IT Co-op UX Researcher-Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: IT Co-op UX Researcher-Designer

Company: Boehringer Ingelheim

Location: Ridgefield, CT

Job Type: INTERN

Category: User Experience (UX) Design / Research

Date Posted: May 02, 2026

Experience Level: 0-2 Years (Intern/Co-op)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This co-op position focuses on hands-on UX research and design within Boehringer Ingelheim's IT Marketing and Sales, Data Driven Customer Insights department.

• The role involves active participation across the entire UX project lifecycle, from user research and conceptualization to design implementation and evaluation.

• Interns will gain practical experience in developing AI-enabled user experiences, including chatbots and data-driven interfaces, specifically for sales consultants using the Veeva platform.

• The position emphasizes collaboration with cross-functional teams, including designers, researchers, product managers, and engineers, to refine user needs and enhance digital interface quality.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically for an intern or co-op student, indicating a focus on foundational learning and development within a structured corporate environment. The emphasis on "Data Driven Customer Insights" suggests that the UX work will be closely tied to business objectives and measurable outcomes.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Support UX research initiatives by assisting with the planning, execution, and synthesis of qualitative and quantitative user studies, such as interviews, surveys, and usability testing, to gather actionable insights.

• Contribute to the translation of user research findings into tangible design artifacts, including wireframes, user flows, and interactive prototypes for AI chatbot experiences, dashboards, and other digital interfaces.

• Collaborate closely with UX designers, researchers, product managers, and software engineers to define user needs, establish experience goals, and articulate basic design principles for assigned project tasks.

• Develop and iterate on low- to mid-fidelity prototypes, actively participating in usability testing sessions and incorporating feedback to validate and refine design solutions.

• Gain foundational knowledge of key UX metrics (e.g., usability, adoption rates, task efficiency, user satisfaction) and assist in linking research and design efforts to measurable business outcomes.

• Apply established UX best practices and adherence to design standards to enhance the consistency, usability, and overall quality of user experiences across digital platforms.

• Acquire practical experience in designing and evaluating AI-powered user experiences tailored for Sales consultants utilizing the Veeva platform, building core competencies in UX research, design, and performance measurement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a comprehensive exposure to the UX process, from initial research to evaluation. The specific mention of "AI chatbot experiences" and "Veeva platform" indicates a need for candidates interested in specialized pharmaceutical sales technology.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Currently pursuing an undergraduate, graduate, or advanced degree in User Experience Design, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Human Factors, or a closely related field. The student must be enrolled in an accredited college or university for the entire duration of the internship/co-op.

Experience: Previous academic projects or internships demonstrating foundational understanding of UX research methods and user-centered design principles.

Required Skills:

• Currently pursuing a degree in User Experience Design, Human-Computer Interaction, Human Factors, or a related field.

• Foundational understanding of UX research methods (e.g., interviews, surveys, usability testing).

• Basic proficiency in user-centered design principles.

• Ability to design basic user interface screens and workflows.

• Strong organizational, communication, and collaboration skills.

• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a cross-functional team.

• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without restriction.

Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with design and research tools such as Figma, Dovetail, Lovable, Klaxoon, or similar.

• Interest in AI-driven experiences such as chatbots, dashboards, and data-informed interfaces.

• Curiosity about AI design tools, conversational UX, and light front-end development or "vibe" coding.

• Academic coursework or projects related to AI-enabled user experiences or conversational design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The GPA requirement (3.0 preferred) and minimum credit hours completed (12 for undergrad, 9 for grad) are standard for co-op programs. The emphasis on specific tools like Figma and Dovetail, along with an interest in AI and conversational UX, points towards the company's current technology focus.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase academic projects or personal work demonstrating UX research methodologies applied to solve user problems.

• Include examples of wireframes, user flows, and interactive prototypes created using design tools.

• Present case studies that detail the design process from problem definition to solution, highlighting user insights and design rationale.

• Demonstrate an understanding of user-centered design principles through project examples.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates are expected to articulate their personal UX design and research process clearly.

• The ability to explain how user feedback was incorporated into design iterations is crucial.

• Understanding how to connect design decisions to user needs and business objectives should be evident.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio might not be strictly required for an intern, preparing examples of academic work that demonstrate UX process, design thinking, and tool proficiency (especially Figma) will be highly beneficial for showcasing capabilities.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The hourly rate for this co-op position typically ranges between $20/hour and $33/hour, commensurate with the academic degree program level in which the applicant is actively enrolled.

Benefits:

• Access to Boehringer Ingelheim's comprehensive benefits programs (details available via the provided Microsoft Teams link).

• Opportunity for professional development and hands-on experience in a leading pharmaceutical company.

• Exposure to cutting-edge IT and UX practices within the healthcare industry.

• Networking opportunities with industry professionals.

• Potential for future employment opportunities based on performance and business needs.

Working Hours: This is a co-op position, typically involving full-time hours (approximately 40 hours per week) during the co-op term. The specific schedule will be discussed during the interview process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is explicitly stated and is dependent on the student's academic level. The "click here" link for benefits suggests a need for candidates to follow up directly for detailed information, which is common for intern/co-op roles.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Pharmaceutical and Healthcare. Boehringer Ingelheim is a global, research-driven biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering, developing, and marketing innovative medicines for human and animal health.

Company Size: Boehringer Ingelheim is a large, global enterprise. This means interns will be part of a well-established organization with structured processes and significant resources, offering exposure to enterprise-level IT and UX operations.

Founded: Founded in 1885, Boehringer Ingelheim has a long history of innovation and commitment to improving health and well-being. This longevity suggests a stable work environment with deep industry expertise.

Team Structure:

• The IT Marketing and Sales, Data Driven Customer Insights department likely comprises IT professionals, data analysts, UX specialists, and project managers.

• Interns will work within a team focused on leveraging data and technology to enhance customer engagement and sales effectiveness.

Methodology:

• The team likely employs data-driven methodologies to inform insights and strategies.

• Agile or hybrid project management approaches may be used for IT and UX projects.

• A strong emphasis on user-centered design principles will guide the development of digital tools and interfaces.

Company Website: https://www.boehringer-ingelheim.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: As a major pharmaceutical company, Boehringer Ingelheim's culture likely emphasizes innovation, scientific rigor, compliance, and patient-centricity. The IT department plays a crucial role in supporting these objectives through technology and data insights.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level co-op/internship role designed for students to gain foundational experience in UX research and design. It provides exposure to corporate IT environments and the pharmaceutical industry.

Reporting Structure: The intern will report to a manager or senior team member within the IT Marketing and Sales, Data Driven Customer Insights department. They will likely receive direct mentorship and guidance on tasks and projects.

Operations Impact: While an intern's direct impact is developmental, their contributions to UX research and design can influence the usability and adoption of digital tools used by sales consultants, ultimately supporting sales effectiveness and customer engagement.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Deepen understanding and practical application of UX research methodologies, design principles, and prototyping tools.

• Industry Exposure: Gain insight into the unique challenges and opportunities of UX within the pharmaceutical industry.

• Networking: Build professional connections with experienced UX professionals, IT specialists, and business stakeholders.

• Potential for Future Roles: Successful interns may be considered for future internships or entry-level positions within Boehringer Ingelheim, providing a clear pathway for career progression.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a stepping stone. Growth is measured by learning and skill acquisition rather than immediate business impact. The company's global presence offers potential for diverse project experiences.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site at Boehringer Ingelheim's Ridgefield, CT facility. This indicates a traditional office environment where in-person collaboration and access to company resources are prioritized.

Office Location(s): Ridgefield, CT, USA. This location likely offers a professional corporate campus setting.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely be a collaborative office environment designed to foster teamwork among IT and UX professionals.

• Access to standard office equipment, necessary software, and potentially specialized UX design tools will be provided.

• Opportunities for informal interactions with team members and participation in team meetings will be available.

Work Schedule: The role is structured as a co-op, implying a commitment to a defined period, likely full-time during business hours (approximately 40 hours per week). Flexibility may be limited compared to experienced professional roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: Being on-site is crucial for this co-op role, facilitating direct mentorship and integration into the team's workflow. The Ridgefield, CT location is a significant R&D and administrative hub for Boehringer Ingelheim in the US.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of the application, academic record, and any submitted materials to assess basic qualifications and fit.

• First Interview: Likely with a hiring manager or senior team member to discuss academic background, motivation for the role, and general UX knowledge. This may include behavioral questions.

• Technical/Case Study (Potential): Depending on the company's process for interns, there might be a small design challenge or a discussion about academic projects to gauge practical skills and problem-solving approach.

• Final Interview: Possibly with additional team members or HR to assess cultural fit, communication skills, and confirm details.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Process: Clearly articulate the steps taken in academic projects from problem identification to solution.

• Showcase Tools: Highlight proficiency in design tools like Figma, even if demonstrated through academic assignments.

• Explain Rationale: Be ready to discuss why certain design decisions were made, linking them to user needs or research insights.

• Quantify Impact (if possible): If any academic projects involved user testing or feedback, mention how results informed design changes.

• Conciseness: For an intern role, a few well-documented projects are better than many incomplete ones.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand UX Fundamentals: Review core UX research methods and design principles.

• Familiarize with Tools: Be comfortable discussing and potentially demonstrating basic features of Figma or similar tools.

• Research Boehringer Ingelheim: Understand their business, mission, and potentially their existing digital products or services.

• Prepare Questions: Have thoughtful questions ready for the interviewer about the team, projects, and learning opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an intern role, the interview process will likely focus more on potential, learning ability, and academic foundations rather than extensive professional experience or a polished, extensive portfolio.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design & Prototyping: Figma (preferred), Dovetail, Lovable, Klaxoon, or similar tools for wireframing, prototyping, and user research synthesis.

• Collaboration Platforms: Microsoft Teams (as indicated by the benefits link), internal company communication tools.

• Project Management: Potentially JIRA, Asana, or similar tools for task tracking.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary focus for the intern, exposure to understanding UX metrics will be part of the role. Tools may include standard web analytics or specialized UX analytics platforms.

CRM & Automation:

• Veeva Platform: Specific mention indicates this is a key system for sales consultants, and the UX work will be integrated with it. Familiarity or interest in CRM systems is a plus.

• AI Tools: Exposure to AI chatbot design and conversational UX principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Figma is a strong advantage. Familiarity with the Veeva platform is not expected but indicates the context of the UX work. An interest in AI and conversational design is highly valued.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation: Driving new ideas and solutions for customer engagement and sales enablement through technology.

• Data-Driven Approach: Utilizing insights from user research and data analytics to inform design and business decisions.

• User-Centricity: Prioritizing the needs and experiences of users (in this case, sales consultants) in all design and development efforts.

• Collaboration: Working effectively across diverse teams to achieve common goals and deliver impactful solutions.

• Excellence: Striving for high-quality outcomes in all aspects of work, from research to final design.

Collaboration Style:

• The team fosters a collaborative environment where cross-functional input is valued.

• Regular team meetings and design reviews are likely part of the workflow.

• Open communication and constructive feedback are encouraged to refine designs and processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Boehringer Ingelheim's corporate values likely extend to its IT and UX teams, emphasizing scientific integrity, patient focus, and a commitment to excellence. The IT department's role is to enable these values through technology.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Bridging Research and Design: Effectively translating complex user research findings into practical and intuitive design solutions.

• AI Integration: Designing user experiences for emerging AI technologies, which can be less defined than traditional interfaces.

• Pharmaceutical Industry Context: Understanding the specific regulatory, compliance, and business needs unique to the pharmaceutical sector.

• Rapid Learning Curve: Quickly adapting to new tools, processes, and project requirements within a corporate setting.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Mentorship: Receive guidance from experienced UX researchers and designers.

• Project Variety: Gain exposure to different types of UX projects, from chatbots to dashboards.

• Industry Best Practices: Learn about UX standards and methodologies applied in a large, global corporation.

• Tool Proficiency: Develop skills in industry-standard UX tools like Figma.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for UX roles, especially in specialized industries and with emerging technologies like AI. The growth opportunities are geared towards foundational skill-building and professional exposure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a UX project you worked on during your studies. What was the problem, your process, and the outcome?" (Focus on demonstrating your UX thinking process and problem-solving skills.)

• "How do you approach user research? What methods are you familiar with, and when would you use them?" (Showcase your understanding of research fundamentals.)

• "Tell me about your experience with design tools like Figma. What are some features you find most useful?" (Highlight your technical skills and familiarity with relevant software.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Boehringer Ingelheim and our mission?" (Demonstrate your research and genuine interest.)

• "How do you handle feedback on your designs, especially if it's critical?" (Assess your receptiveness to feedback and collaborative spirit.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Walkthrough Your Process: For any academic projects you present, guide the interviewer through your decision-making journey.

• Highlight User Insights: Emphasize how user needs or feedback informed your design choices.

• Showcase Design Artifacts: Clearly present wireframes, prototypes, and research summaries.

• Be Ready for Questions: Anticipate questions about your design choices, challenges faced, and alternative solutions.

• Keep it Concise: Focus on the most relevant projects that demonstrate core UX skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an intern position, interviewers will be looking for enthusiasm, a solid understanding of UX fundamentals, a willingness to learn, and good communication skills, more so than extensive experience.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this IT Co-op UX Researcher-Designer position:

• Submit your application through the Boehringer Ingelheim careers portal link provided.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant coursework, academic projects, and any experience with UX research, design tools (especially Figma), and user-centered design principles. Include your GPA and academic standing.

• Portfolio Preparation: Gather examples of your academic work, such as project case studies, wireframes, or prototypes, that showcase your UX process and skills. Be prepared to discuss these during interviews.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Boehringer Ingelheim's mission, values, and the pharmaceutical industry to articulate your interest and understand the context of the role.

• Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss your motivations, academic background, UX knowledge, and teamwork experience. Practice articulating your design process and problem-solving approach.

⚠️ 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.

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