Who We Are

Simon Fraser University is a leading research university, advancing an inclusive and sustainable future. Our purpose – the essence of SFU – is to create and connect knowledge, learning and community for deeper understanding and meaningful impact. We are committed to fostering excellence, innovation, belonging and community in all that we do.

SFU’s Communications & Marketing (C&M) team members are consultative problem-solvers. We deliver strategies that help inform our key audiences and influence their attitudes, perceptions and behaviours in support of SFU as a leading research university, advancing an inclusive and sustainable future.

About the Role

The UI/UX Designer leads user-centered design initiatives that reflect the evolving role of artificial intelligence in digital engagement. The role focuses on rethinking how users discover, navigate and interact with SFU's digital platforms in an AI-enhanced context, with the goal of improving usability, trust, and accessibility across web and mobile experiences. By translating complex user needs and institutional goals into intuitive, adaptive and scalable interface solutions, the role ensures a responsive and inclusive digital presence that supports intelligent content delivery and context-aware interaction. Through collaboration with cross-functional teams, stewardship of dynamic design systems and a forward-looking approach to user behaviour and technology, the role drives innovation, experimentation and consistency in the university's digital ecosystem. The role plays a critical role in shaping how SFU designs for discovery, understanding, and agency in a world where AI is transforming the user experience landscape.

Full Job Description

Qualifications

A Bachelor's degree in User Experience Design, Interaction Design, Human-Computer Interaction Information Architecture, or a related discipline, and four years of related experience designing for complex digital platforms, with demonstrated experience addressing evolving user behaviors, AI-influenced experiences, or intent-based interaction design; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

* Thorough knowledge of user experience and interaction design principles, with a specialization in adaptive, non-linear, or exploratory user journeys.
* Thorough understanding of UX methodologies, including journey mapping, behavioural pattern recognition, intent modelling, and interface explainability.
* Ability to design for AI-influenced environments, including dynamic content presentation, user intent modelling or conversational interfaces.
* Familiarity with tools and platforms that support AI-enhanced UX workflows (e.g., Figma AI, Galileo, Uizard, Adobe Firefly).
* Demonstrated commitment to ongoing upskilling or formal training in AI, such as courses in AI design, human-AI interaction, ethical AI use in UX, or generative UI technologies.
* Knowledge of accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG 2.1+) and how to apply them to interfaces involving dynamic or AI-generated content.
* Strong understand of system and component-based UI frameworks, with the ability to define scalable, modular, and future-resilient design systems.
* Experience collaborating with cross-functional teams, including content strategy, data and analytics, accessibility, and platform engineering.
* Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to advocate for users and explain design decisions in both technical and non-technical settings.
* Strong organizational and strategic thinking skills, with the ability to balance innovation, clarity, and usability in a fast-evolving technological context.
* Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt designs to evolving user expectations, tools and institutional priorities.
* Excellent organizational, strategic thinking and project management skills.
* Excellent decision-making and problem-solving skills in a digital communications context.
* Ability to translate complex, abstract requirements—including those involving AI behaviour or uncertainty—into clear, actionable user interface designs.
* Ability to manage multiple priorities and projects within established timelines and budgets.
* Ability to work cooperatively and effectively with cross-functional teams, including developers, content strategists, and institutional leadership.

What We Offer

At SFU, our goal is to ensure our people are valued and supported by promoting a healthy work-life balance, professional growth and development, as well as a safe and respectful workplace. We offer continuing employees who belong in the Administrative & Professional Staff Association (APSA):

* 4 weeks’ vacation (prorated for the first year)*
* Hybrid-work program for eligible positions
* Employer paid defined benefit pension plan
* On-campus tuition waiver for employees and their immediate family members*
* Off-campus tuition reimbursements and professional development funds*
* And more! View our benefits brochure
* Prorated for part-time employees

Additional Information

Please include your cover letter and resume in one attachment.

SFU is an equity employer and strongly encourages applications from all qualified individuals including women, Indigenous Peoples, visible minorities, people of all sexual orientations and gender identities, persons with disabilities, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of the university.

We are committed to ensuring that the application and interview process is accessible to all applicants. If you require any assistance or accommodations, please contact pei_reception@sfu.ca.