Design Researcher: Data Strategist

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Researcher: Data Strategist

Company: Corgan

Location: Dallas, TX, US

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Operations (Data Strategy & Design Research)

Date Posted: July 26, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Level (3-5 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive informed design decisions by leveraging qualitative and quantitative data analysis as a core function of the role.

• Develop and implement comprehensive data strategies that align with organizational goals and enhance user experience within the design process.

• Translate complex datasets into actionable insights and compelling information designs, bridging the gap between raw data and creative application.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including designers and data scientists, to ensure data-driven insights are integrated seamlessly into the design lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Design Researcher: Data Strategist," the emphasis on "Data Strategy" and "Information Design" within the responsibilities and qualifications strongly indicates this role sits within a broader GTM (Go-To-Market) operations or a specialized design operations function that prioritizes data-driven decision-making for product and user experience. The need to "develop predictive design models and analysis tools" and create "industry trend reports" further solidifies its strategic operational importance.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and execute a range of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, including user interviews, surveys, usability tests, and in-depth analytics analysis, to collect robust user and market data.

• Collaborate with data scientists and analysts to identify, integrate, and leverage diverse data sources, ensuring comprehensive data capture for strategic analysis.

• Partner with stakeholders to clearly define research objectives, scope, and develop detailed, actionable research plans that address key business questions.

• Conduct rigorous user testing sessions and effectively iterate on designs based on direct user feedback and performance metrics, ensuring user-centricity.

• Perform comprehensive research into user behavior, needs, pain points, and preferences to provide foundational insights that directly inform and influence design decisions.

• Analyze complex research findings and synthesize disparate data points into clear, concise, and actionable insights that guide strategic direction.

• Work synergistically with design teams to translate research insights into concrete design recommendations, strategy refinements, and tangible improvements.

• Utilize both secondary and primary data to construct intuitive, visually appealing information designs, sophisticated data visualizations, and interactive prototypes that communicate complex information effectively.

• Develop and implement predictive design models and analytical tools to forecast user behavior and design impact, enabling proactive strategy adjustments.

• Develop and execute data strategies that are tightly aligned with overarching organizational goals and strategic objectives, ensuring maximum business impact.

• Produce authoritative industry trend reports, geographical data comparisons, and detailed demographic studies to inform market positioning and design innovation.

• Research, develop, and create industry-specific and user-focused trend reports that provide forward-looking insights and competitive intelligence.

• Maintain a continuous learning approach to stay abreast of the latest industry trends, advancements in data strategy, and innovations in information design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities heavily emphasize both the research execution ("Design and execute qualitative and quantitative research methods") and the strategic application of insights ("Develop and implement data strategies," "Develop predictive design models"). This suggests a role that bridges the gap between foundational research and strategic business planning, a critical function in modern GTM operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

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

Experience: 3-5 years of proven experience in a Design Researcher, Data Strategist, or similar analytical role, with a demonstrated focus on data strategy, information design, and user experience research.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in designing and executing both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, including user interviews, surveys, and usability testing.

• Expertise in developing and implementing comprehensive data strategies that align with business objectives and drive user-centric design.

• Strong capabilities in information design and data visualization, with the ability to translate complex data into clear, compelling visual narratives.

• Proven experience in analyzing complex datasets, identifying key trends, and synthesizing findings into actionable insights for diverse stakeholders.

• Familiarity with agile methodologies and design thinking processes to facilitate iterative design and development cycles.

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

• Proficiency in programming languages relevant to data analysis and manipulation, such as R or Python.

• Proficiency in data visualization programs like Tableau or Power BI. Preferred Skills:

• Experience within the Architecture or Interior Design industry, providing domain-specific context.

• Familiarity with 3D modeling programs such as Sketchup or Revit.

• Experience with research platforms including UserTesting, dscout, Qualtrics, Survey Monkey, or Microsoft Forms.

• Familiarity with artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) applications and AI tools.

• Experience with additional programming languages such as Scala or Java.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for proficiency in programming languages like R and Python, alongside data visualization tools such as Tableau and Power BI, points towards a strong analytical and technical foundation expected for this operations-focused role. The inclusion of "Agile Methodologies" and "Design Thinking" also aligns with modern operations practices emphasizing iterative development and problem-solving.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 detailed case studies demonstrating end-to-end research projects, from initial objective setting to final insight synthesis and design recommendations.

• Clearly articulate your role and contributions in each case study, highlighting your ability to manage research processes and stakeholder expectations.

• Present examples of data strategy development, illustrating how you've translated business goals into actionable research plans and data-driven initiatives.

• Include examples of information design and data visualization, demonstrating your skill in communicating complex data effectively to non-technical audiences.

• Showcase your experience with user testing and feedback incorporation, providing evidence of how you've influenced design iterations based on user insights. Process Documentation:

• Document your approach to defining research objectives and developing comprehensive research plans, outlining key stages and deliverables.

• Illustrate your methodology for synthesizing qualitative and quantitative data, including any frameworks or techniques used for insight generation.

• Provide examples of how you've presented research findings and data insights to cross-functional teams and senior leadership, emphasizing clarity and impact.

• Detail your process for collaborating with designers and other stakeholders to ensure research insights are effectively integrated into the design and development lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role focused on data strategy and design research within an operations context, a portfolio is crucial. It should not only display design outputs but also the strategic thinking, research methodology, and analytical rigor behind them. Emphasis should be placed on demonstrating how data was leveraged to achieve specific business or user outcomes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a Design Researcher with 3-5 years of experience in a major metropolitan area like Dallas, TX, the estimated salary range for this full-time, on-site position is between $85,000 and $110,000 annually. This range accounts for the specialized skills in data strategy, information design, and advanced analytical tools required for the role.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Generous paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• 401(k) retirement savings plan with potential company match.

• Opportunities for professional development, including training, conferences, and workshops relevant to design research and data strategy.

• Access to cutting-edge technology and design tools.

• A supportive and collaborative work environment focused on growth and innovation.

• Employee assistance program (EAP).

Working Hours: This is a full-time, on-site position requiring 40 hours per week, typically during standard business hours (Monday through Friday). While the role is structured around a typical work week, Corgan emphasizes a healthy work-life balance, encouraging focus on tasks and allowing flexibility where operational needs permit.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is derived from an analysis of similar "Design Researcher" and "Data Strategist" roles in Dallas, TX, considering the specified experience level and the advanced technical and analytical skill set required. Benefits are standard for a full-time role at a reputable firm, with an emphasis on professional development pertinent to an operations-focused role.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture & Design Services. Corgan operates within a highly competitive and creative industry, where innovation, client satisfaction, and forward-thinking design are paramount. The firm's commitment to great design and "building each other" suggests a culture that values collaboration, continuous learning, and mutual support.

Company Size: Corgan is a large firm, indicated by its extensive career portal and the breadth of its operations. This size implies robust internal processes, potential for diverse project types, and structured career progression pathways, offering stability and significant project exposure for operations professionals.

Founded: Corgan was founded in 1938, bringing a rich history and deep expertise to the architectural and design landscape. This longevity suggests a stable and established organization with a proven track record, likely possessing well-defined operational frameworks and a strong understanding of industry evolution.

Team Structure:

• The Design Researcher will be part of the "Hugo team," working under the direction of the Hugo Director, indicating a specialized unit within the larger firm.

• This team likely comprises individuals with diverse skill sets, including designers, researchers, and potentially data analysts, fostering cross-disciplinary collaboration.

• The reporting structure suggests a clear line of management within this specialized team, with opportunities to collaborate across broader design and strategy departments. Methodology:

• Data Analysis and Insights: A strong emphasis on leveraging both qualitative and quantitative data to derive actionable insights that inform design strategy and user experience.

• Workflow Planning and Optimization: The role requires developing and implementing data strategies and research plans, indicating a structured approach to operationalizing research findings.

• Automation and Efficiency: Developing predictive models and analysis tools suggests a drive towards automating data analysis and improving the efficiency of research and design processes.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Corgan's established history and large size suggest a well-resourced environment where operations roles are likely integral to project success and strategic decision-making. The mention of the "Hugo team" implies a specialized unit, possibly focused on innovation or specific client segments, offering unique operational challenges and opportunities.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a mid-level, suitable for professionals with 3-5 years of experience. It requires a blend of hands-on research execution and strategic thinking, making it a pivotal point for individuals looking to deepen their expertise in data-driven design strategy and operations. The role involves significant autonomy in research design and analysis, with responsibility for contributing to strategic initiatives.

Reporting Structure: The Design Researcher will report to the Hugo Director, indicating a direct reporting line within a specialized team. This structure allows for focused mentorship and clear guidance on team-specific objectives, while also necessitating collaboration with other departments and stakeholders across the firm.

Operations Impact: The operations impact of this role is significant, directly influencing design decisions, user experience, and ultimately, the success and marketability of Corgan's projects. By providing data-informed insights and strategic recommendations, this role helps optimize resource allocation, mitigate design risks, and enhance client satisfaction, thereby contributing to the firm's overall growth and revenue.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization Advancement: Deepen expertise in specific research methodologies, data analysis techniques, or information design specializations, potentially leading to senior researcher or lead data strategist roles.

• Leadership Development: Progress into team leadership roles, such as managing a research team or overseeing strategic data initiatives within the Hugo team or across the firm.

• Cross-Functional Expertise: Gain exposure to various design disciplines and project types, broadening understanding of how data strategy integrates into different facets of the architectural and interior design process.

• Industry Recognition: Contribute to thought leadership through trend reports and innovative data applications, potentially leading to industry recognition and speaking opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Design Researcher focusing on data strategy within a firm like Corgan likely involves moving from execution to strategic leadership. Growth opportunities will center on deepening analytical skills, expanding domain knowledge in architecture/design, and developing the ability to influence high-level strategic decisions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Corgan operates with an on-site work model, emphasizing a collaborative and in-person environment. The company's description of fostering camaraderie and collaboration suggests an office designed to encourage interaction, idea sharing, and team cohesion.

Office Location(s): The role is based in Dallas, TX. This location offers a vibrant urban setting with a strong business community, providing ample opportunities for professional networking and access to industry events.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office likely features open-plan areas, meeting rooms, and breakout spaces designed to facilitate spontaneous discussions and formal team collaborations, essential for a role that interfaces with multiple departments.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (Adobe Creative Suite, Figma), advanced analytics tools (Tableau, Power BI), and programming environments (R, Python) is expected, supporting efficient data analysis and design creation.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with a multidisciplinary team, including designers, data scientists, and project managers, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas and expertise.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is Monday through Friday, during regular business hours, totaling approximately 40 hours per week. This structure ensures consistent team availability for collaboration and project continuity, while the company's emphasis on work-life balance suggests an understanding of individual needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement emphasizes the value Corgan places on in-person collaboration and team synergy. For an operations role, this environment likely provides direct access to resources, immediate feedback loops, and a strong sense of team integration, which are crucial for efficient project execution and strategic alignment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess alignment with the core requirements for a Design Researcher with a data strategy focus.

• Technical/Skills Assessment: Potential for a technical interview or a case study presentation focusing on data analysis, research methodology, and information design capabilities. Expect questions on how you've used data to solve design challenges.

• Team/Manager Interview: Discussions with the Hugo Director and potentially other team members to evaluate your collaborative skills, problem-solving approach, and cultural fit within Corgan's team-oriented environment.

• Final Interview: May involve a broader discussion about your strategic thinking, career aspirations, and how you envision contributing to Corgan's overall mission.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Process & Impact: For each project in your portfolio, clearly outline the problem, your research process, the data you utilized, your analytical approach, and the tangible impact of your insights or designs.

• Demonstrate Data Strategy: Include examples that showcase your ability to develop data strategies, connect research to business objectives, and articulate how data informed critical decisions.

• Showcase Visualization Skills: Present clear and compelling examples of your data visualizations and information designs, explaining the rationale behind your design choices and how they enhance comprehension.

• Tailor to Corgan: Research Corgan's recent projects and design philosophy. If possible, tailor your portfolio presentation to highlight how your skills align with their specific projects and values, especially concerning innovation and user-centricity in design.

• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the success of your projects, such as improvements in user engagement, task completion rates, or design adoption.

Challenge Preparation:

• Data Interpretation Exercise: Be prepared for a task that involves analyzing a dataset or research findings and presenting actionable insights and design recommendations.

• Scenario-Based Questions: Anticipate questions about how you would approach a specific research challenge or develop a data strategy for a hypothetical design project.

• Presentation Skills: Practice articulating your thought process clearly and concisely, especially when explaining complex data or research findings. Focus on storytelling that connects data to user needs and business outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio for design positions, especially with a data strategy component, is critical. Candidates should prepare to not only showcase their visual design skills but also their analytical rigor, strategic thinking, and ability to translate data into impactful design solutions. The interview process will likely assess both technical proficiency and collaborative potential.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design Software: Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), Sketch, Figma. Proficiency expected for translating insights into design concepts and visualizations.

• Data Analysis & Programming: R, Python (with libraries like Pandas, NumPy, Scikit-learn), Scala, Java. Essential for data manipulation, statistical analysis, and model development.

• Data Visualization: Tableau, Power BI. Key for creating interactive dashboards and presenting complex data insights effectively to stakeholders.

Analytics & Reporting:

• User Research Platforms: UserTesting, dscout, Qualtrics, Survey Monkey, Microsoft Forms. Tools for conducting surveys, usability tests, and gathering qualitative feedback.

• Industry Trend Analysis Tools: While not specified, expect to utilize various online databases, market research reports, and potentially specialized analytics platforms for trend identification.

CRM & Automation:

• Familiarity with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot) may be beneficial for understanding customer data context, though not explicitly required.

• Knowledge of AI and ML applications and AI tools is preferred, hinting at potential future integration or use in advanced analytics.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is a blend of design tools and advanced data analytics/programming languages. This indicates a role that requires a strong technical aptitude and the ability to work with sophisticated data processing and visualization tools, common in operations roles focused on strategic insights.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Curiosity & Creativity: A drive to explore new ideas, ask challenging questions, and find innovative solutions through both design and data.

• Collaboration & Camaraderie: A strong emphasis on working together, supporting team members, and building positive relationships within the team and across the firm.

• Passion & Dedication: A genuine enthusiasm for design, data, and the work itself, leading to a hardworking and committed approach.

• Growth & Learning: A commitment to continuous personal and professional development, seeking opportunities to expand expertise and adapt to industry advancements.

• Excellence & Integrity: Upholding high professional standards in all aspects of work, ensuring quality, accuracy, and ethical conduct.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Encourages close collaboration with designers, data scientists, directors, and other stakeholders to ensure research insights are seamlessly integrated into the design process and strategic planning.

• Open Communication: A culture that values open dialogue, idea sharing, and constructive feedback to foster innovation and continuous improvement.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasizes the use of data and research findings to inform decisions, promoting a rational and evidence-based approach to problem-solving.

📝 Enhancement Note: Corgan's values highlight a strong emphasis on people and collaboration, coupled with a drive for excellence and innovation. For an operations role, this means a culture that supports learning, teamwork, and a data-informed, yet creative, approach to problem-solving.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Synthesizing Diverse Data: The primary challenge will be integrating and making sense of various qualitative and quantitative data sources to derive coherent and actionable insights.

• Translating Insights into Action: Effectively communicating complex data and research findings to diverse audiences (designers, clients, leadership) and ensuring these insights translate into tangible design improvements.

• Staying Ahead of Trends: Continuously monitoring and adapting to rapid advancements in data science, AI, user research methodologies, and design technologies.

• Balancing Research Depth with Project Speed: Effectively managing research timelines and resources to provide timely insights without sacrificing the depth and rigor required for impactful strategy.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Data Analytics: Opportunities to deepen skills in programming languages (Python, R), statistical modeling, and machine learning applications.

• Information Design Specialization: Develop advanced capabilities in creating sophisticated data visualizations, interactive dashboards, and compelling narrative designs.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Gain deeper understanding of architectural and interior design processes, project lifecycles, and client needs, enhancing the ability to provide contextually relevant data strategies.

• Leadership and Mentorship: Potential to mentor junior researchers or data analysts, and to contribute to strategic planning discussions at a higher level within the firm.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges and growth opportunities align with a role that requires continuous learning and adaptation in a rapidly evolving field. For an operations professional, this role offers a chance to refine analytical skills, develop strategic thinking, and gain expertise in a niche industry application.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to synthesize conflicting data from multiple sources. How did you reconcile the differences and arrive at a recommendation?" (Focus on your process for data triangulation and decision-making.)

• "How would you approach developing a data strategy for a new client project with limited initial information?" (Demonstrate your framework for initial data gathering, objective setting, and strategic planning.)

• "Walk us through a project where your research insights directly led to a significant design change or business improvement. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Prepare a detailed case study highlighting impact and ROI.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Corgan's work in the architecture and design industry, and how do you see data strategy playing a role in that?" (Showcase your research on Corgan and your understanding of the industry context.)

• "How do you approach collaboration with designers who may have different perspectives or priorities?" (Highlight your communication, negotiation, and consensus-building skills.)

• "Corgan values curiosity and continuous learning. How do you stay current with trends in data science, research, and design?" (Provide examples of your self-directed learning and professional development.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each portfolio piece, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the methodology used, key findings, your strategic recommendations, and the measurable impact.

• Highlight Data-Driven Impact: Emphasize how data influenced your decisions and led to positive outcomes. Use visuals to showcase your data analysis and visualization skills effectively.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Be ready to discuss the technical details of your analysis, the tools you used, and the challenges you overcame in each project.

• Connect to Corgan's Work: If possible, draw parallels between your past projects and Corgan's portfolio or stated values to demonstrate a strong cultural and strategic fit.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of analytical rigor, strategic thinking, and collaborative capability. Candidates need to be ready to articulate their process, showcase their impact with data, and demonstrate how they align with Corgan's values and industry focus.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Corgan careers website link provided.

• Curate Your Operations Portfolio: Select 2-3 of your strongest projects that best showcase your data strategy development, research execution, data analysis, and information design skills. Ensure each project clearly articulates the problem, your methodology, the data used, your insights, and the resulting impact. Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Tailor Your Resume: Optimize your resume to highlight keywords and responsibilities mentioned in this job description, such as "data strategy," "qualitative and quantitative research," "information design," "data visualization," "user experience research," and proficiency in tools like "R," "Python," and "Tableau." Focus on achievements and quantifiable results.

• Prepare Your Presentation: Practice walking through your portfolio projects, focusing on clear communication of your process, insights, and the strategic value you brought. Be ready to discuss your approach to synthesizing complex data and collaborating with cross-functional teams.

• Research Corgan: Thoroughly review Corgan's website, recent projects, and company values. Understand their approach to design and how data might fit into their innovative processes. Prepare thoughtful questions about the role, the Hugo team, and the company culture.

⚠️ 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.