Werkstudent UX/UI (m/w/d)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Werkstudent UX/UI (m/w/d)

Company: SUNZINET

Location: Köln, Germany

Job Type: Part time

Category: UX/UI Design Operations

Date Posted: 2026-09-04

Experience Level: 0-2 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on supporting the Digital Marketing team in creating exceptional digital user interfaces, ensuring clarity, consistency, and visual excellence across all digital products.

• The Werkstudent will contribute to the development of user-centered digital experiences, translating requirements into high-quality, user-friendly, and implementable design solutions.

• Key activities involve assisting in the creation of wireframes, mockups, and interactive prototypes for web and mobile applications, alongside contributing to design system evolution.

• The position requires collaboration with designers, leveraging modern tools like Figma, Adobe Creative Cloud, and AI-based applications for research, ideation, and design execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a "Werkstudent" (working student), indicating it's a part-time position for currently enrolled students. The focus on UX/UI Design within a Digital Marketing team suggests a strong emphasis on user experience as a driver for marketing effectiveness and product adoption. The integration of AI tools highlights a forward-thinking approach to design operations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Collaborate with experienced designers to craft user-centered digital products and experiences, ensuring alignment with brand guidelines and user needs.

• Assist in the conceptualization and creation of wireframes, high-fidelity mockups, and interactive prototypes for both web and mobile applications.

• Contribute to the ongoing development and refinement of design systems, UI components, and comprehensive style guides, incorporating new ideas and best practices.

• Translate complex functional and business requirements into intuitive, aesthetically pleasing, and technically feasible design solutions.

• Actively participate in research, brainstorming sessions, and design elaboration using contemporary tools such as Figma, Adobe Creative Cloud, and emerging AI-powered design applications.

• Ensure consistency and visual excellence across all digital touchpoints by adhering to established design principles and style guides.

• Support the team in user testing and feedback integration to iterate and improve design solutions based on real-world usage.

• Maintain an organized and well-documented design process, contributing to a knowledge base for future projects and team reference.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly outline a supportive role where the Werkstudent will gain hands-on experience across the entire UX/UI design lifecycle, from initial concept to detailed execution. The emphasis on design systems and AI tools points to a modern and efficient design operations workflow.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Currently enrolled student (m/f/d) in a design-oriented degree program (e.g., Graphic Design, Interaction Design, Digital Media, Human-Computer Interaction, or related fields).

Experience:

• Ideally, some practical experience in UX/UI design through university projects, internships, or personal projects.

• Familiarity with core UX/UI concepts such as user flows, wireframing, prototyping, and responsive design. Required Skills:

• Proficiency in Figma for interface design and prototyping.

• Working knowledge of the Adobe Creative Cloud suite (e.g., Photoshop, Illustrator).

• Strong understanding of visual design principles, including typography, layout, and information hierarchy.

• Ability to translate user needs and business requirements into effective design solutions.

• Excellent teamwork and interpersonal skills, with a collaborative and open communication style.

• High level of curiosity, initiative, and a strong eagerness to learn and develop new skills.

• Basic understanding of AI-based design tools and their potential applications. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with user research methodologies and usability testing.

• Familiarity with design system principles and component-based design.

• Understanding of front-end development concepts (HTML, CSS) to better inform design feasibility.

• Experience with animation or motion design tools.

• Previous exposure to digital marketing principles and their impact on user experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of foundational design skills, tool proficiency, and essential soft skills like teamwork and learning agility. The "ideally" for practical experience suggests that strong academic performance and a compelling portfolio can compensate for limited professional work.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated collection of academic, project, or work samples that showcase your UX/UI design capabilities.

• Demonstrations of user-centered design thinking, illustrating the problem, your approach, and the resulting solution.

• Examples of wireframes, user flows, mockups, and interactive prototypes.

• Visual design examples highlighting your understanding of typography, color theory, layout, and branding.

• Evidence of working with design tools, particularly Figma and Adobe Creative Cloud. Process Documentation:

• Showcase how you approach design challenges, from initial research and ideation to final design execution.

• Illustrate your understanding of iterative design processes, including how you incorporate feedback and refine designs.

• Examples of how you ensure design consistency and adherence to style guides or design systems.

• If applicable, include examples of how you've considered technical constraints or collaborated with developers.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is crucial for this role, acting as the primary demonstration of a candidate's skills and potential. The portfolio should not just present final designs but also the thought process and methodology behind them, reflecting an understanding of design operations and workflow.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As a "Werkstudent" position in Germany, the salary will be in line with industry standards for part-time student roles, typically ranging from €12-€18 per hour, depending on experience and specific responsibilities.

Benefits:

• 30 days of vacation per year, providing ample opportunity for rest and personal development.

• Flexible working hours (Gleitzeit) to accommodate academic schedules and personal needs.

• Membership in the Urban Sports Club, offering access to a wide range of fitness and wellness facilities.

• Regular agency events that foster team bonding and a strong company culture.

• Access to a modern workplace equipped with up-to-date technology to support productivity and innovation.

• Dog-friendly office policy, allowing employees to bring their canine companions to work.

• Free parking available at the Cologne office location, offering convenience for commuters.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. The exact number of hours per week will be agreed upon, typically ranging from 15-20 hours, with flexibility to accommodate university schedules and exam periods, aligned with the Gleitzeit policy.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on typical "Werkstudent" compensation in Germany for a design role. The benefits package is comprehensive and tailored towards employee well-being, work-life balance, and fostering a positive work environment, which are key aspects of a desirable operations role.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Digital Agency, specializing in Digital Transformation, AI-powered platforms, Marketing, CRM, and E-Commerce. SUNZINET operates within the technology and services sector, focusing on creating impactful digital experiences for its clients.

Company Size: Approximately 160 employees. This size indicates a medium-to-large agency where there's a good balance between having established processes and retaining a dynamic, collaborative culture. It's large enough to offer diverse projects and development opportunities but small enough for individuals to make a noticeable impact.

Founded: Over 25 years ago. This long history suggests stability, deep industry expertise, and a proven track record in digital transformation. It implies a mature organization with well-developed operational frameworks.

Team Structure:

• The Werkstudent will be part of the Digital Marketing team, working closely with experienced UX/UI designers.

• This team likely collaborates extensively with other departments, including strategy, development, content, and client management, reflecting an interdisciplinary approach.

• The reporting structure will likely involve a direct lead designer or a digital marketing manager, with opportunities for guidance from senior team members. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Utilizing analytics and user feedback to inform design decisions and optimize user experiences.

• Agile Development: Working in iterative cycles, often in collaboration with development teams, to deliver solutions efficiently.

• User-Centricity: Placing the user at the core of all design processes, from research to final implementation.

• Innovation: Encouraging the exploration and integration of new technologies, such as AI, to enhance digital products and services.

Company Website: [SUNZINET Company URL - Placeholder, as not provided in input]

📝 Enhancement Note: SUNZINET positions itself as a leading, owner-managed digital agency with a strong emphasis on innovation, quality, and employee development. The culture appears to be collaborative, interdisciplinary, and forward-thinking, with a commitment to creating an environment where employees can learn and grow. The agency's long history and numerous awards underscore its credibility and expertise in the digital transformation space.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level, part-time student position ("Werkstudent"). It's designed for individuals early in their careers to gain practical experience in UX/UI design within a professional agency setting. The role provides foundational exposure to design operations, project workflows, and client-facing digital product development.

Reporting Structure: The Werkstudent will report to a lead designer or a manager within the Digital Marketing team. This structure ensures guidance, mentorship, and regular feedback on design work and professional development. Collaboration will extend across various project teams and departments.

Operations Impact: While not directly managing core revenue operations, the UX/UI design work has a significant indirect impact on revenue by enhancing user engagement, conversion rates, and overall customer satisfaction with digital products. Effective UX/UI design is critical for the success of digital marketing campaigns and client digital platforms, ultimately contributing to client success and SUNZINET's reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Deepen expertise in UX/UI design principles, tools (Figma, Adobe CC, AI tools), and methodologies through hands-on project work and mentorship.

• Industry Exposure: Gain insights into the digital agency landscape, digital transformation projects, and client management across various industries.

• Career Path: Potential to transition into full-time roles within SUNZINET (e.g., Junior UX/UI Designer, Digital Designer) upon completion of studies, based on performance and business needs.

• Networking: Build professional relationships with experienced designers, marketers, and other specialists within the agency.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a stepping stone, offering valuable practical experience and a chance to explore a career in UX/UI design operations within a reputable agency. The growth opportunities are focused on skill acquisition and professional exposure, preparing the student for future roles in the digital design field.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: SUNZINET operates from a modern office environment, described as a "Moderner Arbeitsplatz & Technik." This suggests a well-equipped workspace designed for collaboration and productivity. The mention of "Hunde erlaubt" (dogs allowed) indicates a relaxed and employee-friendly atmosphere.

Office Location(s): The primary office location mentioned is Köln (Cologne), Germany. Specific details about the office's accessibility or amenities (beyond free parking) are not provided but are implied to be conducive to a positive work experience.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The culture emphasizes interdisciplinary and international teamwork, suggesting an open and communicative workspace where ideas are shared freely.

• Technology Access: Employees have access to modern technology and tools necessary for their roles, including advanced design software and AI applications.

• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with designers, digital marketers, and other project team members is expected, fostering a dynamic and engaging work setting.

Work Schedule: The "Gleitzeit" (flexible working hours) policy allows for a degree of autonomy in managing work hours, which is particularly beneficial for students balancing their studies with part-time employment. This flexibility supports efficient work practices and personal well-being.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment at SUNZINET appears to be modern, employee-centric, and conducive to collaboration and innovation. The inclusion of perks like dog-friendliness and flexible hours points to a culture that values work-life balance and employee comfort.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review, focusing on academic background, relevant skills, and the submitted portfolio.

• First Interview: Likely a virtual or in-person meeting with a hiring manager or lead designer to discuss qualifications, motivation, and initial fit. This stage will heavily assess your portfolio and understanding of UX/UI concepts.

• Skills Assessment/Case Study: Potentially a small design task or a discussion about a previous project from your portfolio to evaluate your problem-solving approach, design process, and tool proficiency.

• Team Meet-and-Greet: An opportunity to meet potential team members, assess cultural fit, and ask questions about the day-to-day work environment.

• Final Decision: Based on overall assessment of skills, experience, cultural fit, and potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Process: Clearly articulate your design thinking, user research, wireframing, prototyping, and final design stages for each project.

• Highlight Figma & Adobe CC: Include examples demonstrating your proficiency with these core tools.

• Demonstrate User-Centricity: Explain how user needs and feedback informed your design decisions.

• Visual Polish: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate.

• Tailor to Role: Emphasize projects that align with web and mobile application design, and ideally, those showing an interest in AI-assisted design.

• Conciseness: Focus on quality over quantity; a few strong case studies are better than many weak ones.

Challenge Preparation:

• Figma Proficiency: Be ready to demonstrate your skills in Figma, possibly through a live exercise or by discussing features you've used extensively.

• Design Principles: Refresh your knowledge of typography, color theory, layout, information architecture, and user flow mapping.

• Problem-Solving: Prepare to discuss how you approach design challenges, break them down, and arrive at creative solutions.

• Communication: Practice articulating your design choices clearly and concisely, explaining the rationale behind them.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is expected to be thorough, with a strong emphasis on evaluating the candidate's practical design skills and potential through their portfolio and potential design exercises. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their design process and tool proficiency in detail.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: The core tool for UI design, wireframing, and prototyping, expected to be used extensively. Proficiency is a key requirement.

• Adobe Creative Cloud: Used for graphic design tasks, image editing, and potentially more complex visual asset creation (e.g., Photoshop, Illustrator).

• AI-based Design Tools: Emerging tools that may assist in ideation, asset generation, or workflow automation, indicating a forward-thinking approach to design operations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly listed as a primary tool for the Werkstudent, familiarity with analytics platforms (e.g., Google Analytics) and how design impacts user behavior metrics would be beneficial. The team likely uses these to measure design effectiveness. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the Werkstudent's core responsibilities, but understanding how CRM and marketing automation platforms influence user journeys can provide valuable context for designing effective digital experiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is centered around industry-standard UX/UI design tools, with a notable inclusion of AI-based applications, suggesting SUNZINET is at the forefront of design technology adoption. Proficiency in Figma is paramount.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Quality & Innovation: A commitment to delivering high-quality digital solutions and embracing new technologies like AI to drive innovation.

• User-Centricity: A deep focus on understanding and serving user needs in all design and development efforts.

• Collaboration: Encouraging interdisciplinary teamwork, open communication, and knowledge sharing across departments.

• Growth & Development: Fostering an environment where employees can learn, develop new skills, and advance their careers.

• Curiosity & Initiative: Valuing individuals who are curious, proactive, and willing to explore new ideas and approaches.

Collaboration Style:

• Interdisciplinary: Working seamlessly with teams from digital marketing, development, strategy, and other areas to achieve project goals.

• Open Communication: Encouraging transparent dialogue, constructive feedback, and a willingness to share insights and challenges.

• Process-Oriented: Adhering to structured design processes while remaining adaptable to project needs and evolving methodologies.

• Team-Based Problem Solving: Tackling challenges collectively, leveraging the diverse skills and perspectives of team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: SUNZINET's culture appears to be built on a foundation of expertise, innovation, and a strong commitment to employee well-being and professional growth. The emphasis on collaboration and user-centricity is key to their success in digital transformation projects.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Academic and Work Commitments: Effectively managing time to meet the demands of both university studies and part-time employment.

• Translating Theory to Practice: Applying academic knowledge of UX/UI design to real-world client projects with specific constraints and objectives.

• Rapidly Evolving Technologies: Staying current with new design tools, methodologies, and AI applications in the fast-paced digital landscape.

• Incorporating Feedback: Navigating diverse stakeholder feedback and integrating it constructively into design iterations.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Mentorship: Receiving guidance from experienced UX/UI designers and digital marketing professionals.

• Hands-on Project Experience: Gaining practical skills by working on diverse client projects for well-known brands.

• Tool Mastery: Deepening proficiency in essential design tools like Figma and exploring new AI design applications.

• Industry Insights: Understanding the operations of a leading digital agency and the dynamics of digital transformation projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities to overcome common student challenges by providing a structured environment for learning and growth, directly applying theoretical knowledge to practical, impactful projects.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a UX/UI project from your portfolio. What was the problem, your approach, and the outcome? How did you use Figma in this project?" (Focus on process, problem-solving, and tool proficiency).

• "How do you approach translating business requirements into user-centered design solutions?" (Assesses understanding of design strategy and user focus).

• "Imagine you're given a new feature request for a mobile app. What would be your first steps in designing it?" (Evaluates design process and ideation). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about SUNZINET and our work in digital transformation?" (Assess research and genuine interest).

• "How do you prefer to collaborate with team members, especially on design projects?" (Evaluates teamwork and communication style).

• "How do you stay updated on the latest trends in UX/UI design and technology?" (Assesses proactive learning and industry awareness). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Structure your portfolio presentation as a narrative, guiding the interviewer through your thought process for each project.

• Visual Clarity: Use clear visuals (wireframes, mockups, user flows) to support your explanations.

• Tool Demonstration: Be prepared to discuss specific features or techniques you used in Figma or Adobe Creative Cloud.

• Impact Focus: Briefly mention the intended or actual impact of your designs, even if it's based on academic goals.

• Conciseness: Respect the interviewer's time by being direct and focused.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on clearly articulating one's design process, demonstrating tool proficiency, and showing genuine interest in SUNZINET's work and culture. A well-prepared portfolio walkthrough is key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Werkstudent UX/UI position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the SUNZINET careers portal.

• Tailor your CV: Highlight relevant coursework, academic projects, and any internships or personal projects related to UX/UI design, emphasizing skills in Figma and Adobe Creative Cloud.

• Curate your Portfolio: Select 2-3 strong projects that best showcase your design process, user-centric approach, and proficiency with design tools. Ensure it's easily accessible (e.g., via a link) and well-organized.

• Write a compelling cover letter: Briefly explain your motivation for applying to SUNZINET, your interest in UX/UI design, and how your skills align with the role requirements.

• Prepare for the interview: Practice articulating your design process, be ready to discuss your portfolio in detail, and research SUNZINET's recent projects and company culture.

⚠️ 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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