Design Researcher: Data Strategist

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Researcher: Data Strategist

Company: Corgan

Location: Dallas, TX, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Design & Data Strategy Operations

Date Posted: 2026-06-07

Experience Level: 3-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive impactful design decisions through rigorous qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, focusing on user insights and behavior analysis.

• Develop and implement comprehensive data strategies, leveraging primary and secondary data sources to inform organizational goals and objectives.

• Create compelling information designs and data visualizations that enhance user engagement and communicate complex data effectively.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including designers, data scientists, and stakeholders, to translate research findings into actionable design recommendations and improvements.

• Stay abreast of emerging trends in data strategy, information design, AI, and machine learning to foster innovation and maintain a competitive edge in design research.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned at the intersection of design research and data strategy, requiring a candidate who can bridge the gap between user understanding and data-driven decision-making. The emphasis on "Hugo team" and "Hugo Director" suggests a specialized internal division or initiative within Corgan that likely focuses on forward-thinking design and strategic application of data.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and execute comprehensive research plans utilizing a mix of qualitative (user interviews, usability tests) and quantitative (surveys, analytics analysis) methods to gather rich user data.

• Collaborate with data scientists and analysts to identify, access, and integrate relevant internal and external data sources for holistic insights.

• Partner with stakeholders across various departments to clearly define research objectives, scope, and desired outcomes for research initiatives.

• Conduct rigorous user testing sessions, analyzing feedback to iterate on and refine designs for optimal user experience and adoption.

• Analyze complex research findings and synthesize disparate data points into clear, actionable insights and strategic recommendations for design and business teams.

• Translate research insights into tangible design recommendations, collaborating with designers to implement improvements that enhance user engagement and satisfaction.

• Develop predictive design models and analytical tools to forecast user behavior and inform future design strategies.

• Create visually appealing and intuitive information designs and data visualizations that effectively communicate key findings and trends to diverse audiences.

• Develop and implement robust data strategies that directly align with Corgan's overarching organizational goals and strategic objectives.

• Produce insightful industry trend reports, geographical data comparisons, and demographic studies to inform market positioning and strategic planning.

• Research, develop, and present user-focused trend reports tailored to specific industries and user segments relevant to Corgan's work.

• Continuously monitor and analyze industry trends, advancements in data strategy, and best practices in information design to maintain expertise and drive innovation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities indicate a strong emphasis on both the strategic development of data-informed design and the practical execution of research. The mention of "predictive design models and analysis tools" suggests an advanced analytical component to the role, requiring a blend of research acumen and quantitative modeling skills.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Information Design, Data Science, Business Analytics, Applied Statistics, or a closely related field.

Experience: 3-5 years of proven experience in a Design Researcher role or a similar position, with a specific focus on data strategy and information design.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in developing and executing research strategies that encompass both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies.

• Demonstrated experience in conducting user experience (UX) research to uncover user needs, behaviors, and pain points.

• Expertise in data visualization tools and techniques to present complex data in an understandable and impactful manner.

• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex datasets and derive actionable insights.

• Familiarity with Agile methodologies and Design Thinking processes for iterative development and problem-solving.

• Proficiency in design software such as Adobe Creative Suite, Sketch, Figma, or comparable tools.

• Proficiency in programming languages commonly used in data analysis and modeling, such as R or Python.

• Proficiency in data visualization programs such as Tableau, Power BI, or similar platforms. Preferred Skills:

• Experience in developing market trend analyses and mapping trends and insights across multiple industries.

• Background or strong interest in the Architecture or Interior Design industry.

• Experience with 3D modeling programs like SketchUp or Revit.

• Familiarity with research platforms such as UserTesting, dscout, Qualtrics, SurveyMonkey, or Microsoft Forms.

• Familiarity with Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) applications and AI tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required technical proficiencies in programming languages (R, Python) and data visualization tools (Tableau, Power BI) alongside design software (Adobe Suite, Figma) highlight the hybrid nature of this role, demanding both analytical and creative execution capabilities. The preference for industry-specific experience (Architecture/Interior Design) and AI/ML familiarity suggests Corgan is looking for a candidate who can quickly adapt and contribute to their specific operational context.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 distinct projects demonstrating your ability to conduct both qualitative and quantitative research, detailing the research questions, methodologies employed, and key findings.

• Include examples of data strategy development, illustrating how you identified data sources, defined objectives, and translated them into actionable plans.

• Present examples of information design and data visualization, highlighting your process from raw data to compelling visual narratives that drove design decisions or strategic insights.

• Demonstrate your experience in translating research insights into concrete design recommendations or strategic proposals, ideally with evidence of impact or iteration.

• For projects involving user testing, include insights gained and how they directly influenced design changes or product direction. Process Documentation:

• For each portfolio project, provide a brief overview of the research process, including planning, execution, analysis, and reporting phases.

• Document your approach to synthesizing complex data into clear, concise, and actionable insights for diverse stakeholders.

• Illustrate your workflow for collaborating with cross-functional teams (designers, data scientists, product managers) to ensure cohesive strategy and execution.

• Detail any processes you've developed or optimized for data collection, analysis, or visualization to improve efficiency or accuracy.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit requirement for a portfolio, especially for design positions, signifies Corgan's emphasis on practical application and demonstrable skills. Candidates should prepare to walk through their portfolio, explaining their thought process, methodology, and the impact of their work, particularly focusing on how data influenced design outcomes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Given the location (Dallas, TX), experience level (3-5 years), and specialized nature of the Design Researcher: Data Strategist role, a competitive salary range is estimated between $85,000 - $115,000 annually. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in major metropolitan areas, factoring in the blend of design research, data analysis, and strategic planning required.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement savings plan with company matching contributions (e.g., 401(k)).

• Paid time off (PTO), including vacation days, sick leave, and holidays.

• Opportunities for professional development, including training, workshops, and conference attendance.

• Access to Corgan's internal learning and development programs, fostering continuous skill enhancement.

• Collaborative and supportive work environment with a focus on team camaraderie and growth.

• Potential for involvement in innovative projects and industry-leading design initiatives.

Working Hours: This is a full-time, on-site position requiring 40 hours per week, typically scheduled Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on industry data for similar roles in Dallas, TX, and the specified experience level and responsibilities. Actual compensation may vary based on Corgan's internal compensation structure, the candidate's specific qualifications, and negotiation. The emphasis on professional development and a supportive work environment aligns with Corgan's culture statement.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture and Design. Corgan operates within the built environment sector, focusing on creating physical spaces. This role bridges design with data strategy, suggesting Corgan is increasingly leveraging data to inform and innovate within architectural and interior design processes.

Company Size: Corgan is a significant architectural firm. While exact employee numbers aren't provided, firms of this nature typically range from several hundred to over a thousand employees, indicating a structured environment with opportunities for specialization and cross-functional collaboration.

Founded: Corgan was founded in 1974, providing a long history and established presence in the architecture and design industry. This longevity suggests stability, extensive experience, and a deep understanding of client needs and market dynamics.

Team Structure:

• The role reports to the "Hugo Director," indicating a specialized team or initiative within Corgan, likely focused on innovation, research, or advanced strategic services. This team is described as composed of "creative, highly motivated individuals who are passionate about their work."

• Collaboration is emphasized, with the Design Researcher expected to work closely with cross-functional teams, including designers, data scientists, and analysts.

• The team structure likely supports a blend of independent work on research and strategy, coupled with intensive collaboration on projects. Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making is central to this role, requiring a systematic approach to research, analysis, and insight generation.

• User-centric design principles will guide research objectives and the translation of findings into design recommendations.

• Agile methodologies and Design Thinking are mentioned as preferred frameworks, suggesting a preference for iterative processes, rapid prototyping, and continuous feedback loops.

Company Website: http://www.corgan.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Hugo team" is a key differentiator, suggesting a forward-thinking, potentially R&D-focused group within Corgan. Candidates should research Corgan's recent projects and publications to understand the types of challenges and opportunities this team might be addressing.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-level specialist, requiring 3-5 years of experience. It sits within a specialized "Design Researcher: Data Strategist" function, indicating a focus on a niche but critical area for the firm. It’s not a traditional "operations" role in the sense of administrative or sales ops, but rather a strategic operations role for the design and research function.

Reporting Structure: The Design Researcher reports to the Hugo Director. This suggests a direct line of communication with leadership within a specialized team, offering visibility and potential for direct impact on strategic initiatives.

Operations Impact: The impact of this role is significant for Corgan's design output and strategic direction. By providing data-informed insights, the Design Researcher directly influences the quality, user-centricity, and market relevance of Corgan's architectural and interior design projects. This role operationalizes the understanding of user needs and market trends into tangible design strategies.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization Advancement: Deepen expertise in data strategy, information design, and specific research methodologies, potentially becoming a go-to expert within Corgan for these areas.

• Cross-Functional Leadership: Lead research initiatives on major projects, guiding design teams and stakeholders through data-driven decision-making processes.

• Strategic Contribution: Contribute to the development of Corgan's overall design strategy and innovation roadmap, potentially influencing firm-wide methodologies and tool adoption.

• Mentorship: As experience grows, mentor junior researchers or analysts joining the Hugo team or other related functions.

• Industry Influence: Present findings at industry conferences or contribute to publications, elevating Corgan's profile in design research and data strategy.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path here is less about climbing a traditional corporate ladder and more about deepening expertise and increasing strategic influence within a specialized domain. The connection to the "Hugo Director" is critical for understanding potential future roles within that specific initiative.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an in-office position, emphasizing a collaborative and in-person work environment. Corgan likely provides a professional office setting designed to foster creativity and teamwork.

Office Location(s): Dallas, Texas. This provides access to a major metropolitan hub with a vibrant business and design community.

Workspace Context:

• The environment is described as fostering "camaraderie and collaboration," with "curiosity and creativity." This suggests an open, supportive atmosphere where ideas are shared freely.

• The role requires close work with designers and data scientists, implying a workspace that facilitates interaction, brainstorming sessions, and co-creation.

• Access to necessary technology, including design software, programming tools, and data visualization platforms, is expected within the office setup.

Work Schedule: A standard Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM schedule is mandated. While structured, the emphasis on "promoting a healthy work-life balance" suggests that Corgan aims to support employees in managing their workload effectively within these hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The strict on-site requirement is a critical factor for candidates. Corgan's culture statement about creating an environment where employees can focus on what they "love doing, both inside and outside the office" suggests an intention to support work-life balance despite the on-site mandate.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio for alignment with required skills and experience, particularly in data strategy, research methodologies, and information design.

• Hiring Manager Interview: Discussion with the Hugo Director to assess cultural fit, understanding of Corgan's mission, and initial conceptual alignment with the role's objectives. Preparation should include insights into Corgan's work and the potential impact of data-driven design.

• Technical/Skills Assessment: This may involve a take-home assignment or a case study presentation focusing on a research problem, data analysis, or information design challenge relevant to Corgan's work. Expect to demonstrate proficiency in required tools and methodologies.

• Cross-Functional Team Interview: Meeting with potential collaborators (designers, data scientists) to evaluate teamwork capabilities, communication style, and ability to translate complex ideas into practical applications.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss strategic vision and long-term contributions.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly articulate the problem statement, your role and responsibilities, the methodologies used, the key insights derived, and the tangible outcomes or impact of your work.

• Highlight Data-to-Design Translation: Emphasize how you used data to inform design decisions and how those decisions led to specific user experiences or strategic advantages.

• Showcase Tool Proficiency: Include examples that demonstrate your command of required design software, programming languages (R, Python), and data visualization tools (Tableau, Power BI).

• Visual Clarity: Ensure your information designs and data visualizations are clear, compelling, and effectively communicate complex information.

• Tailor to Corgan: If possible, select projects that have relevance to the architecture, interior design, or market analysis domains, demonstrating an understanding of Corgan's industry.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss current trends in design research, data strategy, and information design.

• Anticipate questions about how you would approach a specific research problem or data analysis task related to architectural design or user behavior in built environments.

• Practice articulating complex analytical and design concepts clearly and concisely, as if presenting to both technical and non-technical audiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio and potential for case studies indicates that Corgan values demonstrated ability over theoretical knowledge. Candidates should focus on showcasing concrete examples of their problem-solving process and impact.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design Software: Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), Sketch, Figma. Proficiency in at least one is expected for creating visualizations and design mockups.

• Programming Languages: R, Python, Scala, Java. A strong command of R or Python is crucial for data analysis, statistical modeling, and potentially developing predictive models.

• Data Visualization Programs: Tableau, Power BI. Essential for creating interactive dashboards, reports, and visual insights from data.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Research Platforms: UserTesting, dscout, Qualtrics, SurveyMonkey, Microsoft Forms. Experience with these platforms is beneficial for conducting surveys and user testing efficiently.

• General Analytics: Familiarity with web analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics, if applicable to user behavior within digital platforms related to design) and general data analysis techniques.

CRM & Automation:

• While not explicitly mentioned, familiarity with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce) could be beneficial for understanding customer data, though not a primary requirement for this role.

• Understanding of workflow automation principles, particularly as they relate to research data collection and analysis processes.

• Integration tools knowledge is a plus for connecting disparate data sources.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required technical stack is comprehensive, blending design tools with programming and data visualization software. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience and proficiency with these specific tools and how they've leveraged them in past projects.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Curiosity: A drive to explore, ask questions, and uncover new insights, fundamental to research and innovation.

• Collaboration: A commitment to working effectively with diverse teams, sharing knowledge, and building solutions together.

• Passion for Design: A deep appreciation for great design and its impact on user experience and the built environment.

• Excellence: A dedication to high standards in research, analysis, and the creation of actionable insights and compelling visualizations.

• Growth Mindset: An eagerness to learn, adapt, and embrace new technologies and methodologies, particularly in data strategy and AI.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect to work closely with designers, data scientists, analysts, and potentially project managers, requiring clear communication and mutual understanding of different disciplines.

• Data-Informed Dialogue: Discussions will likely revolve around interpreting data, validating hypotheses, and translating insights into practical design solutions.

• Iterative Feedback: Corgan's emphasis on Design Thinking and Agile implies a culture where feedback is regularly exchanged, and processes are continuously refined based on learnings.

📝 Enhancement Note: Corgan's stated values of "camaraderie and collaboration" alongside "curiosity and creativity" paint a picture of an environment that supports both individual exploration and collective achievement. The "Hugo team" likely embodies these values intensely.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Bridging Disciplines: Effectively translating complex data insights into understandable and actionable design recommendations for a design-centric audience.

• Data Accessibility & Quality: Navigating potential challenges in accessing, cleaning, and ensuring the quality of data from diverse sources within a large organization.

• Measuring Impact: Quantifying the direct impact of design research and data strategy on Corgan's projects and business outcomes.

• Rapid Technological Evolution: Keeping pace with advancements in AI, machine learning, and data analysis tools, and integrating them effectively into research practices.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Analytics & AI: Opportunities to deepen knowledge in predictive modeling, machine learning applications, and AI tools relevant to design and market analysis.

• Industry Best Practices: Exposure to cutting-edge research methodologies and data strategy frameworks through internal knowledge sharing and potential external training.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Learning from experts in architecture, interior design, data science, and other fields within Corgan.

• Strategic Input: Contributing to high-level strategic discussions and shaping the future direction of data-informed design at Corgan.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents a unique opportunity to tackle the challenge of integrating data science with the creative field of design, a growing area of importance in many industries. The growth opportunities are geared towards becoming a leader in this specialized intersection.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you used qualitative and quantitative data to significantly influence a design decision. What was the outcome?" (Focus on your process, data interpretation, and impact).

• "How would you approach developing a data strategy for a new architectural project aiming to optimize user experience and sustainability?" (Demonstrate strategic thinking, data source identification, and objective setting).

• "Walk us through a complex dataset you've analyzed. What were your key findings, and how did you visualize them for stakeholders?" (Showcase analytical rigor and data visualization skills).

• "How do you stay current with emerging trends in data strategy, AI, and information design, and how have you applied these learnings?" (Highlight continuous learning and proactive adaptation). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Corgan, and specifically the 'Hugo team'?" (Research Corgan's projects and mission; infer the Hugo team's purpose).

• "How do you foster collaboration with designers and data scientists who may have different priorities or perspectives?" (Emphasize communication, empathy, and shared goals).

• "Describe your ideal work environment. How do you envision contributing to Corgan's culture of curiosity and creativity?" (Align your values with Corgan's stated culture). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: Frame each project as a narrative – the challenge, your approach, the insights, and the resolution.

• Focus on "Why": Clearly articulate the reasoning behind your methodological choices and design recommendations.

• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, use metrics or qualitative evidence to demonstrate the success or impact of your work.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about specific tools, techniques, or data points within your portfolio.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to discuss their experience using specific tools mentioned in the job description (R, Python, Tableau, Figma, etc.) and how they integrate them into their workflow. Understanding Corgan's portfolio of work will be key to tailoring responses and demonstrating genuine interest.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Researcher: Data Strategist position:

• Submit your application through the Corgan careers website (https://careers-us-corgan.icims.com/jobs/3414/design-researcher%3a-data-strategist/job).

• Portfolio Customization: Curate your portfolio to prominently feature projects demonstrating your expertise in qualitative and quantitative research, data strategy development, and information design. Prioritize examples that show how data influenced design outcomes.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight keywords from the job description, such as "Design Researcher," "Data Strategist," "Information Design," "User Experience Research," "R," "Python," "Tableau," and relevant industry experience. Quantify achievements whenever possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your thought process for research projects and data analysis. Prepare specific examples that showcase your problem-solving skills and ability to translate complex insights into actionable recommendations.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Corgan's projects, values, and recent news. Understand their approach to design and innovation, and consider how the "Hugo team" might be contributing to the firm's strategic direction.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.