User Experience Design Intern

Shure is a globally recognized leader in audio equipment, renowned for its microphones, headphones, and wireless systems. The User Experience Design Intern program at Shure’s Niles, IL headquarters offers hands-on experience in a top-tier professional audio company, with a focus on practical skills, mentorship, and career growth for young professionals.

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Company Intelligence

• History & Size: Founded in 1925, Shure began as a radio parts company and evolved into one of the world’s most respected audio brands, pioneering iconic products like the Model 55 Unidyne Microphone and the SM57/SM58 series. Shure is privately held, with a global presence and hundreds of employees.
• Industry Position: Shure is a market leader in professional audio, competing with brands like Sennheiser, Bose, and Yamaha. It is a key player in the wireless microphone market, valued at $2.02 billion in 2024 and projected to grow significantly.
• Recent News & Strategic Direction: Shure has recently expanded through acquisitions, including Stem Audio (2020) and Ab Wavemark Oy (2023), strengthening its portfolio in software and integrated audio solutions. The company invests heavily in R&D, focusing on immersive audio, cloud integration, and AI-driven sound technologies.
• Culture & Work Environment: Shure is known for its collaborative, innovation-driven culture, emphasizing quality, reliability, and employee development. The Niles headquarters features modern facilities, including a Performance Listening Center and interactive labs. Employees report a supportive environment with opportunities for growth and learning.
• Values & Mission: Shure’s mission centers on “making people sound extraordinary.” The company values integrity, innovation, and hearing conservation, demonstrated by initiatives like the Bid for Hearing program.
• Office Locations & Hybrid/Remote Policies: Headquarters are in Niles, IL, with offices worldwide. While most internships are on-site for hands-on collaboration, Shure has adapted flexible work policies for some roles, especially post-pandemic, but expect the UX Design Internship to be primarily in-person for optimal mentorship and teamwork.

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Program Deep Dive

• Structure & Timeline: The internship typically runs for 10–12 weeks over the summer, with possible extensions. Interns work full-time (40 hours/week) alongside experienced UX designers and cross-functional teams.
• Skills & Competencies Sought: Shure looks for candidates with:
• User-centered design thinking
• Proficiency in design tools (Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD)
• Basic prototyping and wireframing
• Strong communication and collaboration skills
• Interest in audio technology and product usability
• Daily Responsibilities & Learning: Interns participate in:
• User research and persona development
• Designing wireframes, mockups, and prototypes
• Usability testing and data analysis
• Collaborating with engineers and product managers
• Presenting design solutions to stakeholders
• Mentorship & Training: Interns receive direct mentorship from senior UX designers, attend workshops, and have access to Shure’s training resources. Regular feedback sessions and project reviews are integral to the program.
• Career Progression: Successful interns may be considered for full-time roles or extended internships. Alumni often progress to junior UX designer, product designer, or related roles within Shure or other leading tech companies.

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Application Success Guide

• Requirements & Deadlines:
• Current undergraduate or recent graduate (18–25)
• Resume, portfolio (showcasing UX projects), and cover letter
• Application deadline: Typically January–March for summer intake (check the job posting for specifics)
• Step-by-Step Process:

1. Submit application online (resume, cover letter, portfolio)
2. Initial HR screening (phone/video)
3. Technical interview (portfolio review, design challenge)
4. Final interview with UX team (behavioral and technical questions)
5. Offer and onboarding

• Common Interview Questions:
• Describe your design process for a recent project.
• How do you incorporate user feedback into your designs?
• What UX challenges have you faced and how did you solve them?
• Why are you interested in audio technology and Shure?
• Assessment Centers/Case Studies: Some candidates may be asked to complete a design challenge or case study, such as redesigning a feature for a Shure product or analyzing user flows.
• Standout Candidate Traits:
• Strong portfolio with clear design rationale
• Passion for audio and user experience
• Ability to articulate design decisions
• Teamwork and adaptability

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Insider Tips

• Interview Tips:
• Research Shure’s products and UX philosophy.
• Be ready to discuss how your designs improve user experience for audio products.
• Show curiosity about sound technology and its impact on users.
• Technical vs Soft Skills:
• Technical skills (prototyping, research) are essential, but Shure highly values communication, empathy, and teamwork.
• Industry Knowledge:
• Demonstrate awareness of trends in audio UX, such as accessibility, mobile integration, and immersive sound experiences.
• Questions to Ask Interviewers:
• How does Shure integrate user feedback into product development?
• What are the biggest UX challenges in audio hardware/software?
• What mentorship opportunities are available for interns?
• Red Flags to Avoid:
• Generic portfolios not tailored to audio or hardware UX
• Lack of interest in Shure’s products or mission
• Poor communication or inability to explain design choices

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Practical Information

• Salary/Stipend: Typical range for UX interns in the Chicago area is $22–$30/hour, depending on experience and education.
• Benefits:
• Paid internship
• Access to company facilities and events
• Networking with professionals and other interns
• Potential for health benefits (varies by program)
• Start Dates & Duration:
• Most internships start in May/June and run through August.
• Networking & Alumni:
• Interns join a cohort, participate in company events, and connect with Shure’s global network. Alumni often stay in touch and provide referrals or career advice.

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Actionable Advice:

• Tailor your portfolio to showcase UX work relevant to audio or hardware.
• Highlight teamwork, user research, and problem-solving in your application.
• Prepare to discuss Shure’s products and how you would improve their user experience.
• Network with current or former Shure interns via LinkedIn for insider perspectives.
• Apply early and follow up professionally to demonstrate genuine interest.