Whether you checked social media or the weather or simply turned your alarm off, there’s a good chance you opened a mobile app before you even got dressed today. More than three billion people worldwide use smartphones, and that number is only expected to rise. As it does, the demand for mobile designers will grow with it.

So, what does a mobile designer do, and what does it take to succeed in this career? Put simply, mobile designers develop the look and feel of an application, including branding and style. They also work to optimize the user experience (UX) so that anyone interacting with the app finds it a pleasure rather than a frustration. That means mobile designers must have an excellent understanding of human needs and behaviors.

If this sounds like you, read on to see what the job is all about:

Duties and expectations for the mobile designer role

Here are some of the responsibilities that typically appear in a mobile designer job description:

  • Collaborate with cross-functional and UX teams to create engaging content
  • Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the graphical and functional aspects of web and mobile design
  • Work across platforms, including Android, HTML5 and iOS
  • Analyze objectives to develop designs that meet client needs and are intuitive for the end user
  • Create deliverables, including specifications, process workflows, wireframes and mock-ups
  • Conduct quality assurance work to identify possible problems before launch
  • Remain up to date on software developments and mobile trends

Looking for mobile designer jobs? Get in touch with the recruiters at Robert Half to find new opportunities faster.

Professional experience and skills in demand

No specific degree is required to become a mobile designer, but a design-related degree (in graphic, interaction or interface design, for instance) is preferred. A strong command of responsive design, UX, web metrics and programming is critical.

The best candidates have a deep understanding of industry trends. They are experts in software such as Photoshop, Illustrator, Sketch and Figma. However, the real key to success is experience with web functionality and the ability to work across multiple platforms and in native app design for iOS and Android operating systems. And as more industries adopt virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies, you can expect companies to look for mobile designers with experience in these fields as well.

Most importantly, you will want to develop a solid digital portfolio. Include at least three to five examples of your best work showcasing your skills in diverse genres and platforms. If possible, include an example of how you improved an existing application with a redesign.

Soft skills are also essential for this career. Mobile designers often work closely with app developers and, in some cases, clients. That’s why employers look for candidates with solid communication and teamwork skills.

See these tips for remote work success if you aim to work remotely as a mobile designer.

Mobile designer salary benchmarks

Curious about starting salaries for mobile designers? Consult Robert Half’s Salary Guide to learn what type of compensation a mobile designer could earn in 2023, based on their skills and experience. Click the banner below to access our latest version of the guide. It’s free!