Principal Designer

Principal Designer

Schema 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.
The Opportunity
Schema 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.
Responsibilities

Lead design strategy and execution for client engagements with complex, ambiguous requirements
Define design approaches, frameworks, and methodologies for intelligent interface projects
Present and defend design decisions to senior client stakeholders
Contribute to business development through proposal development and client presentations
Design sophisticated data visualizations, intelligent interfaces, and information systems
Create design systems and frameworks that scale across products and platforms
Prototype and validate design concepts through rapid iteration and user testing
Ensure design quality and consistency across projects
Mentor and support other designers on the team
Contribute to Schema's design process, standards, and culture
Participate in thought leadership through Schema Labs prototypes, case studies, or speaking engagements
Stay current with emerging technologies, particularly AI/ML, and their implications for interface design
Partner closely with technology and strategy leads on multidisciplinary projects
Facilitate collaborative design processes with clients and internal teams
Bridge technical constraints and business goals through thoughtful design solutions
Required Qualifications

7+ years of experience in interaction design, data visualization, or related field
Proven track record leading design for complex, ambiguous problems
Experience designing for data-intensive or AI/ML-powered applications
Portfolio demonstrating sophisticated design thinking and craft excellence
History of successful client engagements and stakeholder management
Expert proficiency with Figma and modern design tools
Strong information design and data visualization capabilities
Ability to design across multiple platforms (web, mobile, embedded)
Experience creating and maintaining design systems
Excellent visual design skills with attention to typography, layout, and hierarchy
Rapid prototyping skills (from sketches to high-fidelity interactive prototypes)
Understanding of front-end web technologies (HTML, CSS, JavaScript)
Ability to mentor and guide other designers
Strong presentation and storytelling skills
Comfortable facilitating workshops and leading collaborative design sessions
Clear written communication for documentation and client deliverables
Experience working effectively in multidisciplinary teams with engineers and strategists
Systems thinker who can see both details and big picture
Comfortable with ambiguity and iterative, research-driven design processes
Passionate about emerging technologies, particularly AI and intelligent systems
Committed to design quality and craft excellence
Collaborative leader who elevates the work of others
Preferred Qualifications

Experience designing AI/ML interfaces or decision support systems
Background in human-computer interaction (HCI) research or practice
Familiarity with D3.js or other data visualization frameworks
Experience with Observable, Jupyter, or other computational notebooks
Public speaking or writing experience
Graduate degree in Design, HCI, or related field
Work Location
This 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.