Director, Product Design - Handshake

Role Overview

We are seeking a highly experienced and visionary Director of Product Design to lead and grow our product design team. As the Director, you will be responsible for shaping the user experience across Handshake's three-sided marketplace, ensuring our platform meets the evolving needs of students, employers, and educational institutions in the AI economy. You will work closely with cross-functional partners to ship impactful products, foster a productive and inclusive design culture, and drive the overall creative direction of our platform.

A Day in the Life

A typical day for the Director of Product Design at Handshake involves a blend of strategic planning, team management, and hands-on design leadership. Here's a glimpse:

• Strategic Alignment: Start the day with a meeting with the VP of Design and other design leaders to discuss the overall product roadmap and align on strategic priorities.
• Team Check-in: Meet with the product design team to review ongoing projects, provide feedback, and address any roadblocks.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Collaborate with product managers, engineers, and researchers to define product requirements and ensure design feasibility.
• Design Reviews: Participate in design reviews to provide constructive feedback and ensure high-quality design execution.
• User Research: Review user research findings to gain insights into user needs and behaviors, informing design decisions.
• Prototyping and Testing: Work with designers to create and test prototypes, iterating on designs based on user feedback.
• Stakeholder Presentations: Present design concepts and solutions to stakeholders, effectively communicating design rationale and impact.
• Mentoring and Coaching: Provide mentorship and coaching to design team members, helping them grow their skills and advance their careers.
• Culture Building: Participate in team-building activities and initiatives to foster a positive and inclusive design culture.

Why San Francisco?

San Francisco is a hub of innovation and technology, making it the ideal location for Handshake's headquarters. Being in San Francisco provides access to a diverse talent pool, a thriving tech ecosystem, and numerous opportunities for collaboration and networking. The city's proximity to top universities and leading tech companies fosters a culture of continuous learning and innovation. San Francisco also offers a vibrant cultural scene and a high quality of life, making it an attractive place for professionals to live and work.

Career Path

The Director of Product Design role at Handshake offers a clear path for career advancement. With success in this role, you can progress to higher-level leadership positions within the design organization, such as VP of Design or Chief Design Officer. You can also leverage your experience to move into other leadership roles within the company, such as product management or strategy. Handshake is committed to providing opportunities for professional growth and development, and we will work with you to create a personalized career path that aligns with your goals and aspirations.

Salary & Benefits

The salary range for the Director of Product Design position at Handshake is competitive and commensurate with experience. In addition to a competitive salary, Handshake offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Equity in a fast-growing company
• 401(k) match
• Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
• Unlimited PTO
• Paid parental leave
• Professional development budget
• Wellness benefits
• Commuter benefits
• Flexible work arrangements
• Employee resource groups (ERGs)
• Company-sponsored events and activities
• Opportunities for growth and advancement

Handshake delivers benefits that help you feel supported and thrive at work and in life.

Handshake's Mission

Handshake is the career network for the AI economy. We empower the next generation of talent by connecting them with opportunities, resources, and support to build fulfilling careers. Our mission is to democratize access to opportunity and help every student, regardless of background or location, find their dream job. We believe that by leveraging the power of AI and technology, we can create a more equitable and inclusive job market for all.

How to Apply

To apply for the Director of Product Design position at Handshake, please submit your resume and cover letter through our online application portal. In your cover letter, please highlight your relevant experience, skills, and accomplishments, and explain why you are a good fit for this role and Handshake's mission. We are excited to review your application and learn more about your qualifications.

FAQ

1. What is Handshake?

   Handshake is the career network for the AI economy, connecting students, employers, and educational institutions.

2. What is the role of the Director of Product Design?

   The Director of Product Design leads and grows the product design team, shaping the user experience across Handshake's platform.

3. What skills are required for this role?

   Skills include product design, mobile design, strategic thinking, team leadership, and stakeholder management.

4. What are the benefits of working at Handshake?

   Benefits include equity, 401(k) match, comprehensive health insurance, unlimited PTO, and professional development budget.

5. What is the career path for this role?

   Career path options include VP of Design, Chief Design Officer, and other leadership roles within the company.

6. What is the company culture like at Handshake?

   Handshake fosters a productive and inclusive design team culture, where everyone is supported and set up to do their best work.

7. How does Handshake support professional development?

   Handshake provides a professional development budget and opportunities for growth and advancement.

8. What is Handshake's approach to diversity and inclusion?

   Handshake is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace, with employee resource groups and initiatives to support underrepresented groups.

9. What is the work-life balance like at Handshake?

   Handshake offers flexible work arrangements and unlimited PTO to support work-life balance.

10. How does Handshake contribute to the AI economy?

    Handshake connects talent with opportunities in the AI economy, supporting career discovery, hiring, and upskilling.