UX Internship

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UX Internship

Company: Unum

Location: Carlow, Carlow, Ireland

Job Type: Full time Internship

Category: User Experience (UX) Design / Technology Internship

Date Posted: 2026-09-09

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Engage in hands-on UX design activities, contributing to real business challenges within Unum's digital transformation initiatives.

• Participate in the full end-to-end design process, from user research and analysis to solution design and validation.

• Collaborate with experienced UX designers, researchers, product owners, developers, and business stakeholders to deliver user-centered digital experiences.

• Gain exposure to integrating accessibility considerations and exploring the application of AI tools within UX workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically an internship within the IT department, focusing on UX Design. The responsibilities and expectations align with an entry-level position designed for learning and development within a corporate technology setting. The emphasis is on practical application of UX principles and tools under guidance.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Participate in user research activities, including conducting interviews, distributing surveys, facilitating usability testing sessions, and supporting discovery workshops.

• Assist in analyzing and synthesizing research findings to extract actionable insights that inform design decisions.

• Develop key UX design artifacts such as journey maps, user flows, personas, wireframes, and interactive prototypes.

• Support the design and continuous improvement of digital experiences across Unum's web and mobile platforms, ensuring a seamless user journey.

• Collaborate effectively with a cross-functional team comprising UX designers, researchers, product owners, developers, and business stakeholders to ensure alignment and successful project delivery.

• Learn and apply accessibility best practices to create inclusive and equitable digital experiences for all users.

• Explore and experiment with AI tools to enhance UX research, analysis, ideation, and design processes.

• Contribute to the evolution and maintenance of Unum's design system, promoting consistency and efficiency in user interface design.

• Present design concepts, research findings, and proposed solutions to internal team members and stakeholders.

• Engage in the Unum Internship Innovation Challenge and other developmental activities designed to foster learning and collaboration among interns.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are clearly outlined for an intern, emphasizing participation, support, and learning across various UX functions. The inclusion of "Internship Job Specifications" further clarifies the expected behavioral competencies, such as analytical approach, self-motivation, innovation, communication, and teamwork, which are crucial for success in this role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Pursuing a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Design, Psychology, Computer Science, or a related discipline.

• Applicants are required to submit their Grade Average % for Year 1 and 2 (e.g., 2.1) on their CV. Experience:

• Previous internship experience or project work in UX design, UI design, research, or a related field is beneficial but not strictly required.

• Demonstrated understanding of design thinking principles and a user-centered design approach. Required Skills:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with meticulous attention to detail.

• Demonstrated ability to take a logical and methodical approach to tasks.

• Self-motivated and results-oriented, with the ability to manage tasks independently.

• Innovative thinking and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

• Effective oral and written communication skills, capable of articulating ideas clearly.

• Strong teamwork and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively within a team and across different organizational departments. Preferred Skills:

• Proficiency with UX design and prototyping tools (e.g., Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD, InVision).

• Familiarity with user research methodologies (e.g., interviews, surveys, usability testing).

• Understanding of accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG).

• Exposure to design systems and component-based design.

• Basic understanding of AI tools and their application in design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills are framed more around behavioral competencies and general aptitudes than specific technical proficiencies, which is typical for an internship. The emphasis on analytical approach, problem-solving, and communication aligns with the core needs of a UX intern supporting a corporate technology team.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A well-curated UX design portfolio showcasing relevant projects, ideally demonstrating the end-to-end design process.

• Projects should highlight user research, problem definition, ideation (user flows, wireframes), prototyping, and any user testing or validation conducted.

• Demonstrate an understanding of user needs and how design solutions address them.

• Showcase an ability to collaborate and present design concepts effectively. Process Documentation:

• Portfolio pieces should ideally include brief explanations of the process followed for each project, including challenges encountered and lessons learned.

• Demonstrate an understanding of how research findings translate into design decisions.

• Showcase the iterative nature of the design process through examples of refinement based on feedback or testing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement to include a portfolio link on the CV is a critical element for this UX role. The portfolio should not just be a collection of final designs but should tell a story about the candidate's process, problem-solving approach, and understanding of user-centered design principles.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• As this is an internship, compensation will likely be competitive and aligned with industry standards for IT internships in Ireland. While specific figures are not provided, interns typically receive a stipend or hourly wage. For a 2027 internship in Carlow, Ireland, a reasonable estimate would be in the range of €350 - €500 per week, depending on the specific program structure and duration. Benefits:

• Competitive compensation package (intern stipend/wage).

• 25 days annual leave.

• Paid health insurance.

• Pension scheme.

• Annual performance-based bonus.

• Paid maternity, paternity, and adoptive leave.

• Access to reward programs.

• Opportunities to engage with charity and community activities.

• Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid working.

• Continual learning programs.

• Support for IT certifications.

• Third-level tuition reimbursement. Working Hours:

• Full-time internship, typically around 40 hours per week.

• Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid options, are available, offering a good work-life balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The listed benefits are extensive for an internship, suggesting Unum invests significantly in its intern program. The "What We Offer" section clearly details these benefits, including learning and development opportunities crucial for interns. The salary estimate is based on general knowledge of internship stipends in Ireland for professional roles.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Financial Services (specifically Income Protection), with a strong focus on Technology and Software Development.

Company Size: Unum is a large, established organization. The Carlow Technology Centre plays a significant role in supporting its US-based operations, indicating a robust IT infrastructure and investment in digital solutions. This size offers stability and ample opportunities for learning from experienced professionals.

Founded: Unum was founded in 1845, with a significant presence and history in the US. The Carlow Technology Centre signifies its commitment to global IT operations and development.

Team Structure:

• The UX Intern will join the UX Team within the Unum Technology Centre in Carlow. This team is part of a larger IT department that supports Unum's core business functions.

• The team structure likely involves senior UX Designers, UX Researchers, and potentially UX Leads who will mentor the intern.

• Collaboration is expected with Product Owners, Developers, and other business stakeholders, indicating a cross-functional and agile development environment. Methodology:

• Unum's IT operations leverage a user-centered design approach, incorporating design thinking principles.

• Agile methodologies are likely employed for software development, requiring close collaboration between design, development, and product teams.

• Emphasis on data-driven decision-making, utilizing user research and analytics to inform design and product strategy.

• Commitment to continuous improvement and digital transformation, suggesting an innovative and forward-thinking approach to technology.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes a blend of established financial services expertise with a modern, digitally-focused IT development approach. The Carlow Technology Centre is presented as a strategic hub, suggesting significant investment in its IT operations and talent development.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level internship position designed for students or recent graduates to gain foundational experience in UX Design within a corporate technology environment. It serves as an introduction to professional UX practices and the technology sector.

Reporting Structure: The UX Intern will report to a designated UX Designer or UX Lead within the UX Team. They will also work closely with other members of the UX team and potentially product owners and developers on specific projects.

Operations Impact: While an intern's direct impact is developmental, their contributions to user research, design artifact creation, and testing will directly support ongoing digital transformation projects. This work helps ensure that Unum's digital products are user-friendly, efficient, and meet customer needs, ultimately contributing to business objectives and customer satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Intensive hands-on experience in core UX activities, including research, wireframing, prototyping, and user testing, with opportunities to learn new tools and methodologies.

• Industry Exposure: Gaining practical experience within a large, established financial services company, understanding corporate IT operations and product development lifecycles.

• Networking: Building professional relationships with experienced UX professionals, developers, and business stakeholders, which can be invaluable for future career prospects.

• Innovation Challenge: Participating in the Internship Innovation Challenge provides a platform to showcase creativity, problem-solving skills, and teamwork on a larger scale.

• Potential for Future Employment: Successful interns may be considered for future full-time roles or graduate programs at Unum.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth analysis focuses on the learning and development aspects inherent to an internship. The "Operations Career Level" is defined as foundational, highlighting the role's purpose in introducing candidates to the professional world of UX and corporate IT.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The Unum Technology Centre in Carlow operates a hybrid working model. This suggests a modern office environment equipped for collaboration, with dedicated workspaces for employees.

Office Location(s): Carlow, Carlow, Ireland. The specific office facilities would likely include collaborative spaces, meeting rooms, and individual workstations.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is designed to foster collaboration among UX designers, researchers, developers, and product owners, supporting agile project workflows.

• Access to necessary UX tools, software, and technology for design, research, and prototyping will be provided.

• Opportunities for regular interaction with the UX team and broader IT department members, facilitating knowledge sharing and mentorship.

• The hybrid model offers flexibility, balancing in-office collaboration with remote work capabilities. Work Schedule:

• Full-time internship, with typical working hours being around 40 hours per week.

• The hybrid work arrangement allows for flexibility in scheduling, with a balance of in-office and remote work days as agreed upon with the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description emphasizes a collaborative and flexible work environment, typical of modern tech companies. The hybrid model is a key feature, offering both structured in-office interaction and remote work benefits.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Submission: Candidates must submit their CV, including a link to their UX portfolio, and complete the candidate questionnaire. The closing date for applications is Sunday, September 20th, 2026.

• Initial Screening: Applications will be reviewed based on CV content, portfolio quality, academic performance (Grade

Average %), and alignment with internship requirements.

• Interview Stage(s): Shortlisted candidates will likely undergo one or more interviews. These may include:

  • A behavioral interview focusing on skills like problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and self-motivation.
  • A portfolio review session where candidates present their work, discuss their design process, and answer questions about their projects.
  • Potentially a case study or design exercise to assess practical UX thinking and problem-solving skills.

• Final Selection: Candidates will be evaluated for their potential, fit with the team, and ability to contribute during the internship.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-4 of your strongest projects that best showcase your UX process and skills relevant to the role.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem you were trying to solve, your role, your process, the challenges you faced, your design decisions, and the outcome or learnings. Use visuals (wireframes, prototypes, user flows) effectively.

• Highlight Process: Emphasize your user-centered approach, research methodologies, and how you iterated on designs based on feedback or testing.

• Demonstrate Collaboration: If applicable, showcase projects where you collaborated with others and explain how you managed those interactions.

• Be Ready to Discuss: Prepare to speak confidently and in detail about every aspect of your portfolio projects during the interview.

Challenge Preparation:

• If a design challenge is given, focus on understanding the problem statement thoroughly.

• Outline your approach clearly before diving into design.

• Think aloud, explaining your reasoning and design choices.

• Be prepared to present your solution concisely and highlight key design considerations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process clearly mandates a portfolio and specific academic information. The interview preparation advice is tailored to UX internships, emphasizing the importance of storytelling through projects and demonstrating a clear design process.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• UX Design & Prototyping Software: Proficiency in industry-standard tools such as Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD, or InVision is highly desirable. The intern will likely use these tools for wireframing, prototyping, and creating high-fidelity designs.

• Collaboration Platforms: Tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar platforms will be used for daily communication and team collaboration.

• Project Management Tools: Familiarity with tools like Jira, Asana, or Trello may be beneficial for tracking tasks and project progress.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While direct analytics responsibility may be limited for an intern, exposure to tools like Google Analytics or internal reporting dashboards may occur as they learn about user behavior and product performance. CRM & Automation:

• Familiarity with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce) and automation tools is not explicitly required but can be a plus if the intern has prior exposure, as UX design often integrates with these systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specific tools are inferred based on standard UX design practices and the description of the role. The emphasis is on design and prototyping tools, with secondary mention of collaboration and project management software common in tech environments.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• User-Centricity: A core value that drives all design decisions, ensuring that user needs and experiences are at the forefront.

• Innovation: Encouraging new ideas and approaches to problem-solving, particularly in the context of digital transformation and exploring new technologies like AI.

• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where cross-functional cooperation is essential for success.

• Excellence: Striving for high-quality work, attention to detail, and continuous improvement in design and processes.

• Inclusivity: Commitment to creating accessible and equitable digital experiences for all users.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The UX team works closely with product owners, developers, and business stakeholders, requiring strong communication and partnership.

• Iterative Feedback: A culture of providing and receiving constructive feedback on designs and processes to refine solutions.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging team members to share insights, best practices, and learnings to collectively enhance the team's capabilities.

• Agile Mindset: Embracing flexibility and adaptability in response to project needs and evolving user requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The cultural values are inferred from the job description's emphasis on user-centered design, innovation, collaboration, and digital transformation. These align with typical values found in forward-thinking technology departments.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Bridging Theory and Practice: Translating academic knowledge of UX principles into practical application within a corporate environment with real business constraints.

• Navigating Stakeholder Needs: Balancing user needs with business objectives and technical limitations, requiring effective communication and negotiation skills.

• Working with Existing Systems: Understanding and potentially designing for existing Unum platforms, which may have legacy considerations.

• Rapid Learning Curve: Quickly absorbing new tools, processes, and domain knowledge within the financial services industry.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Mentorship: Direct guidance and support from experienced UX designers and researchers.

• Skill Enhancement: Practical application of UX research, wireframing, prototyping, and usability testing skills.

• Industry Exposure: Gaining insights into the financial services technology sector and corporate IT operations.

• Networking: Building professional connections within Unum.

• Internship Innovation Challenge: A structured opportunity for creative problem-solving and team collaboration.

• Certification Support: Opportunities for IT certifications and tuition reimbursement for further education.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are framed from an intern's perspective, focusing on the learning curve and adaptation to a professional setting. The growth opportunities highlight the significant developmental benefits of the internship program.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Process: "Walk me through a project in your portfolio. What was the problem, your role, your process, and the outcome?" (Prepare to detail your user-centered approach, research, ideation, and testing phases).

• Problem-Solving: "Describe a time you faced a design challenge. How did you approach it, and what did you learn?" (Focus on analytical thinking, creativity, and resilience).

• Collaboration: "How do you work with others on a project? Describe a situation where you had to collaborate with different types of team members (e.g., developers, researchers)." (Highlight your teamwork and communication skills).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in UX design and specifically at Unum?" (Research Unum's mission, values, and its digital transformation efforts. Connect your interests to their work).

• "What do you know about our products or services?" (Show that you've done your homework on Unum's business and target audience).

• "How do you approach learning new tools or technologies?" (Demonstrate your adaptability and proactivity, relevant to AI tools and new design software). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: For each project, use a clear narrative: Problem -> Your Role -> Process -> Solution -> Outcome/Learnings.

• Visuals: Use high-quality visuals (wireframes, user flows, prototypes, research insights) to illustrate your points.

• Conciseness: Be clear and to the point. Practice your presentation to fit within the allotted time.

• Engagement: Be prepared to answer questions about your design choices, challenges, and how you would iterate on the design.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation advice is tailored to UX roles, emphasizing portfolio walkthroughs, process explanation, and demonstrating core competencies like problem-solving and collaboration, all within the context of Unum's business.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this UX Internship position:

• Click the "Apply" button and create an account on the Unum Workday portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your UX portfolio is polished, highlights your best work, and clearly demonstrates your design process. Tailor any project descriptions to align with the responsibilities mentioned in the job description.

• CV Optimization: Upload your CV, ensuring it includes your Grade Average % for Year 1 and 2, and prominently features your portfolio link. Highlight relevant skills and experiences that match the internship requirements.

• Candidate Questionnaire: Complete the candidate questionnaire thoroughly, providing honest and thoughtful responses.

• Application Review: Double-check all submitted information for accuracy before final submission. Remember, you can apply for a maximum of two internships within the 2027 IT Internship Program.

⚠️ 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.