UX Design Intern - Spring 2027

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UX Design Intern - Spring 2027

Company: Medpace, Inc.

Location: Cincinnati, Ohio, United States

Job Type: Internship

Category: User Experience (UX) Design / Product Design

Date Posted: 2026-08-10T17:34:00

Experience Level: Entry Level / Internship

Remote Status: On-site (Cincinnati, OH)

🚀 Role Summary

• This internship focuses on contributing to the modernization of internally built software tools within the clinical research process, offering hands-on experience in UX design.

• You will translate complex workflows and regulatory requirements into intuitive and user-friendly interfaces for web and mobile applications.

• The role involves collaborating with a cross-functional team to shape user experience strategy through data collection and insight generation.

• This is an opportunity to gain practical experience in Agile/Lean UX methodologies and participate in the strategic phases of design projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "UX Design Intern," the description emphasizes the critical role UX plays in the clinical research sector. Candidates should be prepared to understand how user experience directly impacts the efficiency and effectiveness of clinical trial processes. The "Spring 2027" designation indicates this is a forward-looking internship, likely for students graduating in Spring 2027 or seeking experience in that timeframe.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Iterative Design Creation: Quickly and iteratively create user flows, wireframes, prototypes, and high-fidelity mockups, developing detailed and scalable visual design specifications for both web and mobile interfaces.

• Agile/Lean UX Integration: Demonstrate a solid understanding and application of Agile and Lean UX methodologies throughout the design and development lifecycle.

• Research and Trend Analysis: Actively participate in the research and evaluation of emerging design trends, new technologies, and relevant industry and market shifts to inform design decisions.

• Design Planning and Strategy: Contribute to the design planning and strategic phases of projects, proactively pitching innovative Customer Experience (CX) ideas supported by strong, well-articulated rationale.

• User-Centered Design Implementation: Translate complex clinical research workflows and stringent regulatory requirements into user interfaces that are not only intuitive but also enhance user satisfaction and efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of core UX deliverables (wireframes, prototypes) and strategic involvement (design planning, pitching ideas). Interns are expected to be proactive and contribute to the broader CX strategy, not just execute assigned tasks. The focus on "complex workflows and regulatory requirements" is key to understanding the domain.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Pursuing a Bachelor's degree or higher in Visual/Communication Design, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Industrial Design, or a closely related field.

Experience: Demonstrated experience in defining, developing, and documenting UX design and interaction requirements. A portfolio showcasing user experience activities, processes, and deliverables is essential.

Required Skills:

• User Flow & Wireframing: Proficiency in creating detailed user flows and wireframes to map out user journeys and interface structures.

• Prototyping & Mockups: Experience in developing interactive prototypes and high-fidelity mockups to visualize and test user interfaces.

• Visual Design: Strong visual design skills with the ability to create scalable and aesthetically pleasing design specifications.

• Agile/Lean UX Understanding: Familiarity with Agile and Lean UX principles and their application in design processes.

• Design Tools Proficiency: Demonstrated experience with industry-standard design tools such as Figma or the Adobe Creative Suite (e.g., Photoshop, Illustrator, XD).

• Communication & Presentation: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, coupled with strong presentation abilities to articulate design concepts and rationale.

• Strategic Problem-Solving: Demonstrated ability to use strategic thinking to solve complex user experience challenges.

Preferred Skills:

• Interaction Design: Experience with detailed interaction design principles and their application.

• User Research Exposure: Some exposure to or understanding of user research methodologies and how to leverage insights.

• Web & Mobile Interface Design: Specific experience designing for both web and mobile platforms.

• Clinical Research Domain Knowledge: Any prior exposure to or understanding of the clinical research industry, healthcare technology, or CRO operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 years" experience level inferred from "Intern" status is crucial. The requirement for a portfolio demonstrating "user experience activities, processes, and deliverables" is paramount. Candidates should curate their portfolios to highlight their thought process, problem-solving approach, and the impact of their designs, even for academic or personal projects.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• UX Process Documentation: Showcase the complete UX design process, from initial research and ideation through to wireframing, prototyping, user testing (if applicable), and final design specifications.

• Problem/Solution Framework: Clearly articulate the user problem or business challenge addressed by each project, followed by the proposed UX solution and its rationale.

• Deliverable Examples: Include examples of key deliverables such as user flows, wireframes, interactive prototypes, high-fidelity mockups, and visual design specifications.

• Tool Proficiency Demonstration: Visually demonstrate the use of design tools like Figma or Adobe CC within the project work.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Mapping: Illustrate the ability to map out complex user workflows and identify areas for simplification and improvement.

• Iterative Design Cycles: Show examples of how designs were iterated upon based on feedback or testing.

• Design System Contribution (if applicable): If any projects involved contributing to or utilizing design systems, highlight this.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an intern role, the portfolio should emphasize the candidate's understanding of the UX process and their ability to apply design principles. Focus on demonstrating learning potential and a structured approach to design challenges rather than solely on polished, shipped products. Clearly explaining the "why" behind design decisions is critical.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As this is an internship position with a specified hourly work commitment (40 hours/week), and the provided salary data is $0, it indicates an unpaid or stipended internship, or that specific hourly rates are determined individually. For entry-level UX internships in Cincinnati, OH, a typical hourly range might be between $15 - $25 USD per hour, depending on the specific responsibilities and the candidate's demonstrated skills.

Benefits:

• Health & Wellness: Access to comprehensive health insurance plans and wellness programs.

• Retirement Planning: Eligibility for retirement benefits (details likely provided upon hire).

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Competitive PTO package.

• Professional Development: Participation in industry-renowned onboarding and training programs, ongoing training opportunities, and defined career paths with clear advancement opportunities.

• On-site Amenities: Access to a modern corporate campus with on-site dining options, free parking, and 24/7 fitness and wellness facilities.

• Collaborative Environment: Opportunity to work in an interactive team environment that encourages decision-making and creative thinking.

Working Hours: Expected to work 40 hours per week in the Cincinnati, OH office. While the core hours are defined, the company culture emphasizes continuous learning and professional development, suggesting a dynamic work environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of "40 hours per week" and the location requirement strongly suggest this is not a remote or flexible-hour internship. The benefits listed are extensive for an internship, highlighting Medpace's commitment to employee well-being and development. The salary being listed as $0 requires clarification from the employer regarding compensation structure (stipend, hourly rate, or unpaid).

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Clinical Contract Research Organization (CRO) within the Biotechnology, Pharmaceutical, and Medical Device sectors. Medpace specializes in accelerating the global development of safe and effective medical therapeutics through clinical research.

Company Size: Over 6,500 employees across 40+ countries, indicating a large, established global organization with significant operational scale.

Founded: Founded on the principle of advancing clinical research, Medpace has grown into a major player in the CRO space, headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio. This history suggests a company built on scientific rigor and a commitment to improving patient outcomes.

Team Structure:

• The UX Design Intern will join the software innovation and design team, which is part of a larger technology division focused on internal software tools.

• This team operates within a cross-functional environment, likely collaborating closely with software developers, product managers, clinical operations specialists, and regulatory affairs personnel.

• The reporting structure for an intern would typically be to a UX Lead or a Design Manager, with guidance from senior team members. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasizes collecting data and insights to drive UX strategy and design decisions, aligning with a scientific and evidence-based approach.

• Agile/Lean UX: Utilizes iterative development processes common in software development, focusing on rapid prototyping and user feedback.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Works closely with various departments to ensure software solutions meet diverse user needs and regulatory demands.

Company Website: https://careers.medpace.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Medpace's mission-critical role in medical therapeutics development provides a unique context for UX design. The company culture is described as purpose-driven, collaborative, and focused on continuous growth. Interns can expect to work in a structured, professional environment that values scientific excellence and innovation.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at the entry-level internship stage, specifically within the User Experience (UX) Design discipline. It serves as a foundational experience for individuals aspiring to careers in UX/UI design, product design, or human-computer interaction within the technology and healthcare sectors.

Reporting Structure: The intern will report to a UX Lead or Manager within the software innovation and design team. They will receive guidance and mentorship from experienced UX designers and potentially product managers, fostering a learning-oriented environment.

Operations Impact: While the direct "operations" impact for an intern is primarily through learning and contributing to specific design tasks, the broader team's work is crucial. By improving the intuitiveness and efficiency of internal software used in clinical research, the UX team directly supports Medpace's core mission of accelerating drug development, impacting patient outcomes and regulatory compliance.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen skills in specific UX areas such as user research, interaction design, visual design, or prototyping.

• Industry Exposure: Gain invaluable experience in the clinical research industry (CRO), understanding the unique UX challenges and regulatory landscape.

• Mentorship & Learning: Benefit from structured onboarding, continuous training, and mentorship from experienced professionals, providing a clear path for professional development.

• Potential for Future Roles: Successful internships can often lead to further opportunities within Medpace, including full-time entry-level positions upon graduation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Growth & Development" section in the company description strongly emphasizes career progression. For an intern, the primary growth will be in skill acquisition and understanding the practical application of UX principles in a regulated industry. The emphasis on "defined career paths" and "accelerating professional development" indicates Medpace invests in its talent.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Medpace operates a modern corporate campus environment in Cincinnati, Ohio, designed to foster collaboration and productivity. The description implies an office-based setting with specific on-site amenities.

Office Location(s): The internship is based at their headquarters in Cincinnati, Ohio, specifically at 5375 Medpace Way, 45227. This location offers convenient access to on-site facilities.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: The modern campus is designed to support collaboration, suggesting ample opportunities for team interaction and cross-functional engagement.

• Technology & Tools: Interns will likely have access to the necessary design tools (Figma, Adobe CC) and company infrastructure to perform their duties effectively.

• Team Integration: Working within the software innovation and design team provides direct interaction with experienced designers and potentially other technical professionals, facilitating knowledge sharing and learning.

Work Schedule: The role requires availability for 40 hours per week, indicating a standard full-time internship schedule. While the company culture emphasizes continuous learning, the primary work will be conducted during standard business hours within the Cincinnati office.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description of the "Cincinnati Headquarters Experience" highlights a well-equipped and modern workspace. The mention of "occasional WFH that provides flexibility for eligible positions after training" suggests that while this internship is office-based, there might be some flexibility for full-time employees in other roles post-internship.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Review: Medpace team members will review submitted applications.

• Initial Contact: Candidates whose profiles align with needs will be contacted for an interview.

• Interview Stages: While not explicitly detailed, typical UX interviews involve:

  • Behavioral/Situational Questions: Assessing communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills.
  • Portfolio Review: A deep dive into the candidate's portfolio, discussing design process, rationale, and outcomes. This is critical for UX internships.
  • Technical/Design Challenge (Potential): A small design exercise or case study to assess practical skills and thought process.
  • Cultural Fit: Evaluating alignment with Medpace's collaborative and purpose-driven culture.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Choose 2-3 projects that best showcase your UX process, problem-solving skills, and design capabilities.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly outline the problem, your role, the process you followed, the challenges encountered, your design decisions, and the results or learnings.

• Highlight Process: Emphasize your thought process, research methods, iteration cycles, and how you arrived at your final design solutions.

• Demonstrate Tool Proficiency: Visually show how you utilized tools like Figma or Adobe CC.

• Be Prepared to Discuss: Be ready to articulate your design rationale, defend your choices, and discuss what you would do differently or next.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Context: Research Medpace, its mission in clinical research, and the types of software it develops.

• Practice UX Fundamentals: Be ready to discuss core UX principles, design thinking, and common UX methodologies.

• Prepare Examples: Have specific examples ready to illustrate how you've applied UX skills to solve problems, collaborate, or communicate effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "What to Expect Next" section in the job description is brief. Applicants should anticipate a standard interview process for a UX internship, with a strong emphasis on portfolio presentation and demonstrating foundational UX knowledge and potential. The lack of a response to every applicant is standard for large companies.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: Expected to be a primary tool for creating user flows, wireframes, prototypes, and high-fidelity mockups. Proficiency is a key requirement.

• Adobe Creative Suite (CC): Includes tools like Photoshop, Illustrator, and Adobe XD, which may also be used for visual design, asset creation, and prototyping.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly mentioned for the intern role, the broader team likely uses analytics tools to track user behavior and software performance. Understanding basic analytics concepts can be beneficial. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly relevant to the UX intern's core responsibilities but part of the larger organizational tech stack.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Figma and Adobe CC is critical. Candidates should ensure their portfolios and resumes highlight experience with these specific tools. Familiarity with other design and collaboration tools (e.g., Miro, Jira) can also be advantageous.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Purpose-Driven Innovation: A core value is contributing to the acceleration of medical therapeutics development, meaning the work has a direct impact on global health.

• Scientific Excellence: Upholding high standards in research and development, influencing how designs are approached and validated.

• Continuous Learning: Encouraging ongoing professional development and skill enhancement, essential for staying current in UX and the healthcare industry.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Valuing teamwork and open communication across different departments to achieve shared goals.

• User-Centricity: A fundamental aspect of UX, ensuring that designs are driven by user needs and intuitive for effective use in complex clinical settings.

Collaboration Style:

• Interactive and Empowering: The culture encourages decision-making and creative thinking within teams.

• Open Communication: Mutual trust and open dialogue are promoted, facilitating feedback and idea exchange.

• Mentorship-Focused: Especially for interns and junior staff, there's a strong emphasis on learning from experienced colleagues.

📝 Enhancement Note: Medpace's values are deeply tied to its mission in healthcare. For a UX intern, this translates to designing for impact and understanding the critical nature of the applications they work on. The collaborative and learning-oriented culture is a significant draw for professional development.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Complex Requirements: The primary challenge will be understanding and effectively translating intricate clinical workflows and strict regulatory requirements into user-friendly interfaces.

• Balancing User Needs with Business/Regulatory Constraints: Finding the optimal balance between user desirability, technical feasibility, and regulatory compliance.

• Early-Stage Modernization: Contributing to the modernization of existing software means navigating legacy systems and user adoption challenges.

• Domain Acclimation: Quickly learning the nuances of the clinical research industry to design solutions that are relevant and effective.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• UX Skill Enhancement: Direct application of UX principles in a professional setting, honing skills in user flows, wireframing, prototyping, and visual design.

• Industry-Specific UX Knowledge: Gaining unique insights into UX challenges and best practices within the highly regulated CRO and clinical research sector.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Working with diverse teams (developers, product managers, clinical experts) to understand different perspectives and foster holistic product development.

• Professional Networking: Building connections with experienced professionals within a leading CRO.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for UX roles in regulated industries. Medpace's emphasis on "continuous learning" and "defined career paths" suggests a supportive environment for interns to overcome these challenges and grow their skill sets.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex workflow you've had to simplify or design for. How did you approach it?" (Focus on process, problem-solving, and user-centricity.)

• "How do you incorporate user feedback into your design process?" (Highlight iterative design and research integration.)

• "Imagine you need to design a feature for clinical trial data entry. What are the key UX considerations?" (Assess understanding of domain challenges and user needs.)

• "How do you balance multiple design priorities or conflicting stakeholder requests?" (Evaluate organizational and communication skills.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in UX design specifically within the clinical research industry?" (Demonstrate research into Medpace and the sector.)

• "What do you know about Medpace's mission and how UX contributes to it?" (Showcase company research and understanding of impact.)

• "Describe a time you worked effectively in a team. What was your role?" (Assess collaboration and teamwork skills.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Presentation: Begin with an overview of Medpace and the role, then guide the interviewer through 2-3 key projects.

• Focus on Process, Not Just Pixels: Explain the "why" behind your design decisions, the research conducted, and the iterative steps taken.

• Quantify Impact (if possible): Even for academic projects, discuss potential benefits or learnings that could lead to efficiency improvements or better user experiences.

• Be Ready for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your design choices, challenges, and how you handle feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to discuss their portfolio projects in detail, emphasizing their problem-solving approach, understanding of UX principles, and ability to articulate design rationale. Researching Medpace's specific contributions to clinical research will be highly beneficial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight relevant coursework, projects, and any prior experience demonstrating UX design skills, tool proficiency (Figma, Adobe CC), and understanding of design principles. Use keywords from the job description.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Ensure your portfolio showcases your UX process, problem-solving abilities, and key deliverables. Prepare to walk through 2-3 projects in detail during an interview.

• Prepare for Interviews: Research Medpace, understand its mission in clinical research, and practice articulating your design process and rationale clearly. Be ready to discuss how UX impacts efficiency and user satisfaction in regulated environments.

• Express Enthusiasm for the Domain: Clearly communicate your interest in applying UX design skills within the healthcare and clinical research sector.

⚠️ 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.