UI Designer II – Mobile & Native

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UI Designer II – Mobile & Native

Company: Esri

Location: Redlands, CA

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: UI/UX Design & Product Development

Date Posted: April 16, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Design and implement intuitive mobile and native UI functionality for Esri's mapping SDKs, ensuring a seamless user experience for developers.

• Drive design coherence and maintain high-quality visual and interaction design standards across all Esri developer products.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including developers and product managers, to advocate for and integrate UX best practices.

• Continuously research and integrate the latest design patterns and technologies to keep Esri's offerings at the forefront of user experience innovation.

• Translate complex user requirements into accessible, easy-to-use, and visually appealing interfaces for a broad developer audience.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title specifies "UI Designer," the responsibilities and required skills clearly indicate a strong emphasis on User Experience (UX) design principles, user-centered design methodologies, and interaction design. The role focuses on designing for developer tools (SDKs) which requires a deep understanding of how developers interact with and integrate software components. This is a hybrid role demanding both strong visual design execution and strategic UX thinking.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design Creation and Implementation: Develop comprehensive UX/UI solutions from initial wireframes and mock-ups to detailed visual designs, including technical documents and interactive prototypes, specifically for mobile and native UI components within Esri's mapping SDKs.

• Visual Design Execution: Create high-fidelity visual designs that adhere to industry best practices and Esri's design language, ensuring pixel-perfect implementation and aesthetic appeal for map-centric applications.

• Design Coherence and Guidance: Lead design reviews, provide consistent interaction and visual design guidance, and ensure adherence to established design standards and style guides across product lines.

• Production Design Specifications: Produce detailed production design specifications, including asset handoff and clear documentation, to facilitate efficient and accurate implementation by the development team.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner effectively with product managers, software engineers, and other stakeholders to understand requirements, gather feedback, and ensure the successful integration of designed solutions.

• UX Advocacy: Champion user experience principles and processes within the team and to broader stakeholders, clearly articulating the value and impact of UX design on product success.

• User-Centered Design Application: Apply user-centered design principles throughout the product development lifecycle, from research and ideation to iterative design and validation.

• Accessibility Integration: Design interfaces that meet accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG) to ensure Esri's developer tools are usable by individuals with diverse needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a hands-on design role with significant ownership over the visual and interaction design of mobile and native SDK components. The need to create "technical documents" and "diagrams" alongside visual designs suggests a role that bridges the gap between conceptual design and developer implementation, requiring a strong understanding of technical constraints and possibilities.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Graphic Design, Computer Science, or a related field.

Experience: 2+ years of professional experience in UX, UI, or interaction design, with a specific focus on mobile and desktop application UIs.

Required Skills:

• Design Software Proficiency: Expert-level skills in industry-standard design tools such as Figma, Adobe Photoshop, and Adobe Illustrator.

• User-Centered Design Principles: Deep understanding of user-centered design methodologies and best practices.

• Visual Design Expertise: Strong graphic design skills, including mastery of typography, intuitive layout design, color theory, and visual hierarchy.

• Information Architecture: Ability to structure information logically and create clear user journeys and intuitive navigation flows.

• Prototyping & Wireframing: Proven ability to create low-fidelity wireframes and high-fidelity interactive prototypes to communicate design concepts effectively.

• Platform Design Guidelines: Familiarity with and ability to apply Apple's Human Interface Guidelines and Google's Material Design principles.

• Communication Skills: Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills for effective collaboration and presentation.

• Analytical & Problem-Solving Skills: Strong ability to analyze complex requirements, identify user needs, and develop creative, effective design solutions.

• Portfolio: A comprehensive online portfolio showcasing design abilities, problem-solving approaches, and a strong understanding of client and user objectives.

Preferred Skills:

• UX Research Methodologies: Knowledge of qualitative and mixed-method UX research techniques (e.g., user interviews, usability testing, surveys) to inform design decisions.

• GIS/Mapping Familiarity: Experience or understanding of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), mapping technologies, and geospatial analysis applications.

• Interaction Design Patterns: Experience designing for complex data visualization or interactive mapping interfaces.

• Agile Development Experience: Familiarity with Agile/Scrum development methodologies and collaborating within such frameworks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for an online portfolio is critical. Candidates should prepare to showcase case studies that detail their design process, problem-solving approach, and the impact of their designs, particularly those involving mobile or native application interfaces. Highlighting experience with data visualization or complex technical interfaces will be a significant advantage given Esri's domain.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case Studies: Detailed case studies that illustrate your design process, from problem definition and user research to ideation, prototyping, visual design, and final implementation.

• Problem-Solving Demonstrations: Showcase how you approached complex design challenges, including user pain points and how your solutions addressed them effectively.

• Visual Design Excellence: Present high-fidelity mock-ups and UI elements that demonstrate strong graphic design principles, attention to detail, and adherence to design system standards.

• Interaction Design Examples: Include examples of interactive prototypes or detailed descriptions of complex interaction patterns you designed, particularly for mobile or native applications.

• Platform Guideline Application: Demonstrate how you've applied or adapted platform-specific design guidelines (e.g., HIG, Material Design) in your work.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Showcase examples of how you've mapped out user flows and system interactions to create intuitive user journeys.

• Design System Contribution: If applicable, provide examples of your involvement in creating or contributing to design systems, style guides, or component libraries.

• Usability Testing Integration: Explain how user feedback and usability testing results informed your design iterations and improvements.

• Collaboration Artifacts: Include examples of documentation or artifacts that facilitated collaboration with developers and product managers (e.g., detailed design specifications, annotation guides).

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, a portfolio that clearly articulates a methodical approach to designing for technical applications and developer tools will be highly valued. Candidates should focus on demonstrating how they translate complex technical concepts into user-friendly interfaces, emphasizing clarity, efficiency, and developer experience.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $83,824 - $149,032 USD per year.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health & Welfare: Medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and their families.

• Life Insurance: Basic and supplemental life insurance coverage.

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with profit-sharing programs.

• Paid Time Off: Minimum accrual of 80 hours of vacation leave.

• Holidays: Twelve paid holidays throughout the calendar year.

• Relocation Assistance: Support provided through Esri's Relocation Assistance Program for candidates relocating to the Redlands, CA area.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week (standard full-time).

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is an estimate based on the information presented. The actual compensation will depend on various factors including skill set, experience, training, and specific business needs. The comprehensive benefits package, including relocation assistance, indicates a strong commitment to employee well-being and support for on-site employees.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Geospatial Technology. Esri is the global leader in GIS software, providing powerful mapping and location intelligence solutions used by governments, businesses, and organizations worldwide to address critical challenges.

Company Size: Esri is a large, privately held company with a significant global presence, employing thousands of individuals. This size offers stability, resources, and opportunities for impact within a specialized tech sector.

Founded: Esri was founded in 1969, giving it a long history and deep expertise in the GIS industry. This longevity suggests a stable, established company with a strong, evolving culture.

Team Structure:

• Design Team: The UI Designer II will likely be part of a larger UX/UI design team, possibly with specialized sub-teams focusing on different product areas (e.g., mobile, web, desktop, developer technologies).

• Reporting Structure: The role reports to a Design Lead or Manager, with close collaboration with Product Managers and Software Development teams.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Expect to work extensively with developers building the SDKs, product managers defining feature roadmaps, and potentially other designers, researchers, and technical writers.

Methodology:

• User-Centered Design: Esri emphasizes user-centered design principles, aiming to create intuitive and powerful tools that meet the needs of its diverse user base, particularly developers.

• Agile Development: The company likely operates with Agile methodologies, requiring designers to be adaptable and integrated within development sprints.

• Data-Driven Insights: While this role is design-focused, an appreciation for data and user feedback to inform design decisions is crucial for success.

Company Website: https://www.esri.com/careers/5096226007?gh_jid=5096226007

📝 Enhancement Note: Esri's focus on GIS and its mission to address global challenges (climate change, disaster response) provides a unique and impactful context for designers. Understanding this mission can help candidates tailor their applications and interviews to demonstrate alignment with the company's purpose.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is an intermediate-level UI Designer (II). It requires a solid foundation in design principles and software, with the ability to work independently on defined tasks and contribute to larger design initiatives. It's a step beyond an entry-level position, expecting more autonomy and a deeper understanding of design best practices.

Reporting Structure: The UI Designer II will report to a Design Manager or Lead. This provides mentorship and guidance while offering opportunities to take ownership of specific design areas and contribute to strategic discussions.

Operations Impact: As a UI Designer for Esri's developer products, the impact is significant. Your designs will directly influence how developers build applications using Esri's GIS technology. Well-designed SDK components can accelerate development, improve app quality, and ultimately enable more effective use of GIS for critical global issues. This role contributes to the broader Esri ecosystem and its mission.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Develop deep expertise in mobile UI design, native application interfaces, and potentially specialized areas within GIS application design.

• Skill Expansion: Grow proficiency in advanced UX research techniques, design system development, and potentially front-end development principles.

• Leadership Potential: With experience and demonstrated impact, opportunities may arise to lead design efforts for specific product features or components, mentor junior designers, or contribute to design strategy.

• Cross-Functional Movement: Gain exposure to product management and software development, opening avenues for broader roles within product development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "II" in the job title suggests a path for growth within Esri's design organization. Candidates should inquire about formal career progression frameworks and opportunities for advanced training or mentorship related to UX/UI and GIS technologies.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role based in Redlands, CA. Esri is known for its campus-like environment, which fosters collaboration and provides extensive amenities.

Office Location(s): Redlands, California, USA. This location is the company's headquarters, suggesting access to a wide range of resources and a vibrant internal community.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Esri emphasizes collaboration, and the Redlands campus is designed to support this with various meeting spaces and communal areas.

• Tools and Technology: Expect access to industry-standard design software and hardware. The company's focus on technology means that design tools and infrastructure are likely well-maintained and updated.

• Team Interaction: As an on-site employee, you'll have direct, in-person interaction with your design team, product managers, and developers, facilitating real-time feedback and problem-solving.

Work Schedule: The standard work week is 40 hours. While there's a focus on on-site presence, Esri may offer some flexibility within the standard business day, though specific details would need to be confirmed.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is explicit. Candidates must be willing and able to work from the Redlands, CA office. The company's investment in its campus indicates a commitment to providing a supportive and resource-rich on-site work environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter will likely review your application and portfolio to assess basic qualifications and fit.

• Portfolio Review & Technical Interview: You will likely present your portfolio to a hiring manager or senior designer. Be prepared to walk through 2-3 key projects, detailing your role, process, challenges, and outcomes. Expect questions about design decisions, user-centered methodologies, and your proficiency with design tools.

• Cross-Functional Interviews: Interviews with product managers and/or developers to assess collaboration skills, understanding of technical constraints, and ability to communicate design rationale effectively.

• Design Challenge (Potential): Esri may present a small design challenge, either as a take-home assignment or an in-person exercise, to evaluate your problem-solving skills and design approach in a time-constrained scenario.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a design director or senior leadership to discuss overall fit, career aspirations, and alignment with Esri's culture and mission.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Focus on projects that best demonstrate your skills relevant to mobile/native UI/UX design and ideally, applications with complex data or technical interfaces.

• Tell a Story: For each project, explain the problem, your role, the process you followed, the key decisions you made, the challenges you overcame, and the impact of your solution. Use visuals effectively.

• Highlight Your Process: Emphasize your understanding of user-centered design, research methods, wireframing, prototyping, and visual design execution.

• Showcase Tool Proficiency: Clearly indicate which tools you used for each project (Figma, Adobe Suite, etc.).

• Quantify Impact: If possible, include metrics or outcomes that demonstrate the success of your designs (e.g., improved usability, increased engagement, positive user feedback).

Challenge Preparation:

• Familiarize Yourself with Esri's Products: Understand what Esri does and the types of applications their SDKs support. This will help you contextualize any design challenge.

• Practice Design Thinking: Be ready to apply a structured approach to problem-solving, starting with understanding the problem and user needs before jumping to solutions.

• Focus on Clarity and Efficiency: For a UI design challenge, prioritize clear, intuitive interfaces that are efficient for developers to use or integrate.

• Prepare to Articulate Decisions: Be ready to explain the rationale behind every design choice you make.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is paramount for this role. Candidates should ensure it is easily accessible, well-organized, and directly addresses the requirements for mobile and native UI/UX design. Demonstrating an understanding of how developers use tools and SDKs will be a key differentiator.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Design Tools:

• Figma: Essential for collaborative design, prototyping, and creating interactive mock-ups.

• Adobe Photoshop: For image editing, manipulation, and creating high-fidelity visual assets.

• Adobe Illustrator: For vector graphics, icons, and detailed visual elements.

Prototyping & Wireframing:

Collaboration & Documentation:

• Jira/Confluence: Likely used for project management and documentation, requiring designers to integrate their work and documentation within these systems.

• Slack/Microsoft Teams: For day-to-day team communication and collaboration.

Potential Future Tools (Beneficial):

• GIS Software: Familiarity with Esri's ArcGIS suite (ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online) or other GIS platforms.

• UX Research Tools: Tools for conducting usability testing (e.g., UserTesting.com, Lookback) or gathering feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Figma is a strong indicator of modern UI/UX design practices. The emphasis on Adobe Suite suggests a need for strong visual design execution. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience and workflows with these specific tools.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• User-Centricity: A deep commitment to understanding and serving user needs, ensuring that designs are intuitive, effective, and accessible.

• Innovation: A drive to explore new design patterns, technologies, and approaches to deliver cutting-edge user experiences.

• Collaboration: A belief in the power of teamwork, encouraging open communication and shared problem-solving across disciplines.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: A dedication to high standards in visual design, interaction design, and the overall user experience, ensuring polished and reliable products.

• Impact: A focus on creating designs that contribute meaningfully to Esri's mission and help users achieve their goals, particularly in critical areas like environmental sustainability and public safety.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Design: Designers are expected to work closely and collaboratively with product managers and developers throughout the entire product development lifecycle.

• Open Communication: An environment that encourages open feedback, constructive criticism, and proactive communication to ensure alignment and address challenges effectively.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that values sharing best practices, design insights, and lessons learned to foster continuous improvement within the design team and across departments.

📝 Enhancement Note: Esri's emphasis on its mission to "create positive global change" and its commitment to diversity and inclusion are key cultural aspects. Candidates should demonstrate how their design philosophy aligns with these values, showing a desire to create products that have a meaningful impact.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Designing for Developers: Translating complex technical functionalities and data into intuitive interfaces for a technically savvy but potentially diverse developer audience requires specific empathy and understanding.

• Maintaining Design Consistency: Ensuring a cohesive user experience across various mobile and native SDK components, potentially with different development teams, can be challenging.

• Balancing Innovation with Stability: Introducing new design paradigms while maintaining backward compatibility and stability for existing users of the SDKs.

• Staying Ahead of Technology: Rapid advancements in mobile operating systems, design tools, and developer technologies require continuous learning and adaptation.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced UI/UX Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specialized areas like mobile UX, interaction design patterns, or design systems.

• Industry Conferences: Potential for attending relevant design and technology conferences to stay abreast of trends and network with peers.

• Internal Workshops & Webinars: Access to Esri's internal learning resources and workshops on design, technology, and GIS.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from senior designers and technical leads within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the unique nature of designing for developer tools. Candidates should frame their experience in terms of overcoming similar challenges and demonstrate a proactive approach to continuous learning and skill development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex mobile or native UI you designed. What were the key challenges, and how did you address them using user-centered design principles?" (Focus on your process, decision-making, and problem-solving.)

• "How do you ensure design consistency across different platforms or product components, especially when working with multiple development teams?" (Highlight your understanding of design systems and collaboration.)

• "Walk me through a project where you had to balance user needs with technical constraints or business requirements. What was your approach?" (Demonstrate your ability to find practical solutions.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Esri and its mission? How do you see your design skills contributing to our goals?" (Research Esri's mission, products, and recent news.)

• "Describe your ideal collaborative environment. How do you work with developers and product managers?" (Showcase your teamwork and communication skills.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly outline: Problem, Your Role, Process, Solution, and Impact.

• Focus on "Why": Explain the reasoning behind your design decisions, not just what you designed.

• Showcase Your Tools: Briefly mention the tools you used and why they were appropriate for the task.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about specific design choices, user flows, or technical considerations.

• Practice Your Delivery: Rehearse your presentation to ensure it flows smoothly, stays within time limits, and highlights your best work effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to discuss your experience with design systems, accessibility, and designing for developer tools. Esri's mission-driven nature means that showing enthusiasm for their impact on global issues will be a significant plus.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this UI Designer position at Esri:

• Submit Your Application: Complete the online application form through the provided URL.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight experience in mobile/native UI/UX design, proficiency with Figma and Adobe Suite, and any relevant background in user-centered design or technical product development. Use keywords from the job description.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Ensure your online portfolio is up-to-date, showcases relevant case studies (mobile/native design, complex interfaces, developer tools if possible), and clearly articulates your design process and impact.

• Prepare for Interviews: Review common UI/UX interview questions, Esri's products and mission, and practice presenting your portfolio with a focus on your problem-solving approach and design rationale.

• Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasize your ability to collaborate with technical teams and your understanding of design guidelines for major mobile platforms.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. All details, including salary ranges and specific responsibilities, should be verified directly with Esri during the application and interview process.