Mixed Methods UX Researcher I

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Mixed Methods UX Researcher I

Company: Expedia Group

Location: Seattle, Washington, United States (Also open to New York, New York & Austin, Texas)

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: User Experience Research

Date Posted: March 12, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Conduct foundational qualitative and quantitative user research activities, including usability testing, surveys, and interviews, with guidance from senior researchers.

• Analyze research data using basic statistical reasoning and qualitative synthesis techniques, contributing to the integration of diverse data sources into actionable insights.

• Effectively communicate research findings through written summaries and presentations to cross-functional partners in Product, Design, Analytics, and Engineering.

• Demonstrate a strong curiosity for user behavior, product performance, and emerging research methodologies to inform product and brand decisions within the travel tech industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as an entry-level UX Researcher, emphasizing foundational skills and supervised execution. The "Mixed Methods" aspect highlights the requirement to blend qualitative and quantitative approaches, which is crucial for comprehensive user understanding in product development. The focus on the travel industry (Expedia Group) implies a need to understand traveler motivations and behaviors within that specific context.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Plan and execute user research studies, including usability testing (both lab-based and remote), customer surveys, in-depth interviews, and analysis of behavioral data, under the guidance of senior research staff.

• Synthesize research findings by integrating qualitative insights with quantitative data (e.g., survey results, product metrics, usability findings) to create a holistic understanding of user needs and pain points.

• Develop clear, concise, and compelling reports and presentations that translate complex research data into actionable recommendations for product, design, and engineering teams.

• Collaborate with product managers, designers, data analysts, and engineers throughout the product development lifecycle to ensure user needs are identified and addressed.

• Maintain a keen interest in understanding user behavior, evaluating product performance, and exploring new research methodologies to enhance the traveler experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a learning and growth trajectory, indicating that the candidate will be mentored. The integration of diverse data sources is a key operations-adjacent skill, bridging user insights with product metrics for a more complete picture.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Proven experience in conducting or supporting user research studies, whether through academic projects, internships, or previous industry roles.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in qualitative research methods, including usability testing, user interviews, and survey design.

• Foundational understanding of quantitative research principles and basic statistical concepts.

• Beginner-level proficiency in SQL for data extraction and exploration.

• Experience in analyzing and synthesizing both qualitative and quantitative data, with supervision, to derive meaningful insights.

• Solid grasp of user-centered design principles and the typical product development lifecycle.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in executing integrated research projects that combine both qualitative and quantitative methods.

• Familiarity with survey platforms (e.g., Qualtrics), analytics dashboards, and experimentation frameworks.

• Proficiency in using SQL, R, or Python for intermediate data analysis and exploration.

• Experience working with AI-enabled products or intelligent systems, understanding user interaction patterns.

• Familiarity with collaborative design tools such as Figma.

📝 Enhancement Note: The blend of qualitative and quantitative skills, coupled with foundational SQL, positions this role within the broader data-informed decision-making framework common in operations. The preference for experience with AI products is relevant to Expedia's current technological focus.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate examples of past user research projects, clearly outlining the research objectives, methodologies employed (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods), and your specific role.

• Showcase your ability to synthesize data from multiple sources (e.g., user interviews, surveys, behavioral metrics) into cohesive and actionable insights.

• Include examples of how your research findings have influenced product or design decisions, ideally with measurable outcomes.

Process Documentation:

• Illustrate your approach to designing and documenting research plans, ensuring clear objectives and appropriate methodologies are selected.

• Provide examples of how you have contributed to the analysis and synthesis of research data, detailing your methods for drawing conclusions.

• Showcase your ability to translate research findings into compelling narratives and presentations for various stakeholders, demonstrating effective communication of insights.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this is a research role, the emphasis on synthesizing data, influencing decisions, and documenting processes aligns with operational best practices. A portfolio should highlight the candidate’s ability to support data-driven product development, which is a key component of effective GTM and product operations.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Seattle, Washington: $87,500 - $122,500 annually. Potential to reach up to $140,000 based on sustained performance.

• New York, New York: $94,500 - $132,000 annually. Potential to reach up to $151,000 based on sustained performance.

• Austin, Texas: $87,500 - $122,500 annually. Potential to reach up to $140,000 based on sustained performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary ranges are provided for key locations, reflecting significant differences based on cost of living and market demand. The "potential to increase pay" based on performance indicates a merit-based system, common in structured compensation plans. Starting pay will be determined by location, budget, and individual qualifications.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Generous paid time off (PTO) and holiday leave.

• Parental leave benefits.

• Flexible work model, including access to modern offices.

• Robust career development resources and opportunities.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for support services.

• Wellness and travel reimbursement program.

• Exclusive travel discounts for employees.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time commitment, typically 40 hours per week, with flexibility inherent in the hybrid work model.

📝 Enhancement Note: The benefits package is extensive, emphasizing travel industry perks and employee well-being, which are strong attractors for candidates in this sector. The inclusion of travel-specific benefits is a key differentiator.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Online Travel & Technology. Expedia Group operates at the intersection of travel services and technology, aiming to simplify and enhance the global travel experience through digital platforms.

Company Size: Large Enterprise (Expedia Group is a global company with thousands of employees). This size implies structured processes, diverse teams, and opportunities for specialization.

Founded: 1996 (Expedia). The company has a long history in the travel industry, indicating stability and deep market knowledge.

Team Structure:

• The Research team is part of a larger product development organization, working within a matrixed structure where researchers collaborate closely with Product Managers, Designers, Data Analysts, and Engineers.

• Reporting likely involves a Research Lead or Manager, with direct collaboration across product teams.

Methodology:

• The team emphasizes a data-driven approach, integrating qualitative and quantitative research to inform product and brand decisions.

• A strong focus is placed on rigor, curiosity, and evidence-based recommendations.

• The research process is integrated into the product lifecycle, providing insights from conception through iteration.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Expedia's culture emphasizes openness, diversity, and a collaborative "win together" mentality. The research team's role is strategic, focused on providing foundational insights that drive significant product and business decisions within the competitive online travel market.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level (I) role, designed for individuals with foundational knowledge and some practical experience in UX research. It serves as a stepping stone for developing expertise in mixed-methods research within a large tech organization.

Reporting Structure: The role likely reports to a Senior UX Researcher or a Research Manager, who will provide guidance and mentorship. Collaboration will be extensive with Product Managers, Designers, and Data Analysts within specific product pods or teams.

Operations Impact: While not a direct "operations" role in the traditional sense (like RevOps or SalesOps), this UX Researcher significantly impacts the operational efficiency and effectiveness of product development by ensuring user needs are met. This reduces rework, improves user adoption, and ultimately drives customer satisfaction and loyalty, which are key operational outcomes for a consumer-facing business.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Develop deep expertise in specific research methodologies (e.g., advanced qualitative techniques, complex quantitative analysis, experimental design).

• Cross-Functional Leadership: Progress to leading research initiatives for larger product areas or influencing strategic product roadmaps.

• Mentorship & Management: Grow into senior research roles, mentor junior researchers, and potentially move into research management positions.

• Industry Expertise: Become a subject matter expert in traveler behavior, AI in travel, or specific market segments within the global travel industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role provides a clear pathway for growth within the UX research discipline, with opportunities to specialize, lead, and mentor. The "operations impact" is framed through the lens of product development efficiency and customer satisfaction, key metrics for any GTM or product-focused organization.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Expedia Group offers a hybrid work model, with access to "cool offices" in Seattle, New York, and Austin. These are modern, collaborative workspaces designed to facilitate teamwork and innovation.

Office Location(s):

• Seattle, Washington Campus

• New York, New York

Workspace Context:

• The work environment is designed to be collaborative, encouraging interaction and knowledge sharing among team members.

• Access to relevant UX research tools, design software (like Figma), and data analysis platforms will be provided.

• Opportunities for regular interaction with cross-functional teams (Product, Design, Engineering, Analytics) are integral to the role.

Work Schedule: The hybrid model allows for a mix of remote and in-office work. While the core hours are likely aligned with standard business operations (approximately 40 hours/week), the flexibility accommodates different working styles and team collaboration needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model is a significant aspect of the work environment, requiring self-discipline and strong communication skills to maintain productivity and collaboration across different locations and work settings.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter will likely review your application and resume, focusing on alignment with minimum and preferred qualifications.

• Hiring Manager/Team Interview: Expect a discussion with the hiring manager and potentially other researchers. This will delve into your background, research experience, and understanding of UX principles. Be prepared to discuss your portfolio.

• Portfolio Review & Presentation: A key stage will involve presenting selected research projects from your portfolio. Focus on showcasing your mixed-methods approach, data synthesis skills, and ability to derive actionable insights.

• Skills-Based Assessment/Case Study: You may be given a small research challenge or asked to walk through a hypothetical scenario to assess your problem-solving approach, research planning, and analytical thinking.

• Cross-Functional Partner Interviews: Interviews with Product Managers, Designers, or Data Analysts to assess your collaboration style and ability to communicate effectively with different stakeholders.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 2-3 projects that best demonstrate your mixed-methods capabilities, your role in the research process, and the impact of your findings.

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly articulate: the problem, your role, the methodology (why you chose it), the process, key findings, and the impact or recommendations.

• Highlight Data Synthesis: Explicitly show how you combined qualitative and quantitative data to arrive at your conclusions. Use visuals where appropriate.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, link your research insights to business outcomes or product improvements.

• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate questions about your decision-making, challenges faced, and how you would approach different research scenarios.

Challenge Preparation:

• Review fundamental UX research methodologies (qualitative and quantitative).

• Practice synthesizing hypothetical data sets.

• Think about how you would approach research for travel-related products or features.

• Prepare to articulate your thought process clearly and concisely.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and presentation is critical. Candidates should prepare to articulate their research process, data synthesis skills, and the impact of their work, aligning these with Expedia's need for data-driven product development.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• User Research Platforms: Experience with usability testing tools (e.g., UserTesting.com, Lookback) and survey platforms (e.g., Qualtrics) is highly valued.

• Data Analysis Software: Familiarity with qualitative analysis tools, and ideally some experience with statistical software or programming languages for quantitative analysis.

• Collaboration Tools: Proficiency in tools like Figma for design collaboration, and standard office suites for documentation and presentations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Familiarity with analytics dashboards to understand product metrics and behavioral data.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly CRM-focused, understanding how user data integrates with product analytics and potentially customer feedback systems is beneficial.

• Experience with basic data querying languages like SQL is a requirement for data exploration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role requires a foundational understanding of various tools used in UX research and product development. SQL is explicitly mentioned as a required skill, highlighting the quantitative aspect of the role and its connection to data operations.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Curiosity: A driving force to understand user behavior and uncover unmet needs within the travel domain.

• Rigor: Commitment to employing sound research methodologies and analytical techniques to ensure credible insights.

• Collaboration: Working seamlessly with Product, Design, Analytics, and Engineering to integrate research into the product lifecycle.

• Impact-Driven: Focusing research efforts on generating actionable insights that lead to meaningful product improvements and better traveler experiences.

• Openness: Fostering an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and feedback is openly exchanged.

Collaboration Style:

• The team fosters a highly collaborative environment, working closely with cross-functional partners as an integrated part of product teams.

• Expect regular discussions, feedback sessions, and joint problem-solving with designers, product managers, and data analysts.

• Knowledge sharing is encouraged, with opportunities to learn from and contribute to the collective expertise of the research and product development teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: Expedia's stated values align well with the needs of a research role that supports product development. The emphasis on collaboration and impact is crucial for ensuring research findings are effectively translated into action.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Methods: Effectively integrating qualitative and quantitative data to provide a comprehensive, yet concise, view for stakeholders.

• Pace of Product Development: Adapting research timelines and methods to meet the fast-paced demands of the tech industry.

• Data Interpretation: Navigating complex datasets and user behaviors to extract clear, actionable insights with limited supervision.

• Communicating Nuance: Articulating subtle user needs and research implications to diverse audiences effectively.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Methodology Expansion: Gain hands-on experience with a wide range of UX research methods and learn advanced techniques from senior researchers.

• Industry Immersion: Deepen understanding of the global travel industry, traveler motivations, and the competitive landscape.

• Cross-Functional Acumen: Develop a strong understanding of product management, design, and data analysis processes.

• Career Pathing: Benefit from structured career development programs and mentorship opportunities within Expedia Group.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities for learning and development in a dynamic industry. The challenges are typical for an entry-level role in a fast-paced environment, emphasizing the need for adaptability and a strong learning mindset.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a research project where you had to combine qualitative and quantitative data. What were the challenges, and how did you synthesize the findings?" (Focus on your process, data integration, and conclusions.)

• "Imagine we are launching a new feature for booking flights. How would you approach researching its usability and user appeal?" (Demonstrate your research planning skills, methodology selection, and consideration of different user needs.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Expedia Group and the travel industry?" (Show genuine interest and ideally connect it to your research passions.)

• "How do you approach collaboration with designers and product managers who may have different priorities?" (Emphasize your communication, empathy, and ability to find common ground.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Process: For each project, clearly articulate the "why," "what," and "how" of your research.

• Show, Don't Just Tell: Use visuals (screenshots, charts, key quotes) to illustrate your findings and process.

• Quantify Impact: If possible, discuss how your research led to specific product improvements or influenced decisions.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about your specific contributions, methodological choices, and analytical approaches.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating core research skills, mixed-methods expertise, and strong collaboration potential, aligning with Expedia's data-driven and user-centric approach.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Mixed Methods UX Researcher I position:

• Submit your application through the Expedia Group careers portal via the provided link.

• Customize Your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your experience with qualitative and quantitative research methods, any exposure to SQL, and your academic background in relevant fields. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 strong projects that showcase your mixed-methods research capabilities, your data synthesis skills, and your ability to derive actionable insights. Structure your portfolio clearly with project summaries, methodologies, findings, and impact.

• Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse presenting your portfolio projects, focusing on clarity, conciseness, and articulating your thought process, especially regarding data integration and insight generation.

• Research Expedia Group: Familiarize yourself with Expedia's brands, mission, and recent product developments. Understand their approach to technology and user experience in the travel sector.

⚠️ 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.