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UI design question

i just got my bachelor's degree in graphic design and I want to be a ui designer. I was wondering wheres the best companies that hire junior ui designers

ui-ux ui-design user-interface-design
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Brian’s Answer

Hi Safiyah,

Congrats on your degree! There are tons of companies that hire graphic designers and UI designers which could be "great.' But it depends on what your personal goals/preferences are. For example, what kind of UI problems are you interested in solving? What kind of coworkers do you want? Does it matter to you what industry you're working in (i.e. do you want to do UI for manufacturing companies vs. education companies)?

I'm going to list a few examples of organizations from different sectors with UI jobs so you can see which one interests you most. Once you pick a sector/company type, you can look at their job requirements to see whether you qualify/what skills you need to acquire before applying:

- Energy: UX/UI Designer for Exelon Corporation (https://jobs.exeloncorp.com/jobs/14474318-ux-slash-ui-designer?tm_job=253515-OTHLOC-1010020116&tm_event=view&tm_company=1274)
- Consulting: PEGA UI DEVELOPER for Booz Allen Hamilton (https://careers.boozallen.com/careers/JobDetail?jobId=96862&source=JB-14400)
- Health Care: Senior Digital Designer for MediFast (https://www.indeed.com/cmp/Medifast-9?from=mobviewjob&tk=1hvpfup1oia21801&fromjk=1accf0432d3c7c62&attributionid=mobvjcmp)
- Higher Education/Research. UI Designer for Johns Hopkins Physics Laboratory https://www.indeed.com/jobs?q=ui+designer&l=Maryland&start=10&vjk=d699d1310220a2d3
- Government. VIsual Media Designer for the CIA (https://www.usajobs.gov/job/758634500)

Note, most UI jobs require UX and coding/data analysis experience, as well. Might be something you take some classes on the side for before applying!

Brian recommends the following next steps:

Think about what your preferences are in terms of your lifestyle/work goals.
Think about what industry matches those goals
Search for UI jobs in that industry utilizing Indeed and other job search engines
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Rakesh Chaitanya’s Answer

Congratulations on earning your bachelor's degree in graphic design! Transitioning into a UI design career is an exciting move, and there are plenty of opportunities out there for junior UI designers. Here’s a guide on how to identify potential employers and what makes a company a good fit for a junior designer like yourself.

1. Types of Companies to Consider
Tech Startups: These are often on the lookout for fresh talent and can provide a dynamic work environment. Startups can offer a chance to wear multiple hats and engage in various aspects of design, which is invaluable for growth.
Design Agencies: Working for a design agency can expose you to a broad range of projects and clients, enhancing your adaptability and versatility in design styles and methodologies.
Large Tech Companies: Companies like Google, Apple, Microsoft, Facebook (Meta), and Amazon often have dedicated teams for UI/UX and offer structured programs for juniors, including mentorship.
Software and App Development Companies: These companies constantly need UI designers to help make their applications user-friendly and visually appealing.
Freelance and Contract Work: Platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Toptal can also be good starting points to build a portfolio while seeking full-time opportunities.
2. What Makes a Company a Good Fit?
Growth Opportunities: Look for companies that provide clear paths for professional development and growth. Mentorship programs, ongoing training sessions, and a culture that encourages learning are vital for your development.
Culture and Environment: The company culture should support creativity, innovation, and collaboration. A supportive environment is crucial when you're starting your career.
Portfolio of Work: Companies known for good design or that have products you admire can be great places to grow your skills. Being part of a team that produces high-quality work will push you to improve your own skills.
Benefits and Stability: Consider the benefits package, work-life balance, and job stability. Early in your career, a stable environment can provide the security you need to focus on your professional growth.
3. How to Find These Companies
Job Boards and Career Websites: Websites like LinkedIn, Glassdoor, Indeed, and Monster are great for job hunting. Also, check out specialized design job boards like Behance, Dribbble’s job board, and AIGA Design Jobs.
Networking: Attend industry conferences, seminars, and workshops. Engaging with the community can lead to referrals and inside information on job openings.
Company Websites: If there are companies you admire, regularly check their job boards for open positions in their design departments.
Recruitment Agencies: Some agencies specialize in placing designers. These can be particularly helpful in finding positions that match your skill level and career aspirations.
4. Preparing Your Application
Portfolio: Ensure your portfolio is up-to-date with your best work. Tailor it to highlight UI design projects, even if they are conceptual or personal projects.
Resume and Cover Letter: Tailor your resume and cover letter for each application to highlight relevant skills and experience. Demonstrate your understanding of UI principles and your passion for user-centered design.
5. Keep Learning
While you search for jobs, keep improving your skills in UI design. Online courses from platforms like Udemy, Coursera, or LinkedIn Learning can be very beneficial.
Starting a career in UI design is an exciting journey, and finding the right company can set the tone for your career path. Good luck, and remember to keep learning and adapting as you grow into your new role!
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Alexander’s Answer

Congratulations on earning your bachelor's degree in graphic design! Transitioning into a UI (User Interface) design role is a natural and exciting progression. The best companies for junior UI designers often include tech startups, established technology giants, design agencies, and even freelance opportunities. Here’s a breakdown of where to look and what each type of company can offer:

1. Technology Companies
Big Tech Firms
Companies like Google, Apple, Microsoft, Facebook, and Amazon often have entry-level positions and are considered prestigious places to kickstart a UI design career. They offer extensive resources, exposure to large-scale projects, and learning from industry-leading experts.
Startups
Tech startups can be excellent places for junior designers because they often offer more responsibility earlier and a chance to shape the product directly. Look for startups with products that interest you or those known for a strong design culture. Websites like AngelList can be a great resource for finding startup jobs.
2. Design and Digital Agencies
Agencies provide services to various clients, giving junior designers exposure to a wide range of industries and projects. Companies like IDEO, Frog Design, and Pentagram are well-known for their design work and can be fantastic learning environments.
3. Software as a Service (SaaS) Companies
SaaS companies often need UI designers to help make their applications user-friendly and visually appealing. Companies like Salesforce, Adobe, Shopify, and HubSpot are known for their focus on user experience and design.
4. Freelance and Contract Work
Starting as a freelancer or contracting at different companies can also be a viable path. Platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr can help you build a portfolio and gain practical experience. This path allows flexibility and the opportunity to work on a variety of projects.
5. Corporate Firms with Digital Departments
Large non-tech companies in sectors like finance, retail, and media also hire UI designers to improve their digital interfaces. Companies like JPMorgan Chase, Walmart, and Disney have large digital teams working on customer-facing applications.
6. Remote Opportunities
Given the rise of remote work, don’t limit your search geographically. Companies like GitLab, Zapier, and Automattic operate fully remotely and often have open positions for UI designers.
Tips for Securing a Position:
Build a Strong Portfolio: Showcase your best work, including school projects, freelance work, and personal projects. Tailor your portfolio to highlight UI design skills such as wireframing, prototyping, and user-centered design.

Network: Attend industry conferences, meetups, and seminars. Engage with other designers on platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter. Networking can often lead to job opportunities.

Learn Continuously: Stay updated with the latest design tools and trends. Familiarity with tools like Sketch, Figma, Adobe XD, and InVision is often required.

Apply Widely: Don't hesitate to apply for positions that interest you, even if you feel you might not meet every single requirement.

By exploring these opportunities and continuously enhancing your skills and portfolio, you can find a fulfilling entry-level position as a UI designer. Good luck with your job search!
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Debaprasad’s Answer

Congratulations on your recent graduation! As a Junior UI Designer, there are numerous companies across various industries that might be a great fit for you, given the increasing importance of UI design in the digital era.
For initial gigs, you can use the below to find some gig work and then transition to full time job when you are confident.
Initial Gigs:
1. Upwork - Use upwork to find small gigs to start up and u get paid by the work u complete.
2. Fiver - use Fiver to find gigs that pay.
3. https://uiuxjobsboard.com/ - u can find some gigs here too

After you complete enough gigs then you can use below to find a full time position
1. LinkenIn.com
2. Monster.com
3. Indeed.com
4. Dice.com
5. Dribble.com
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Richard’s Answer

While I won't reiterate the excellent advice that's already been given, I'd like to add two more suggestions. Firstly, never underestimate the power of networking at design conferences. These events can be a goldmine of opportunities, especially for students or fresh graduates. Volunteering at such events can also help reduce the expenses associated with attendance. Secondly, numerous large corporations, including financial giants like Capital One and Chase, offer 'design development programs'. These programs are specifically tailored for new graduates or designers at the entry-level, providing a fantastic stepping stone in your design career.
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Emmanuel T.’s Answer

First of all, Congratulations on earning your bachelor's degree in graphic design😃

Transitioning from graphic design to UI design is a great move! Many tech startups are often looking for entry-level UI designers to join their teams. My brother was in a similar situation as you and decided to get hand on experience in UI by applying first to Startups as you have room to grow and understand UI principles. Startups offer a fast-paced environment where you can gain hands-on experience and work on diverse projects. Some popular tech startups known for hiring entry-level UI designers include Airbnb, Uber, Lyft, and Dropbox. Additionally, keep an eye on job boards like AngelList, LinkedIn, and Indeed for opportunities at smaller startups where you can make a big impact. Remember, gaining experience and building your portfolio are key in landing your dream job at a bigger company down the line.
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Nidhi’s Answer

Hi Safiyah! Congratulations on earning your Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design! Transitioning to UI design is a great choice, as it combines creativity with technology. Here are some companies that are often hiring junior UI designers and are known for their strong design culture:

1. Tech Companies:

a. Google: Google is known for its emphasis on user experience. Their Material Design philosophy is widely recognized and used.

b. Apple: Apple is renowned for its focus on design and user experience. As a UI designer at Apple, you'll have the opportunity to work on high-impact projects.

c. Microsoft: Microsoft offers opportunities to work on a variety of products, from operating systems to office software, each requiring unique UI design.

d. Facebook/Meta: The social media giant has a vast range of products, providing a variety of experiences for UI designers.

2. Design Agencies:

a. IDEO: This global design company is known for its innovative approach to design and often hires UI designers.

b. Frog Design: Frog Design works with numerous clients around the world, giving UI designers exposure to a broad range of projects.

3. Startups:

Startups can be a great place to start your career as a UI designer because they often allow for more creative input and faster growth. Look for startups with a product that interests you and a team you can learn from.

4. Other Companies:

Many non-tech companies also hire UI designers for their tech departments. Companies like Nike, Starbucks, and Airbnb, for example, all have apps or digital platforms that require UI design.

When looking for positions, make sure to consider the company culture, opportunities for growth, and the type of work you'll be doing. Also, remember that building a robust portfolio showcasing your UI design skills can significantly improve your chances of landing a job. Good luck with your job search!
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Melecia’s Answer

Congratulations on your achievement!

Some companies that are known for hiring fresh talent and providing strong career development in UI (and graphic) design are:
- IBM
- Frog Design
- Toptal
- IDEO
- Canva
- Squarespace
- Adobe
- Google.
These companies are continually recognized for their entry-level programs and support for new designers, making them great starting points for a career in this field.

Take a look at their careers page and best of luck to you in your search!
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Rafee’s Answer

Hi Safiyah! Great question and I think there are some really good responses above as well that will guide you in the right direction. Another thing to keep in mind is that some companies desire to see your portfolio as a UI designer. I'm sure you have projects you have worked on from school, so being able to speak to those in depth will be key for being hired as a junior designer. Companies really want to see do you have the foundational skills, but also can you communicate your work. Practice being able to speak to your projects in a step by step process, or even the S.T.A.R. framework, which is describe the Situation, what was the Task, what Action did you take, and finally what were the Results at the end. If you feel your current portfolio needs to be strengthened so you can communicate it during interviews, think of local businesses or websites that have a problem, focus on your solution, and design/execute your solution. This framework will be able to give you additional practical cases to present to your future employer! Wishing you all the best in your journey!
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Sharifur’s Answer

Congratulations!

In addition to the advice everyone else already provided, the top things you need to do is refine your resume, apply for roles, and build your network (aka connections).

For resume building, avoid being too wordy, be clear and concise, highlight achievements in your internships or coursework, use key words and language applicable to the industry that you are applying for, error free. For the vast majority and especially for large companies, your resume goes through an AI machine that sorts them first then to humans with your resume summarized. Hence, use key words to highlight your ability. Have a friend or someone more knowledgeable refine it, some job sites like Glassdoor's have a free function that grades your resume.

It is important to note that many jobs in the IT field are usually wish lists by the employers. So do not feel overwhelmed, if you do not meet all the requirements for a job. Apply for the jobs even if you are a bit unqualified or meet half of it, technically speaking, it is the employer's job to sort through applicants. The worst they can do to you is reject the job application.

If you get a job interview, it means the employer likes your resume. It is mostly for judging your character and problem-solving skills as a person. Have confidence in yourself, it will take you far in interviews. Be positive and polite.

There are numerous job sites, but you can focus on 2-3 then later 4-5. There is Linked-in, Indeed, Monster, ZipRecruiter, Glassdoor's, etc.

Starting out your network is small, which will usually be some of your high school or college friends. You can make connections at clubs, fairs, even religious places of worship.

Sharifur recommends the following next steps:

Build your Resume
Refine it
Create your account in job sites
Apply for Jobs
Build your network
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Eira’s Answer

If you are asking about location in particular I would say you could really be anywhere. As a new person in the tech community I suggest working for a small startup. They pay well (in my experience) and you usually get to work on the product from start to finish so you gain a lot of experience. I also enjoy being involved with the product owner, CEO, and presenting to the board members. I think it is important in your career to work at a bigger company so you get that mentorship from a Senior Designer, but I enjoyed working as a UX Designer with a variety of people.

It is typically a more relaxed environment at startups.

I have worked in Austin, TX and there is a ton of opportunity there but it is getting more and more expensive to live there. I hear there is a lot of opportunity in Atlanta, GA with a reasonable cost of living. Currently I am in Dallas and there is a ton of opportunity here with a lower cost of living than Austin and a more mild (less hot) climate.

I know there is a lot of opportunity for UX/UI Design in New York and Boston which are closer to you. There is also a lot of opportunity in Seattle I hear.

Honestly, for your first opportunity I would apply for where you are and for remote work. Pretty much any job you get will either be remote or hybrid in this industry. Once you have some money saved you can look into cities that will match your lifestyle and find a job in that city before you move. I wouldn't be too picky because the first thing you need is experience so just get a job and keep your portfolio updated. If you end up not liking where you work find a job before you leave your job.

Working in tech you usually find people who are easier to get along with and are in my opinion generally happier, open minded, and progressive. I think you will be happy in the industry.
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Ryan’s Answer

Hey Safiyah! Congrats on completing your bachelor's degree!

UI design is a great skill to have and hone! The good news is that a lot of companies, both tech and non-tech, always have a need for UI and UX designers because they have a website or some sort of front-end application that customers and clients need to access to reach out to use the company's services. UI/UX design takes a combination of skills with both the technical coding and web design and mixes that with creativity and inclusivity (ex: making websites available for visually impaired, color choices, etc.)

Think about what kind of designer you want to be and what type of company you want to work for! Make sure to keep honing your skills and always be applying! Best of luck!

Ryan recommends the following next steps:

1) Create a LinkedIn account, Resume, Portfolio with any past work/projects you've done
2) Identify what roles are out there - Ex: UI/UX Designer, Front-End Developer, Web Designer, Graphic Designer, etc.
3) Look for these roles/skills on websites like LinkedIn, Google Jobs, Handshake, Indeed, or directly on a company's website
4) Apply, apply, apply! In the job hunting process - it's all about quantity. Even if you have a "dream company" you want to work for - keep on applying so you have backup choices! It's also a good way to get experience with interviews and the hiring process for the future.
5) Stay positive! Employers like to see new hires who are confident and willing to learn. As long as you keep that mindset, you'll go far!
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Arjun’s Answer

Congratulations! Some great companies to work for in UI:
1. Google
2. Netflix
3. Uber
4. LYFT
5. Apple
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Michelle’s Answer

Hello, Safiyah !

Congratulations on obtaining your degree in Graphic Design ! That is wonderful !

Your first step to discover possible career opportunities would be to visit the college you graduated from. Visit the Career Center there and stop in at your major department and speak with some of your professors. Usually during the course of majoring, job opportunities are discussed so you may want to catch up on the latest information from people you know. At first, you may want to consider working at a company that you can use your skills at rather than trying to think about what the "best" companies are. The best company for you will be a company that offers you a position.

Register at Linked In and Indeed and complete a profile. Start following companies in your field and look at the employment notices on there and apply to various positions at various companies. With entry level work, one must be open minded in order to not limit one's chances for work. You can even consider freelancing by advertising, listing yourself and your services in directories and continue networking in your local tech community. This will bring you into contact with people who know of some projects or employment that may be suited for you. You can attend Tech Events in Baltimore and I have left a link for these below. Think about how you may want to do some remote projects also as an option. I left a link for you below of some UI Designer jobs that are remote.

You've taken the first step by reaching out for advice and information. Now it's time to take the active steps which include preparing a resume and applying for work. Consider all companies, not just famous named ones because the more experience you obtain, the better you will be prepared to advance in the field. The opportunities do not come out of the blue. A big part of employment is researching the opportunities and getting out there meeting people, so now is a perfect time for you to make these discoveries first hand.

Learning and networking doesn't stop after graduation. Take advantage of attending conferences in your field, whether in person or virtual, as these will keep you aware of the field. I have left a link to a list of these for you below. Also make an electronic portfolio of your work to show prospective employers or clients and put the URL on your resume so they can review your work before interviewing. Obtain some tech certifications also as they will enhance your knowledge and marketability. I have left a link below to a list of certifications that you can consider.

It's just going to be a matter of being open minded, taking active steps and creating the tools such as a resume and portfolio that will result in being interviewed by a variety of companies.

I hope that this is helpful for your first steps in discovering where to apply to and I wish you all the best !

Michelle recommends the following next steps:

TECH EVENTS TO ATTEND IN BALTIMORE https://www.eventbrite.com/d/md--baltimore/tech-events/
REMOTE UI DESIGNER JOBS https://www.indeed.com/q-remote-ui-ux-designer-jobs.html?vjk=7aedf06ef6ea45e0
CONFERENCES TO ATTEND https://www.uxpin.com/studio/blog/best-design-conferences/
UI DESIGN CERTIFICATIONS https://www.springboard.com/blog/design/ui-certification/
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