At a Glance
- Tasks: Design how humans interact with robots, shaping behaviours and communication.
- Company: Join Humanoid, a leader in humanoid robotics innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 23 days leave, private healthcare, equity, and free meals.
- Other info: Collaborate with top engineers and researchers in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the future of human-robot collaboration.
- Qualifications: 7-10 years in interaction design, UX for robotics, or similar fields.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Here at Humanoid, we believe in a future where robots amplify human potential. That’s why we’ve set out on a mission to build the world’s most capable, commercially-scalable, and safe humanoid robots. We’re bringing that mission to life with HMND‑01 Alpha - our rapidly developed humanoid platform now running in real industrial pilots - and we’re growing the team to take it even further.
About the Role
We’re looking for a Senior Human–Robot Interaction (HRI) Designer who can define how people naturally communicate and collaborate with our humanoid robots. You’ll shape behaviours, motion cues, UI, and the overall interaction patterns that drive trust and usability. The initial contract is for 6 months. When applying, please include your portfolio.
What You’ll Do
- Contribute to end-to-end design of human–robot interaction behaviors
- Prototype interactions directly on real robot hardware
- Define standards for gestures, motion, communication cues, and user safety
- Work closely with engineering to translate designs into implemented behaviors
- Develop UI, conversation flows, and tools that support human-robot collaboration
- Conduct user research and testing to validate designs and approaches
- Ability to read academic papers and translate research findings into actionable HRI design criteria, not relying on AI summaries
We’re Looking For
- 7–10 years experience in interaction design, UX for robotics, HRI, or similar fields
- Highly preferable experience or track record designing for embodied agents and AI products
- Strong prototyping skills, alongside proven expertise in hardware interaction and digital product design
- Experienced in documenting & maintaining Design System
- Comfortable working hands-on with hardware and in lab environments
- Experience in microcontroller prototyping, motion design (After Effects), and writing technical design specifications
- Figma design asset creation and maintenance
- An experienced design track record demonstrating success in high-impact projects
- Deep understanding of HCI principles, human behavior, and user safety
- Able to operate independently and bridge design + engineering workflows
- Strong collaboration and communication skills across multi-disciplinary teams
- An eye for a well crafted design outcome
- A self-starter who understands priority management and consistently meets delivery milestones on time
What We Offer
- Meaningful time off to rest and recharge: 23 days of annual leave (accrued), 15 days of paid sick leave, and paid company holidays.
- Fully funded private healthcare for UK employees, with broad provider access, virtual and in‑person care, and strong mental health and serious illness support.
- Equity included–we believe builders should share in what they build.
- Pension scheme with a total 8% contribution (5% employee, 3% employer) on full earnings.
- Free daily breakfast, catered lunch, and snacks in‑office.
- Collaboration with top‑tier engineers, researchers, and product experts in AI and robotics.
- Freedom to influence the product and own key initiatives.
Senior Human–Robot Interaction (HRI) Designer employer: Thehumanoid
At Humanoid, we are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of technology and human potential through innovative humanoid robots. Our vibrant work culture fosters collaboration with top-tier engineers and researchers, providing meaningful opportunities for professional growth and influence over groundbreaking projects. With generous benefits including fully funded healthcare, equity options, and ample time off, we ensure our employees are well-supported and empowered to thrive in their roles.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Human–Robot Interaction (HRI) Designer
✨Tip Number 1
Get your portfolio in tip-top shape! Make sure it showcases your best work in HRI design, especially any projects that highlight your prototyping skills and collaboration with hardware. This is your chance to shine, so let your creativity and expertise do the talking!
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the robotics and design community, attend relevant meetups or webinars, and don’t be shy about sharing your passion for human-robot interaction. Building connections can open doors and give you insights into the industry that you won’t find anywhere else.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those interviews! Brush up on your knowledge of HCI principles and be ready to discuss how you’ve tackled design challenges in the past. Think about specific examples where you’ve successfully collaborated with engineers to bring designs to life—this will show you’re the perfect fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our mission at Humanoid. Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of something groundbreaking!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Human–Robot Interaction (HRI) Designer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Portfolio:Make sure to include your portfolio when applying! This is your chance to showcase your best work and demonstrate your skills in HRI design. We want to see how you’ve tackled real-world problems and created engaging interactions.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application. Take the time to tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in interaction design and robotics. We’re looking for specific examples that align with our mission at Humanoid.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and concise. We appreciate well-structured documents that get straight to the point. Make it easy for us to see why you’re the perfect fit for the role!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the details about the role and our company culture there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Thehumanoid
✨Showcase Your Portfolio
Make sure to bring your portfolio along and highlight projects that specifically relate to human-robot interaction. This is your chance to demonstrate your design process and how you've tackled challenges in previous roles.
✨Understand the Tech
Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in robotics and HRI. Being able to discuss how your designs can integrate with current technologies will show that you’re not just a designer, but someone who understands the engineering side too.
✨Prepare for Prototyping Questions
Expect questions about your prototyping skills and experiences. Be ready to discuss specific tools you’ve used, like Figma or After Effects, and how you’ve applied them in real-world scenarios to create effective user interactions.
✨Demonstrate Collaboration Skills
Since this role involves working closely with engineers and multi-disciplinary teams, prepare examples of how you’ve successfully collaborated in the past. Highlight your communication strategies and how you bridge the gap between design and engineering.
