Fractional Design Systems Lead

Kindred·Remote(Anywhere in the World)·Work From Anywhere
Other
Excel

WFA Digital Insight

The demand for skilled design systems leaders has skyrocketed in recent years, with the global UX design market expected to reach

4.5 billion by 2027. As companies like Kindred continue to innovate and scale, the need for expert design systems professionals has never been more pressing. With its unique approach to home swapping, Kindred is poised to disrupt the travel industry, and this role offers a rare chance to build a design system from the ground up. Candidates should be prepared to showcase their expertise in systems leadership, technical orchestration, and modern Figma mastery.

Job Description

About the Role

The Fractional Design Systems Lead role at Kindred is a unique opportunity to architect and execute Design System 2.0, a modular system that will serve as the foundation for the company's product ecosystem. As a seasoned design systems professional, you will be responsible for translating Kindred's new visual identity into a scalable and high-performance product ecosystem. This is a part-time contract engagement expected to last approximately three months, with no guaranteed extension.

Kindred is a members-only home swapping network that unlocks the ability to live a travel-rich lifestyle through the power of community. By exchanging primary residences with trusted peers, renters and owners alike can match with Kindred spirits and explore new destinations without breaking the bank. The company has raised significant capital from top investors in Silicon Valley and is on a mission to build a sharing economy that lives up to its name.

What You Will Do

  • Lead the end-to-end creation of a modular system, defining the logic for tokens, components, and patterns that serve both web and mobile
  • Partner with stakeholders to codify new identity guidelines into a functional, multi-platform UI kit
  • Implement a 'Single Source of Truth' workflow, ensuring that when a design changes, the code follows
  • Leverage AI-driven tools and automation to reduce manual handoff, audit component health, and streamline documentation
  • Build the foundation of how Kindred ships product, ensuring the design language is inseparable from the codebase
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of design systems
  • Develop and maintain a deep understanding of Kindred's product ecosystem and design language
  • Stay up-to-date with industry trends and emerging technologies in design systems
  • Participate in design and product discussions to ensure design systems are considered and integrated

What We Are Looking For

  • 5+ years of experience in design systems leadership, ideally leading design systems at design-forward companies or high-growth startups
  • Deep expertise with platforms like Knapsack or Supernova to bridge the gap between Figma and production code
  • Experience building or managing custom Figma-to-GitHub actions (or similar CI/CD integrations) to automate token transforms and component updates
  • Expert-level use of Figma Variables, Advanced Prototyping, and Code Connect
  • Fluency in JSON/style dictionaries, React component structures, and the ability to speak the same language as the Engineering team
  • Strong understanding of design principles, human-centered design, and user experience
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work with cross-functional teams

Nice to Have

  • Experience with design systems at a global scale, with a deep understanding of international design trends and best practices
  • Familiarity with Agile development methodologies and version control systems like Git
  • Knowledge of accessibility guidelines and principles, with experience implementing accessible design systems
  • Experience with design tools like Sketch, Adobe XD, or InVision

Benefits and Perks

  • Opportunity to work with a innovative and fast-growing company in the travel industry
  • Collaborative and dynamic work environment with a team of experienced professionals
  • Flexible working hours and remote work options
  • Access to the latest design and development tools and technologies
  • Professional development opportunities, including training and conference sponsorships
  • Competitive compensation package, with a focus on performance-based incentives
  • Comprehensive health and wellness benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Generous paid time off policy, with a focus on work-life balance
  • Remote stipend to support remote work and productivity

How to Stand Out

  • Develop a strong portfolio showcasing your design systems expertise, including case studies and examples of your work
  • Familiarize yourself with Kindred's product ecosystem and design language to demonstrate your understanding of the company's unique challenges and opportunities
  • Practice your communication and collaboration skills, as design systems leaders must be able to work effectively with cross-functional teams
  • Stay up-to-date with industry trends and emerging technologies in design systems, including the latest tools and methodologies
  • Be prepared to discuss your experience with design systems at scale, including your approach to international design trends and best practices
  • Highlight your expertise in Figma, including your experience with Variables, Advanced Prototyping, and Code Connect
  • Show a willingness to learn and adapt, as design systems are constantly evolving and improving

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