UX/UI Design Co-op (Hybrid) - January 2027

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UX/UI Design Co-op (Hybrid) - January 2027

Company: Kardium Inc.

Location: Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada

Job Type: Co-op/Internship

Category: UX/UI Design, Product Development Operations

Date Posted: September 11, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-Level (Co-op/Intern)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This hybrid UX/UI Design Co-op role focuses on enhancing user experience and interface design for innovative medical software.

• You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Product Management, Usability, and Software Development, to drive design improvements and maintain design system consistency.

• Responsibilities include conducting heuristic reviews, proposing and testing design alternatives, and creating detailed design documentation like wireframes and mock-ups.

• The role emphasizes embedding UX/UI best practices, ensuring accessibility, and adhering to regulatory guidelines within a technically complex medical device domain.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically for a co-op or internship term, targeting students in relevant design programs. The "Operations" aspect is derived from the need for rigorous process adherence, cross-functional collaboration, and the operational impact of user interface design on a regulated medical device.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Support both immediate design tasks and longer-term, complex design projects within the UX/UI team.

• Conduct thorough research on inspirational UX/UI design patterns, including competitive analysis and benchmarks from diverse domains, to inform design decisions.

• Create comprehensive design documentation, such as wireframes, mock-ups, and prototypes, to articulate design concepts and guide the software development lifecycle.

• Design and test detailed UX/UI prototypes and mock-ups, incorporating user feedback to refine interactions and improve the overall user experience.

• Effectively communicate design guidance, specifications, and rationale to product development teams to ensure successful implementation.

• Actively participate in hands-on user feedback sessions, gathering insights to iterate on designs and validate user-centered approaches.

• Design essential graphical elements and icons that contribute to a cohesive and intuitive user interface.

• Lead specific design activities while also contributing collaboratively to the work of other designers, fostering a team-oriented environment.

• Provide ad-hoc design support to other departments within the company as needed, demonstrating flexibility and broad applicability of design skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are framed to highlight the operational aspects of design: structured documentation, iterative testing, clear communication for development, and cross-functional alignment, all critical in a regulated medical device environment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Currently pursuing or have partially completed a degree or diploma in UX Design, Interaction Design, Human-Computer Interaction, Digital Media Design, or a closely related field. Experience:

• Demonstrated experience in creating UX/UI documentation, including wireframes, mock-ups, and/or prototypes.

• Experience working with and developing design systems, including components, for consistent UI application. Required Skills:

• Proficiency with standard design tools such as Figma, Adobe Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator).

• Strong understanding of UX/UI best practices, including accessibility standards, visual design principles, and interaction patterns.

• Demonstrated ability to create detailed design documentation (wireframes, mock-ups, prototypes).

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, essential for cross-functional collaboration and presenting design concepts.

• A keen interest in UI design, with an appreciation for micro-interactions, color theory, and visual aesthetics.

• Exposure to UX/UI best practices from various applications (games, consumer, B2B) to bring diverse perspectives. Preferred Skills:

• Experience conducting heuristic evaluations and UX expert reviews.

• Familiarity with user research methodologies and user feedback sessions.

• Understanding of regulatory guidelines relevant to medical software development.

• Experience with design systems and component libraries.

• Exposure to iterative design processes and rapid prototyping.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 years" experience level is inferred from "Co-op" and "partial completion of a degree." The emphasis on standard design tools and documentation aligns with typical requirements for entry-level design roles, with a specific nod to medical device regulations.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated portfolio showcasing a range of UX/UI design projects, demonstrating your design process and problem-solving skills.

• Specific examples of wireframes, mock-ups, and interactive prototypes that illustrate your ability to translate user needs into intuitive interfaces.

• Documentation of how you have contributed to or worked within design systems, highlighting component usage and consistency.

• Case studies that detail the problem, your approach, the solutions you designed, and the outcomes or learnings from your projects.

• Evidence of your understanding of user-centered design principles and how they were applied in your work. Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate your ability to create and maintain clear, concise design documentation that supports the development lifecycle, from initial concepts to final implementation.

• Showcase experience in documenting design decisions, user flows, and interaction specifications for handoff to engineering teams.

• Highlight your approach to iterative design, including how you incorporate feedback and refine designs through various stages of a project.

📝 Enhancement Note: For co-op roles, the portfolio is crucial for demonstrating practical application of design skills. The emphasis is on process, documentation, and user-centricity, which are operational aspects of the design discipline.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $3,650 - $4,525 CAD per month.

Explanation of Salary Range:

This range is based on the provided data for the UX/UI Design Co-op position. Compensation is influenced by factors such as the candidate's current year of study, the number of prior co-op terms completed, and prevailing market data for similar roles in the Burnaby, BC area.

Benefits:

• Relocation Allowance: Support for out-of-province students relocating to Burnaby, BC.

• Community of Co-ops: Access to a network of over 40 students across the company with regular social and monthly co-op events.

• Professional Development: Opportunities to collaborate with engaged leaders and multi-disciplinary teams committed to supporting your growth.

• Mentorship: Guidance from experienced professionals within the UX/UI team and broader organization.

• Meaningful Work: Hands-on experience with innovative technology that makes a significant impact.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, typically 40 hours per week, with a hybrid work arrangement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is directly from the job description. The benefits are extracted and described in a way that highlights their value to a co-op student, emphasizing community, development, and practical support like relocation.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Medical Devices, Healthcare Technology. Kardium is at the forefront of developing innovative solutions for atrial fibrillation, a significant global health concern. This industry context implies a strong emphasis on quality, regulatory compliance, and patient outcomes.

Company Size: Kardium is a growing company with a significant cohort of co-op students (over 40), indicating a structured program and a supportive environment for interns. The company's focus on a groundbreaking medical device suggests a dynamic and ambitious work environment.

Founded: Kardium was founded with a mission to deliver the best treatment for atrial fibrillation, developing the Globe® Pulsed Field System. This history highlights a commitment to innovation and patient well-being.

Team Structure:

• The UX/UI team collaborates closely with Product Management, Usability, and Software Development teams, indicating a cross-functional, agile development environment.

• Co-op students are integrated into this structure, working alongside experienced professionals and contributing to real projects.

• There's an emphasis on a "Community of Co-ops," suggesting a dedicated program for interns with peer networking and organized events. Methodology:

• The design process involves heuristic reviews, user feedback sessions, and iterative prototyping to ensure user-centered design and adherence to best practices.

• Collaboration with Software Development ensures that designs are technically feasible and align with regulatory requirements for medical devices.

• A strong emphasis is placed on maintaining and updating a design system for consistency and efficiency across the software.

Company Website: https://kardium.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context is derived from the description of their mission, product, and the mention of a large co-op program. The industry context is crucial for understanding the operational rigor required in medical device development.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level, co-op/internship position designed for students to gain practical, hands-on experience in UX/UI design within the medical device industry. It serves as a foundational step for a career in design operations, product development, or user experience.

Reporting Structure: The co-op student will report to a manager or lead within the UX/UI team, working under their guidance on specific projects. They will also collaborate closely with Product Managers and Software Developers, providing exposure to different facets of the product development lifecycle.

Operations Impact: The UX/UI design operations at Kardium directly impact the usability, accessibility, and effectiveness of the Globe® Pulsed Field System software. Well-designed interfaces are critical for ensuring correct device operation, patient safety, and regulatory compliance in a highly technical medical domain.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Gain practical experience with industry-standard design tools (Figma, Adobe Suite), design system principles, and user-centered design methodologies.

• Industry Exposure: Deepen understanding of the medical device industry, regulatory requirements (FDA approval), and the operational challenges of bringing innovative healthcare technology to market.

• Networking: Build relationships with experienced professionals, fellow co-op students, and leaders across various departments, fostering a strong professional network.

• Portfolio Enhancement: Contribute to meaningful projects that can be added to a professional portfolio, showcasing real-world design impact.

• Potential for Future Roles: Successful co-op terms can lead to opportunities for future internships or full-time roles within Kardium or the broader medical technology sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Operations" lens here focuses on how the design role functions within the larger operational framework of product development, emphasizing structured processes, cross-functional integration, and the impact on the company's overall mission and product lifecycle.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work arrangement, combining in-office collaboration with remote flexibility. This model is designed to foster team cohesion and efficient workflow.

Office Location(s): Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada. This location is a hub for technology and innovation in the Vancouver metropolitan area.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office space is designed to support collaboration, with opportunities for direct interaction with UX/UI team members, Product Management, Usability, and Software Development.

• Tools and Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (Figma, Adobe Suite) and the necessary technology infrastructure to support hybrid work.

• Team Interaction: Regular opportunities for team meetings, design reviews, user feedback sessions, and informal discussions, facilitating knowledge sharing and problem-solving.

Work Schedule:

• The role typically involves a standard 40-hour work week. The hybrid nature allows for flexibility in balancing in-office days with remote work, supporting focus time and personal well-being.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature is described in terms of how it supports operational efficiency and collaboration for design teams, rather than just a perk.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Submission: Submit a cover letter, resume, and most recent transcripts (combined into one PDF) via the Kardium Careers Page.

• Initial Screening: Review of submitted documents to assess qualifications and alignment with the role requirements.

• Portfolio Review: Candidates will likely be asked to present their portfolio, detailing their design process, problem-solving approach, and project outcomes. Be prepared to discuss specific projects and your contributions.

• Technical/Skills Assessment: Potential for a design challenge or a more in-depth discussion of design skills, tool proficiency, and understanding of UX/UI principles.

• Behavioral/Cultural Fit Interview: Discussion with hiring managers and team members to assess collaboration style, communication skills, and alignment with Kardium's culture and values.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership or a broader team discussion to confirm suitability for the co-op term.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Choose 3-4 strong projects that best showcase your skills relevant to the role (UX/UI for software, medical devices if possible).

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline the problem statement, your role, the design process (research, ideation, prototyping, testing), your solutions, and the results or learnings. Use visuals effectively.

• Highlight Your Process: Emphasize how you arrived at your design decisions, not just the final output. Show your thinking and problem-solving.

• Demonstrate Tool Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your experience with Figma, Adobe Suite, and any other relevant tools.

• Focus on Impact: If possible, quantify the impact of your designs or explain how they improved user experience or met project goals.

• Tailor to Kardium: If you have projects related to healthcare, complex technical interfaces, or regulated environments, highlight them.

Challenge Preparation:

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

• Prioritize user needs and design for usability and accessibility.

• Document your process clearly, even if it's a quick sketch or annotated wireframe.

• Be prepared to articulate your design rationale and any assumptions you made.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides actionable advice tailored for a design co-op role, focusing on portfolio presentation and interview preparation, emphasizing the "process" aspect of design.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: Core tool for UI design, wireframing, prototyping, and collaboration. Expect to use its component features and design system capabilities.

• Adobe Creative Suite: Including Photoshop and Illustrator for creating graphical assets, icons, and potentially image editing for mock-ups.

• Prototyping Tools: While Figma is primary, familiarity with other prototyping tools might be beneficial.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary responsibility for this UX/UI role, understanding how user analytics inform design decisions is advantageous. Exposure to tools used for tracking user behavior in software could be a plus. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this design role, but understanding that the software interfaces with CRM or other backend systems might be relevant context. Design Systems:

• Experience with creating, managing, or contributing to design systems and component libraries is highly valued for ensuring consistency and efficiency in product development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section focuses on the specific design tools mentioned or implied by the role's requirements, highlighting their operational importance in creating and maintaining design consistency.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation: A core value driven by the development of groundbreaking medical technology. This translates to a culture that encourages creative problem-solving and pushing boundaries.

• Collaboration: Strong emphasis on working together across departments (Product, Usability, Development) to achieve common goals. This fosters a supportive and integrated work environment.

• Impact: A deep commitment to improving patient lives through their technology. This purpose-driven ethos influences decision-making and project prioritization.

• Quality & Rigor: In the medical device industry, adherence to high standards, regulatory guidelines, and meticulous design processes is paramount.

• Continuous Improvement: A culture that embraces feedback, iterative design, and learning to constantly enhance products and processes.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Designers work hand-in-hand with product managers and engineers, ensuring that user needs are translated effectively into functional software.

• Feedback-Driven: Openness to sharing work-in-progress, receiving constructive criticism, and participating in user testing to refine designs.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouragement of sharing design patterns, best practices, and learnings within the UX/UI team and across other departments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture is described through the lens of operational values that drive the design team's work and interactions, emphasizing purpose, collaboration, and quality.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing User Needs with Technical Constraints: Designing intuitive interfaces for complex medical software requires careful consideration of both user experience goals and the technical limitations/capabilities of the system.

• Adhering to Regulatory Guidelines: Working within a regulated industry means designs must meet strict usability and safety standards, adding a layer of complexity to the design process.

• Maintaining Design Consistency: Ensuring a cohesive user experience across different parts of the software and as it evolves requires diligent application of design system principles.

• Iterative Design in a Fast-Paced Environment: Rapidly incorporating feedback from user tests and development cycles while maintaining design integrity can be demanding.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deep Dive into Medical Device UX: Gain specialized knowledge in designing for healthcare technology, including regulatory considerations and user needs in clinical settings.

• Mastery of Design Tools & Systems: Become highly proficient in industry-leading tools like Figma and contribute to the enhancement of Kardium's design system.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Understand the product development lifecycle from multiple perspectives, including product management, engineering, and quality assurance.

• Professional Networking: Build connections within a growing company and a vibrant co-op community, which can be invaluable for future career steps.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are framed in terms of operational complexities faced by design teams in regulated industries, with growth opportunities tied to skill acquisition relevant to design operations and product development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance user needs with technical limitations in a design project. How did you approach it?" (Focus on your process, compromise, and communication.)

• "How do you ensure consistency and accessibility in your UI designs, especially when working with a design system?" (Highlight your understanding of design systems and accessibility standards.)

• "Walk us through a challenging UX/UI project from your portfolio. What was the problem, your approach, and the outcome?" (Be ready to detail your process, decision-making, and learnings.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working in the medical device industry, specifically at Kardium?" (Research Kardium's mission and product; connect it to your passion for design.)

• "How do you approach collaboration with product managers and software engineers?" (Emphasize your communication skills, understanding of their roles, and ability to work cross-functionally.)

• "How do you incorporate user feedback into your design process?" (Discuss your experience with user testing, feedback analysis, and iterative design.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame each project as a narrative – the challenge, your journey, and the resolution.

• Visuals are Key: Use high-quality mock-ups, wireframes, and prototypes. Show, don't just tell.

• Explain Your "Why": For every design decision, be prepared to explain the rationale behind it, linking it back to user needs or project goals.

• Be Concise: Respect the interviewer's time; focus on the most impactful aspects of your work.

• Practice Your Pitch: Rehearse your presentation to ensure a smooth, confident delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview questions are geared towards assessing design thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and understanding of the operational context of design within a company like Kardium.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this UX/UI Design Co-op position:

• Submit your application through the Kardium Careers Page.

• Portfolio Customization: Select 3-4 of your strongest design projects that best align with the requirements of a UX/UI role in software development, especially if they touch upon complex interfaces or user-centric design principles. Ensure your portfolio clearly demonstrates your process, tool proficiency (Figma, Adobe Suite), and ability to create wireframes, mock-ups, and prototypes.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant coursework, design tool experience, and any previous design projects or internships. Use keywords from the job description such as "UX/UI Design," "Interaction Design," "Figma," "Wireframing," and "Prototyping." Quantify achievements where possible.

• Cover Letter Crafting: Write a compelling cover letter that expresses your enthusiasm for Kardium's mission and the medical device industry, your specific interest in UX/UI design, and how your skills and aspirations align with this co-op opportunity. Mention your year of study and any relevant previous co-op experience.

• Transcript Preparation: Ensure your most recent academic transcripts are readily available and can be combined with your cover letter and resume into a single PDF document as requested.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Kardium's Globe® Pulsed Field System, their mission, and their commitment to improving atrial fibrillation treatment. Understand their hybrid work model and company culture as described.

⚠️ 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.