UI Design Intern

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UI Design Intern

Company: Cambridge Investment Research, Inc.

Location: Phoenix, AZ, United States

Job Type: Intern, Full-Time

Category: Design / User Experience Operations

Date Posted: March 03, 2026

Experience Level: 0-2 Years (Intern)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This internship focuses on applying design principles to enhance user interfaces and experiences within the financial services industry, requiring collaboration with cross-functional teams.

• Key responsibilities include conducting user research, developing wireframes and interactive prototypes using industry-standard tools like Figma, and participating in usability testing to refine design solutions.

• The role involves contributing to the Cambridge Design System and presenting design work, incorporating feedback to demonstrate a strong understanding of iterative design processes.

• Ideal candidates will be pursuing studies in User Interface/Experience, Web Design, or Human-Computer Interaction, showcasing a passion for problem-solving through design and a commitment to user-centric development.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the provided title is "UI Design Intern," the context of collaboration with cross-functional teams, user research, and contributing to a design system suggests a role that touches upon operational aspects of design within a larger business framework. This enhancement positions it within a broader "Design / User Experience Operations" category, recognizing its applied nature.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Collaborate closely with product managers, engineers, and other stakeholders to understand user needs and translate them into intuitive and effective UI design solutions.

• Conduct comprehensive user research, including surveys, interviews, and usability studies, to gather insights and inform design decisions.

• Design and develop detailed wireframes, user flows, and interactive prototypes using Figma to visualize and test design concepts.

• Assist in the planning and execution of usability testing sessions, analyzing results to identify areas for design improvement.

• Contribute to the development and maintenance of the Cambridge Design System, ensuring consistency and scalability across all user interfaces.

• Present design work and project outcomes to mentors, supervisors, and cross-functional teams, incorporating constructive feedback for iterative improvement.

• Gain practical experience in a highly regulated industry, understanding the unique design challenges and compliance requirements within financial services.

• Participate in educational training sessions focused on career workshops, problem-solving, professional development, and financial services industry basics.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities have been expanded to detail the typical workflow and expectations for a UI Design Intern, emphasizing the practical application of design skills within a professional setting and the learning opportunities provided.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in UI/UX design, preferably through academic projects, personal projects, or previous internships.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in design and prototyping tools, with a strong emphasis on Figma.

• Foundational knowledge of user research methodologies and usability testing principles.

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

• Strong visual design skills, including layout, typography, and color theory.

• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate design decisions clearly.

• Ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional teams and receive constructive feedback.

Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with design systems and component-based design.

• Basic understanding of HTML/CSS and front-end development principles.

• Experience working in a regulated industry or with complex data visualization.

• Knowledge of accessibility best practices (WCAG).

• Experience with additional design tools such as Sketch, Adobe Creative Suite, or InVision.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications have been detailed to reflect typical intern requirements, emphasizing foundational design skills, tool proficiency (specifically Figma), and the crucial need for a portfolio. The "0-2 Years" experience level is derived from the "Intern" designation.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated collection of design projects that clearly demonstrates your design process, problem-solving approach, and final design solutions.

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 distinct projects, ideally including UI design, UX research, and prototyping examples.

• Projects should highlight your ability to translate user needs and business requirements into effective design outcomes.

• Include case studies for key projects, detailing the problem, your role, the process undertaken, challenges faced, and the impact of your design.

Process Documentation:

• For each project within your portfolio, briefly outline the design methodology used (e.g., Lean UX, Design Thinking, Agile).

• Detail the steps taken in user research, ideation, wireframing, prototyping, and testing phases.

• Explain how feedback was incorporated and how the design evolved throughout the process.

• Demonstrate an understanding of how design decisions align with business objectives and user goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: Specific guidance for a design intern's portfolio has been provided, focusing on showcasing process, problem-solving, and the tools used, which are critical for design roles.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $22 - $26 per hour

Estimated Annual Salary (Full-Time Equivalent): $45,760 - $54,080 (based on a 40-hour work week)

Benefits:

• Paid time off: 16 hours of paid time off for use throughout the summer internship.

• Volunteer time: 8 hours of paid time off designated for volunteer activities during the summer.

• Holiday pay: Observed for Memorial Day and Independence Day.

• Educational courses: Access to career workshops, problem-solving sessions, professional development training, and financial services industry basics hosted by the Associate Training and Development team.

• Networking events: Opportunities to connect with company executives during the Welcome and End of Summer Banquets, participate in leadership panels, and engage in job shadowing.

• Post-internship engagement: Access to the Next Step Intern Alumni LinkedIn group for continued networking and connection with Cambridge and fellow interns.

Working Hours:

• Full-time, typically 40 hours per week, with standard business hours.

• Specific daily schedules will be communicated by the hiring manager, with potential for some flexibility depending on project needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided in the input has been clearly stated. The benefits are detailed as listed in the source, with specific operational context added where applicable (e.g., "volunteer time off during the summer").

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Financial Services (specifically, Broker-Dealer and Registered Investment Advisor services)

Company Size: Approximately 500-1000 employees (derived from typical size of companies with this level of internship program and office presence).

Founded: Cambridge Investment Research, Inc. was founded in 1981, indicating a long-standing presence and stability in the financial services industry.

Team Structure:

• The UI Design Intern will likely be part of a broader Design or Marketing/Technology team, reporting to a Design Lead or Manager.

• This team will collaborate closely with product development, marketing, and potentially compliance departments to ensure cohesive user experiences aligned with business goals.

Methodology:

• Cambridge Investment Research operates within a structured, regulated industry, implying a methodical approach to design and development.

• Emphasis will be placed on data-driven design insights derived from user research and usability testing.

• Design solutions will need to be rigorously tested and validated before implementation, considering both user needs and compliance requirements.

• The development of a Design System suggests a commitment to efficiency, consistency, and scalability in design operations.

Company Website: https://www.cir.net/ (Assumed based on common industry practice, though not explicitly provided in raw data)

📝 Enhancement Note: Company context has been inferred based on the company name and industry, focusing on what this means for a design intern's role and the operational environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Intern/Entry-Level. This role is designed for students to gain foundational experience and exposure to professional design practices within a corporate environment.

Reporting Structure: The intern will report to a direct supervisor or manager within the design or relevant department, and will also be assigned a mentor and potentially an executive sponsor as part of the "Next Step" internship program.

Operations Impact: While direct operational impact may be limited for an intern, their contributions to user research, prototype design, and usability testing directly inform design decisions that impact user engagement, efficiency, and satisfaction with Cambridge's digital platforms. This role provides a window into how design operations support broader business objectives.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Deepen expertise in UI/UX design principles, Figma proficiency, user research techniques, and prototyping. Gain practical experience in a corporate setting.

• Industry Exposure: Learn about the financial services industry, its regulatory landscape, and how design functions within this context.

• Networking: Build connections with mentors, supervisors, executives, and fellow interns through structured programs and events, potentially leading to future opportunities.

• Future Employment: The program explicitly mentions the opportunity to discuss continued employment on a part-time or full-time basis post-internship.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section frames the internship from a career perspective, detailing the learning curve, reporting lines, potential impact, and growth pathways relevant to early-career design professionals.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site internship at Cambridge's Phoenix, AZ office. This indicates a traditional office environment conducive to in-person collaboration and mentorship.

Office Location(s): Phoenix, Arizona. This location suggests a vibrant business hub with potential for diverse professional interactions.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely be a professional office environment that encourages collaboration, with opportunities for direct interaction with mentors, supervisors, and cross-functional team members.

• Access to necessary design tools and technology, including Figma and potentially other company-specific software, will be provided.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time commitment, expected to be around 40 hours per week, aligning with standard business operations.

• The internship duration is 11 weeks, typically during the summer months.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is described based on the "on-site" nature and the structured internship program, emphasizing collaboration and professional development.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of application materials, focusing on academic background, relevant coursework, and initial portfolio presentation.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where candidates will present their design portfolio, discussing their process, problem-solving approaches, and design rationale. Be prepared to walk through specific projects in detail.

• Skills Assessment: Potential for a design challenge or case study exercise to evaluate practical design skills, critical thinking, and ability to apply feedback.

• Behavioral/Situational Interviews: Questions assessing communication skills, teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit with Cambridge's values.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with senior team members or program leads to discuss overall fit and potential for future engagement.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Wisely: Select projects that best showcase your UI design skills, problem-solving capabilities, and understanding of user experience principles.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the design process, key decisions, and the outcome or impact. Use visual aids effectively.

• Highlight Figma Proficiency: Be ready to demonstrate your skills within Figma, explaining your workflow and how you leverage its features for prototyping and design.

• Showcase Iteration: Include examples of how you refined designs based on feedback or testing. This demonstrates adaptability and a growth mindset.

• Tailor to Cambridge: If possible, subtly align your portfolio examples with the financial services industry or demonstrate an understanding of regulated environments.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brief: Carefully read and understand any design challenge or case study prompt. Identify key objectives and constraints.

• Emphasize Process: Focus on demonstrating your thought process and how you would approach the problem, rather than just delivering a final polished solution (especially if time is limited).

• Communicate Clearly: Practice articulating your ideas and rationale concisely and persuasively.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides actionable advice for candidates applying for design internships, focusing on portfolio presentation and interview preparation, which are critical for design roles.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Design Tools:

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

• Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator): May be used for asset creation, image editing, and other graphic design tasks.

• Sketch/InVision: While Figma is primary, familiarity with other industry-standard tools can be beneficial.

Collaboration & Project Management:

• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel): For documentation, presentations, and data analysis.

• Project Management Tools (e.g., Jira, Asana, Trello): For tracking tasks and project progress, though direct use might vary for interns.

• Communication Platforms (e.g., Slack, Microsoft Teams): For day-to-day team communication and collaboration.

Research & Testing Tools:

• User Research Platforms (e.g., UserTesting.com, Lookback): For conducting remote usability tests and gathering user feedback.

• Survey Tools (e.g., SurveyMonkey, Google Forms): For gathering user preferences and feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section details the likely technology stack an intern would encounter or be expected to use, with a strong emphasis on Figma as per the job description.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• User-Centricity: A strong focus on understanding and meeting user needs through thoughtful design and research.

• Collaboration: Working effectively with diverse teams to achieve shared goals and ensure integrated solutions.

• Integrity & Trust: Operating with high ethical standards, particularly crucial in the financial services industry.

• Innovation & Improvement: A commitment to continuous learning and enhancing processes and user experiences.

• Professionalism: Maintaining high standards of work ethic, communication, and presentation.

Collaboration Style:

• The internship program emphasizes a collaborative environment, with interns paired with mentors and supervisors for guidance.

• Cross-functional collaboration is a key aspect, requiring interns to work alongside professionals from different departments, fostering a team-oriented approach to problem-solving.

• Expect a culture that values clear communication, constructive feedback, and mutual respect.

📝 Enhancement Note: The inferred values and collaboration style are tailored to a professional internship program within the financial services sector, emphasizing learning and teamwork.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating a Regulated Industry: Understanding and designing within the constraints of financial services regulations can be complex.

• Translating Abstract Needs: Effectively converting user needs and business objectives into tangible design solutions.

• Incorporating Feedback: Learning to receive and integrate diverse feedback from mentors, peers, and stakeholders into design iterations.

• Time Management: Balancing project tasks with educational sessions and networking events within the internship timeline.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Hands-on Design Experience: Gaining practical skills in UI/UX design, prototyping, and user research in a real-world setting.

• Industry Insight: Deepening understanding of the financial services sector and its operational nuances.

• Professional Development: Participating in workshops covering essential soft skills like problem-solving, communication, and career planning.

• Mentorship: Receiving guidance and support from experienced professionals in the field.

📝 Enhancement Note: Potential challenges and growth opportunities are outlined from the perspective of an intern, highlighting the learning curve and the benefits of the structured program.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Walk me through a project in your portfolio where you had to solve a complex user problem. What was your process?" (Focus on problem definition, research, ideation, iteration, and outcome.)

• "How do you approach incorporating feedback from stakeholders who may have differing opinions?" (Demonstrate active listening, critical evaluation, and collaborative problem-solving.)

• "Imagine you're designing a new feature for a financial app. What are the key considerations you'd prioritize?" (Highlight user needs, security, compliance, clarity, and user experience.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Cambridge Investment Research and our role in the financial services industry?" (Demonstrate you've researched the company beyond the job description.)

• "How do you see yourself contributing to our team's collaborative environment?" (Emphasize your teamwork skills and eagerness to learn from others.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure is Key: Organize your presentation logically: Introduction (problem/goal), Your Role, Process (research, ideation, design, testing), Solution, and Outcome/Learnings.

• Visuals Matter: Use high-quality mockups, wireframes, and prototypes. Annotate key design decisions and user flows.

• Be Concise and Engaging: Practice your delivery to ensure you convey information clearly and efficiently within the allotted time. Focus on storytelling.

• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate questions about your design choices, challenges, and how you'd handle specific scenarios.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation advice is tailored to a UI Design Intern role, emphasizing portfolio walkthroughs, understanding the industry, and demonstrating core design thinking.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this UI Design Internship:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Workday.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight relevant coursework, academic projects, and any prior design experience or technical skills (especially Figma). Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Ensure your online portfolio is up-to-date, well-organized, and showcases your best UI/UX design work. Include case studies that detail your process.

• Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse presenting your portfolio projects, focusing on clarity, conciseness, and demonstrating your design thinking and problem-solving skills.

• Research Cambridge: Familiarize yourself with Cambridge Investment Research, its services, and its mission to better understand the context of the internship and articulate your interest.

⚠️ 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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