Principal Designer

About SchemaSchema is a creative technology firm pioneering the next generation of intelligent interfaces for frontier technologies. At the intersection of data, design, and AI, we create tools and experiences that transform complex information into actionable insights. Our mission is to bridge the gap between emerging technologies and real-world applications through human-centered design and design engineering.We work with forward-thinking organizations across sectors including technology, healthcare, finance, and government to design intelligent systems that amplify human capability. Our work spans strategic design, data visualization, and intelligent interface design.What We OfferWork on cutting-edge projects at the intersection of design, AI, and dataShape the design practice and culture of a lean, high-performing teamContribute to Schema Labs, our public R&D initiative exploring intelligent interfacesCollaborate with senior strategists and technologists on complex, meaningful problemsFlexible hybrid work environment in Seattle's Capitol Hill neighborhoodCompetitive compensation and benefits packageProfessional development and conference opportunitiesThe OpportunitySchema is seeking a Principal Designer to join our Seattle-based team and help lead our design practice. As a senior design leader, you'll drive design strategy for complex client engagements, mentor designers, and shape how Schema approaches intelligent interface design. You'll work directly with clients and internal teams to transform ambiguous problems into elegant, actionable solutions.This role requires deep expertise in interaction design, data visualization, or systems design, combined with the strategic thinking and leadership capabilities to guide projects from concept through execution. You'll have significant autonomy to shape the direction of your work while contributing to the growth and evolution of Schema's design practice.We're open to hiring at either the Senior or Principal level depending on experience and fit. The ideal candidate will have the skills and mindset to operate at a senior leadership level, with room to grow into greater responsibility over time.We're looking for someone who is equally comfortable facilitating strategic workshops with C-suite stakeholders, designing sophisticated information systems, and mentoring emerging designers. This is an opportunity to do the best work of your career at a firm committed to design excellence and technological innovation.ResponsibilitiesDesign LeadershipLead design strategy and execution for client engagements with complex, ambiguous requirementsDefine design approaches, frameworks, and methodologies for intelligent interface projectsPresent and defend design decisions to senior client stakeholdersContribute to business development through proposal development and client presentationsCraft & ExecutionDesign sophisticated data visualizations, intelligent interfaces, and information systemsCreate design systems and frameworks that scale across products and platformsPrototype and validate design concepts through rapid iteration and user testingEnsure design quality and consistency across projectsPractice BuildingMentor and support other designers on the teamContribute to Schema's design process, standards, and cultureParticipate in thought leadership through Schema Labs prototypes, case studies, or speaking engagementsStay current with emerging technologies, particularly AI/ML, and their implications for interface designCollaborationPartner closely with technology and strategy leads on multidisciplinary projectsFacilitate collaborative design processes with clients and internal teamsBridge technical constraints and business goals through thoughtful design solutionsRequired QualificationsExperience7+ years of experience in interaction design, data visualization, or related fieldProven track record leading design for complex, ambiguous problemsExperience designing for data-intensive or AI/ML-powered applicationsPortfolio demonstrating sophisticated design thinking and craft excellenceHistory of successful client engagements and stakeholder managementSkillsExpert proficiency with Figma and modern design toolsStrong information design and data visualization capabilitiesAbility to design across multiple platforms (web, mobile, embedded)Experience creating and maintaining design systemsExcellent visual design skills with attention to typography, layout, and hierarchyRapid prototyping skills (from sketches to high-fidelity interactive prototypes)Understanding of front-end web technologies (HTML, CSS, JavaScript)Leadership & CommunicationAbility to mentor and guide other designersStrong presentation and storytelling skillsComfortable facilitating workshops and leading collaborative design sessionsClear written communication for documentation and client deliverablesExperience working effectively in multidisciplinary teams with engineers and strategistsMindsetSystems thinker who can see both details and big pictureComfortable with ambiguity and iterative, research-driven design processesPassionate about emerging technologies, particularly AI and intelligent systemsCommitted to design quality and craft excellenceCollaborative leader who elevates the work of othersPreferred QualificationsExperience designing AI/ML interfaces or decision support systemsBackground in human-computer interaction (HCI) research or practiceFamiliarity with D3.js or other data visualization frameworksExperience with Observable, Jupyter, or other computational notebooksPublic speaking or writing experienceGraduate degree in Design, HCI, or related fieldWork LocationThis is a hybrid role based in Seattle, WA. You'll work from our Capitol Hill office and have flexibility for remote work. We expect regular in-person collaboration with the team while supporting flexibility for focused individual work.Schema is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Created: 2026-04-02