.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard design tools, including expert-level Figma, and potentially other relevant software and hardware necessary for digital design work.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for spontaneous brainstorming, team meetings, and direct mentorship interactions within the physical office space, complementing remote collaboration tools.

Work Schedule: As a part-time role, the work schedule is flexible and can be negotiated, likely between 20-30 hours per week. The hybrid nature allows for scheduling flexibility, accommodating personal needs while ensuring project demands are met. This flexibility is beneficial for detailed design work that may require focused, uninterrupted time.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model is a key aspect of the work environment, offering a balance that many professionals seek. The company's emphasis on community suggests that in-office days are likely focused on collaboration and team building.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

• Portfolio Presentation & Discussion: Expect to present a curated selection of your work, focusing on 2-3 key projects that best demonstrate your UI design expertise, leadership, mentorship capabilities, and strategic thinking. Be prepared to discuss your design process, decision-making, and outcomes.

• Skills-Based Interview: May include technical questions related to Figma, design systems, responsive design, and accessibility. You might also be asked to discuss your approach to integrating AI into design workflows.

• Behavioral & Situational Questions: Questions about your leadership style, mentorship approach, how you handle project challenges, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and manage client expectations.

• Cultural Fit Assessment: Discussions to gauge your alignment with Reingold's values, mission, and collaborative culture.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best highlight your leadership, mentorship, advanced Figma skills, design system implementation, and experience with responsive/mobile-first design.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your strategic approach, the specific UI solutions you designed, your leadership/mentorship contributions, and the tangible results or impact. Use visuals effectively.

• Highlight Figma Mastery: Showcase examples of complex component libraries, design tokens, and how you leverage Figma for efficient and scalable design.

• Demonstrate Process: Clearly outline your UI design process, emphasizing user-centered methodologies and how you ensure accessibility (WCAG/Section 508).

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use data and metrics to demonstrate the success of your designs (e.g., improved conversion rates, user satisfaction scores, reduced development time).

Challenge Preparation:

• AI Integration Scenario: Be ready to discuss hypothetical scenarios where you would integrate AI tools into a design process, outlining potential benefits, risks, and implementation steps.

• Design System Presentation: Prepare to explain how you would audit, evolve, or build a design system for a new project or client.

• Mentorship Case Study: Think of an example where you mentored a junior designer through a challenging project, detailing your approach and the positive outcome.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily rely on portfolio review and your ability to articulate your strategic thinking and leadership. Demonstrating practical experience with Figma, design systems, and newer technologies like AI will be crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: Expert-level proficiency is a mandatory requirement. This includes advanced features like component libraries, design tokens, auto layout, prototyping, and collaborative workflows.

• Design System Tools: Experience with tools and methodologies for creating, managing, and scaling design systems.

• Prototyping Tools: While Figma is primary, familiarity with other prototyping tools may be beneficial.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Familiarity with analytics platforms (e.g., Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics) to understand user behavior and inform design decisions.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a core CRM role, understanding how UI design interacts with user journeys managed by CRM systems can be advantageous.

Emerging Technologies:

• AI Design Tools: Openness to exploring and implementing AI-powered design tools and workflows (e.g., AI-assisted content generation, design iteration tools, predictive design).

📝 Enhancement Note: Figma is the cornerstone of this role's technology stack. The emphasis on design systems implies a need for structured thinking and toolchain management. The forward-looking requirement for AI tools indicates Reingold's commitment to innovation.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Mission-Driven Impact: A strong commitment to helping organizations achieve positive change, aligning personal work with a larger purpose.

• Curiosity & Passion: A drive to learn, explore new ideas, and bring enthusiasm to creative problem-solving.

• Collaboration & Community: Valuing teamwork, open communication, and a supportive atmosphere where ideas are shared freely.

• Innovation & Forward-Thinking: Embracing new technologies and methodologies, such as AI, to stay at the forefront of digital experience design.

• Excellence & Quality: A dedication to delivering high-quality, user-centered design solutions that meet and exceed client expectations.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively working with UX designers, developers, content strategists, and project managers to ensure cohesive project delivery.

• Open Feedback Culture: Encouraging constructive feedback to continuously improve design work and processes.

• Knowledge Sharing: A willingness to share expertise, mentor junior team members, and contribute to the collective learning of the design team.

• Agile & Iterative: Embracing iterative design processes, adapting to feedback, and delivering incrementally.

📝 Enhancement Note: Reingold's culture appears to be a blend of professional dedication to impactful work and a positive, collaborative team dynamic. The emphasis on mission, innovation, and teamwork is central to their identity.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Part-Time with Leadership Demands: Effectively leading UI workstreams and mentoring designers within a part-time capacity requires exceptional time management and prioritization skills.

• Integrating New Technologies (AI): Guiding teams and the organization in adopting AI tools for design can present challenges related to workflow disruption, skill gaps, and defining best practices.

• Managing Diverse Client Needs: Working with various clients, including government agencies, may require adapting design approaches to specific requirements, regulations, and procurement processes.

• Maintaining Design System Scalability: Ensuring design systems remain robust, scalable, and easy to maintain as project complexity and client needs grow.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• AI Tool Exploration: Hands-on experience and leadership in evaluating and implementing cutting-edge AI design tools.

• Public Sector Design Expertise: Developing a deeper understanding of design for government and non-profit sectors, including accessibility standards like Section 508.

• Strategic Business Development: Gaining exposure to proposal writing, client pitching, and contributing to the growth of the agency.

• Mentorship Track: Enhancing leadership and coaching skills through guiding junior designers and potentially contributing to internal training programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities to tackle complex design challenges, lead technological adoption, and contribute strategically to client success and business growth, all while developing leadership and specialized design skills.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for leading a UI workstream from initial client brief to final delivery, ensuring alignment with user needs and business objectives." (Focus on process, user-centered design, and stakeholder management).

• "How would you approach integrating AI tools into our current UI design workflow? What are the potential benefits and challenges?" (Demonstrate forward-thinking and practical application of new technologies).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you most about Reingold's mission and our work with government and non-profit clients?" (Show genuine interest in the company's purpose).

• "How do you foster a collaborative and innovative environment within a design team, especially in a hybrid work setting?" (Address teamwork, communication, and cultural alignment).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Begin with a brief overview of Reingold's mission and the role, then present your selected case studies, dedicating 5-7 minutes per project.

• Content: For each case study, clearly define the problem, your strategic approach (including UI/UX principles), your specific contributions (especially leadership/mentorship), key design decisions, and the measurable results.

• Visuals: Use high-fidelity mockups, interactive prototypes (if possible), and clear diagrams to illustrate your process and solutions.

• Figma/Design System Focus: Explicitly point out examples of your Figma expertise, design system implementation, and how you ensure responsiveness and accessibility.

• Engagement: Be prepared for questions throughout your presentation and encourage a dialogue.

📝 Enhancement Note: Emphasize your strategic thinking, leadership potential, and practical application of advanced design tools and methodologies. Tailor your responses to Reingold's mission and client base.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Tailor your resume: Highlight your 10+ years of UI design experience, specific leadership/mentorship achievements, expert Figma skills, and experience with design systems and responsive/mobile-first design. Use keywords from the job description.

• Curate your portfolio: Select 2-3 of your strongest UI design projects that best showcase your leadership, mentorship, Figma mastery, and strategic thinking. Prepare a concise narrative for each project, emphasizing process, problem-solving, and outcomes.

• Prepare for interview questions: Practice articulating your design process, leadership style, approach to AI integration, and how you ensure accessibility. Be ready to discuss your portfolio in detail.

• Research Reingold: Understand the company's mission, values, client base (especially government/non-profit), and recent work to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit.

⚠️ 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.