Career Progression Framework - Product Design
Level Structure
- Designer I: 0-2 years experience, execute design tasks under guidance, contribute to design systems, basic user research. Advancement: Proficient in Figma, basic prototyping, minimum 18 months at level
- Designer II: 2-4 years experience, own feature design end-to-end, collaborate with PM/Engineering, conduct user interviews. Advancement: Advanced prototyping, user research methods, cross-functional collaboration skills
- Senior Designer: 4-7 years experience, lead complex projects, mentor junior designers, influence product strategy. Advancement: Systems thinking, advanced research, mentoring demonstrated, project leadership
- Principal Designer: 7+ years experience, set design vision, manage team or domain area, strategic business partnership
Development Resources
- Learning Paths: Design systems workshop, user research methods training, accessibility training, presentation skills for designers
- External Resources: Design conferences (UX Week, Config), online courses (IxDF, Coursera partnerships), design tool certifications
- Support Programs: Design mentor matching program, cross-functional mentorship with PM/Engineering, $2,000 annual learning budget
Career Planning Process
Annual career conversations during performance reviews, quarterly skill gap analysis, portfolio reviews every 6 months, promotion process includes portfolio presentation to design leadership.
