Entry to Mid-Level Design Researcher

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Entry to Mid-Level Design Researcher

Company: Techtronic Industries - TTI

Location: Anderson, SC, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Design Research / User Experience

Date Posted: 2026-05-14

Experience Level: Entry to Mid-Level (0-5 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Conduct in-field qualitative and quantitative user research to uncover needs and pain points for consumer power tools.

• Synthesize complex research findings into actionable insights that inform product development and strategic business approaches.

• Facilitate hands-on workshops, co-creation sessions, and tool evaluations to foster innovation and collaboration.

• Effectively communicate research outcomes through engaging presentations, storytelling, and demonstrations to diverse stakeholders.

• Build and maintain a strong network of users to continuously understand evolving needs and product contexts.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within an "Advanced Concepts" R&D team, indicating a focus on early-stage innovation and exploratory research rather than immediate product launch support. The emphasis on "maker mindset" and hands-on work suggests a practical, iterative approach to product development.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and meticulously execute multi-faceted research plans, incorporating qualitative discovery in users' homes, competitive product landscape analysis, and evaluation of early-stage concepts and prototypes.

• Develop and nurture robust relationships with end-users, establishing a network critical for conducting insightful discovery research, collaborative solution co-creation, and eliciting candid feedback.

• Analyze and synthesize diverse research data streams into clear, compelling insights that directly inform opportunities for new feature sets, enhanced functionalities, and innovative business strategies.

• Plan and skillfully facilitate hands-on tool evaluations, interactive team workshops, and collaborative analysis sessions designed to build shared understanding and spark creativity.

• Present research findings in a dynamic and concise manner to key business stakeholders, leveraging well-crafted presentations, compelling visuals (photos, videos, diagrams), impactful storytelling, and practical demonstrations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong bias towards qualitative, ethnographic research methods ("in users' homes," "field"). The role requires not just data collection but also strategic synthesis and persuasive communication to influence product direction.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Design, Psychology, Sociology, Anthropology, Business Strategy & Innovation, or a closely related field.

Experience:

• Entry Level: 0-2 years of prior design research experience preferred.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in designing and executing qualitative research methodologies, including user interviews, ethnographic studies, and field observations.

• Experience with quantitative research methods, survey design, and data analysis to supplement qualitative findings.

• Strong analytical and synthesis skills to translate raw data into actionable insights and strategic recommendations.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with a proven ability to present complex information clearly and engagingly to diverse audiences.

• Demonstrated ability to build rapport and trust with research participants to foster open and honest feedback.

Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with basic design principles and the product development lifecycle.

• Experience working within a fast-paced R&D or innovation team environment.

• Proficiency in creating compelling visual narratives using photos, video, and diagrams to communicate research findings.

• Experience with competitive product analysis and market research.

• A "maker" mindset, with a willingness to engage directly with tools and prototypes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The distinction between entry and mid-level experience suggests a clear career progression path within TTI. The emphasis on a "maker mindset" and hands-on work is a key differentiator for this role, signaling a preference for practical, action-oriented researchers.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a clear process for identifying user needs and pain points through qualitative and quantitative research methods.

• Showcase examples of how research insights directly influenced product design, feature development, or business strategy.

• Include case studies illustrating the execution of research plans, from methodology selection to data synthesis and presentation.

• Highlight experience with user interviews, ethnographic studies, prototype evaluations, and competitive analysis.

Process Documentation:

• Clearly outline your approach to designing research plans tailored to specific project objectives and user groups.

• Detail your methods for analyzing and synthesizing qualitative and quantitative data to derive meaningful insights.

• Provide examples of how you've translated insights into tangible product recommendations or strategic proposals.

• Illustrate your experience in presenting research findings to stakeholders, showcasing effective communication strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's focus on early innovation and concept evaluation, portfolios should emphasize the researcher's ability to uncover latent needs and translate them into forward-thinking product concepts. The "maker" aspect suggests including examples of hands-on prototyping or tool interaction if applicable.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Entry Level (0-2 years): $60,000 - $75,000 annually

• Mid-Level (3-5 years): $75,000 - $95,000 annually

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary ranges are estimated based on industry standards for Design Researchers with 0-5 years of experience in the Anderson, SC region. Factors influencing the final offer include specific experience level, educational background, and demonstrated skills. Research was conducted using data from compensation platforms like Glassdoor, Salary.com, and LinkedIn Salary, adjusted for the specific job title and location's cost of living.

Benefits:

• Competitive wages and comprehensive benefits package.

• Tuition Assistance program to support ongoing education and professional development.

• 401(k) retirement savings plan with company matching contributions.

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage options for employees and their families.

• Paid Vacation time for work-life balance.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time role, typically 40 hours per week.

• Flexibility may be available for certain research activities, but core hours and team collaboration are expected to be maintained.

📝 Enhancement Note: The benefits package is robust, particularly the tuition assistance, which aligns with the company's value of continuous learning and skill development.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Power Tools, Outdoor Product Equipment, Floor Care (Consumer, Professional, Industrial)

Company Size: TTI is a large, global organization. The specific number of employees in the Advanced Concepts team is not detailed, but the broader company employs tens of thousands worldwide. This means access to significant resources and established processes, alongside potential for large-scale impact.

Founded: TTI was founded in 1985. This history provides a foundation of stability and experience in its respective markets.

Team Structure:

• The Advanced Concepts team is an early innovation R&D group comprising researchers, engineers, and designers.

• This team supports the RYOBI and RIDGID brands within the Consumer Power Tools Group.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on human-centered design principles to understand and meet user needs.

• A hands-on, iterative approach to research and product development.

• Integration of qualitative discovery research with quantitative analysis and competitive landscape understanding.

• Focus on translating research findings into tangible product concepts and innovative business strategies.

Company Website: https://www.ttigroup.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: TTI's brand portfolio (Milwaukee, AEG, Ryobi, RIDGID, etc.) indicates a strong presence across diverse market segments, offering varied research opportunities. The Advanced Concepts team's role in developing for RYOBI and RIDGID suggests a focus on the DIY and prosumer markets.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as "Entry to Mid-Level Design Researcher." The progression from 0-2 years (Entry) to 3-5 years (Mid-Level) indicates a structured growth path within the Design Research discipline. The focus is on developing core research competencies, analytical skills, and the ability to influence product development.

Reporting Structure: The Design Researcher will join the Advanced Concepts team, likely reporting to a Research Lead or Manager within that group. This team collaborates closely with various departments, providing exposure to different facets of product development.

Operations Impact: While not a traditional "revenue operations" role, this Design Researcher significantly impacts business success by identifying unmet user needs and validating innovative product concepts. By ensuring products are user-centric and solve real problems, this role directly contributes to market adoption, customer satisfaction, and ultimately, revenue generation for the RYOBI and RIDGID brands.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific research methodologies (e.g., advanced ethnography, usability testing, generative research) or gain expertise in specific product categories.

• Leadership Development: Progress to a Senior Design Researcher or Research Lead role, managing projects, mentoring junior researchers, and setting research strategy.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Transition into related roles such as Product Management, Industrial Design, or User Experience (UX) Strategy, leveraging a strong understanding of user needs and product development.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced researchers and engineers within the Advanced Concepts team and broader TTI organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "maker mindset" and hands-on nature of the role suggest that growth will involve not only methodological expertise but also practical application and a deep understanding of product functionality and user interaction.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is explicitly stated as "onsite" at the Anderson, SC location. This indicates a traditional office and potentially lab/workshop environment.

Office Location(s): Anderson, South Carolina, USA. This location is likely a hub for product development and engineering for TTI's consumer power tools.

Workspace Context:

• The Advanced Concepts team operates as an early innovation R&D group, suggesting a dynamic and potentially less structured environment than established product lines.

• Expect a collaborative workspace conducive to brainstorming, workshops, and cross-functional team interaction.

• Access to tools, prototypes, and potentially a lab environment for hands-on evaluation and experimentation will be key.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time (approximately 40 hours/week) is expected.

• The nature of field research and prototype evaluation might occasionally require adjusted hours to accommodate user schedules or project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The 25-35% domestic travel requirement is substantial and essential for the "in-field qualitative research" aspect of the role. Candidates should be prepared for frequent travel across the United States.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and experience alignment with the role's requirements.

• Hiring Manager Interview: Discussion focused on your background, motivations, and understanding of design research principles.

• Technical/Portfolio Review: A deep dive into your portfolio, where you'll be asked to present case studies of your research projects. Expect questions about your methodology, insights, and impact.

• Team/Cross-Functional Interview: Meetings with potential team members (engineers, designers, product managers) to assess your collaborative skills, communication style, and cultural fit within the Advanced Concepts team.

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

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Your Process: Clearly articulate the "why," "how," and "what" of your research. Walk interviewers through your methodology, data collection, analysis, and synthesis steps.

• Focus on Impact: For each case study, emphasize the insights you uncovered and, critically, how those insights influenced product development, design decisions, or business strategy. Quantify impact where possible.

• Highlight Collaboration: Include examples that demonstrate your ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams, translating research findings for different audiences.

• Demonstrate User Empathy: Use compelling storytelling, quotes, or visuals from your research to convey a deep understanding of the user's perspective and needs.

• Tailor to TTI: Research TTI's brands (Ryobi, RIDGID) and their target markets. Frame your portfolio examples to show how your skills align with their product categories and user base.

• Embrace the "Maker" Aspect: If possible, include examples where you've physically interacted with products, prototypes, or the tools themselves, showcasing your hands-on approach.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for a potential "take-home" assignment or a live case study exercise that mirrors the design research process (e.g., analyzing a hypothetical user problem, proposing research methods).

• Practice articulating your thought process clearly and concisely, especially when faced with ambiguous problems.

• Anticipate questions about how you would approach research for consumer power tools, considering the specific user groups (DIYers, professionals).

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is critical for this role. Candidates should prepare to present 2-3 in-depth case studies that clearly demonstrate their research process, analytical skills, and ability to drive product innovation through user insights.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Qualitative Research Tools: Audio/video recording devices, note-taking software (e.g., Evernote, Notion), potentially transcription services.

• Quantitative Research Tools: Survey platforms (e.g., SurveyMonkey, Qualtrics, Google Forms), basic spreadsheet software (Excel, Google Sheets) for data compilation and initial analysis.

• Data Synthesis & Analysis Tools: Whiteboarding tools (e.g., Miro, Mural) for affinity mapping, persona development, journey mapping; presentation software (PowerPoint, Google Slides, Keynote) for synthesizing and presenting findings.

• Prototyping/Design Software (Familiarity): Basic understanding of tools used by designers and engineers (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, CAD software basics) can aid in understanding and evaluating prototypes.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary data analyst role, familiarity with basic statistical concepts and the ability to interpret simple data visualizations is beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this research role, but an understanding of how user insights feed into CRM strategies or product roadmaps is valuable.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis is on research and synthesis tools rather than complex analytics platforms. The ability to use visual aids and presentation software effectively is paramount for communicating findings.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Human-Centered Approach: A core value is deeply understanding and prioritizing user needs in all aspects of product development.

• Innovation & Exploration: The Advanced Concepts team thrives on exploring new ideas, technologies, and user experiences.

• Collaboration: Working effectively across disciplines (research, engineering, design, product management) is essential.

• "Maker" Mindset: A hands-on, practical approach to problem-solving, with a willingness to engage directly with products and tools.

• Data-Driven Insights: While qualitative research is primary, insights must be grounded in evidence and synthesized into actionable data for decision-making.

• Continuous Learning: The fast-paced nature of R&D and evolving consumer needs necessitate a commitment to ongoing learning and skill development.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Researchers are expected to work closely with engineers and designers, bridging the gap between user needs and technical feasibility.

• Open Communication: Regular sharing of findings, feedback, and ideas in team meetings, workshops, and informal discussions.

• Iterative Process: A culture that embraces experimentation, learning from failures, and iterating on concepts based on research feedback.

• International Collaboration: The need to communicate with international co-workers suggests an appreciation for diverse perspectives and clear, concise communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "maker" and "hands-on" values are particularly distinctive and suggest a team that values individuals who are not afraid to get "in the trenches" with product development and physical tools.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Innovation and Feasibility: Discovering novel user needs while ensuring they can be translated into producible and marketable power tools.

• Accessing Diverse Users: Recruiting representative user groups for research, especially for specialized tools or niche applications.

• Translating Insights: Effectively communicating complex qualitative findings to diverse stakeholders who may have different priorities and technical backgrounds.

• Pace of Innovation: Keeping up with rapid technological advancements and evolving consumer expectations in the power tool market.

• Domestic Travel Demands: Managing the logistics and personal impact of 25-35% overnight domestic travel.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Methodological Deepening: Opportunities to master advanced qualitative and quantitative research techniques.

• Product Domain Expertise: Gaining in-depth knowledge of consumer power tools, their applications, and the specific needs of DIY and prosumer users.

• Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Learning from engineers and industrial designers about product development, materials, and manufacturing processes.

• Presentation & Storytelling Skills: Developing sophisticated communication skills to influence product roadmaps and strategic decisions.

• Industry Trends: Staying abreast of emerging technologies and market shifts relevant to TTI's product categories.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge will be leveraging user insights to drive tangible product innovation within a competitive and technically demanding industry. Growth will come from deepening research expertise and understanding the product development lifecycle at TTI.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you uncovered a user need that surprised you. How did you validate it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your process, insight generation, and impact.)

• "How would you approach researching user needs for a new type of cordless power tool? What methodologies would you employ, and why?" (Demonstrate your understanding of research planning and tool selection.)

• "Imagine you've found conflicting insights from different user groups. How would you synthesize this information and present it to stakeholders?" (Showcase your analytical and communication skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about TTI, and specifically the RYOBI/RIDGID brands?" (Research TTI's market position, brands, and recent product innovations.)

• "How do you embody the 'maker' mindset in your work?" (Provide concrete examples of hands-on engagement with products or problem-solving.)

• "Describe your experience working in a fast-paced, multi-disciplinary team. What was your role, and how did you contribute to success?" (Emphasize collaboration and adaptability.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Begin with a brief overview of your research philosophy and process. Then, present 2-3 detailed case studies, dedicating significant time to each.

• Storytelling: Frame each case study as a narrative: the problem, your approach, the journey of discovery, the key insights, and the impact on the product or business.

• Visuals: Use high-quality images, videos, quotes, and diagrams from your research work to make your presentation engaging and memorable.

• Highlight Process & Impact: Clearly articulate your research methodology and, most importantly, how your findings led to concrete outcomes or influenced decisions. Quantify impact if possible.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your methodologies, data analysis, and decision-making rationale for each project.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be ready to demonstrate not just research proficiency but also a keen understanding of product development, user empathy, and the ability to translate complex findings into impactful recommendations for a consumer product company.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Researcher position:

• Submit your application through the TTI careers portal link provided.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 of your strongest design research projects that best showcase your qualitative and quantitative skills, user empathy, and impact on product development. Ensure your portfolio clearly details your research process, synthesized insights, and resulting outcomes.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight keywords and experiences directly relevant to user research, qualitative/quantitative methods, human-centered design, and any experience with consumer products or R&D environments. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare Your Presentation: Practice walking through your selected portfolio projects. Be ready to articulate your methodology, the challenges you faced, the insights you uncovered, and the impact of your work on product design or strategy.

• Research TTI: Familiarize yourself with TTI's brands (especially RYOBI and RIDGID), their product lines, target markets, and recent innovations. Understand the company's stated values and mission.

⚠️ 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.