Working Student - Product Designer (m/f/d)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Working Student - Product Designer (m/f/d)

Company: 1KOMMA5°

Location: Berlin, Germany

Job Type: Intern

Category: Product Design / UX/UI

Date Posted: April 10, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid (Remote possible within Germany)

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on embedding an AI-native Product Designer within a B2C mobile app team, specifically for the flagship Heartbeat app.

• Responsibilities include owning the end-to-end design process for core app features, from discovery through to delivery, with a strong emphasis on leveraging AI tools.

• The position requires a proactive approach to user research, data synthesis, and close collaboration with Product Managers, Engineers, and Data Scientists.

• You will be expected to elevate the product experience by transforming complex technical energy concepts into simple, elegant, and production-ready mobile app solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Working Student," the description emphasizes "owning end-to-end design" and "shaping our flagship consumer product," indicating a role with significant responsibility and impact, not just administrative tasks. The "AI-native" requirement suggests a forward-thinking design approach is paramount.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Own the complete design lifecycle for core features within the Heartbeat mobile application, encompassing problem definition, ideation, prototyping, user testing, and final delivery.

• Integrate and leverage AI tools extensively across all stages of the design process to enhance efficiency, creativity, and output quality.

• Conduct comprehensive user research, including interviews, usability testing, and surveys, to gather insights and inform design decisions.

• Proactively collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Product Managers, Engineers, and Data Scientists, to ensure alignment and successful product development.

• Translate complex technical data and energy concepts into intuitive, user-friendly, and visually appealing mobile app experiences.

• Advocate for user needs and best practices within a fast-paced, technically driven environment, ensuring a high-quality end-product.

• Conceptualize and develop high-fidelity prototypes to effectively communicate design solutions and gather feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "end-to-end design" and "shaping our flagship consumer product" suggests the intern will be given substantial ownership and responsibility, moving beyond typical intern tasks. The requirement to "Synthesize complex data into simple, elegant product decisions" points towards a strong analytical component to the design role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s program in User Experience Design, Interaction Design, Human Computer Interaction, or a closely related field.

Experience: Demonstrated experience in taking features from concept to shipped product, with a portfolio showcasing end-to-end ownership. Experience with mobile app design patterns is essential.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in Figma for UI/UX design and prototyping.

• Experience with Cursor (or similar AI-integrated development tools) is highly desirable.

• Strong skills in Prototyping tools and methodologies.

• Proven ability in conducting User Research, including interviews and usability testing.

• A demonstrable AI-first design approach, showcasing daily use of AI tools in the design workflow.

• Fluency in Mobile App Design patterns and best practices.

• Solid understanding of the UX design process, from discovery to delivery.

• Familiarity with Interaction Design principles.

• Experience with Human Computer Interaction concepts.

• Proficiency in Visual Design and UI Craft.

• Ability to engage in effective Cross-functional Collaboration with PMs, engineers, and data scientists.

• Skills in Product Discovery and problem framing.

• Aptitude for Data Synthesis and translating complex information into clear design decisions.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with product analytics and data interpretation.

• Familiarity with A/B testing methodologies.

• Understanding of the energy sector or sustainability-focused technology.

• Experience working in a fast-paced startup or scaleup environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "AI-native" and "Block-shaped" descriptors imply a candidate who is not only skilled in traditional design disciplines but also actively embraces and integrates emerging AI technologies into their workflow, demonstrating a blend of craft, curiosity, and technological adoption. The "High agency" and "Builder mindset" point towards candidates who are proactive, self-starters, and focused on execution.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase end-to-end design projects, clearly illustrating the problem, your process, and the final shipped product.

• Feature examples of how AI tools were leveraged to enhance the design process, improve efficiency, or generate novel solutions.

• Include case studies demonstrating proficiency in mobile app design patterns and user-centered design methodologies.

Process Documentation:

• Clearly articulate the design process followed for each project, from discovery and research to ideation, prototyping, testing, and delivery.

• Demonstrate a structured approach to user research, including methodologies used and key findings.

• Provide examples of how prototypes were used for iteration and feedback.

• Show evidence of collaboration with cross-functional teams and how design decisions were communicated and justified.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "AI-native," "end-to-end ownership," and "shipping polished and production-ready app experiences" strongly suggests that the portfolio should not just show final designs but the entire journey, with a specific focus on demonstrating the practical application and impact of AI in the design workflow. Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they "spot gaps and fill them" and their "builder mindset."

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As this is a working student position, compensation will likely be competitive for intern roles in Berlin, Germany, based on experience and the number of hours worked per week. Typical intern salaries in Germany can range from €12-€20 per hour, depending on the company and specific responsibilities. For a full-time equivalent role, this might translate to an annual range of €25,000 - €42,000, but this is an estimate for a working student role.

Benefits:

• Membership in an international, dynamic, and highly motivated team focused on execution.

• Direct impact on accelerating the "energy transition" and contributing to climate solutions.

• Opportunity to work with and learn from highly intelligent colleagues.

• Direct engagement with core decision-makers within the company.

• Strong potential for full-time employment in a thriving European scaleup.

• Remote work flexibility within Germany, with access to offices in Hamburg, Berlin, or Munich.

• Access to the EGYM Wellpass for work-life balance.

• Benefits and discounts through Futurebens.

Working Hours: Typically 40 hours per week, adjustable for a working student role based on academic commitments and company needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The job listing explicitly states "working remotely (Germany-wide)" and mentions offices in Hamburg, Berlin, or Munich. This indicates a hybrid model where remote work is the primary mode, with the option to work from these office locations. The "40 hours" is a standard full-time week, and for a working student, this would likely be prorated.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Energy Technology, Software Development, Renewable Energy, Smart Home Systems. 1KOMMA5° operates at the intersection of hardware (solar, batteries, heat pumps) and software (AI-driven virtual power plant management), aiming to revolutionize household energy consumption for sustainability.

Company Size: 1KOMMA5° is a rapidly growing scaleup, with over 2,000 employees worldwide and operations in over 80 locations. This signifies a dynamic, fast-paced environment with significant opportunities for growth and impact.

Founded: Founded in 2021, 1KOMMA5° is a relatively young company, characterized by innovation and a strong mission to accelerate the energy transition. Its rapid expansion highlights its ambitious goals and successful market positioning.

Team Structure: The Product Designer will be embedded directly into a "B2C mobile app team," specifically working on the "Heartbeat app." This team likely consists of Product Managers, Engineers (frontend/backend), Data Scientists, and potentially other designers. The structure is expected to be agile and collaborative, typical of a scaleup environment.

Methodology: The company emphasizes an "AI-native" approach, integrating artificial intelligence across its product and operations. This suggests a data-driven culture where efficiency, automation, and intelligent system control are paramount. The "Heartbeat AI" is central to their strategy of managing integrated energy systems in real-time.

Company Website: http://1komma5grad.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's mission to "Living on wind and sunlight forever for free" and its goal to transition 1.5 million households to renewable energy by 2030 highlight a strong purpose-driven culture. The integration of regional craftsmanship with scalable software indicates a unique operational model.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is an entry-level "Working Student" position, typically for individuals pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree. It offers foundational experience in product design within a tech-scaleup environment.

Reporting Structure: The Working Student Product Designer will report to a lead designer or product manager within the B2C mobile app team. Close collaboration with Product Managers, Engineers, and Data Scientists is a key aspect of the role.

Operations Impact: While not a traditional "Operations" role in the sense of revenue or sales ops, this design position has a direct impact on the user experience of 1KOMMA5°'s core B2C product, the Heartbeat app. A successful app experience is crucial for customer acquisition, retention, and overall brand perception, indirectly supporting the company's revenue and GTM strategies by enhancing customer engagement with their energy solutions. The design directly influences how users interact with and benefit from the company's innovative energy systems.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in mobile app design, AI-driven design workflows, and UX research methodologies.

• Career Advancement: Potential for full-time employment as a Product Designer or UX/UI specialist within 1KOMMA5° or similar scaleups, leveraging the gained experience and network.

• Industry Exposure: Gain invaluable experience in the rapidly growing renewable energy and smart home technology sector.

• Leadership Potential: Develop leadership qualities through proactive contribution, ownership of features, and effective cross-functional collaboration, which can pave the way for future design leadership roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The mention of "best chances of entering full-time" strongly suggests a direct pathway for high-performing interns to transition into permanent roles, offering a clear growth trajectory. The role is positioned to provide hands-on experience that is directly transferable to future design positions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The company offers a hybrid work environment, with the option to work remotely across Germany or from their physical offices in Hamburg, Berlin, or Munich. This allows for flexibility while maintaining access to in-person collaboration when needed.

Office Location(s): Offices are located in Hamburg, Berlin, and Munich. These are major German cities offering vibrant work environments and good accessibility. Remote work within Germany is also supported.

Workspace Context:

• The work environment is described as "international, dynamic, and highly motivated."

• Collaboration is expected to be close and proactive with PMs, engineers, and data scientists, fostering a team-oriented atmosphere.

• The emphasis on "AI-native" and "building solutions that truly matter" suggests an innovative and purpose-driven workspace.

• Access to modern design tools like Figma and Cursor, alongside a focus on AI integration, indicates a technologically advanced workspace.

Work Schedule: While a standard 40-hour week is mentioned, the role is for a "Working Student," implying flexibility to accommodate academic schedules. The dynamic nature of a scaleup means work can be fast-paced, but the remote option and focus on results over strict hours are likely.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "remote (Germany-wide)" aspect combined with office presence in key cities provides a flexible work model that caters to diverse employee needs while maintaining team cohesion and access to physical collaboration spaces.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Submission: Submit CV and portfolio.

• Initial Screening: Review of application materials for alignment with requirements, especially AI usage and mobile design experience.

• Design Challenge/Case Study: Likely a practical exercise to assess design skills, problem-solving abilities, and AI integration. This could involve a take-home assignment or an in-interview task.

• Interviews: Discussions with hiring managers, potential team members (PMs, engineers), focusing on design philosophy, collaboration style, technical skills, and cultural fit. Expect questions about how you leverage AI.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss impact and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight AI Integration: Clearly showcase projects where AI tools were used. Quantify the impact if possible (e.g., "reduced design iteration time by X%").

• End-to-End Storytelling: Walk through the entire design process for 1-2 key projects. Explain the problem, your approach, decisions made, challenges faced, and the final outcome.

• Mobile-First Focus: Ensure your portfolio prominently features mobile app design projects and demonstrates fluency in mobile UX/UI patterns.

• Data Synthesis Examples: If possible, include a project where you had to translate complex data into a simple, understandable user interface or experience.

• Clarity and Conciseness: Present your work clearly, using visuals effectively. Be prepared to speak articulately about your design choices.

Challenge Preparation:

• Familiarize Yourself: Understand common mobile app design patterns and UX best practices.

• AI Tool Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your experience with AI design tools and potentially demonstrate their use.

• Problem-Solving: Practice breaking down complex problems and articulating your thought process for finding solutions.

• Company Research: Understand 1KOMMA5°'s mission, products (especially the Heartbeat app), and their focus on AI and sustainability. Prepare questions that show your engagement and interest.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the emphasis on "AI-native" and "end-to-end ownership," expect interviewers to probe deeply into how you manage projects independently, your thought process for tackling ambiguous problems, and your ability to integrate new technologies like AI into your daily workflow. Demonstrating a "builder mindset" and "high agency" will be crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: The core design and prototyping tool for UI/UX. Proficiency is essential.

• Cursor: An AI-first code editor that integrates AI features directly into the development workflow. Experience with this or similar AI-assisted tools is highly valued.

• Prototyping Tools: Beyond Figma, other prototyping tools may be used for specific needs.

• User Research Tools: Tools for conducting interviews, usability tests, and surveys (e.g., UserTesting.com, Maze, SurveyMonkey).

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly a design tool, understanding how to interpret data from analytics platforms (e.g., Amplitude, Mixpanel, Google Analytics) will be beneficial for informing design decisions.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly relevant to the Product Designer role, but awareness of how user data flows through systems can be helpful for context.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of "Figma" and "Cursor" highlights the specific technological requirements. Expect to be asked about your experience with these tools, particularly how you leverage AI features within Cursor or similar environments to streamline design and development workflows.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Impact-Driven: A strong focus on contributing to a meaningful mission—accelerating the energy transition and climate action.

• Innovation & AI-First: Embracing new technologies, particularly AI, to drive efficiency and create smarter solutions.

• Collaboration: Working closely and proactively with cross-functional teams to achieve shared goals.

• User-Centricity: Advocating for the user and ensuring that product decisions prioritize their needs and experience.

• Ownership & Agency: Encouraging individuals to take initiative, spot opportunities, and drive projects forward with a "builder mindset."

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive & Integrated: Designers are expected to work closely and proactively with PMs, engineers, and data scientists, integrating into their workflows rather than operating in a silo.

• Data-Informed: Design decisions are expected to be backed by user research and data synthesis.

• Transparent Communication: Clear and efficient verbal and written communication is essential, with English as the working language.

• Fast-Paced Iteration: The scaleup environment implies a need for quick iteration cycles and adaptability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's values are deeply tied to its mission and its "AI-native" approach. Candidates should be prepared to articulate how they embody these values, particularly in how they approach problem-solving and collaboration in a technology-focused, purpose-driven organization.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex Domain: Understanding and designing for intricate energy systems and technical concepts for a B2C audience.

• AI Integration Nuances: Effectively leveraging AI tools to enhance, rather than replace, human creativity and critical thinking in design.

• Fast-Paced Environment: Adapting to the rapid iteration cycles and evolving priorities of a scaleup.

• Balancing User Needs with Technical Constraints: Ensuring user-centric design within the realities of complex technical development.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• AI Design Mastery: Become an expert in using AI tools to augment the design process, from ideation to prototyping and user testing.

• Deep Dive into Energy Tech: Gain profound knowledge of the renewable energy sector and smart home technology.

• Full Lifecycle Design Experience: Hone skills in owning features from discovery to delivery in a real-world product context.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Develop strong working relationships and communication skills with engineers and data scientists.

• Career Acceleration: Receive direct mentorship and potentially a fast track to a full-time position within a leading scaleup.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are framed as opportunities for growth. For instance, "Complex Domain" can be overcome by actively engaging with subject matter experts and embracing the learning curve, turning a potential hurdle into a unique skill development area.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you used AI tools to significantly improve your design process or outcome. What was the impact?" (Focus on AI integration, process improvement, and measurable results.)

• "Walk us through a mobile app feature you designed from scratch. What was the problem, your approach, the trade-offs you made, and how did you collaborate with engineers and PMs?" (Focus on end-to-end ownership, collaboration, and problem-solving.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about 1KOMMA5°'s mission to accelerate the energy transition?" (Show genuine interest and alignment with company values.)

• "How do you see AI shaping the future of product design, and how do you plan to stay ahead of the curve?" (Demonstrate forward-thinking and continuous learning.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative Arc: Structure your portfolio presentation around compelling stories for each project, highlighting the "why," "how," and "what."

• Visuals & Process: Use clear visuals to showcase your designs and clearly illustrate your design process at each stage.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the success of your designs. For AI tools, highlight efficiency gains or novel solutions.

• AI Integration Showcase: Dedicate specific points to demonstrating how AI was used, what tools you employed, and the tangible benefits.

• Q&A Readiness: Be prepared for in-depth questions about your decisions, your process, and your understanding of the company's goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: Expect behavioral questions designed to assess your "high agency" and "builder mindset." Be ready with specific examples that illustrate your proactivity, initiative, and hands-on approach to problem-solving. Emphasize how you "spot gaps and fill them without being asked."

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Working Student Product Designer position:

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

• Curate Your Portfolio: Tailor your portfolio to highlight mobile app design, end-to-end project ownership, and, crucially, your practical application of AI tools in your design workflow. Prepare specific case studies that demonstrate your "AI-native" approach and "builder mindset."

• Optimize Your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your relevant educational background, any prior design experience (even academic projects), and specific skills in Figma, prototyping, and user research. Explicitly mention your experience or interest in AI-driven design.

• Prepare for AI Discussions: Be ready to articulate your experience with AI tools like Cursor or other AI design assistants. Practice explaining how you integrate them into your workflow and the benefits you derive.

• Research 1KOMMA5°: Understand the company's mission, its "Heartbeat AI" product, and its role in the energy transition. Prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate your engagement and understanding of their business and values.

⚠️ 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.