How to Get a Job as a UX/UI Designer

UX/UI Designers make websites and apps intuitive and easy-to-use

UX/UI Designers craft user experiences and interfaces for websites, apps, and digital products, combining research, design, usability, and visual communication. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of Web Developers and Digital Designers (which includes UX/UI Designers) is projected to grow 7% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than average, with about 14,500 openings per year expected. (bls.gov)

Entry-Level Requirements for UX/UI Designers

To begin in this role, you’ll generally need:

1. Education: A bachelor’s degree in UX design, human-computer interaction (HCI), graphic design, interaction design, or a related field. Some employers accept associate degrees or self‑taught/design bootcamp experience with a strong portfolio.

2. Portfolio & Skills: Demonstrable design work showing UX research, wireframing, prototyping, UI visual design. Familiarity with tools like Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD, or similar.

3. Certifications / Training: Optional but helpful credentials include UX certification programs or courses in usability testing, UI animation, and accessibility.

Expected Salary for UX/UI Designers

Based on recent market data:

• Entry‑Level: ~$70,000–$90,000 annually

• Mid‑Level: ~$100,000–$130,000 annually

• Senior‑Level: ~$130,000–$170,000+ annually (ziprecruiter.com)

Indeed shows an average base salary of around $126,138/year for UX Designers in the U.S. (indeed.com)ZipRecruiter’s latest hourly pay average for UX/UI Designers is about $53.94/hr, which works out to around $112,000/year for full‑time roles. (ziprecruiter.com)

Skills and Abilities Needed to Excel

• Strong user research skills (interviews, usability testing, surveys)

• Wireframing, prototyping, and visual design (UI) expertise

• Understanding of accessibility, responsive design, and design systems

• Collaboration & communication with product teams, developers, stakeholders

• Problem‑solving mindset, empathy for users, attention to detail

Is UX/UI Design Better for Introverts or Extroverts?

This role tends to suit both. Introverts may thrive in focused work like wireframing, UX research, and UI design, while extroverts may enjoy stakeholder collaboration, user interviews, and presenting design ideas.

Top 5 Degree Programs with Best ROI for UX/UI Designers

1. Carnegie Mellon University – Human‑Computer Interaction

2. University of Washington – Human Centered Design & Engineering

3. Georgia Institute of Technology – Interactive Computing / Graphics & UX focus

4. University of California, San Diego – Cognitive Science / Design

5. Pratt Institute – Graphic & Digital Design

Can You Become a UX/UI Designer Without a Degree?

Yes. Many people enter this field through bootcamps, online learning, self‑directed projects, and by building strong portfolios. Having practical experience and demonstrable UX/UI work often matters more than formal education for many employers.

Five Jobs Similar to UX/UI Designer

1. UX Researcher

2. Product Designer

3. UI Designer

4. Interaction Designer

5. UX Strategist

Top Ten Recruitment Agencies for UX/UI Design Roles

1. Robert Half

2. Creative Circle

3. Aquent

4. The Creative Group

5. Onward Search

6. 24 Seven Talent

7. Michael Page

8. Korn Ferry

9. Adecco

10. Kelly Services

Top Ten Employers Hiring UX/UI Designers

1. Google

2. Apple

3. Microsoft

4. Amazon

5. Meta

6. IBM

7. Salesforce

8. Adobe

9. Airbnb

10. Spotify

Top Ten Startups Hiring UX/UI Designers

1. Figma

2. InVision

3. Miro

4. Notion

5. Canva

6. Webflow

7. Sketch

8. Zeplin

9. Framer

10. Maze

UX/UI Design is a dynamic and growing field with strong demand, competitive salaries, and opportunities for creativity and impact. With a solid portfolio, up‑to‑date design skills, and user‑centric thinking, you can build a rewarding career in this space. Learn about other high‑demand jobs over the next decade here.