Founding Designer, Nyad.ai – Birmingham, Alabama

About ErthSearch

ErthSearch is a recruitment agency specializing in placing top talent at ClimateTech startups and scaleups in the U.S.

We believe the need for the right people is core to building a successful venture, and failure is not an option in the climate fight.

The challenge: recruitment fees are often prohibitive. We are here to change that. Our cost model is transparent and affordable, so you can get the best talent on the market without it costing you an arm and a leg.

Reach out if you want a genuine hiring partner – not another mercenary.

About Our Client 

ErthSearch is working with Nyad, a venture-backed startup modernizing the essential wastewater management sector. By combining biology with machine learning, Nyad replaces manual "clipboard" processes with real-time image analysis and AI-driven microbial health models. 

They are a mission-driven team dedicated to closing the knowledge gap in water management through high-intensity craftsmanship and innovation.

The Role

As Nyad’s first creative hire, you will define the entire visual and functional foundation of the company. You will lead product design (UX/UI) and brand evolution, working directly with the founders to translate complex biological data into intuitive software. 

This is a high-ownership role where you will shape how the world experiences Nyad through the app, website, and storytelling.

Qualifications & Skills

Required 

• Proven experience as a "full-stack" designer who has owned the design for a product, company, or major launch.
• Deep expertise in the end-to-end product design process, including user research, wireframing, and interaction design.
• Ability to build and evolve brand systems, including logos, palettes, typography, and tone of voice.
• A "figure it out" mentality with a commitment to daily in-office collaboration and a high-intensity work ethic.

Nice to Have

• Experience designing for AI-driven or data-rich software products.
• Skills in storytelling, motion design, or creative direction.
• Proficiency in "light" coding, photography, or video production to enhance marketing efforts.

Benefits

• Meaningful equity that reflects a foundational, first-creative role.
• Deep creative freedom and direct access to founders with no corporate layers.
• Opportunity to build technology that directly impacts global water sustainability.
• A culture that prioritizes physical well-being (daily exercise) and high-level craftsmanship.

Note: This role requires US-Working Rights - the company is unable to sponsor visa transfers.

Application

If you are interested in this role and believe you are a good fit (ie: have a background in both UX/UI and brand systems for early-stage startups) apply today.

If you have any problems applying, you can reach out to Silas@erthsearch.com with your updated resume and reason for interest.