Senior Designer (Design Systems) - Freelance

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. Senior Designers at AKQA apply artistry and craftsmanship to the design of digital experiences, products and services that move the world. Skilled storytellers and architects, they work in a multidisciplinary environment to develop work that is distinctive, effective and truly remarkable. Senior User Designers are endlessly curious. They take hands-on design ownership across multiple client projects. Please note: This is a 3-month freelance contract role. No visa transfers or visa sponsorships will be offered at this time. Candidates for this role must be able to work West Coast hours. ROLE REQUIREMENTS

• A minimum of 5 years’ experience in product design (especially for web), defining or extending design systems, and/or working within a brand’s strict style guidelines
• Photoshop and Sketch expertise, including file organization, and preparation of pixel-perfect files for design team use
• Clear communication and presentation skills that speak to both creative and technical audiences
• Strong understanding of web development, including HTML and CSS
• Required: UI experience
• Required: Acuity in iconography
• Preferred: Working knowledge of Principle
• Preferred: BA or BFA in Graphic Design (or equivalent)

QUALITIES AND CHARACTERISTICS

• A systems thinker with a strong grasp of digital design principles, responsive design, and user experience best practices
• Highly skilled in component-based design and design documentation for large-scale digital platforms
• Comfortable working in a structured, detail-oriented environment where precision and consistency are key
• A strong collaborator who enjoys partnering with designers, developers, and stakeholders to create seamless experiences
• Keen interest in championing brand identity through a balance of consistency and flexibility
• Proficiency in the formal elements of design, with a strong focus on typography, balance, and proportion
• Systematic thinker; able to anticipate the impact of design decisions well in advance of their application
• Excellent digital file structure and asset management skills
• Passion for pixel-perfection and order and unparalleled attention to detail
• Ability to articulate ideas verbally and digitally; be clearly understood by creative, product management, and development staff
• Ability to deliver strong design rationale and supporting files in a tight timeframe
• Ability to thrive in a challenging, fast-paced, creative workplace

The pay range for this position at the time of this posting is indicated below. Individual compensation varies based on job-related factors, including location, business needs, level of responsibility, experience, and qualifications. $2,400 - $2,800 per week Explore our extensive range of benefits here. 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. Apply Job! Apply to this Job