UI/UX Web Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UI/UX Web Designer

Company: Blacksmith Agency

Location: Phoenix, Arizona, USA

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Web Design

Date Posted: 2026-09-02

Experience Level: 5-10 years

Remote Status: Remote Solely

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the end-to-end design process for custom website projects, from initial concept and wireframing to final interactive layout design.

• Collaborate closely with developers and cross-functional teams to translate client needs into visually compelling and user-centric digital experiences.

• Apply best practices in web design and modern branding to create innovative, high-craft digital products that meet client business objectives.

• Develop and maintain Design Systems for both internal use and client projects, ensuring consistency and scalability across digital assets.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within a boutique digital agency environment, implying a need for adaptability, strong client-facing communication, and the ability to contribute across various stages of the design and development lifecycle. The focus on "forging digital products" and "user expectations and data" suggests a data-informed design approach rather than purely aesthetic.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, wireframe, and design high-fidelity, interactive web layouts for desktop and mobile platforms, ensuring alignment with client briefs and user needs.

• Present design concepts and rationale to clients, effectively articulating the value proposition and guiding them through decision-making processes.

• Art-direct design output, providing clear direction, edits, and curation to maintain a high standard of craft and brand consistency.

• Implement web design best practices to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of digital creations, focusing on both aesthetics and functionality.

• Manage client feedback, steer revisions, and iterate on designs to achieve polished, impactful end products that meet project goals.

• Design and own Design Systems, ensuring a cohesive and scalable visual language for internal projects and client deliverables.

• Apply current design trends and modern branding styles to craft visually compelling digital products and evolve powerful brand narratives.

• Achieve pixel perfection through meticulous attention to detail in all design outputs.

• Translate user research and insights into innovative website features and workflows, informing both design and product strategy.

• Masterfully communicate design rationale and thought processes to internal teams and external clients.

• Develop leading-edge designs for a diverse client base, ranging from SMBs to Enterprise-level organizations across various industries.

• Evangelize user-centered design principles and their value to stakeholders, subject matter experts, and the broader team.

• Collaborate with strategy and business development teams to identify new opportunities and drive creative aspects of sales pursuits.

• Confidently lead high-end projects, leveraging visual prowess and strong interpersonal skills for effective collaboration and motivation.

• Engage in thoughtful critique of work, utilizing feedback for iterative improvement and the delivery of polished end products.

• Creatively meet project demands to ensure Blacksmith delivers high-quality design work aligned with client business strategy and mission.

• Maintain excellent organization and execution of all design files, layers, and folders for efficient project management.

• Work closely with the President and department leaders throughout each project lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: The extensive list of responsibilities indicates a senior-level role requiring significant autonomy, client management skills, and a deep understanding of the entire design lifecycle. The emphasis on "art-direct," "evangelize user-centered design," and "collaborate with strategy and business development" suggests a strategic contributor, not just an execution-focused designer.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Web Design, Human-Computer Interaction, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.

Experience: 5+ years of professional website design experience, with a proven track record in UI/UX design for digital products.

Required Skills:

• UI/UX Design: Deep understanding of user interface and user experience principles, with a focus on creating intuitive and engaging digital interactions.

• Web Design: Extensive experience in designing custom websites for diverse clients and industries, with a strong portfolio to demonstrate.

• Figma Proficiency: Expert-level proficiency in Figma for wireframing, prototyping, and high-fidelity design creation.

• Wireframing & Storyboarding: Ability to translate complex ideas into clear visual representations and user flows.

• Design Systems: Experience in creating, managing, and scaling Design Systems for consistency and efficiency.

• Prototyping: Proficiency in creating interactive prototypes to simulate user flows and test design concepts.

• User-Centered Design: Strong advocacy for and application of user-centered design methodologies throughout the design process.

• Interaction Design: Ability to design engaging and effective micro-interactions and complex user flows.

• Visual Design: Excellent aesthetic sensibilities with a strong grasp of typography, color theory, and layout principles.

• Client Communication: Proven ability to present design concepts, articulate rationale, and manage client feedback effectively.

• File Organization: Meticulous attention to detail in organizing and managing design files and assets.

Preferred Skills:

• Motion Design: Experience with motion graphics and animation to enhance user experience and visual appeal.

• HTML/CSS/JavaScript: Basic knowledge of front-end development technologies to inform design decisions and collaborate effectively with developers.

• Data-Informed Design: Experience utilizing user research, analytics, and data to drive design decisions and product strategy.

• Brand Narrative Development: Ability to translate brand identity into compelling visual stories and digital experiences.

• Sales Pursuit Collaboration: Experience contributing creative expertise to business development and sales efforts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for "5+ years of website design experience" and the emphasis on client presentation, art direction, and design system ownership strongly suggest a Senior or Lead UI/UX Designer position. The "basic knowledge of HTML/CSS/JS" is a common preference for designers to facilitate better communication with development teams.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a minimum of 5-7 elegant and impactful web design projects.

• Projects should demonstrate expertise in UI/UX design, wireframing, prototyping, and final layout design for both desktop and mobile.

• Include case studies that highlight the design process, problem-solving approach, and the impact of your designs on user experience and client business objectives.

• Showcase experience with Design Systems, including examples of their creation and application.

• Demonstrate attention to detail and a commitment to pixel perfection. Process Documentation:

• For each portfolio project, clearly articulate the design process followed, from initial brief and research to final delivery.

• Detail how user research and insights were integrated into the design and product strategy.

• Explain the rationale behind key design decisions, including user flows, interaction patterns, and visual choices.

• Provide examples of how feedback was incorporated through iteration to achieve the final product.

• Illustrate the use of Figma for wireframing, prototyping, and high-fidelity design.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a senior design role like this, the portfolio is paramount. It needs to go beyond just showcasing final designs and delve into the strategic thinking, user-centric approach, and process followed. Demonstrating the ability to articulate design decisions and their business impact is crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Given the role's seniority (5+ years experience), remote nature within the US, and the agency's client list (Google, GE, etc.), a competitive salary range is expected. For a Senior UI/UX Web Designer in Phoenix, Arizona, a typical range would be between $90,000 - $130,000 annually, depending on the candidate's specific experience, portfolio strength, and negotiation.

Benefits:

• Competitive pay.

• Remote work: 100% work from home, offering flexibility and work-life balance.

• Opportunity to work and grow at an award-winning digital agency, gaining exposure to high-profile clients and innovative projects.

• Professional development opportunities within a growing team of talented individuals.

• Potential for involvement in new business development and creative sales pursuits. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are expected, likely around 40 hours per week.

• The remote nature may offer some flexibility in daily scheduling, but consistent availability for client meetings and team collaboration is essential.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates are based on industry benchmarks for senior UI/UX designers in the US, adjusted for a boutique agency environment and the specified location. The benefits highlight aspects attractive to creative professionals seeking growth and flexibility.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Digital Agency, specializing in custom website design and development.

Company Size: Boutique agency. While not explicitly stated, "boutique" typically implies a team size of 10-50 employees, fostering a close-knit and collaborative environment.

Founded: Information not provided, but the agency has established itself with notable clients, suggesting a history of successful project delivery and growth.

Team Structure:

• The operations team is likely integrated within project-based structures, with designers working closely with project managers, developers, and strategists.

• Designers will report to a Creative Director or Design Lead, with direct interaction with the President on high-level projects and new business initiatives.

• Cross-functional collaboration is a core tenet, with designers expected to partner with strategy, business development, and development teams to deliver holistic digital solutions. Methodology:

• Data-Informed Design: The agency emphasizes "user expectations and data," suggesting a data-driven approach to design decisions and strategy.

• User-Centric Design: A strong focus on understanding user needs and translating them into effective digital experiences.

• Agile/Iterative Development: The description implies an iterative process involving client feedback and team critiques to refine designs.

• Customization: The agency specializes in "custom website design," indicating a bespoke approach rather than template-driven solutions.

Company Website: https://blacksmith.agency/

📝 Enhancement Note: The "boutique" nature suggests a dynamic and potentially fast-paced environment where individual contributions are highly visible and valued. The emphasis on client growth and innovation aligns with the agency's mission.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior UI/UX Web Designer. This role is positioned as a senior individual contributor with leadership potential, responsible for guiding design output and influencing creative strategy.

Reporting Structure: The designer will report to senior leadership, likely the President and department leaders, indicating high visibility and direct impact on client projects and business development.

Operations Impact: The UI/UX Web Designer's work directly influences client success by creating digital products that drive growth, innovation, and exceed business objectives. Their designs are instrumental in shaping brand perception, user engagement, and conversion rates.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Development: Potential to grow into a Lead Designer or Art Director role, managing design teams and setting creative direction.

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas such as motion design, design systems, or user research.

• Client Relationship Management: Develop stronger client-facing skills and potentially lead client strategy sessions.

• Business Development Contribution: Play a key role in contributing creative vision to new business pitches and sales pursuits.

• Award-Winning Agency Experience: Gain valuable experience and recognition by working on high-profile projects for top-tier clients.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers significant opportunities for growth beyond pure design execution, extending into leadership, strategic contribution, and business development, typical of a senior role within a growing agency.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The position is 100% remote, meaning there is no physical office requirement.

Office Location(s): While the agency is based in Phoenix, AZ, the role is fully remote within the USA. This provides flexibility for candidates across different states.

Workspace Context:

• Remote Collaboration: Expect to utilize digital collaboration tools extensively for communication, design reviews, and project management.

• Technology Access: Candidates will need a reliable internet connection and a suitable workstation to perform design tasks effectively. Access to design software like Figma is essential.

• Team Interaction: Regular virtual meetings, stand-ups, and design critique sessions will facilitate team interaction and knowledge sharing.

Work Schedule:

• The role is full-time, typically 40 hours per week.

• While remote, adherence to project deadlines and availability for scheduled meetings with clients and internal teams across different time zones will be crucial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The 100% remote nature is a significant perk, but it requires self-discipline, strong communication skills, and the ability to work autonomously while remaining connected to the team.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and creative output.

• Portfolio Presentation & Interview: A session where you present selected projects from your portfolio, discuss your design process, and articulate your problem-solving approach. This will likely involve technical questions about UI/UX principles and tool proficiency (e.g., Figma).

• Client Scenario/Case Study: You may be asked to work through a hypothetical client scenario or a design challenge, demonstrating your ability to apply design thinking and best practices.

• Team/Culture Fit Interview: Discussions with potential team members or leadership to assess collaboration style, communication skills, and cultural alignment with the agency’s values.

• Final Interview: Potentially with the President, to discuss overall fit, career aspirations, and expectations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best showcase your skills relevant to this role: UI/UX, web design, Design Systems, and client-facing presentations.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly outline the problem, your role, the process followed, your design decisions, and the resulting impact (qualitative or quantitative).

• Highlight Process: Emphasize how you used research, wireframing, prototyping, and user feedback to arrive at the final design. Demonstrate your understanding of user-centered design.

• Showcase Figma Work: Include examples of your Figma expertise, perhaps detailing how you structured your files or utilized advanced features.

• Be Ready to Discuss: Prepare to articulate the "why" behind your design choices and how they align with client business objectives.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Agency: Research Blacksmith Agency's work, clients, and design philosophy to tailor your approach.

• Practice Presentation: Rehearse presenting your portfolio and design rationale concisely and confidently.

• Anticipate Questions: Prepare answers for common UI/UX interview questions related to design principles, problem-solving, collaboration, and handling feedback.

• Figma Familiarity: Ensure you are comfortable discussing Figma features and workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily weigh the portfolio. Candidates should be prepared to walk through their design process in detail, demonstrating strategic thinking and a strong understanding of user-centered design principles.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: Essential for UI/UX design, wireframing, prototyping, and collaboration. Proficiency is a must.

• Design Systems Tools: Figma's component system, or other related tools for managing design tokens and style guides.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly stated as a requirement for the designer, an understanding of how analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics) inform design decisions is beneficial.

• Familiarity with data visualization tools for understanding user behavior reports would be a plus. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the designer role, but understanding how designs integrate with CMS platforms or marketing automation tools could be advantageous. Other Potential Tools:

• Prototyping Tools: Figma's built-in prototyping, or potentially others like InVision, Adobe XD.

• Motion Design Software: Adobe After Effects, Principle, or similar, if motion design experience is pursued.

• Basic HTML/CSS/JS: Understanding how designs translate to code.

📝 Enhancement Note: Figma is the cornerstone of the technical requirements. Demonstrating mastery of this tool, including its collaborative and prototyping features, is critical.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Craftsmanship & Excellence: A commitment to high-quality, "pixel-perfect" design output that elevates client brands.

• User-Centricity: Placing the user at the heart of all design decisions, ensuring intuitive and effective experiences.

• Innovation & Creativity: A drive to find elegant solutions and push creative boundaries with state-of-the-art interactions.

• Collaboration & Communication: Valuing teamwork, open feedback, and clear articulation of ideas among internal teams and with clients.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilizing research and data to inform design strategy and measure impact.

• Client Focus: Ensuring designs not only meet aesthetic standards but also drive client business objectives and growth.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Synergy: Designers are expected to work seamlessly with strategy, development, and business development teams, fostering a holistic approach to digital product creation.

• Open Feedback Culture: Encouraging constructive critique and iteration as a vital part of the design process.

• Knowledge Sharing: Proactively sharing insights, best practices, and learnings within the team to elevate collective expertise.

• Client Partnership: Building strong, collaborative relationships with clients, acting as trusted advisors on design strategy.

📝 Enhancement Note: The agency's emphasis on "forging digital products" and working with "top clients" suggests a culture of high performance, client success, and continuous improvement.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Client Demands with Design Best Practices: Navigating client feedback and requests while upholding user-centered design principles and maintaining design integrity.

• Art-directing and Curation: Effectively guiding design output and making critical decisions to ensure quality and consistency, which requires strong leadership and communication skills.

• Translating Complex Needs into Elegant Solutions: Devising intuitive user experiences and visually compelling designs for diverse and sometimes complex client requirements across various industries.

• Staying Ahead of Design Trends: Continuously learning and adapting to evolving web design trends, technologies, and user expectations in a dynamic digital landscape.

• Remote Collaboration Dynamics: Maintaining strong team cohesion and effective communication in a fully remote work environment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Skills: Opportunities to hone skills in interaction design, motion graphics, and advanced prototyping.

• Design System Mastery: Deepen expertise in building and scaling comprehensive Design Systems.

• Client Strategy Engagement: Develop stronger capabilities in client consultation, strategy development, and presenting design solutions as business drivers.

• Mentorship: Potential to mentor junior designers and contribute to the growth of the design team.

• Industry Exposure: Working with a diverse portfolio of high-profile clients provides broad industry exposure and project variety.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for a senior design role in an agency setting, requiring both strong technical/creative skills and robust soft skills like communication, leadership, and strategic thinking.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to present a design concept to a skeptical client. How did you gain their buy-in?" (Focus on communication, rationale, and understanding client concerns.)

• "How do you approach building or evolving a Design System? What are the key components and challenges?" (Demonstrate understanding of scalability, consistency, and maintenance.)

• "Walk us through a project where user research significantly impacted your design decisions. What was the outcome?" (Highlight your user-centered process and ability to translate insights into action.)

• "How do you prioritize feedback from multiple stakeholders (e.g., client, developers, internal team)?" (Showcase your ability to manage competing inputs and make informed decisions.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Blacksmith Agency and our approach to custom web design?" (Research the agency's portfolio and mission.)

• "How do you stay current with the latest UI/UX trends and technologies?" (Discuss your learning habits and industry engagement.)

• "Describe your ideal collaboration with developers. How do you ensure smooth handoffs and effective implementation of your designs?" (Emphasize communication and understanding of technical constraints.)

• "How do you handle constructive criticism of your work?" (Showcase resilience, openness to feedback, and a focus on improvement.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select 3-4 Key Projects: Choose projects that best represent your skills in UI/UX, web design, and problem-solving. Ensure variety if possible.

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly define the challenge, your role, the process (research, ideation, design, testing, iteration), your specific contributions, and the results/impact.

• Showcase Figma: Be prepared to demonstrate your Figma workflow, explaining how you used its features for wireframing, prototyping, and design system components.

• Focus on "Why": Articulate the rationale behind your design choices. Why did you choose a particular layout, interaction, or color scheme? Connect it back to user needs and business goals.

• Be Concise and Engaging: Present your work with enthusiasm and clarity, allowing time for questions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready for a potential design exercise that involves creating a wireframe or a key UI element based on a brief, or critiquing an existing design.

• Practice articulating your thought process aloud as you would during a timed design challenge.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily scrutinize the candidate's ability to articulate their design process, justify decisions, and demonstrate a strong understanding of user-centered design and the tools used, particularly Figma.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this UI/UX Web Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Ashby.

• Portfolio Customization: Curate your portfolio to prominently feature your most relevant web design projects, emphasizing UI/UX, wireframing, prototyping, and Design System work. Ensure case studies clearly articulate your design process and impact.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your 5+ years of experience, proficiency in Figma, and specific accomplishments in web design. Use keywords from the job description like "UI/UX," "web design," "Figma," "Design Systems," and "user-centered design."

• Prepare Your Presentation: Practice walking through 2-3 key portfolio projects, focusing on your process, decision-making, and the results achieved. Be ready to discuss your approach to client feedback and collaboration.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Blacksmith Agency's website, recent projects, and client list to understand their style, values, and market position. Prepare thoughtful questions about their culture and approach.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions based on the provided information. All details should be verified directly with Blacksmith Agency during the application or interview process.