UI Designer 1

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UI Designer 1

Company: Garmin International, Inc.

Location: Olathe, Kansas, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: User Interface Design / Graphic Design

Date Posted: 2026-08-21

Experience Level: Entry-Level to Mid-Level (2-5 years implied)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Responsible for conceptualizing, designing, and prototyping original User Interface (UI) designs for a variety of Garmin products, ensuring creative excellence and brand alignment.

• Will collaborate with cross-functional teams, including User Experience (UX) and Software Engineering, to deliver cohesive and compelling design solutions.

• Requires a strong understanding of fundamental design principles such as composition, color theory, typography, and information architecture.

• Expected to manage design projects with minimal supervision, demonstrating independent creative direction and problem-solving skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "UI Designer 1" title, coupled with the requirement for a Bachelor's or Associate's degree plus 2 years of experience, suggests an entry-level to early-mid-level position. The "production artist" alternative path for an Associate's degree also points to a foundational role. The job description emphasizes artistic judgment and creativity, indicating a focus on visual execution and design innovation within established brand guidelines.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, design, and prototype original UI designs for new features and products, leveraging artistic judgment and creativity.

• Develop unique and compelling UI designs that enhance existing design languages and showcase creativity while maintaining brand continuity.

• Analyze UI design trends and competitor offerings to create innovative solutions that differentiate Garmin products.

• Communicate creative concepts and designs through mockups, storyboards, visual presentations, and behavioral documentation.

• Curate and organize original design assets, including custom icons and graphics, for future use and brand consistency.

• Apply critical thinking and creative problem-solving to identify and resolve complex design challenges, ensuring high quality and usability.

• Manage design projects independently with minimal supervision from a Creative Leader or lead designer.

• Provide constructive feedback during UI design reviews to foster innovation and originality within the team.

• Establish and apply design standards and procedures to implement innovative UI designs and influence broader design strategy.

• Collaborate effectively with User Experience and Software Engineering teams to negotiate design tradeoffs and ensure technical feasibility.

• Ensure visual and artistic consistency across all product lines, adapting designs to maintain a cohesive brand identity.

• Stay current on traditional graphic design skills and emerging design tools and techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative design execution and strategic thinking. The emphasis on "delivering superior design solutions" and "influencing the broader design strategy" suggests that while this is a 'Designer 1' role, there's an expectation for the individual to contribute beyond just executing tasks, particularly in problem-solving and contributing to design standards.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree in Graphic Design or Visual Communication.

• OR Associate's Degree in Graphic Design or Visual Communication AND a minimum of 2 years of experience as a Garmin Production Artist.

• Equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered.

• Excellent academic record (cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher is a general guideline) demonstrating the ability to apply learned knowledge. Experience:

• Implied 2-5 years of experience in UI design, graphic design, or a related visual design field, based on the degree requirements and "Designer 1" title.

• Demonstrated ability to apply fundamental design skills and knowledge to product design. Required Skills:

• Proficient understanding of imaging formats, quality factors, and output-related information.

• Strong fundamental design skills: Composition, information architecture, color theory, typography, and animation.

• Understanding of designing for interactive/on-screen product interfaces.

• Strong and effective verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.

• Flexibility to work independently or as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.

• Strong organizational skills and the ability to effectively prioritize and manage multiple tasks.

• Basic knowledge of required programs: Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, and Figma. Preferred Skills:

• Experience in Visual Communications or Graphic Design (this appears to be a reiteration of the primary requirement, but may imply a preference for candidates with a broader scope of visual communication experience beyond just UI).

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Basic Qualifications" are quite detailed, emphasizing not just tool proficiency but a deep understanding of design principles. The mention of "Garmin Production Artist" as an alternative for an Associate's degree suggests a potential internal mobility path or a specific type of foundational design experience that Garmin values. The GPA requirement points to a focus on academic rigor and foundational knowledge.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing original UI designs for interactive products.

• Demonstrated ability to apply fundamental design principles (composition, information architecture, color theory, typography, animation) in practical applications.

• Examples of prototyping and the creation of custom design assets (icons, graphics).

• Case studies or project examples that illustrate creative problem-solving and the resolution of complex design challenges.

• Evidence of ability to maintain visual and artistic consistency across different product interfaces. Process Documentation:

• Projects should ideally demonstrate the design process from concept to final design, including ideation, sketching, wireframing, prototyping, and high-fidelity mockups.

• Ability to articulate the design rationale and decision-making process behind each project.

• Examples of how user feedback or usability testing (even if simulated) informed design iterations are highly valued.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated, a UI Designer role at a company like Garmin, which produces complex hardware and software products, would absolutely require a strong portfolio. The "Basic Qualifications" list fundamental design skills, which are the core components to be showcased in a portfolio for this type of role.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The provided salary information indicates a base salary of $0 annually.

• 📝 Enhancement Note: Based on industry standards for a UI Designer 1 role in Olathe, Kansas, with the specified educational and experience requirements (entry-level to 2-5 years), a typical salary range would likely fall between $55,000 and $75,000 USD per year. This estimate considers the cost of living in the Kansas City metropolitan area, the specific industry (technology/consumer electronics), and the entry-level nature of the position. Garmin is known for offering competitive compensation, so candidates should expect a salary within this range, potentially higher for candidates with exceptional portfolios or specific relevant experience.

Benefits:

• Eligible for Garmin's comprehensive benefit program.

• Specific details are available via the provided link: Garmin Benefits

• 📝 Enhancement Note: Based on typical offerings for full-time roles at large technology companies and the explicit mention of a benefits program, candidates can generally expect:

  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

  • Retirement Savings Plan (e.g., 401(k) with company match)

  • Paid Time Off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays

  • Life Insurance and Disability Coverage

  • Potential for Employee Stock Purchase Plans (ESPP) or other equity

  • Wellness programs and potential on-site amenities (depending on the Olathe campus). Working Hours:

• Full-time position.

• The stated working hours are 40 hours per week.

• 📝 Enhancement Note: While 40 hours is standard, the fast-paced environment mentioned implies that occasional overtime may be required to meet project deadlines, especially during critical development phases. Flexibility in working hours might be possible, but the role is designated as "On-site."

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Technology, Consumer Electronics, Aviation, Automotive, Marine, Outdoor Recreation.

Company Size: Garmin International, Inc. is a large, established company, part of the publicly traded Garmin Ltd. The company employs thousands globally.

Founded: Garmin Ltd. was founded in 1989.

Team Structure:

• The UI Designer 1 will likely be part of a larger Design or Product Development team.

• This team will include UX Designers, other UI Designers, and potentially Graphic Designers.

• The role reports to a Creative Leader or lead designer, indicating a hierarchical structure within the design department.

• Close collaboration with User Experience (UX) and Software Engineering teams is a key aspect of the role. Methodology:

• Garmin emphasizes a data-driven approach to design, using user feedback and market analysis to inform product development.

• The company values innovation, creativity, and a commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable products.

• Design processes likely involve iterative development, including conceptualization, prototyping, user testing, and refinement.

• A strong focus on maintaining brand consistency and a cohesive design language across a diverse product portfolio.

Company Website: Garmin Careers

📝 Enhancement Note: Garmin is known for its strong engineering culture and focus on creating durable, high-performance products. The company's diverse product lines mean designers often work on varied projects, requiring adaptability and a broad understanding of different user needs and contexts. The "Designer 1" role suggests an environment where foundational skills are honed under experienced guidance.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as "UI Designer 1," indicating an entry-level to early-mid-level position within the UI/UX design discipline. It focuses on executing designs based on established principles and under guidance.

Reporting Structure: The UI Designer 1 will report to a Creative Leader and/or lead designer, who will provide direction, feedback, and project assignments. Collaboration with UX and Software Engineering teams is also a key reporting and working relationship.

Operations Impact: While not a traditional "Revenue Operations" role, the UI Designer's work directly impacts product adoption, user satisfaction, and brand perception. Compelling UI design is crucial for the success of Garmin's consumer electronics, influencing sales and customer loyalty. The quality of the user interface is a key differentiator in competitive markets.

Growth Opportunities:

• UI Designer II/Senior UI Designer: Progression typically involves taking on more complex design challenges, leading design initiatives for specific features or products, and mentoring junior designers.

• UX Designer: With experience and further development in user research and interaction design, a transition to a User Experience Designer role is possible.

• Lead UI Designer/Design Manager: Opportunities may arise to lead design teams, manage projects, and contribute more significantly to design strategy and team development.

• Specialization: Development into specialized areas like interaction design, motion graphics for UI, or accessibility design.

📝 Enhancement Note: Garmin offers a structured career path for designers. The emphasis on learning and staying current with design tools suggests that continuous professional development is encouraged and necessary for advancement. The diverse product portfolio provides opportunities to gain experience across various technology sectors.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site position at Garmin's U.S. headquarters in Olathe, Kansas. The campus is known for its modern facilities and robust infrastructure.

Office Location(s): 1200 E 151st STREET, Olathe, Kansas, 66062, United States. This is Garmin's primary U.S. headquarters, located in the Greater Kansas City area.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is expected to be collaborative, fostering interaction between designers, UX researchers, and software engineers.

• Access to industry-standard design software and hardware will be provided.

• The environment is likely dynamic and fast-paced, typical of a leading technology company with multiple product lines.

• Opportunities for cross-functional team meetings and design reviews will be integral to the daily workflow. Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week.

• Given the on-site requirement and fast-paced nature, a consistent presence during core business hours is expected.

• 📝 Enhancement Note: While core hours are standard, the company's culture might allow for some flexibility in start/end times, provided project needs and team collaboration are met. However, the primary emphasis is on being physically present in the Olathe office.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Submission: Submit resume and portfolio.

• Initial Screening: HR or hiring manager reviews applications for basic qualifications and portfolio relevance.

• Portfolio Review: A critical step where the Creative Lead or senior designers evaluate the candidate's design skills, creativity, and understanding of UI principles. Expect to discuss your process and rationale.

• Technical/Skills Assessment: Potentially a design challenge or a deep dive into specific software proficiency (Figma, Adobe Suite).

• Behavioral/Cultural Fit Interviews: Interviews with the hiring manager and team members to assess communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and cultural alignment with Garmin's values.

• Final Interview: May involve a presentation of a portfolio piece or a proposed solution to a design problem.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest projects that best showcase your UI design skills, fundamental design knowledge, and ability to solve user problems. Tailor selections to Garmin's product categories if possible.

• Show Your Process: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, your design process (ideation, wireframing, prototyping, testing), the tools used, and the final outcome. Highlight any quantifiable results or user impact.

• Demonstrate Core Skills: Ensure your portfolio clearly demonstrates proficiency in composition, color theory, typography, information architecture, and interactive design principles.

• Highlight Tool Proficiency: Showcase your skills with Figma, Adobe Illustrator, and Photoshop.

• Tell a Story: Present your work in a narrative format that guides the reviewer through your thought process and design decisions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand Garmin's Products: Familiarize yourself with Garmin's diverse product range (wearables, automotive, aviation, marine, outdoor) and their existing UI/UX.

• Practice Design Fundamentals: Be ready to discuss and apply core design principles under pressure.

• Prepare for Figma/Adobe Questions: Brush up on specific features and workflows within Figma and the Adobe Creative Suite.

• Articulate Design Rationale: Practice explaining why you made certain design choices, referencing user needs, business goals, and design principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a "UI Designer 1" role, the portfolio is paramount. The company is looking for a strong foundation and creative potential. Demonstrating a clear understanding of the design process and the ability to articulate design decisions is as important as the visual output itself.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Illustrator: For vector graphics, icon creation, and asset preparation.

• Adobe Photoshop: For image manipulation, raster graphics, and mockups.

• Figma: A key tool for UI design, wireframing, prototyping, and collaborative design. This is explicitly mentioned as basic knowledge required.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly listed, designers may interact with analytics dashboards to understand user behavior and inform design decisions. Familiarity with tools that provide user interaction data would be beneficial. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly relevant to this UI Design role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Figma is a critical requirement. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their skills and workflows within this tool. Experience with other design and prototyping tools is a plus, but Figma is the stated essential.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Innovation: A strong emphasis on developing original and compelling design solutions.

• Quality & Reliability: A commitment to delivering high-quality, functional, and user-friendly products, reflecting Garmin's brand reputation.

• Collaboration: Working effectively within cross-functional teams (UX, Engineering) to achieve project goals.

• Continuous Improvement: Staying current with design trends and tools, and applying learned knowledge to enhance designs.

• Customer Focus: Designing with the end-user in mind, ensuring usability and a positive customer experience.

Collaboration Style:

• The role requires close collaboration with UX Designers to translate user needs into effective interfaces and with Software Engineers to ensure designs are technically feasible and implemented correctly.

• Design reviews are a key part of the collaborative process, where feedback is shared and incorporated.

• A team-oriented approach is essential for navigating the fast-paced product development cycles at Garmin.

📝 Enhancement Note: Garmin's culture often values a results-oriented approach and a sense of ownership. Designers are expected to contribute meaningfully to product success by creating intuitive and visually appealing interfaces.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Brand Consistency: Designing innovative solutions while adhering to Garmin's established design language and product requirements.

• Managing Multiple Projects: Juggling design tasks for various product lines simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.

• Technical Constraints: Collaborating with engineering to navigate technical limitations and find design solutions that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional.

• Keeping Pace with Technology: Continuously learning new design tools, techniques, and UI trends relevant to Garmin's diverse product ecosystem.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced Creative Leaders and senior designers.

• Skill Development: Access to training on new design software, UX methodologies, and emerging UI trends.

• Exposure to Diverse Products: Gaining experience across Garmin's wide range of product categories (wearables, automotive, aviation, etc.), broadening design expertise.

• Industry Conferences/Workshops: Potential for participation in relevant design events to stay updated on industry best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for designers in a growing tech company with a broad product portfolio. The emphasis on learning and adaptation is key for career progression in this dynamic field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Process: "Walk me through your design process for a recent UI project, from initial concept to final delivery. What were the key decisions you made and why?"

• Problem-Solving: "Describe a challenging UI design problem you encountered and how you solved it. What was the outcome?"

• Collaboration: "How do you collaborate with UX designers and software engineers? Describe a time you had to negotiate design tradeoffs."

Company & Culture Questions:

• Garmin Products: "Which Garmin product(s) do you find most interesting from a design perspective, and why? What improvements would you suggest?"

• Design Trends: "What current UI design trends are you most excited about, and how might they apply to Garmin's product lines?"

• Teamwork: "Describe your ideal team environment and how you contribute to a positive and productive team dynamic."

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Presentation: Organize your portfolio by project, clearly stating the objective, your role, the problem, your process, and the solution.

• Focus on Rationale: Be prepared to explain why you made specific design choices, referencing design principles, user needs, and project goals.

• Highlight Key Skills: Emphasize your proficiency in Figma, Adobe Illustrator, and Photoshop, as well as your foundational design skills (composition, typography, color theory, etc.).

• Quantify Impact (if possible): If you have metrics or user feedback that demonstrate the success of your designs, be sure to present them.

• Be Concise and Engaging: Present your work clearly and enthusiastically, allowing time for questions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for a strong understanding of design fundamentals, creativity, problem-solving skills, and the ability to articulate design decisions clearly. Demonstrating an understanding of Garmin's product ecosystem will also be a significant advantage.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this UI Designer position:

• Submit your application through the Garmin careers portal.

• Prepare your portfolio: Curate 3-5 of your strongest UI design projects. Ensure they clearly demonstrate your fundamental design skills, process, and proficiency in tools like Figma, Adobe Illustrator, and Photoshop. Tailor your selection to showcase relevant work if possible.

• Optimize your resume: Highlight your educational background, relevant design experience, specific tool proficiencies, and any academic achievements (like GPA if strong). Use keywords from the job description.

• Research Garmin: Familiarize yourself with Garmin's product lines, their existing UI/UX, and their brand values. Understand their market position and competitors.

• Practice your portfolio presentation: Be ready to walk through your projects, explaining your design process, rationale, and any outcomes or learnings. Prepare answers to common UI design interview questions.

⚠️ 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.