UX & UI Design Resume Keywords: Complete ATS Reference

Skills & Keywords Reference · ATS Weight: critical · Updated 2025-03-15

UX and UI design keywords face a unique ATS challenge: design portfolios cannot be parsed by ATS systems, so resume text must carry the full keyword burden. ATS systems for design roles parse for specific tool names, methodology terms, and quantified impact metrics. Designers who rely on their portfolio to communicate skills often fail keyword screening before a human ever sees their work.

Primary Keywords

UX design UI design Figma user research prototyping wireframes usability testing design system accessibility interaction design responsive design information architecture

Synonym Groups

ATS systems may recognize these variations. Use the canonical form when possible, but including synonyms ensures broader matching.

UX design

Also matches: user experience design, user experience, UXD

UI design

Also matches: user interface design, visual design, interface design

usability testing

Also matches: user testing, usability study, usability evaluation

accessibility

Also matches: a11y, WCAG, ADA compliance, inclusive design

design system

Also matches: component library, pattern library, UI kit

Sketch Adobe XD InVision Framer Webflow HTML CSS motion design typography color theory

See how your resume scores against ATS systems

Check Your ATS Score Free →

Top Roles for UX & UI Design

Role Guide Ux Designer Role Guide Product Designer Role Guide Ui Developer Role Guide Ux Researcher Role Guide Interaction Designer

Top Industries for UX & UI Design

Industry Technology Industry Industry E Commerce Industry Industry Media Entertainment Industry

Common Mistakes

Submitting a visually designed resume that ATS systems cannot parse (use a separate text-based version)
Not listing design tools by name (Figma, Sketch, Adobe CC) in a dedicated Tools section
Omitting quantified design impact (conversion rates, task completion, usability scores)
Using 'design thinking' without describing specific design research and iteration processes
Not including accessibility expertise (WCAG level, assistive technology testing)

Optimal Resume Placement

Design Tools section listing every platform and tool by name
Experience bullets with quantified design outcomes: conversion lifts, error reduction, satisfaction scores
Portfolio URL prominently in header and in any URL fields provided by the ATS
Methodology section for senior roles: design thinking, user-centered design, lean UX

Skills Programming Languages Keywords Skills Communication Writing Keywords Skills Design Tools Keywords