UX Engineer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UX Engineer

Company: Bjak

Location: New York, New York, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Engineering / Design / Product

Date Posted: 2026-05-19

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

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Design and build cutting-edge AI-native product experiences across web and mobile platforms, focusing on conversational interfaces and real-world task completion.

• Translate complex product ideas, interaction concepts, and conversational flows into functional prototypes and high-quality frontend code.

• Collaborate closely with product, design, engineering, and ML teams to explore, validate, and iterate on novel AI interaction models and UI patterns.

• Develop and refine reusable UI systems, frontend architecture, and prototyping workflows to enable rapid experimentation and efficient product development.

• Drive the end-to-end user experience for AI-driven features, ensuring predictability, intuitiveness, and user trust through meticulous design and implementation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role of "UX Engineer" at Bjak is positioned at the intersection of product design and frontend development, with a strong emphasis on AI-native experiences. This hybrid role requires a candidate who can not only conceptualize user journeys but also execute them through code, bridging the gap between innovative AI capabilities and user-friendly interfaces. The focus on "AI-native" and "conversational UX" suggests a need for candidates familiar with the unique challenges and opportunities presented by generative AI and large language models in product design.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Build and prototype new AI-native product experiences across web, mobile, and experimental interfaces.

• Turn early product ideas, interaction concepts, and conversational flows into functional prototypes quickly.

• Work closely with product, design, engineering, and ML teams to explore and validate new interaction models.

• Develop high-quality frontend experiences with strong attention to usability, motion, responsiveness, and polish.

• Experiment with AI-driven UI patterns, multimodal interactions, streaming interfaces, and real-time assistant experiences.

• Bridge design and engineering by translating product concepts directly into working code and interactive prototypes.

• Iterate rapidly based on product feedback, technical constraints, and user behavior.

• Help shape frontend architecture, reusable UI systems, and prototyping workflows for fast experimentation.

• Contribute to the overall product experience, balancing usability, speed, technical feasibility, and AI limitations.

• Own the end-to-end AI interaction experience, from first discovery to repeated use.

• Ensure AI behaviors are predictable, intuitive, and trusted by users.

• Take responsibility for the clarity, usability, and effectiveness of complex workflows.

• Proactively detect and design solutions for user friction or confusion.

• Define and track success metrics for AI UX, and iterate designs based on real user behavior.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on role focused on rapid prototyping and iterative development. The emphasis on "bridging design and engineering" and "shaping frontend architecture" indicates that this role requires a blend of creative problem-solving and robust technical implementation. The "Outcomes" section further emphasizes ownership and strategic impact, suggesting that this UX Engineer will be instrumental in defining the company's AI product vision and user experience framework.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Human-Computer Interaction, Design, or a related field is typically expected for this type of role. Equivalent practical experience will also be considered.

Experience: 2-5 years of experience in frontend engineering, with a significant focus on UX/UI design, prototyping, and building interactive applications.

Required Skills:

• Strong frontend engineering skills with experience building modern web or mobile applications (e.g., React, TypeScript).

• Strong product and UX instincts with the ability to think beyond implementation details and understand user needs.

• Experience building prototypes, interaction-heavy interfaces, or experimental product experiences.

• Proficiency in modern frontend technologies such as React, TypeScript, SwiftUI, Flutter, or similar frameworks.

• Ability to rapidly prototype ideas and iterate quickly in ambiguous, fast-moving environments.

• Good understanding of interaction design principles, animation, responsiveness, and UI performance optimization.

• Interest in AI-native interfaces, conversational products, multimodal interactions, and emerging UX patterns.

• Comfortable working closely with designers, product managers, and ML engineers in a collaborative setting.

• Ability to balance engineering quality with experimentation speed and product iteration.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with other relevant frontend frameworks like SwiftUI or Flutter for cross-platform development.

• Familiarity with AI/ML concepts and their application in user interfaces.

• Experience in developing reusable UI component libraries and design systems.

• Knowledge of animation libraries and techniques for creating engaging user experiences.

• Understanding of accessibility standards and best practices.

• Experience conducting user research or usability testing to inform design decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills emphasize a dual expertise in both frontend development and UX/product thinking. The mention of specific frameworks like React, TypeScript, SwiftUI, and Flutter suggests a need for adaptability and a broad technical skillset. The "interest in AI-native interfaces" points towards a candidate who is forward-thinking and eager to explore the evolving landscape of AI-driven user experiences, a key differentiator for this role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrable examples of building interactive prototypes and functional frontend experiences using modern web or mobile technologies (React, TypeScript, etc.).

• Case studies showcasing the end-to-end design and development process for novel interfaces, particularly those involving complex user flows or experimental interactions.

• Projects that highlight an understanding of interaction design, animation, and UI performance optimization.

• Examples of contributions to UI systems, frontend architecture, or prototyping workflows.

Process Documentation:

• Explain the iterative process used to develop and refine prototypes, detailing how feedback and technical constraints were incorporated.

• Document the approach taken to balance design vision with technical feasibility and rapid iteration speed.

• Showcase how collaboration with cross-functional teams (design, product, ML) was managed and how it influenced the final product.

• Detail the user-centric approach taken, including any user research or usability testing conducted to validate design decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a UX Engineer role, a strong portfolio is paramount. It should not just showcase finished products but also the process behind their creation. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their design thinking, prototyping methodologies, and how they bridged the gap between concept and code, especially for AI-driven features. Demonstrating an ability to work with ambiguity and iterate rapidly will be key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on the location (New York, NY), experience level (2-5 years), and the specialized nature of UX Engineering with an AI focus, a competitive salary range is estimated to be between $100,000 - $140,000 annually. This estimate accounts for the high cost of living in New York City and the demand for engineers skilled in modern frontend technologies and emerging AI interaction patterns.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.

• Generous paid time off (PTO) and holidays.

• Opportunities for professional development, including conferences and training.

• Stock options or equity in a fast-growing startup.

• Flexible hybrid work environment.

• Potential for team-building events and company retreats.

• Access to cutting-edge AI tools and technologies for professional growth.

Working Hours: The standard working hours are approximately 40 hours per week, with flexibility offered due to the hybrid work arrangement. The company emphasizes a results-oriented approach, allowing for adjustments to accommodate project needs and individual productivity.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on industry benchmarks for UX Engineers in New York City with 2-5 years of experience, considering the hybrid work model and the specialized AI focus. Specific benefits can vary, but typically include standard health and wellness packages, along with growth-oriented opportunities common in tech startups. The "40 hours per week" is a baseline, with actual work patterns likely influenced by project timelines and the company's agile methodologies.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Technology (AI Chat Application)

Company Size: Early-stage startup (specific employee count not provided, but inferred from "small, world class teams" and "high talent density"). This implies a dynamic, agile environment where individual contributions have a significant impact.

Founded: The founding date is not specified, but the company is described as building a "proactive AI chat app," indicating a focus on innovation and emerging technologies.

Team Structure:

• The team is characterized as "small, world class" and "high talent density," suggesting a lean and highly skilled group.

• Decision-making is collective, but execution is expected to be independent and structured, requiring employees to bring their own judgment.

Methodology:

• Fast Experimentation: The company prioritizes rapid prototyping and iteration to quickly test new ideas and product concepts.

• Data-Driven Iteration: Product decisions are informed by user feedback, technical constraints, and user behavior analysis.

• Quality & Speed Balance: There's a deliberate effort to balance shipping high-quality work with the need for speed and learning.

• Ownership & Autonomy: Employees are expected to take ownership of their work from concept to production and execute independently.

Company Website: https://bjak.my/en/about-us

📝 Enhancement Note: Bjak appears to foster a culture that values high performance, autonomy, and rapid innovation. The emphasis on a "world class team" and "high talent density" suggests a demanding but rewarding environment where individuals are empowered to make significant contributions. The hybrid model and collaborative approach indicate a desire to combine the flexibility of remote work with the benefits of in-person interaction for brainstorming and team cohesion.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This UX Engineer role is positioned as a mid-level position (2-5 years of experience). It offers significant ownership and the opportunity to shape core user flows and product direction from the ground up. It's an "early, high-ownership role" within a startup environment.

Reporting Structure: While not explicitly detailed, the role implies close collaboration with Product Managers, Designers, and ML Engineers. It's likely that the UX Engineer would report to a Head of Engineering, Head of Product, or a Design Lead, depending on the company's specific organizational structure.

Operations Impact: The UX Engineer's impact is central to the product's success. They will directly influence how users discover value, interact with AI, build trust, and ultimately adopt the product. Their work will define the user's perception of AI's reliability and utility, driving user engagement and retention.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in AI-native interfaces, multimodal interactions, and advanced frontend architecture.

• Product Influence: Grow into a role with greater influence over product strategy and roadmap for AI features.

• Leadership: Potential to mentor junior engineers, lead feature development, or contribute to building the frontend and design systems as the company scales.

• Cross-Functional Expertise: Develop a strong understanding of ML principles and product management through close collaboration.

• Startup Experience: Gain invaluable experience in a fast-paced, innovative startup environment, which is highly attractive for future career growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers substantial growth potential for individuals looking to make a concrete impact in the burgeoning field of AI-driven user experiences. The combination of technical depth and product-shaping responsibilities provides a strong foundation for career advancement within the company or the broader tech industry. The "outcomes" section explicitly mentions mentoring and driving a design philosophy, indicating a path towards leadership.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The job is listed as "TELECOMMUTE" and "Hybrid," suggesting that while remote work is an option, there will be a requirement for in-office collaboration. This indicates a modern office setup designed for collaboration and innovation.

Office Location(s): The role is based in New York, New York, United States, with the potential for remote work within the US. This implies access to a physical office space in New York City for hybrid workdays.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The office likely serves as a central point for team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and in-depth collaborative work, especially for design and engineering sprints.

• Technology-Enabled: Expect access to the latest tools and technologies necessary for advanced frontend development, prototyping, and AI experimentation.

• Agile Atmosphere: The workspace will support an agile workflow, with spaces conducive to rapid iteration and cross-functional team interaction.

• Hybrid Flexibility: The setup will accommodate both remote and in-office team members, ensuring seamless communication and collaboration regardless of location.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time, with approximately 40 hours per week. The hybrid nature allows for flexibility in how and where work is done, balancing focused individual work (potentially remote) with collaborative sessions (in-office). The emphasis is on productivity and outcomes rather than strict adherence to a fixed schedule.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work model in New York City suggests a balanced approach to work, offering flexibility while emphasizing the importance of in-person collaboration for a startup environment focused on rapid innovation. Candidates should be prepared for a dynamic workspace that supports both focused individual contribution and intensive team synergy.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• The company aims for a streamlined process, typically consisting of 3 to 4 interviews.

• Applications are evaluated by technical team members.

• Interviews will be conducted via virtual meetings and/or onsite.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase AI-Native Work: Prioritize projects that demonstrate your ability to design and build AI-driven interfaces, conversational experiences, or multimodal interactions.

• Highlight Prototyping Skills: Include examples of functional prototypes that clearly articulate interaction models and user flows, showcasing rapid iteration.

• Demonstrate Technical Proficiency: Ensure your portfolio clearly displays your frontend engineering skills, specifying the technologies and frameworks used (e.g., React, TypeScript, SwiftUI, Flutter).

• Explain Your Process: For each project, detail your design thinking, problem-solving approach, collaboration methods, and how you balanced speed with quality.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, include metrics or user feedback that illustrate the effectiveness or impact of your designs.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for technical discussions focused on frontend architecture, UI performance, and interaction design patterns for AI.

• Anticipate questions about your approach to rapid prototyping and iterating in ambiguous environments.

• Prepare to discuss your interest in AI-native interfaces and how you envision them evolving.

• Be ready to articulate your collaboration style and how you've worked effectively with designers, product managers, and engineers.

• Have specific examples ready to illustrate how you've bridged the gap between design concepts and functional code.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to be efficient, with a strong emphasis on technical evaluation and cultural fit. A robust portfolio that clearly articulates the candidate's ability to deliver AI-native UX through code is critical. Candidates should be ready to discuss their process, collaboration, and specific contributions to innovative interfaces.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Frontend Frameworks: React, TypeScript (core), SwiftUI, Flutter (for mobile/cross-platform).

• Prototyping Tools: Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD, or similar tools for design and interactive prototyping.

• Version Control: Git, GitHub/GitLab/Bitbucket.

• Development Environments: VS Code or similar IDEs.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Web Analytics: Google Analytics, Amplitude, Mixpanel (for tracking user behavior and product performance).

• Performance Monitoring: Tools for monitoring frontend performance and identifying bottlenecks.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly customer-facing for this role, understanding how frontend interactions feed into backend systems and data pipelines is beneficial.

• Familiarity with API integrations and how frontend applications communicate with backend services.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in React and TypeScript is essential, with experience in SwiftUI or Flutter being a significant advantage for mobile and cross-platform development. The role also implies a need for strong prototyping skills using industry-standard design tools. An understanding of how frontend applications integrate with backend services and how user behavior is tracked through analytics tools will be highly valued.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Experimentation: A strong drive to explore new technologies, particularly in AI, and a willingness to experiment rapidly.

• High Talent Density & Excellence: A commitment to working with and becoming part of a team of highly skilled individuals who strive for excellence.

• Ownership & Autonomy: Employees are empowered to take full responsibility for their work, from conception to execution and deployment.

• Collaboration & Transparency: Open communication and collective decision-making are valued, fostering a supportive and efficient team environment.

• Impact & Magic: A shared goal of creating a truly magical and impactful product that benefits users globally.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Synergy: Close collaboration between UX Engineering, Product, Design, and ML teams is fundamental.

• Iterative Feedback Loops: A culture of continuous feedback and rapid iteration based on insights from team members and users.

• Hands-On Approach: Team members are expected to be actively involved in the development process, contributing directly through code and design.

• Collective Problem-Solving: While individuals are autonomous, complex challenges are tackled collaboratively to leverage diverse perspectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes a high-performance, collaborative, and innovative environment. Candidates should be comfortable with rapid iteration, taking ownership, and working closely with diverse technical teams to build groundbreaking AI products. The focus on "magic" and "practical benefits" suggests a blend of ambitious vision and user-centric execution.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating AI Ambiguity: Designing intuitive and reliable user experiences for AI systems that can exhibit non-deterministic behavior.

• Rapid Prototyping & Iteration: Balancing the need for speed in experimentation with the requirement for high-quality, polished user experiences.

• Bridging Design and Engineering: Effectively translating complex design concepts and AI capabilities into functional, production-ready code.

• Defining New UX Paradigms: Contributing to the creation of entirely new interaction models for AI-native applications.

• Scaling UI Systems: Developing robust and scalable UI systems that can support a rapidly evolving product.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Cutting-Edge AI UX: Gain hands-on experience with the latest advancements in AI-native interfaces, conversational AI, and multimodal interactions.

• Cross-Disciplinary Growth: Deepen understanding of ML, product strategy, and advanced frontend architecture through close collaboration.

• Product Ownership: Take significant ownership of core product features and contribute directly to product direction.

• Mentorship: Opportunity to learn from and potentially mentor other team members in a high-talent density environment.

• Startup Growth: Experience the rapid scaling and evolution of a tech startup, offering diverse learning experiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges related to the novelty of AI-native interfaces, requiring adaptability and a proactive approach to problem-solving. The growth opportunities are substantial, offering a chance to be at the forefront of AI UX innovation and to develop a highly sought-after skillset in a dynamic startup setting.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to translate a complex product idea into a functional prototype. What was your process, and what were the key challenges?" (Focus on your ability to bridge design and engineering, and your iterative process.)

• "How would you approach designing a user interface for an AI that needs to perform multi-step reasoning and interact with external tools?" (Demonstrate your understanding of AI interaction patterns, user trust, and managing complexity.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you most about working with AI-native interfaces and conversational products at an early-stage startup like Bjak?" (Connect your passion for AI UX and startup environments to the company's mission.)

• "How do you balance the need for rapid experimentation with delivering high-quality, polished user experiences?" (Showcase your understanding of Bjak's methodology and your ability to manage trade-offs.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: For each project, narrate the problem, your process, the challenges, the solutions you implemented, and the outcome.

• Show, Don't Just Tell: Use interactive demos or well-crafted walkthroughs to showcase the user experience and technical implementation.

• Highlight AI/Interaction Design: Emphasize any projects that involved novel interactions, conversational flows, or AI components, explaining your design decisions.

• Explain Your Technical Stack: Clearly articulate the technologies and frameworks used, and why they were chosen for the project.

• Demonstrate Iteration: Show how your designs evolved based on feedback or technical constraints, illustrating your adaptability.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to deeply discuss their portfolio projects, focusing on their process, the technical implementation, and their understanding of AI-driven UX. Be ready to articulate your problem-solving approach and how you collaborate within a fast-paced, cross-functional team.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this UX Engineer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Ashby.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to prominently feature projects demonstrating frontend engineering prowess, rapid prototyping capabilities, and experience with modern web/mobile frameworks (React, TypeScript, etc.). Prioritize any work related to AI-native interfaces, conversational UX, or experimental product experiences.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your experience in building interactive interfaces, your understanding of UX/product design principles, and your proficiency with the required technologies. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, technical approach, and collaborative style. Prepare specific examples that showcase your ability to bridge design and engineering for AI-driven features.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Bjak's mission, their AI chat app concept, and their stated company culture of high talent density and rapid iteration. Understand the challenges and opportunities of working in an early-stage startup environment.

⚠️ 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.