UI/UX Lead

Critical Manufacturing is dedicated to empowering high-performance operations to make Industry 4.0 a reality with the most innovative, comprehensive, and modular MES software. We have a global presence, but our headquarters, and the main technical center, are in Porto (Maia), Portugal, where we develop a state-of-the-art solution for Semiconductor, Electronics, Life Sciences, and Industrial Equipment. Recognized as a Leader by Gartner, we are part of ASMPT, the world's largest supplier of best-in-class equipment, and technological process partner for the electronics and semiconductor industries. The Role Critical Manufacturing is seeking an experienced UI/UX Lead to drive user experience strategy and lead our design team in building next-generation Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) and industrial automation software. In this role, you will lead a high-performing team of UI/UX designers and researchers while shaping intuitive, error-resilient, and high-efficiency interfaces for shop floor operators, plant managers, quality engineers, and process engineers. You will bridge the gap between complex industrial workflows (such as ISA-88/ISA-95 standards, Master Batch Records, batch execution, and traceability) and modern, human-centered design. You will balance team management, strategic UI/UX vision, and hands-on design leadership to transform complex operational data into seamless, mission-critical software solutions. What You Will Do Lead & Mentor: Manage, coach, and support a dedicated team of UI/UX designers and researchers; strengthen team cohesion, set clear expectations, improve delivery, conduct regular 1-on-1s, drive skill development, and set clear performance benchmarks. Resource & Capacity Management: Manage project allocation across core MES product modules, evaluate design staffing needs, and lead hiring and onboarding for new UI/UX talent. Establish user experience frameworks tailored to shop floor conditions, operator efficiency, rapid data entry, ala