UX Design Associate

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UX Design Associate

Company: Kyndryl

Location: Dallas, Texas, United States; Frisco, Texas, United States

Job Type: Full time

Category: User Experience (UX) Design

Date Posted: 2026-09-10

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: Remote OK

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on leading UX design activities at the intersection of human-AI collaboration, emphasizing the design of interfaces and interactions for autonomous systems.

• You will be responsible for architecting intentional user journeys and designing for dynamic, non-deterministic user interfaces that handle AI latency and ambiguity.

• Key aspects include facilitating co-creation sessions, mastering Human-in-the-Loop (HITL) design, and championing ethical and inclusive AI experiences.

• The position requires a strong portfolio demonstrating enterprise or innovation studio project experience, coupled with a clear perspective on how AI drives human-centered design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The job title "UX Design Associate" combined with the description of leading design activities, architecting journeys, and designing for complex AI systems suggests a role that requires more than entry-level experience. The "2-5 Years" AI-derived experience level is a reasonable estimation for an "Associate" role that involves leading significant design efforts, especially in a cutting-edge field like AI UX.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead user research initiatives to identify pain points and opportunities within human-AI interactions, translating findings into comprehensive user journey maps.

• Design dynamic interaction patterns and interfaces specifically for AI-driven systems, effectively managing AI latency, ambiguity, and error states to ensure user control.

• Facilitate co-creation workshops and usability testing sessions to integrate user desirability with technical feasibility, collaborating closely with creative technologists and AI engineers.

• Design and optimize critical Human-in-the-Loop (HITL) moments within automated workflows, emphasizing transparency and trust to build user confidence.

• Advocate for and implement accessibility and inclusive design principles to ensure AI experiences are equitable and beneficial for diverse user groups.

• Develop and articulate a strong point of view on how agentic AI influences human-centered design, effectively communicating this vision across the design lifecycle from discovery to delivery.

• Collaborate with developers and product managers to translate user research insights and design concepts into actionable delivery plans.

• Maintain and leverage a portfolio showcasing enterprise or innovation studio projects that demonstrate expertise in UX design and AI integration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are detailed to reflect the advanced nature of AI UX design, emphasizing strategic thinking, user research, complex interaction design, and cross-functional collaboration, which are critical for an Associate UX Designer role in this specialized field.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• A degree in UX/Experience Design, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Computer Science, Psychology, or a related field is typically expected for UX design roles. Specific educational requirements are not explicitly stated but a strong portfolio is paramount. Experience:

• 2-5 years of professional experience in UX/Experience Design, with a proven track record of delivering successful enterprise-level projects or contributing to innovation studio initiatives.

• Experience working closely with developers and product managers to translate research and design into tangible product features. Required Skills:

• User-Centered Design (UCD): Deep understanding and practical application of UCD principles and methodologies.

• Interaction Design: Proficiency in designing intuitive and effective user interactions, particularly for complex systems.

• Usability Testing: Expertise in planning, conducting, and analyzing usability tests to gather actionable insights.

• User Research: Strong skills in qualitative and quantitative user research techniques to uncover user needs and behaviors.

• Prototyping Tools: Fluency in industry-standard tools such as Figma or Sketch for wireframing, prototyping, and design collaboration.

• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written English communication skills, with the ability to articulate design decisions and present to clients and stakeholders.

• Portfolio Presentation: Ability to clearly present and articulate a strong portfolio of relevant UX design work.

Preferred Skills:

• AI/Agentic AI UX: Direct experience designing for AI-driven products, agentic AI systems, or conversational interfaces.

• Data-Driven Design: Experience leveraging data analytics and user behavior metrics to inform design decisions.

• Human-in-the-Loop (HITL) Design: Familiarity with designing interfaces that manage human intervention in automated processes.

• Workshop Facilitation: Proven ability to lead co-creation sessions, design sprints, and collaborative workshops.

• Ethical & Inclusive Design: A strong understanding of and commitment to designing accessible and equitable AI experiences.

• Emerging AI Assistant Tools: Familiarity with tools like Figma Make, MiroAI, Adobe Firefly, or similar AI-integrated design applications.

• Client Presentation: Experience presenting design concepts and research findings directly to clients.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Associate" title typically implies a mid-level role, hence the 2-5 year experience range. The AI/Agentic AI UX and related skills are crucial differentiators given the role's focus and are listed as preferred to acknowledge the specialized nature of AI UX.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated portfolio showcasing 3-5 significant UX design projects, with a strong emphasis on enterprise software or innovation studio work.

• Projects should clearly demonstrate the candidate's ability to apply user-centered design principles from discovery through to delivery.

• For each project, include a clear articulation of the problem statement, your role and contributions, the design process followed, key challenges, and the final outcomes/impact.

• Specific examples of designing for complex systems, AI integration, or dynamic interfaces are highly valued. Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate a systematic approach to user research, including methods used, participant recruitment, and synthesis of findings.

• Showcase your process for ideation, wireframing, prototyping, and user testing, with examples of how feedback was incorporated.

• Provide evidence of collaboration with cross-functional teams (developers, product managers, AI engineers) and how you translated designs into actionable requirements.

• Include examples of how you managed design iterations and resolved design challenges, particularly those related to AI's non-deterministic nature.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a UX Design Associate role, especially one focused on AI, a robust portfolio is non-negotiable. The requirements emphasize not just the final designs but the process and thinking behind them, particularly concerning complex AI interactions and cross-functional collaboration.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated U.S. National Range: $63,360 - $137,040 per year.

• Explanation: This range is derived from the provided compensation data for Kyndryl in the U.S., which specifies a base range of $63,360 to $114,120, with adjusted ranges for specific high-cost-of-living areas like California and New York City reaching up to $137,040. The "Associate" title and 2-5 years of experience typically fall within the lower to mid-point of this spectrum, with potential for higher compensation based on specific skills, interview performance, and exact location within these regions.

• Location-Specific Adjustments:

  • California (San Francisco Bay Area): $76,080 - $137,040

  • Colorado: $63,360 - $114,120

  • Massachusetts: $63,360 - $125,640

  • New York City: $76,080 - $137,040

  • Washington: $69,720 - $125,640

  • Washington DC: $69,720 - $125,640 Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health: Medical and dental coverage.

• Financial Security: Disability benefits and retirement benefits.

• Work-Life Balance: Paid leave and paid time off.

• Performance Incentives: Eligibility for Kyndryl’s discretionary annual bonus program (or a sales commission plan if applicable).

• Professional Development: Access to extensive learning programs, including certifications from Microsoft, Google, Amazon, and Skillsoft.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time, likely around 40 hours per week, with potential flexibility given the remote work option. The role involves collaboration across teams, so adherence to core working hours may be necessary.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is detailed by location as provided. The benefits are listed to showcase Kyndryl's commitment to employee well-being and professional growth, which are key attractions for experienced professionals. The "Associate" title often aligns with a standard 40-hour work week, but remote work can offer some flexibility.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Technology Services & Consulting. Kyndryl specializes in designing, building, managing, and modernizing mission-critical technology systems for a global clientele, including Fortune 100 companies.

Company Size: Large enterprise, as indicated by its status as a spin-off from IBM and its global presence. This means opportunities for structured career paths and exposure to diverse, complex projects.

Founded: Kyndryl was established as an independent public company in November 2021, spinning off from IBM's managed infrastructure services business. This recent founding as a standalone entity suggests a culture that is evolving, blending established expertise with the agility of a newer company.

Team Structure:

• The UX Design Associate will likely be part of a broader Design or Digital Transformation team within Kyndryl's AI or technology services division.

• Reporting structure is expected to be to a UX Design Lead or Manager, with close collaboration with AI Engineers, Creative Technologists, Product Managers, and other UX Designers.

• Cross-functional collaboration is a core aspect of this role, involving frequent interaction with client teams and internal stakeholders to ensure successful design implementation. Methodology:

• Kyndryl emphasizes a data-driven approach to technology services, integrating insights from user research and system performance to inform design and management strategies.

• Workflow planning and optimization are critical, especially in managing complex IT infrastructure and digital transformation projects for large clients.

• Automation and efficiency practices are likely central to Kyndryl's service offerings and internal operations, aligning with the role's focus on AI and intelligent systems.

Company Website: https://www.kyndryl.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context highlights Kyndryl's position as a major player in technology services, emphasizing its scale, client base, and recent establishment as an independent entity. This provides context for the type of projects and collaborative environment the UX Design Associate can expect.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an "Associate" level UX Design role, typically indicating a mid-career professional with 2-5 years of experience. It suggests a position where individuals are expected to contribute significantly to design projects, take ownership of specific design tasks, and begin to influence design direction under guidance, rather than purely executing tasks.

Reporting Structure: The role likely reports to a Senior UX Designer, UX Design Lead, or a Design Manager. There will be frequent collaboration with Product Managers, AI Engineers, and other members of the technology and client delivery teams.

Operations Impact: The UX Design Associate's impact will be measured by their ability to translate complex AI capabilities into intuitive, user-friendly experiences that enhance client satisfaction, improve operational efficiency for users, and drive adoption of new AI technologies. Their work directly influences the usability and perceived value of Kyndryl's AI solutions.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Deepen expertise in AI UX, agentic AI design, and human-in-the-loop systems through hands-on project work and Kyndryl's extensive learning programs.

• Specialization: Develop a niche in designing for specific AI applications or industries served by Kyndryl.

• Leadership Potential: Progress to Senior UX Designer roles, lead design initiatives, mentor junior designers, and contribute to strategic design decision-making.

• Cross-functional Exposure: Gain experience working with diverse teams across product management, engineering, and client services, broadening understanding of the full product lifecycle and business operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career analysis focuses on the "Associate" designation, outlining typical responsibilities, growth paths, and the impact such a role has within a large technology services organization like Kyndryl, particularly in the emerging field of AI UX.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The job is listed as "Remote OK" with primary locations in Dallas and Frisco, Texas. This suggests a hybrid or fully remote work arrangement is possible for candidates within the United States.

Office Location(s):

• Dallas, Texas: A major metropolitan area offering a robust business and technology ecosystem.

• Frisco, Texas: Part of the rapidly growing Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, known for its tech hubs and AI initiatives (e.g., the "AI HUB").

• Remote: The role is open to remote candidates within the United States, offering flexibility.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: While remote, expect a highly collaborative digital environment utilizing tools for communication, project management, and design sharing.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard design and collaboration software (Figma, Sketch, Miro, etc.) will be provided or expected. The role involves working with AI and complex systems, suggesting exposure to advanced technological environments.

• Team Interaction: Regular virtual meetings, design reviews, and workshops with internal teams and potentially client representatives.

Work Schedule:

• Typically a standard full-time schedule (approximately 40 hours per week).

• The remote flexibility may allow for some adjustment in daily work hours, but responsiveness during core business hours and for critical project phases will be expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description highlights the remote flexibility and the Texas-based hubs, providing a clear picture of the work environment for a UX Design Associate in a technology-focused role.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Submission: Submit resume and a link to your portfolio.

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will review applications and portfolios for alignment with requirements.

• Portfolio Review: Expect a dedicated session to walk through your portfolio, discussing your design process, decision-making, and impact on past projects. Be prepared to elaborate on AI-specific work or complex system design.

• Technical/Design Interview: A deeper dive into UX methodologies, interaction design principles, and problem-solving skills. This may include a design exercise or case study.

• Team/Manager Interview: Assess cultural fit, collaboration style, and understanding of Kyndryl's business and AI strategy.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to confirm suitability and discuss role expectations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best showcase your AI UX, complex system design, and user-centered problem-solving capabilities.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, your process, the challenges, and the measurable impact. Use visuals effectively.

• Highlight AI Experience: If you have direct AI UX experience, make it prominent. Explain how you approached designing for AI's unique characteristics (latency, ambiguity, learning).

• Demonstrate Process: Show your thinking – sketches, wireframes, user flows, research insights, testing iterations.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use data and metrics to demonstrate the success and value of your designs.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Exercise: Be prepared for a take-home or live design exercise that might involve problem-solving for a hypothetical AI-driven scenario. Focus on your process, not just the final UI.

• Case Study Presentation: Practice presenting a case study from your portfolio concisely and compellingly, anticipating questions about your design choices and their rationale.

• AI & UX Concepts: Refresh your understanding of key AI UX principles, human-in-the-loop concepts, and ethical AI considerations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides actionable advice specifically tailored for a UX Design Associate applicant, emphasizing the critical role of the portfolio and preparation for AI-centric design challenges.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma or Sketch: Essential for wireframing, prototyping, and UI design. Fluency in at least one is required.

• Prototyping Tools: Beyond Figma/Sketch, familiarity with tools like InVision, Axure, or Adobe XD may be beneficial.

• User Research Platforms: Experience with tools for surveys, interviews, and usability testing (e.g., UserTesting.com, Lookback, Maze).

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary UX tool, understanding how to interpret analytics from tools like Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics, or custom dashboards is valuable for data-driven design.

• Experience with tools that track user behavior within applications. CRM & Automation:

• Generally not a direct requirement for UX Design roles, but understanding how CRM systems (like Salesforce) and automation platforms impact user workflows can be beneficial for enterprise design. Emerging AI Tools:

• Familiarity with AI-integrated design tools such as Figma Make, MiroAI, Adobe Firefly, or similar applications is preferred, indicating an interest in leveraging AI within the design process itself.

📝 Enhancement Note: The tools section focuses on the essential design software and preferred AI-specific tools, aligning with the role's technical requirements and future-forward focus.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Human-Centered Design: A core belief that technology should serve human needs and enhance user experiences.

• Innovation & Evolution: A drive to stay ahead of technological advancements, particularly in AI, and to apply them in novel ways.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Emphasis on working together across disciplines and with clients to achieve shared goals.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Using insights from research and analytics to inform design choices and measure impact.

• Ethical & Inclusive Practices: Commitment to designing responsibly, ensuring accessibility and equity in all AI experiences.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Seamless collaboration with product management, engineering, and business stakeholders to ensure design alignment with business objectives and technical feasibility.

• Iterative Design Culture: A process that encourages feedback, iteration, and continuous improvement based on user input and performance data.

• Knowledge Sharing: An environment where team members share insights, best practices, and learnings, particularly in the rapidly evolving field of AI UX.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section extrapolates Kyndryl's likely operational values based on their industry, stated mission, and the nature of the UX Design Associate role, focusing on how these values translate into daily work and collaboration.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Designing for AI Ambiguity: Effectively handling the inherent unpredictability and latency of AI systems to create a stable and understandable user experience.

• Human-AI Trust: Building user confidence and trust in autonomous systems through transparent design and reliable interactions.

• Rapidly Evolving AI Landscape: Keeping pace with fast-changing AI technologies, tools, and ethical considerations requires continuous learning.

• Cross-Disciplinary Communication: Bridging the gap between complex AI concepts and user-centric design principles for diverse stakeholders.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• AI UX Specialization: Opportunities to become a subject matter expert in the burgeoning field of AI UX design.

• Industry Certifications: Access to training and certifications from leading tech providers (Google, Microsoft, Amazon) through Kyndryl's learning programs.

• Mentorship: Potential to be mentored by senior designers and AI experts within Kyndryl.

• Exposure to Fortune 100 Clients: Gaining experience working with large, complex organizations and their critical technology systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges identified are specific to AI UX design, framing them as opportunities for growth and skill development, which is a key aspect of career progression in advanced technology roles.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you designed for a system with high levels of uncertainty or non-determinism. How did you ensure a positive user experience?" (Focus on your process for handling AI latency/ambiguity).

• "How do you approach building trust between a user and an autonomous AI agent? Provide an example." (Highlight your understanding of HITL, transparency, and ethical design).

• "What is your perspective on the future of human-AI collaboration in enterprise environments, and how should UX design adapt?" (Showcase your strategic thinking and vision). Company & Culture Questions:

• "How do you see your UX design skills contributing to Kyndryl's mission of managing and modernizing mission-critical technology systems?" (Connect your skills to Kyndryl's business).

• "Kyndryl emphasizes collaboration. Describe your experience working with AI engineers and product managers on complex projects." (Provide specific examples of cross-functional teamwork).

• "How do you ensure your designs are inclusive and accessible, especially when dealing with AI technologies?" (Demonstrate your commitment to ethical and equitable design). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Dedicate 5-10 minutes per project to cover problem, your role, process, challenges, and outcomes.

• Focus on AI: If applicable, explicitly detail your approach to designing for AI, including research, interaction patterns, and handling AI-specific issues.

• Visuals: Use clear, high-fidelity mockups, user flows, and research findings to support your narrative.

• Engagement: Be prepared to answer in-depth questions about your design decisions and trade-offs.

📝 Enhancement Note: These interview questions are designed to probe the candidate's specific skills in AI UX, their strategic thinking, and their ability to articulate their process and impact, crucial for an Associate UX Designer role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this UX Design Associate position:

• Submit your application through the Kyndryl careers portal link provided.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight projects demonstrating AI UX experience, complex system design, user research, and interaction design skills. Ensure it's easily accessible via a link.

• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to clearly articulate your years of experience, key skills (UX design, AI, prototyping tools), and quantifiable achievements relevant to the job description. Use keywords from the posting.

• Interview Preparation: Practice presenting your portfolio case studies, focusing on your design process and problem-solving approach, especially concerning AI. Prepare answers to common UX and AI-specific interview questions.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Kyndryl's services, client base, and recent news. Understand their approach to AI and digital transformation to articulate your fit and interest effectively.

⚠️ 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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