Product Designer - Freelance

at AKQA

Remote

At AKQA, we believe in the imaginative application of art and science to create beautiful ideas, products, and services. With an entrepreneurial and collaborative approach, we design adaptive digital services and applications that capture the imagination, delivering impressive returns for our clients.

Creatives at AKQA apply artistry and craftsmanship to strategic insight, bringing to life ideas that move the world. Skilled problem solvers and storytellers, they thrive in a multidisciplinary environment to develop meaningful work that delights customers and delivers results for clients.

We are seeking experienced and passionate Product Designers with a strong foundation in UI design for complex systems. In this role, you will help shape digital experiences for marquee brands with household names, tackling multi-step, multi-lane processes that impact millions of people worldwide. You will be instrumental in translating complexity into intuitive, elegant design solutions that feel effortless to customers while maintaining brand integrity at scale.

This is a 3–4 month freelance engagement starting ASAP, with strong potential for extension well into next year.

ROLE REQUIREMENTS

Strong demonstration of user-centered design principles with an emphasis on UI craft in complex systems
Ability to design efficient, functional, and engaging digital experiences across multi-step flows and platforms
Experience navigating and simplifying interconnected product ecosystems and multi-lane processes
Proficiency in working both strategically (vision, patterns, systems) and tactically (flows, components, prototypes)
Deep empathy for end users, staff, and operators to inform design decisions
Strong understanding of web and app paradigms, interaction patterns, and design systems
High proficiency in Figma, including components, layouts, design systems, and interactive prototyping
Ability to plan, conduct, and synthesize research studies (e.g., usability testing, IDIs) to inform design decisions
Collaborative spirit—comfortable engaging with stakeholders, developers, and partners to reach the best outcomes
Proactive in identifying opportunities for better design and innovation, championing continuous improvement

QUALITIES AND CHARACTERISTICS

A compelling portfolio showing distinctive product design work, particularly UI within complex systems
Ability to develop simple and elegant solutions for multi-step, layered problems
Exceptional written, visual, and oral communication skills
Strong cross-functional collaboration skills with an inclusive, team-first mindset
Open to progressive thinking and exploring innovative approaches to design challenges

REMOTE EXPECTATION

This is a remote role available in approved states within the United States. Occasional travel may be required for research, workshops, or team collaboration, depending on project needs.

COMPENSATION

40 hours/week
$3,200 - $4/000/week

We believe great work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That's why we’ve adopted a hybrid approach including required in-office days. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process.

AKQA is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to particular characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers.