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Hiring Designers at Startups
Design hiring at startups is confusing. Here is how to figure out what you need and find the right person.
R
Roles Team
Talent Advisors · January 6, 2025
# Hiring Designers at Startups
Design hiring at startups is uniquely challenging.
Types of Design Roles
- Product Designer: Designs user interfaces and experiences - Brand Designer: Visual identity and marketing materials - Design Generalist: Does a bit of everything
When to Hire
After product-market fit when founders cannot keep up with design needs.
Portfolio Evaluation
- Process, not just final work - Before/after with clear impact - Work similar to your challenges
Compensation 2025
- Junior: $100-130K - Mid: $130-170K - Senior: $170-220K
The Bottom Line
The best startup designers are craftspeople who can move fast.