[Remote] Motion Design Systems Expert (Contract) at Upwork

Remote

Upwork Logo
Not SpecifiedCompensation
Expert & Leadership (9+ years)Experience Level
Full TimeJob Type
UnknownVisa
TechnologyIndustries

Requirements

  • Has built motion systems at scale (design system or major product)
  • Fluent in both design & engineering language
  • Can work hands-on (tokens, animations, Figma libraries) while also setting strategy
  • Comfortable teaching and enabling a team to continue the work

Responsibilities

  • Define motion tokens: duration, easing curves, delays, and reusable presets (e.g. transition-short, easing-emphasized)
  • Align tokens with engineering feasibility (web + mobile)
  • Create system-level motion principles (intentional, authentic, inclusive, grounded)
  • Document when to use motion and when not to
  • Define accessibility standards (reduced motion, alternatives)
  • Translate principles into patterns for components and interactions (e.g. overlays, toasts, navigation, micro-feedback)
  • Provide Figma prototypes and animation examples for designers
  • Partner with engineers to ensure tokens and guidelines are implementable
  • Run short workshops / reviews so our team can confidently apply motion after the contract ends

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

Motion DesignDesign SystemsMotion TokensEasing CurvesAnimation PresetsWeb AnimationMobile AnimationDesign GuidelinesAccessibility

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What are the required skills for this Motion Design Systems Expert role?

Candidates must have built motion systems at scale for design systems or major products, be fluent in both design and engineering language, work hands-on with tokens, animations, and Figma libraries while setting strategy, and be comfortable teaching and enabling a team.

Is this a remote position or does it require office work?

This information is not specified in the job description.

What is the compensation or salary for this role?

This information is not specified in the job description.

What is the contract duration and start date?

The engagement is a short-term contract targeting an early November start date, with possibility of extension.

What kind of team environment will I be working in?

You'll collaborate with skilled professionals around the world as part of Upwork’s Hybrid Workforce Solutions program, contributing to impactful projects and gaining exposure while supporting Upwork’s mission.

Upwork

Online platform connecting freelancers and clients

About Upwork

Upwork connects freelancers with clients looking for various services in the gig economy, which focuses on short-term contracts instead of permanent jobs. The platform allows freelancers to create profiles that showcase their skills, while clients can post job listings for specific projects. Freelancers bid on these projects, and clients choose the best candidates based on proposals and reviews. Upwork earns revenue through service fees charged to freelancers based on their earnings, with a tiered structure that rewards long-term client relationships. The platform also offers premium memberships and additional services for enhanced visibility and access to job listings. Upwork provides tools for time tracking, invoicing, and project management, making it easier for both freelancers and clients to manage their work and payments. The goal of Upwork is to facilitate successful project completion by bridging the gap between freelancers and clients.

San Francisco, CaliforniaHeadquarters
2015Year Founded
$143.8MTotal Funding
IPOCompany Stage
Consulting, Enterprise SoftwareIndustries
10,001+Employees

Benefits

Health Insurance
Unlimited Paid Time Off
401(k) Retirement Plan
401(k) Company Match
Parental Leave
Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Risks

Increased competition from Fiverr and Toptal threatens Upwork's market share.
The new Fiverr-style Project Catalog may commoditize services, reducing freelancers' perceived value.
Strategic shifts under new management may not align with current client expectations.

Differentiation

Upwork connects freelancers with clients across diverse industries, enhancing global work opportunities.
The platform offers tools like time tracking and invoicing for efficient project management.
Upwork's tiered fee structure incentivizes long-term client relationships, differentiating it from competitors.

Upsides

Upwork's acquisition of Objective AI enhances its AI capabilities for better talent matching.
The introduction of Featured Jobs increases visibility for job posts, attracting more candidates.
Upwork's recognition as the top job posting site boosts its credibility among employers.

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