UX Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UX Designer

Company: Portland Webworks

Location: Portland, Maine, United States (Remote OK)

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: UX/UI Design & Product Development

Date Posted: 2026-05-26T00:00:00

Experience Level: Mid-Level (3-5 years)

Remote Status: Fully Remote Eligible (US-based candidates preferred, Maine applicants prioritized)

🚀 Role Summary

• Design user-centered wireframes, prototypes, user flows, and personas to create intuitive and impactful software solutions.

• Lead client discovery sessions and translate complex user needs into actionable design specifications for public sector applications.

• Conduct rigorous user research and usability testing to inform design iterations and ensure user satisfaction.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including software developers, project managers, and QA professionals throughout the entire project lifecycle.

• Develop and document detailed design specifications, site maps, and information architecture to facilitate seamless handoffs to development teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is situated within a specialized agency (Portland Webworks/GovWebworks) focused on public sector software solutions. The position requires a strong emphasis on user-centered design principles applied to government-facing applications, aiming to improve user experience in a domain often overlooked for design excellence. The "telecommute" location type with a preference for US-based candidates, particularly those in Maine, suggests a hybrid approach to remote work or a strong desire for local talent while remaining open to remote professionals.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design user-centered wireframes, prototypes, user flows, and personas that align with client requirements and user needs.

• Lead client discovery sessions and requirements gathering, effectively translating user needs into intuitive and functional design solutions.

• Conduct comprehensive user research, including interviews, surveys, and usability testing, to validate design decisions and gather actionable insights.

• Present design concepts, prototypes, and findings to stakeholders and internal teams, effectively advocating for user-centered solutions and incorporating feedback.

• Produce detailed site maps, information architecture, and navigation structures to ensure logical organization and ease of use for complex applications.

• Create and maintain detailed design documentation, including style guides and component libraries, for smooth handoffs to development teams.

• Partner closely with a team of skilled software developers, project managers, graphic designers, and QA professionals to ensure successful project execution.

• Manage multiple client projects simultaneously, balancing timelines, deliverables, and stakeholder expectations.

• Perform site audits and content reviews to identify areas for UX improvement and ensure consistency across platforms.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic design leadership (leading sessions, user research) and detailed execution (wireframing, documentation, site audits). The emphasis on public sector clients and the need to manage multiple projects concurrently suggests a dynamic, fast-paced environment requiring strong organizational and communication skills.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

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

Experience: 3-5 years of professional experience in User Experience (UX) design, with a demonstrated history of creating user-centered digital products.

Required Skills:

• Highly proficient in Figma for creating wireframes, prototypes, and managing complex design files.

• Proven ability to design user-centered wireframes, prototypes, user flows, and personas.

• Exceptional presentation and communication skills, with the ability to articulate design decisions and gather feedback effectively.

• Demonstrated experience in conducting user research, including interviews, surveys, and usability testing.

• Strong understanding of information architecture principles, including site mapping and navigation design.

• Familiarity with Agile development methodologies and experience working within an Agile framework.

• Excellent organizational skills and extreme attention to detail for managing design assets and documentation.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience working within a digital agency environment.

• Experience designing for the public sector or government clients.

• Familiarity with other design and prototyping tools (e.g., Sketch, Adobe XD, InVision).

• Basic understanding of front-end development principles and capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for 3-5 years of experience positions this role at a mid-level, expecting a candidate who can work independently on projects but also collaborate effectively. Figma proficiency is a critical technical requirement, indicating its central role in the design workflow. Agency and public sector experience are highlighted as preferred, suggesting that candidates with this background will have a competitive advantage due to their familiarity with client management and the specific nuances of government projects.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated portfolio showcasing at least 3-5 distinct projects demonstrating UX design expertise.

• Projects should clearly illustrate the candidate's process from problem definition through to final design solution.

• Emphasis on user research methodologies, wireframing, prototyping, and information architecture.

• Demonstrations of how user feedback and research informed design iterations.

• Examples of detailed design documentation or handoffs to development teams.

Process Documentation:

• Case studies should clearly outline the design process followed for each project, detailing:

  • Problem statement and project goals.

  • User research methods and key findings.

  • Design exploration and iteration phases (e.g., wireframes, user flows, prototypes).

  • Usability testing methodologies and outcomes.

  • Final design solutions and rationale.

  • Outcomes and impact, ideally with quantifiable results.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a UX Designer role, the portfolio is paramount. The requirements emphasize not just the final designs, but the process behind them. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their decision-making at each stage, demonstrating a user-centered approach and an understanding of how to translate research into tangible design artifacts. The mention of "detailed documentation" for developers implies a need for clarity and completeness in handoff materials.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a UX Designer with 3-5 years of experience in Portland, ME, and considering the remote option, a competitive salary range is estimated between $75,000 - $105,000 annually. This estimate accounts for the cost of living in Maine, the specialized nature of public sector UX, and the company's stated commitment to generous compensation.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health & Dental: 100% paid health and dental benefits for employees. Up to 95% paid for dependents.

• Health Reimbursement Account (HRA): To minimize out-of-pocket medical expenses.

• Retirement Plan: Company matching contributions to a retirement plan.

• Profit Sharing: Direct participation in the company's financial success.

• Flexible Scheduling: Options for flexible work hours to accommodate work-life balance.

• Generous Paid Time Off: Up to 25 days of paid vacation annually.

• Convenience: Free parking available if working from an office location.

Working Hours: Standard full-time hours, likely around 40 hours per week, with flexibility in scheduling.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided benefits are exceptionally strong, particularly the 100% paid health and dental for employees and significant dependent coverage, which is rare. Profit sharing and a generous PTO policy further underscore the company's commitment to employee well-being and retention, aligning with their "Best Places to Work" awards. The salary estimate is based on data from reputable sources like Glassdoor, LinkedIn Salary, and industry surveys for UX Designer roles in the US, adjusted for the specific location and experience level.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Technology, Software Development, Government & Public Sector Services. Portland Webworks specializes in building high-quality software solutions, with a significant focus on the public sector through its GovWebworks division. They aim to bring user-friendly and impactful design to government applications.

Company Size: Mid-size (likely 50-250 employees based on typical agency structures and "Best Places to Work" recognition). This size offers a balance between collaborative team environments and opportunities for individual impact.

Founded: Established with a history of delivering software solutions, evidenced by their multiple "Best Places to Work" awards and longevity in the market.

Team Structure:

• The UX Designer will be part of a collaborative team that includes software developers, project managers, graphic designers, and quality assurance professionals.

• This role likely reports to a Design Lead, UX Manager, or potentially a Director of Product Development, depending on the team's specific organizational structure.

Methodology:

• Agile Development: The team operates using Agile methodologies, requiring flexibility, iterative development, and close teamwork.

• User-Centered Design: A strong emphasis on user research, testing, and feedback to drive design decisions, ensuring solutions are effective and user-friendly.

• Data-Informed Design: While not explicitly stated, the nature of UX and public sector projects implies a reliance on data (user research, analytics, client feedback) to inform design strategies and measure success.

• Transparency: The company promotes an "open-books level of transparency," suggesting an environment where information is shared openly, and team members are encouraged to understand the business context.

Company Website: http://www.portlandwebworks.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Portland Webworks positions itself as a company that values its employees and strives to create positive change through technology, particularly in the often-underserved public sector. Their multiple "Best Places to Work" awards suggest a strong internal culture that prioritizes employee well-being, collaboration, and professional growth. The focus on public sector clients means designers will work on projects with a broad societal impact.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This UX Designer role is positioned at a mid-level, requiring 3-5 years of experience. It implies a level of autonomy in managing design tasks and contributing to project strategy, but also a need for collaboration and mentorship from more senior team members or leads. The role is expected to be a key contributor to project success through design expertise.

Reporting Structure: The UX Designer will likely report to a Design Lead, UX Manager, or Head of Product/Design. They will collaborate closely with Project Managers, Software Developers, and other members of the project team.

Operations Impact: The UX Designer's work directly impacts the usability, effectiveness, and user satisfaction of public sector software solutions. This has a ripple effect on citizen engagement, operational efficiency for government agencies, and the overall perception of government services. By creating intuitive interfaces, the designer contributes to increased adoption rates, reduced user errors, and improved service delivery.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas of UX, such as user research, interaction design, information architecture, or accessibility design.

• Leadership Development: Potential to mentor junior designers, lead design initiatives on projects, or move into a Senior UX Designer or Design Lead role.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain experience working with diverse teams and understanding the broader software development lifecycle, which can lead to roles in product management or design strategy.

• Industry Expertise: Develop specialized knowledge in public sector technology and UX challenges, becoming a sought-after expert in this niche.

• Project Management: With experience, potential to transition into roles that involve managing design projects or product roadmaps.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth paths for a UX Designer at an agency like Portland Webworks are typically structured around increasing responsibility, specialization, and leadership. The company's focus on public sector work also offers a unique opportunity to build a niche expertise that can be highly valuable. Their commitment to employee development, as suggested by their culture and benefits, indicates a supportive environment for career advancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: While the listing specifies "TELECOMMUTE" and "Remote OK," Portland Webworks is based in Portland, ME, and has likely a physical office. The "Free Parking" benefit suggests an office presence where employees might work from occasionally or where local hires might be based. The role is primarily remote.

Office Location(s): Portland, Maine, United States (04101).

Workspace Context:

• Remote Collaboration: Expect a highly collaborative remote environment, utilizing digital tools for communication, design, and project management.

• Technology Access: Access to industry-standard design software (primarily Figma) and collaboration platforms will be essential.

• Team Interaction: Regular virtual team meetings, stand-ups, and feedback sessions will be integral to the workflow, fostering a sense of connection despite physical distance.

• Client Interaction: Opportunities to interact directly with clients during discovery sessions and design reviews, requiring professionalism and strong communication skills.

Work Schedule: Full-time hours (approx. 40/week) with an emphasis on flexible scheduling. This allows for balancing project demands with personal commitments, a key aspect of a remote work model.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "TELECOMMUTE" and "Remote OK" designation, coupled with the preference for US-based candidates and prioritization of Maine applicants, indicates a flexible work model. The company is open to remote work but may have a preference for candidates who can occasionally be on-site or are within a commutable distance if needed for specific client meetings or team events, though this isn't explicitly stated. The emphasis on flexible scheduling is a significant perk for remote employees.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio by the recruitment team to assess qualifications and experience.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A conversation with the hiring manager to discuss your background, experience, and fit with the team and company culture. Expect questions about your design process and motivations.

• Portfolio Presentation & Technical Interview: A dedicated session where you will present a selection of your best work from your portfolio. This will involve walking through 1-3 case studies, explaining your design process, challenges, and outcomes. Be prepared for in-depth questions about your decisions.

• Team/Cross-Functional Interview: An opportunity to meet with potential colleagues (developers, project managers) to assess collaboration style and technical understanding.

• Final Interview/Offer: A final discussion, potentially with senior leadership, followed by a job offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Wisely: Select 3-4 projects that best represent your skills and experience relevant to this role, focusing on user-centered design, Figma proficiency, and public sector or complex application design if possible.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the process you followed (research, ideation, testing, iteration), the challenges you faced, and the impact of your solutions. Use visuals effectively.

• Highlight Figma Skills: Be prepared to showcase your Figma capabilities, including file organization, component usage, prototyping features, and collaboration tools.

• Demonstrate Process: Emphasize your user research and testing methodologies. Explain why you made certain design decisions, grounding them in user needs or data.

• Quantify Impact: If possible, include metrics or outcomes that demonstrate the success of your designs (e.g., increased conversion rates, improved user satisfaction scores, reduced error rates).

• Be Concise and Clear: Practice your presentation to stay within allotted timeframes and communicate your ideas effectively.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Exercise: Be prepared for a potential take-home design challenge or a live design exercise during the interview process. This might involve a small design problem related to a public sector application.

• Agile Understanding: Be ready to discuss how you integrate UX into Agile sprints and collaborate with developers in an iterative environment.

• Stakeholder Management: Prepare examples of how you have managed feedback from diverse stakeholders and advocated for user needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to thoroughly evaluate both design skills and collaborative capabilities. The portfolio review is critical; candidates should treat it as a presentation of their problem-solving approach and design thinking. Preparing specific examples for how they integrate UX into Agile workflows and manage stakeholder feedback will be crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: This is explicitly mentioned as a requirement. Proficiency in using Figma for wireframing, prototyping, component creation, design system management, and collaboration is essential.

• Prototyping Tools: Experience with Figma's prototyping features or other dedicated tools like InVision, Adobe XD, or Axure RP.

• User Research & Testing Platforms: Familiarity with tools for conducting user interviews, surveys, and usability testing (e.g., UserTesting.com, Maze, SurveyMonkey, Google Forms).

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not specified, an understanding of analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics) and how to interpret user data to inform design decisions would be beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the core UX design function, but an understanding of how UX impacts CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot) or other business automation tools from a user perspective could be a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: Figma is the cornerstone of the toolset for this role. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate advanced proficiency in Figma. While other design tools are secondary, familiarity with user research platforms is highly relevant to the core responsibilities of conducting user research and testing.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• User-Centricity: A deep commitment to understanding and serving the needs of end-users, especially citizens interacting with public sector services.

• Quality & Impact: A drive to deliver high-quality, impactful software solutions that make a tangible difference.

• Collaboration: A belief in the power of teamwork and open communication across disciplines to achieve project success.

• Transparency: An open-book approach to business and operations, fostering trust and shared understanding within the team.

• Continuous Improvement: A dedication to learning, iterating, and constantly seeking ways to enhance processes and outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The team emphasizes close collaboration between designers, developers, project managers, and QA. Designers are expected to be active participants in project discussions and development cycles.

• Constructive Feedback: An environment where feedback is welcomed and used constructively to refine designs and improve project outcomes.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that encourages sharing insights, best practices, and learnings across the team and the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's stated values—particularly quality, impact, and transparency—along with their recognition as a "Best Place to Work," suggest a positive and supportive team environment. The emphasis on cross-functional collaboration is key for success in this role, as designers must work effectively with technical and project management teams.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Public Sector Complexity: Designing for government systems can involve complex regulations, diverse user bases with varying technical literacy, and long procurement cycles. Adapting designs to these specific constraints will be a key challenge.

• Balancing Stakeholder Needs: Juggling the requirements of clients, end-users, and internal development teams while advocating for the best user experience.

• Remote Collaboration Management: Effectively contributing to and collaborating within a remote team, ensuring clear communication and seamless workflow.

• Translating Tech to User Needs: Bridging the gap between technical capabilities and user requirements to create solutions that are both feasible and highly usable.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Public Sector UX Specialization: Developing deep expertise in designing for government and civic technology, a growing and impactful field.

• Advanced Figma Skills: Further refining mastery of Figma's advanced features, including design systems, complex prototyping, and collaborative workflows.

• Agile UX Integration: Gaining hands-on experience in embedding UX practices within Agile development sprints for maximum efficiency and impact.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced designers and developers within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for an agency working with complex clients like government entities. The growth opportunities are strong, particularly for those interested in specializing in public sector UX, which is a niche but increasingly important area of design.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to advocate for a user-centered design decision that conflicted with a client's initial request. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Tests communication, persuasion, and user advocacy.)

• "Walk me through your process for conducting user research for a new feature. What methods would you choose and why?" (Assesses research methodology and critical thinking.)

• "How do you approach designing for users with varying levels of technical proficiency, especially in a public sector context?" (Evaluates understanding of diverse user needs and accessibility.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Portland Webworks and our focus on public sector software?" (Assesses research and genuine interest.)

• "How do you handle constructive criticism or feedback on your designs?" (Evaluates adaptability and professional maturity.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Process: For each case study, clearly outline the problem, your role, the steps you took (research, ideation, testing, iteration), the tools you used (especially Figma), and the results.

• Visual Storytelling: Use clear, concise visuals (wireframes, prototypes, user flows) to illustrate your points. Avoid overwhelming slides with too much text.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, present metrics or outcomes that demonstrate the success of your design solutions.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your design decisions, trade-offs, and problem-solving approaches.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare specific, STAR-method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) examples for behavioral questions. For portfolio presentations, the emphasis should be on demonstrating the why behind design choices, not just the what. Understanding the company's mission and their specific challenges in the public sector will be key to tailoring responses.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this UX Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on Portland Webworks' hiring portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight projects that demonstrate your proficiency with Figma, your user-centered design process, and any experience with complex applications or public sector clients.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your 3-5 years of UX design experience, lists key skills (Figma, user research, wireframing, etc.), and quantifies achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process and project outcomes for each portfolio piece. Prepare answers to common UX and behavioral interview questions.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Portland Webworks, GovWebworks, and their mission in the public sector. Understand their approach to design and client collaboration.

⚠️ 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.