UX Designer

Volkswagen - Belmont, CA

Full-time - Mid Level

Belmont, CA

Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers

About the position

The UX Designer at Volkswagen Group of America plays a pivotal role in the Innovation & Engineering Center California (IECC), which is dedicated to the research and development of cutting-edge technologies aimed at meeting the future mobility needs of Volkswagen Group customers. This position is hybrid, allowing for a blend of in-office and remote work. The UX Designer will be integral in enhancing the customer experience throughout the entire product development process, from initial concept ideation to usability testing of products in the market against competitors. The mission of the ICC is to drive change, impacting not only one of the world's largest car manufacturers but also the lives of millions of people. The UX Designer will support the ICC's goals by developing and managing usability programs that align with the overall vision and mission of the center. In this role, the UX Designer will be responsible for defining project scopes, timelines, and deliverables, ensuring that individual and team goals are aligned with the ICC's objectives. They will track project timelines and resources, contribute to performance metrics, and drive the integration of best practices in UX design across various teams. The UX Designer will also be tasked with presenting project updates to top management and representing Volkswagen Group at conferences and media events. Additionally, they will work on securing internal project funding, expanding networks with local suppliers and universities, and managing resources effectively to support usability activities at the ICC. The position requires a strong focus on strategic management, including securing intellectual property and leading research and development activities to enhance vehicle systems. The UX Designer will need to possess excellent communication and problem-solving skills, along with a deep understanding of UX research methods and statistical analysis. This role is essential for fostering innovation and ensuring that the customer experience is at the forefront of product development within the Volkswagen Group.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage usability programs to enhance customer experience.
• Define project scope, timeline, and deliverables for usability initiatives.
• Track project timelines and resources, ensuring alignment with team and ICC goals.
• Contribute to ICC design performance metrics and best practices in UX.
• Present project updates and reports to top management and stakeholders.
• Secure internal project funding and expand networks with local suppliers and universities.
• Manage internal and external project budgets and resources for usability activities.
• Lead research and development activities to improve vehicle systems across all functions.
• Represent Volkswagen Group at conferences and media events.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Design or equivalent experience.
• At least 5 years of experience in UX Design.
• Proven experience supporting all stages of the product design process.
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent knowledge of UX research methods and advanced statistical analysis.
• High level of engagement and self-initiative with a focus on customer orientation.
• Strong storytelling abilities and the ability to create concepts from scratch.

Nice-to-haves

• Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Design.
• Strong UX and Human Factors methods expertise.
• Proven leadership skills in interdisciplinary teams.
• Detailed knowledge of usability and human factors issues around vehicle interfaces.

Benefits

• Competitive salary range of $104K - $131K per year.
• Opportunities for professional development and skill enhancement.
• Flexible work environment with hybrid options.
• Participation in innovative projects within the automotive industry.