Design Researcher

Overview

Aquent is partnering with a prominent organization in the financial sector, renowned for its commitment to innovation and customer-centric solutions. This is an exceptional opportunity to join a forward-thinking team where your expertise will directly shape the evolution of digital experiences. As a pivotal member of our client’s team, you will drive critical insights, foster a user-first culture, and ensure that every strategic initiative is grounded in a deep understanding of user needs, making a tangible impact on product development and overall business success.

**About the Role**

We are seeking a highly empathetic and skilled professional to champion user needs and drive research initiatives within a dynamic product environment. In this role, you will be the definitive source of truth regarding user wants and needs, translating complex insights into actionable recommendations that guide design and strategy. You will lead the charge in establishing a user-first culture, influencing key stakeholders and ensuring that user understanding is at the forefront of every major initiative. Your ability to build strong relationships and trust will be as crucial as your technical acumen, contributing significantly to the team’s broader achievements.

**Responsibilities**

* Collaborate closely with product teams to define comprehensive research goals and meticulously plan user interviews or usability tests.
* Execute interview sessions, thoroughly analyze feedback, and synthesize findings into clear, actionable recommendations.
* Act as a strong advocate for user needs, developing insightful personas and journey maps, and effectively sharing findings to inform and guide design decisions.
* Lead the department in insights, cultivating a user-first culture that is integrated into all large initiatives for internal stakeholders.
* Serve as the primary contact and authoritative source for understanding user wants and needs.

**Qualifications**

**Must-Have Qualifications**

* BA/BS degree in Psychology, Anthropology, Sociology, Information Studies, Design (e.g., interaction, graphic, visual communications, product, industrial), Human Computer Interaction (HCI), Computer Science (CS), or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
* A minimum of 7 years of experience in research.
* Technical understanding of design research theory and design research tools.
* Working knowledge of a variety of design research methodologies.
* Experience working effectively on cross-functional teams.
* High focus on empathy, maintaining strong stakeholder relationships, and building trust.
* Proficiency in leading user research and collaboration platforms.

**Nice-to-Have Qualifications**

* MA/MS degree or certification in Psychology, Anthropology, Sociology, Information Studies, Design (e.g., interaction, graphic, visual communications, product, industrial), Human Computer Interaction (HCI), Computer Science (CS), or a related field.
* Appreciation for the potential of ‘design thinking’.
* Experience working within a large-scale organization and a customer-focused environment.
* Experience contributing to the launch of a digital product.
* Familiarity with design and presentation tools.

**About Aquent Talent**

Aquent Talent connects the best talent in marketing, creative, and design with the world’s biggest brands.
Our eligible talent get access to amazing benefits like subsidized health, vision, and dental plans, paid sick leave, and retirement plans with a match. 
Aquent is an equal-opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics. We’re about creating an inclusive environment-one where different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives are valued, and everyone can contribute, grow their careers, and thrive.

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