Design Lead – Design Systems

AKQA

. Provide hands-on leadership and creative direction to a team of designers .

Posted 9/22/2026contractSeattle • United StatesSenior💰 $3,600 - $4,000 per weekWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates expertise in UI Design and Art Direction, with a strong focus on creating and evolving design systems. Proven ability to lead and mentor design teams while aligning creative vision with client goals and user needs.

Highest-signal resume keywords

UI DesignArt DirectionDesign SystemsFigma ProficiencyTeam Leadership

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills

UI DesignArt DirectionDesign SystemsResponsive DesignMobile DesignApplication DesignComponent ManagementLibrary ManagementCreative Concept DevelopmentDigital Product Design

Soft Skills

Exceptional CommunicationMentoringCollaborationCreative ExcellenceProactive Mindset

Tools & Technologies

Figma

Industry Keywords

Digital PlatformsUser InterfaceCreative DirectionCross-Disciplinary CollaborationClient Presentation

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Provide hands-on leadership and creative direction to a team of designers
Oversee the creation, maintenance, and evolution of complex design systems
Shape the creative vision for digital platforms and products
Align creative work with client goals and the needs of a diverse user base
Collaborate with UX, strategy, and development teams
Present creative concepts and design solutions to clients
Mentor and support junior and mid-level designers
Foster collaboration, accountability, professional growth, and creative excellence
Push for distinctive and effective solutions throughout the work

Requirements

What you’ll need

6+ years of experience in UI design, art direction, or a related field
Strong portfolio showcasing digital platforms and products
Proven ability to lead and inspire teams
Track record of mentoring and elevating designers
Deep expertise in creating and evolving design systems
Strong working knowledge of user interface, application, mobile, and responsive design principles
Expert proficiency in Figma, including advanced component and library management
Exceptional communication skills, including presenting and defending creative work to clients and stakeholders
Experience collaborating with cross-disciplinary teams, including UX and development
Proactive mindset and ability to adapt to technology and design changes
Strong point of view and ability to promote and encourage conceptual thinking
Must be based in the United States

Benefits

Comp & perks

Remote work arrangement
Freelance engagement through December 23, 2026
40 hours/week
Regularly scheduled onsite client visits and meetings
Required in-office days under AKQA’s hybrid approach
Accommodations or flexibility may be discussed with the hiring team