UX Designer:in (m/w/d)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UX Designer (m/f/d)

Company: WEBUILDAI GmbH

Location: Köln, Germany

Job Type: Full-time

Category: UX/Product Design, AI/Data Solutions Consulting

Date Posted: August 21, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead end-to-end Solution Design Sprints, encompassing user research, facilitation, and concept development for AI and Data Solutions.

• Drive user-centered design processes, translating complex user needs and business requirements into tangible, executable product concepts and prototypes.

• Serve as a key client-facing interface, guiding stakeholders through uncertainty, delivering honest feedback, and ensuring the practical viability of designed solutions.

• Collaborate closely with a technical development team to ensure seamless implementation of designed solutions and contribute to strategic business development through involvement in pitches and proposals.

• Develop compelling narratives and presentations that distill complex technical and user insights into clear, actionable strategies for executive decision-makers.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned at a mid-level, requiring demonstrable experience in leading design sprints and client interactions. The emphasis on AI and Data Solutions suggests a need for candidates who can bridge the gap between user experience and emerging technologies, with a strong consultative approach.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead Solution Design Sprints, from initial user research and requirements gathering through to the facilitation of workshops and the finalization of comprehensive product concepts.

• Conduct user research, synthesize findings, and translate complex user needs and business objectives into user-centered design strategies and actionable product roadmaps.

• Develop and present compelling user-centered concepts and interactive prototypes that clearly articulate the proposed solution's functionality, user flow, and business value to both internal teams and external clients.

• Facilitate client workshops and training sessions, effectively moderating discussions, managing stakeholder expectations, and guiding participants toward consensus on design solutions.

• Contribute to business development efforts by assisting the CEO in pitches and proposal development, providing in-depth content and design rationale for new client engagements.

• Act as a trusted advisor to clients, articulating complex technical concepts and design decisions clearly, and providing direct, constructive feedback to ensure project success.

• Collaborate closely with the technical development team to ensure the practical and efficient implementation of designed solutions, acting as a bridge between design and engineering.

• Create clear, concise, and impactful presentations that effectively communicate complex findings, design rationales, and strategic recommendations to diverse audiences, including executive leadership.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of hands-on design work, client management, and strategic contribution. The role requires someone comfortable with ambiguity, capable of driving projects independently, and adept at communicating value to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a background in Design (e.g., Interaction Design, Product Design, Graphic Design), Human-Computer Interaction, Service Design, or a related field is highly beneficial. Equivalent practical experience will be strongly considered.

Experience: Minimum of 2-5 years of professional experience in user-centered design roles such as Service Design, Product Design, UX Design, or within innovation processes. Demonstrated experience in leading design sprints and client-facing engagements is crucial.

Required Skills:

• Proven experience in user-centered design methodologies, including user research, journey mapping, persona development, and usability testing.

• Strong facilitation skills, with the ability to lead workshops, design sprints, and client meetings effectively, driving towards clear outcomes.

• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to distill complex information into clear, compelling narratives for diverse audiences, including executive stakeholders.

• Demonstrated ability to manage client relationships, handle ambiguity, provide direct feedback, and advocate for user needs while considering business constraints.

• Experience in creating user-centered concepts and interactive prototypes using industry-standard tools.

• Proficiency in German (fluent) and good command of English (professional working proficiency) to effectively manage projects within the DACH region. Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with AI concepts, technologies, and their application in business solutions, or a strong, demonstrated curiosity and aptitude for rapidly learning about AI.

• Experience in consulting environments or with agencies serving a diverse client base.

• Understanding of agile development methodologies and cross-functional team collaboration.

• Experience with data visualization techniques and presenting data-driven insights.

• Familiarity with specific UX/UI design and prototyping tools such as Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD, InVision, etc.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "asking good questions" and "staying in the problem space" before jumping to solutions indicates a need for critical thinking and a deep understanding of problem definition. The preference for AI curiosity suggests that while not a hard requirement, it's a significant advantage for candidates looking to grow with the company.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A robust portfolio showcasing end-to-end design process, from initial problem definition and user research to conceptualization, prototyping, and ideally, outcomes or impact.

• Specific case studies demonstrating leadership in Solution Design Sprints or similar iterative design processes, highlighting your role and contributions.

• Examples of user-centered concepts and prototypes, illustrating your ability to translate complex requirements into intuitive user experiences.

• Evidence of client interaction and stakeholder management, including how you've navigated challenging discussions or feedback.

• Projects that showcase your ability to synthesize complex information into clear, compelling narratives and presentations. Process Documentation:

• The portfolio should clearly document the design process followed for each case study, emphasizing methodology, tools used, and decision-making rationale.

• Demonstrate how you've measured the success or impact of your designs, even if qualitative, such as user feedback, adoption rates, or improved task completion.

• Showcase examples of how you've iterated on designs based on feedback or new insights gained during the process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process includes a "Probeaufgabe für zuhause" (take-home assignment), suggesting that the portfolio should not only showcase past work but also demonstrate a candidate's current problem-solving skills and design thinking applied to a relevant challenge. The portfolio is the primary tool for assessing this.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a Mid-Level UX Designer with 2-5 years of experience in Cologne, Germany, specializing in AI/Data Solutions consulting, the estimated annual salary range is €55,000 - €75,000. This estimate considers the company's growth, the specialized nature of the role (AI/Data Solutions), and the consultative responsibilities.

Benefits:

• Flexibility & Mobility:

  • Flexible working hours and responsibility-driven home office policy.
  • Monthly benefit budget (€30) usable for vouchers from over 100 providers, Urban Sports Club membership, or as a mobility subsidy for the Germany ticket.
  • Company bike leasing program with significant savings (up to 40%), including full insurance and maintenance.

• Professional Development:

  • Mentoring and regular, honest feedback to foster professional growth.
  • Opportunities to learn about AI and Data Solutions through practical application.

• Work Environment & Culture:

  • Flat hierarchies and short decision-making processes.

  • Regular team events, collaborative workations, and a friendly office atmosphere with office dogs.

  • Complimentary drinks and snacks available at the Cologne office. Working Hours: Standard full-time (approximately 40 hours per week), with flexible arrangements and home office options to support work-life balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on typical compensation for similar roles in Cologne, Germany, factoring in the specified experience level and the niche focus on AI/Data Solutions. The benefits package emphasizes flexibility, health and wellness, professional development, and a positive work environment.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Technology, AI Solutions, Data Solutions, Consulting. WEBUILDAI GmbH operates at the intersection of cutting-edge AI/Data technologies and practical business application, serving the German Mittelstand and large corporations. This implies a focus on delivering tangible business value and ROI through technology.

Company Size: Currently experiencing rapid growth, having grown by 160% last year and maintaining significant momentum. This suggests a dynamic, fast-paced startup environment with evolving structures and processes, offering ample opportunity for impact.

Founded: Founded recently, indicating a company with a fresh perspective, agility, and a strong focus on future growth and innovation.

Team Structure:

• The operations team is likely lean and agile, given the company's startup nature and growth trajectory.

• Expect a flat hierarchy with direct access to leadership, including the CEO, Frederic, who is involved in pitches and strategic client engagements.

• Collaboration is expected to be cross-functional, with close interaction between design, development, and business development teams.

• The UX Designer will work closely with a technical development team and directly with clients. Methodology:

• AI & Data Solutions Focus: The core of WEBUILDAI's work involves building AI and Data Solutions that are deployed into production to generate revenue or cost savings for clients.

• Solution Design Sprints: A primary methodology for developing solutions, emphasizing research, facilitation, and concept creation.

• User-Centricity: Strong emphasis on understanding user needs and translating them into functional, impactful digital products.

• Agile & Iterative: The rapid growth and startup environment suggest an agile approach to project execution and continuous improvement.

Company Website: https://we-build-ai.de

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is characterized by rapid growth, a focus on practical AI/Data solutions, and a dynamic, client-centric approach. The lean structure and direct involvement of the CEO in key aspects of client engagement mean that employees have a high degree of influence and visibility.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is classified as a Mid-Level UX Designer. It requires independent execution of core design responsibilities, leadership in design sprints, and significant client-facing interaction. While not a senior management position, it offers substantial autonomy and impact, serving as a critical link between client needs, business strategy, and technical execution.

Reporting Structure: The UX Designer will likely report directly to a Head of Design, a Product Lead, or potentially a CTO, depending on the current organizational structure. They will work closely with the CEO, Frederic, on pitches and strategic initiatives.

Operations Impact: The UX Designer's impact is direct and significant. By leading Solution Design Sprints and creating user-centered concepts, they directly influence the success and market viability of AI and Data Solutions deployed for clients. Their work determines whether technically complex products are functional, user-friendly, and ultimately profitable for WEBUILDAI's clients, thereby driving the company's reputation and growth.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization in AI/Data UX: Deepen expertise in designing for complex AI and data-driven applications, a rapidly growing and high-demand field.

• Consulting Acumen: Develop advanced client management, stakeholder negotiation, and business development skills through direct involvement in pitches and client engagements.

• Leadership Track: Potential to grow into a Senior UX Designer, Lead UX Designer, or Head of Design role as the company scales, potentially managing a team and shaping the design strategy.

• Cross-functional Expertise: Gain exposure to business strategy, sales, and technical development, broadening overall professional capabilities.

• Entrepreneurial Experience: Contribute to the growth of a rapidly scaling startup, gaining valuable experience in building a business.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth opportunities are substantial, particularly for someone interested in specializing in a niche area like AI/Data UX design within a consulting context. The direct involvement with leadership and client projects provides a fast track for skill development and career advancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The company operates from an office in Ehrenfeld, Cologne. This suggests a modern, potentially collaborative workspace designed to foster creativity and teamwork.

Office Location(s): The primary office is located in Ehrenfeld, Cologne, Germany. This location is known for its vibrant atmosphere and accessibility within the city.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The office serves as a central point for team collaboration, client meetings, and social events, including team events and workations.

• Resource Availability: Expect access to necessary design tools, technology, and a supportive environment for creative work. The mention of free drinks and snacks indicates a focus on employee comfort and well-being.

• Team Interaction: The hybrid model and emphasis on team events encourage regular interaction with colleagues, fostering a strong sense of community and shared purpose, which is crucial for effective collaboration in design and consulting.

Work Schedule: The hybrid work arrangement allows for a balance between in-office collaboration and remote work flexibility. While specific office days might not be mandated, the expectation is likely for regular in-office presence for key collaborative activities, client meetings, and team cohesion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model, combined with the office location in a vibrant area like Ehrenfeld, suggests a work environment that values both flexibility and in-person collaboration. This setup is ideal for a role that requires deep design thinking, client interaction, and close teamwork.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Step 1: Initial Call (Kennenlern-Call): A ~30-minute introductory call with Frederic (CEO) to assess initial fit, discuss career aspirations, and provide an overview of the role and company.

• Step 2: Take-Home Assignment & Presentation: Candidates will be given a relevant design task to complete at home. This will be followed by a ~45-60 minute call to present and discuss the assignment, evaluating problem-solving skills and design approach.

• Step 3: On-site Meeting in Cologne: An in-person meeting at the Cologne office. This typically involves a shared meal and discussions with the team, offering insights into project work and team dynamics, assessing cultural fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Process: Clearly articulate your design process for each project. Highlight how you identified problems, conducted research, iterated on solutions, and involved stakeholders.

• Showcase Leadership: Emphasize projects where you led design sprints or took significant ownership of the design direction.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, include metrics or qualitative feedback that demonstrate the success and impact of your designs. For this role, focus on how your designs led to tangible business outcomes for clients (e.g., improved user adoption, efficiency gains).

• Tailor to AI/Data: If possible, include projects that touch upon complex data, AI, or technical challenges, demonstrating your ability to design for such environments.

• Narrative is Key: Structure your portfolio presentation to tell a compelling story about each project, focusing on the problem, your approach, and the solution's outcome.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the "Problem Space": Be prepared to deeply explore the problem presented in the take-home assignment before jumping to solutions. Ask clarifying questions and articulate your understanding.

• Demonstrate Consultative Skills: Practice articulating your design rationale clearly and confidently, especially when discussing trade-offs, challenging assumptions, or explaining complex concepts to potentially non-designers.

• AI/Data Relevance: If the take-home assignment involves AI or data, ensure you can speak to potential challenges and opportunities in designing for these domains. Showing curiosity and a willingness to learn is crucial.

• Cultural Fit: Be ready to discuss your collaboration style and how you contribute to a team environment, referencing experiences from the on-site meeting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is structured to progressively assess different aspects of a candidate's suitability: initial fit, practical design skills and problem-solving, and finally, team and cultural alignment. The take-home assignment is a critical component for evaluating hands-on capabilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design & Prototyping: Proficiency in industry-standard tools such as Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD, or InVision for creating wireframes, mockups, and interactive prototypes. Figma is often a preferred tool for collaborative design.

• User Research & Testing: Experience with tools for conducting user interviews, usability testing, and analyzing user feedback (e.g., Maze, UserTesting.com, Lookback, or manual methods).

• Collaboration & Communication: Tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, or similar platforms for daily team communication and project updates.

• Project Management: Familiarity with project management tools such as Jira, Asana, Trello, or Monday.com for tracking tasks and project progress.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary analyst role, understanding how to interpret analytics data (e.g., from Google Analytics, Mixpanel, Amplitude) to inform design decisions and measure impact is beneficial.

• Familiarity with dashboarding tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) for understanding how data is visualized and communicated to clients. CRM & Automation:

• Basic understanding of CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot) and how user data is managed within them, as designs may need to integrate with or consider CRM workflows.

• Awareness of workflow automation principles, particularly as they relate to user journeys and digital product interactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools aren't listed, the role implies a need for proficiency in modern UX design software, collaborative platforms, and an understanding of how design integrates with development and business objectives. The emphasis on AI/Data solutions might also mean exposure to data visualization tools or platforms used in those domains.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & AI Focus: A commitment to building cutting-edge AI and Data Solutions that drive tangible business value and efficiency for clients.

• User-Centricity: A deep-seated belief in understanding and prioritizing user needs to create effective and impactful digital products.

• Excellence & Pragmatism: Striving for high-quality design and solutions that are not only innovative but also technically feasible and deployable in real-world production environments.

• Collaboration & Transparency: Fostering an open environment where ideas are shared freely, feedback is constructive, and decision-making is clear and efficient.

• Client Partnership: Building strong relationships with clients, acting as trusted advisors who are willing to provide honest assessments and guide them toward successful outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Seamless collaboration between design, development, and business development teams is essential. The UX Designer acts as a critical bridge, ensuring that design vision aligns with technical capabilities and business goals.

• Workshop-Driven: A strong emphasis on collaborative workshops and design sprints to involve stakeholders, generate ideas, and build consensus.

• Feedback Culture: An open and direct approach to giving and receiving feedback, crucial for continuous improvement in both individual performance and project outcomes.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of insights, best practices, and learnings, particularly around AI and data solutions, to elevate the collective expertise of the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company values reflect a forward-thinking, client-focused, and collaborative approach. The emphasis on "building AI and Data Solutions that go into production and earn or save money" underscores a results-oriented culture where design directly contributes to business success.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Bridging Technical Complexity and User Needs: Designing intuitive user experiences for complex AI and Data Solutions requires a deep understanding of both user psychology and technical capabilities, often involving abstract concepts.

• Navigating Client Ambiguity: Guiding clients through uncertain project landscapes, managing expectations, and delivering potentially difficult feedback requires strong communication and negotiation skills.

• Rapid Growth Environment: Adapting to a fast-paced, scaling startup environment means processes may evolve quickly, requiring flexibility and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

• Staying Ahead of AI Trends: The AI landscape is constantly evolving, requiring continuous learning and adaptation to integrate the latest advancements into design solutions.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deep Dive into AI/Data UX: Gain specialized knowledge and practical experience in designing for AI-driven products and data analytics platforms.

• Consulting & Business Acumen: Develop advanced skills in client management, strategic thinking, and business development through direct involvement with leadership and client pitches.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to take on more responsibility, lead design initiatives, and potentially mentor junior team members as the company grows.

• Industry Exposure: Participate in relevant industry events, workshops, and potentially gain certifications related to UX, AI, or data design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are inherent to working with cutting-edge technology in a startup environment. The growth opportunities are directly linked to overcoming these challenges, offering a path to becoming a highly specialized and valuable professional in the AI/Data UX field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operations Strategy: "Describe a time you led a Solution Design Sprint. What was your process, what challenges did you face, and what was the outcome?" (Prepare a concise case study highlighting your leadership, problem-solving, and iterative design approach).

• Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: "How do you handle disagreements with a client or a development team regarding design decisions?" (Focus on your communication, empathy, and ability to find mutually beneficial solutions, referencing your experience with direct feedback).

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a client wants to build an AI tool for predictive maintenance, but their data is incomplete. How would you approach the design process?" (Demonstrate your ability to stay in the problem space, ask clarifying questions, and propose iterative solutions, considering data limitations).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What excites you about WEBUILDAI's focus on AI and Data Solutions for businesses?" (Research the company's website and recent projects to articulate your interest and understanding of their market position).

• "How do you see your role contributing to a fast-growing startup environment?" (Highlight your adaptability, proactivity, and willingness to take on diverse responsibilities).

• "How do you measure the success of your designs in terms of business impact?" (Be prepared to discuss metrics and outcomes beyond just user satisfaction, linking design to revenue or cost savings). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: Structure your portfolio walk-through as a narrative. Start with the problem, detail your process, explain your key design decisions, and conclude with the results or learnings.

• Focus on Your Role: Clearly define your contributions, especially if presenting group projects. Use "I" statements for your personal actions and "we" for team efforts.

• Showcase Process, Not Just Pixels: Emphasize the why behind your design choices. Show your research, iterations, and how you arrived at the final solution.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about specific design decisions, challenges, and how you'd adapt your approach for AI/Data contexts. Be prepared to discuss trade-offs and justify your rationale.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on articulating a clear design process, demonstrating consultative skills, and showing an understanding of business impact. The take-home assignment will be a key assessment, so practicing presentation and problem-solving for such a task is crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this UX Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on join.com.

• Portfolio Customization: Curate your portfolio to prominently feature projects showcasing your experience in leading design sprints, user-centered design, and client-facing engagements. Highlight any relevant work with complex data or AI-related concepts.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight keywords from the job description, such as "UX Design," "Service Design," "Product Design," "Solution Design Sprints," "User Research," "Prototyping," and "AI/Data Solutions." Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, problem-solving approach, and consultative skills. Prepare to discuss your take-home assignment thoroughly and confidently.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research WEBUILDAI GmbH's website, recent projects, and market positioning. Understand their focus on AI/Data Solutions and their startup growth trajectory to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural alignment.

⚠️ 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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