PRODUCT DESIGNER
Location: Austin, TX (Hybrid on-site, with up to 30% travel) Requirement: U.S. citizenship with ability to obtain security clearance
ABOUT NODA
NODA is a veteran-owned, venture-backed technology company that is transforming how unmanned systems collaborate in complex, mission-critical environments. We are developing next-generation solutions that enable the autonomous orchestration of heterogeneous unmanned systems across air, sea, land, and space with vital applications in the defense, intelligence, and commercial sectors.
We are building a comprehensive tactical military interface platform that serves as the command center for mission-critical operations. Our product designers craft experiences that enable operators to confidently manage complex data from unmanned systems and make split-second decisions in real-time operational environments.
Joining NODA means working on meaningful technology that pushes the boundaries of autonomy alongside a team that thrives on innovation, rapid iteration, and collaboration.
THE ROLE
We are seeking a Senior to Lead Product Designer to drive the design vision and execution for our tactical military interface platform.
This role requires a designer who can translate complex operational requirements into intuitive, mission-critical interfaces while establishing design excellence across the product.
You'll work at the intersection of user needs, technical constraints, and business objectives to create experiences that empower military operators in high-stakes environments.
This position offers the opportunity to grow into a design leadership role as our team and product expand.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Lead end-to-end product design for core features including battle management, asset tracking, operational planning, and event monitoring interfaces
- Collaborate with product managers, engineers, and military stakeholders to define product requirements and translate them into elegant design solutions
- Create detailed design specifications including interaction patterns, component states, precise measurements, and visual specifications for engineering implementation
- Conduct user research with military operators and stakeholders to understand workflows, pain points, and operational requirements in tactical environments
- Design and prototype complex interfaces for real-time data visualization, tactical mapping, multi-asset coordination, and mission planning
- Establish and maintain design patterns and conventions that ensure consistency across the platform while establishing design system practices
- Present design concepts and rationale to stakeholders including CEO, product leadership, engineering teams and leadership, and customer representatives
- Iterate rapidly based on user feedback, technical constraints, and evolving operational requirements
- Mentor junior designers and contribute to building a culture of design excellence at NODA
- Balance innovation with practical constraints of defense sector requirements and compliance standards
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- 5+ years of product design experience with a strong portfolio demonstrating expertise in complex products (B2B, enterprise, consumer, or technical applications)
- Proven experience designing complex interfaces such as data-dense dashboards, operational software, consumer applications with sophisticated features, or products with multiple interconnected systems
- Expert proficiency in Figma including advanced prototyping, component architecture, and design specification documentation
- Strong foundation in interaction design, information architecture, and visual design principles
- Experience working in agile development environments and collaborating closely with engineering teams
- Demonstrated ability to synthesize complex requirements from multiple stakeholders into coherent design solutions
- Strong communication and presentation skills with ability to articulate design decisions and rationale
- Previous experience mentoring junior designers or leading design initiatives
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience designing for defense, aerospace, military, or mission-critical applications
- Background in designing real-time monitoring systems, command and control interfaces, or tactical software
- Familiarity with mapping interfaces, geospatial data visualization, or location-based services
- Experience with design systems work or contributing to component libraries
- Knowledge of military operations, defense terminology, or experience working with government stakeholders
SKILLS & ATTRIBUTES
- Systems thinking ability to understand how individual components contribute to larger operational workflows
- Strong attention to detail with commitment to pixel-perfect execution and comprehensive documentation
- User empathy and ability to design for users in high-stakes, time-critical situations
- Analytical mindset to balance user needs, technical feasibility, and business objectives
- Adaptability to work in a fast-paced startup environment with evolving requirements
- Collaborative approach with ability to give and receive constructive feedback
- Passion for solving complex problems and creating clarity from complexity
- Growth mindset and eagerness to take on increasing responsibility
WHAT WE OFFER
- Generous health, dental, and vision benefits
- Free OneMedical membership
GROWTH PATH AT NODA
Senior to Lead Product Designers have opportunities to advance into Lead Product Designer and Principal Designer roles, take on design leadership responsibilities for specific product areas or user segments, or transition into Design Management positions as NODA expands its product portfolio and team.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment regardless of race, age, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.