UX Researcher | Onsite

Photon$57K — $201K *
Consumer Technology
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Psychology, HCI, Design, Anthropology, Sociology, or related field.
  • 3-7+ years of experience in UX research or design research.
  • Experience conducting generative and exploratory research.
  • Strong understanding of qualitative research methodologies.
  • Excellent communication and storytelling skills.

Responsibilities

  • Plan and conduct exploratory research to identify user needs and motivations.
  • Use qualitative methods such as interviews and ethnographic studies.
  • Analyze research findings to extract actionable insights.
  • Work closely with creative teams during ideation and concept development.
  • Conduct early-stage concept testing and provide recommendations.

Benefits

  • Medical, vision, and dental benefits.
  • 401k retirement plan.
  • Variable pay/incentives.
  • Paid time off and holidays.
Full Job Description
Job Description

The UX Researcher is responsible for uncovering deep user insights that inspire and inform creative direction, concept development, and innovation. This role focuses on exploratory and generative research to help teams discover new opportunities, validate early ideas, and shape meaningful, user-centered creative solutions.

The UX Researcher partners closely with creative, design, product, and strategy teams to ensure creative discovery is grounded in real user needs, behaviors, motivations, and cultural context.

Key Responsibilities Generative & Discovery Research
  • Plan and conduct exploratory research to identify user needs, motivations, and unmet opportunities.
  • Use qualitative methods such as in-depth interviews, ethnographic studies, diary studies, contextual inquiry, and field research.
  • Support creative discovery phases by uncovering insights that inspire new concepts, features, and creative territories.
  • Identify emotional, behavioral, and cultural drivers that influence user engagement.

Insight Development & Opportunity Identification
  • Analyze research findings to extract actionable insights, themes, and opportunity areas.
  • Translate user insights into creative inspiration, design principles, and strategic recommendations.
  • Develop personas, journey maps, opportunity frameworks, and insight reports.
  • Help teams reframe problems and discover innovative directions.

Collaboration with Creative & Cross-Functional Teams
  • Work closely with creative leads, designers, strategists, and product managers during ideation and concept development.
  • Participate in creative workshops, brainstorming sessions, and concept validation.
  • Ensure creative concepts align with user needs and expectations.

Concept Testing & Validation
  • Conduct early-stage concept testing using interviews, prototype testing, and feedback sessions.
  • Evaluate creative directions, messaging, and storytelling approaches.
  • Provide recommendations to refine and strengthen creative concepts.

Communication & Storytelling
  • Present research findings in clear, compelling, and creative ways.
  • Use storytelling, visuals, and frameworks to make insights actionable.
  • Create reports, presentations, and insight summaries for stakeholders.

Research Operations & Best Practices
  • Maintain research documentation and knowledge repositories.
  • Advocate for user-centered thinking across the organization.
  • Ensure ethical research practices and participant confidentiality.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Psychology, Human-Computer Interaction, Design, Anthropology, Sociology, or related field.
  • 3-7+ years of experience in UX research, design research, or human-centered research.
  • Experience conducting generative and exploratory research.
  • Strong understanding of qualitative research methodologies.
  • Ability to translate research into actionable creative insights.
  • Excellent communication and storytelling skills.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience supporting creative discovery, brand strategy, or innovation teams.
  • Experience working in agencies, product companies, or innovation labs.
  • Familiarity with design thinking and human-centered design frameworks.
  • Exposure to concept testing, usability testing, and prototype evaluation.
  • Experience working in fast-paced, cross-functional environments.

Key Skills & Competencies
  • Generative and exploratory research
  • Qualitative research methods
  • Insight synthesis and storytelling
  • Opportunity identification
  • Creative collaboration
  • Concept validation
  • Strategic thinking
  • Stakeholder communication

Compensation, Benefits and Duration

Minimum Compensation: USD 57,000
Maximum Compensation: USD 201,000
Compensation is based on actual experience and qualifications of the candidate. The above is a reasonable and a good faith estimate for the role.
Medical, vision, and dental benefits, 401k retirement plan, variable pay/incentives, paid time off, and paid holidays are available for full time employees.
This position is available for independent contractors
No applications will be considered if received more than 120 days after the date of this post

About Photon

Photon Careers

Joining Photon presents an unparalleled opportunity to advance one's career with a leader in digital innovation. Photon is actively seeking talented individuals to join its diverse team of professionals, dedicated to reshaping industries through technology and creativity.

Explore Job Opportunities

Photon offers a variety of job opportunities that cater to a range of skills and interests. Each position at Photon is designed to challenge team members while providing meaningful pathways for professional and personal growth.

Experience the Culture and Benefits

Photon is committed to fostering a workplace culture that promotes diversity and inclusion. The company provides comprehensive benefits designed to support the health, well-being, and financial security of each team member. At Photon, every professional enjoys access to career development programs and diversity training, ensuring they are equipped for leadership roles in an evolving marketplace.

Engage in Professional Growth

Photon believes in the power of innovation and leadership to drive success. The company supports its team members with resources for continuous learning and growth, including advanced training sessions and leadership workshops. Networking within Photon’s industry-leading community allows for unparalleled career advancement and skill enhancement.

Internship Programs

For those beginning their professional journey, Photon offers internship programs that provide a robust foundation in digital solutions. Internships at Photon are characterized by immersive projects and hands-on learning, guided by experts in various fields. These programs are a gateway to full-time employment and a promising career path.

Join the Team

Photon is hiring! Explore open positions that match your skills and interests. Photon looks for passionate, curious, creative, and solution-driven team players. Whether you are starting your career or looking to make a significant impact in your professional journey, Photon has a place for you.

Prepare for Your Interview

Photon values a thorough selection process. Prospective team members are encouraged to prepare by understanding the company’s mission and values. Tailoring your resume to highlight relevant experience and skills will make a significant difference. Engage actively during your interview, demonstrating your knowledge and enthusiasm for the role you are applying for.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest from Photon by following the company’s career blog. Gain insights from insiders, learn about new job openings, and get tips on preparing your resume and acing your interview.

Career Development at Photon

Photon is dedicated to the professional development of its team members. The company offers various tools and resources, including career coaching and performance feedback, to help individuals reach their full potential. With Photon, career aspirations are nurtured, encouraging every team member to excel and innovate in their respective roles.

Networking and Career Opportunities

Photon encourages its team members to engage in networking within the company and the broader industry. These connections can lead to myriad opportunities, from collaborative projects to mentorship. Networking at Photon is not just about building professional relationships; it's about fostering a community of innovation and mutual growth.

Conclusion

Photon is not just a company; it is a community of driven professionals committed to making a difference. With a focus on innovation, leadership, and diversity, Photon offers a dynamic environment where ambitious individuals can thrive. Explore the possibilities and join Photon’s team of leaders, innovators, and visionaries.
Learn more about Photon

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