Product Design Intern at Understood in New York, NY

About Understood

Understood is a nonprofit focused on shaping the world for difference. We raise awareness of the challenges and strengths of people who learn and think differently. Our resources help people navigate challenges, gain confidence, and find support and community so they can thrive. 

Having a shared commitment to our values is a key factor in any hire we make. We have five core values: 

1. Continuously learn.
2. Act with intention.
3. Champion difference.
4. Inspire change.
5. Grow together. 

Come be part of an organization with an entrepreneurial spirit that’s helping to shape the world for difference. Together, we can build a world where everyone can reach their full potential. 

To learn more about Understood, please visit: www.understood.org.

Who you are 

This internship is open to undergraduate or graduate students seeking hands-on experience in Product Design. Reporting to the Director of Product Design, you’ll work alongside product designers, product managers, engineers, and UX researchers to help create digital experiences that support people who learn and think differently.

You’re right for the role if you’re curious, thoughtful, and excited to learn how real products are built. You care about users, enjoy solving problems, and want experience contributing to meaningful work that has real-world impact.

This internship will be based out of our NYC office in the West Village. Interns work up to 25 hours per week: three full days in-office (Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday) and one half-day remote. Pay rate: $25/hour.

Responsibilities

• Support the Product Design team on active product initiatives
• Create wireframes, mockups, prototypes, and visual explorations using Figma
• Assist with user research, synthesis, and translating insights into design ideas
• Participate in design critiques, brainstorms, and cross-functional working sessions
• Collaborate with Product, Engineering, Content, and Research partners throughout the summer
• Contribute to team improvement goals, especially by experimenting with AI to improve the product design workflow

Ideal candidates will possess the following:

• Current undergraduate or graduate student in Design, HCI or related field
• Strong interest in product design, UX/UI, or human-centered design
• Familiarity with Figma 
• Strong communication and collaboration skills
• Ability to manage time, stay organized, and balance multiple priorities
• Openness to feedback and eagerness to learn through iteration
• Genuine interest in Understood’s mission and inclusive design
• Committed to embodying and being a steward of our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging

Bonus:

• Portfolio of school, freelance, or personal design projects
• Experience with prototyping tools
• Knowledge of accessibility best practices
• Interest in education, behavioral science, or mission-driven products

Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion

Understood encourages individuals of all learning styles and ethnic, racial, and socioeconomic backgrounds, including those whose life experiences may include the challenge of access due to a disability, to apply for this position. We are committed to maximizing the diversity of our organization, as we want to engage all those who can contribute to supporting this work.

Understood is an equal opportunity employer and considers all applications without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, alienage or citizenship status, marital or familial status, domestic partnership status, caregiver status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, change of sex or transgender status, genetic information, medical condition, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, physical or mental disability (where the applicant or employee is qualified to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation), any protected military or veteran status, or status as a victim of domestic or dating violence, sexual assault or offense, stalking, or any other characteristics protected by federal, state, or local law or that of persons with whom that individual associates, or any other legally protected characteristics.

For additional information on learning and thinking differences, including ADD/ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, dyspraxia, executive function challenges, nonverbal learning disabilities, processing issues, and more, please visit www.understood.org.

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