Praktikanten (m/w/d) User & UX Research

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Praktikanten (m/w/d) User & UX Research Company: SI & Usaneers Location: Ingolstadt, Bavaria, Germany Job Type: Full-time, Intern Category: User Experience (UX) Research / Consumer Insights Date Posted: 2026-01-21 Experience Level: 0-2 Years (Internship Level) Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Support user and usability studies within the automotive sector, from initial project phases through to final presentations.
• Conduct research and analyze secondary data to identify trends and understand customer needs in the automotive market.
• Assist in the analytical processing of results from international customer satisfaction studies.
• Gain exposure to the design of exploration guides and questionnaires for both quantitative and qualitative research.
• Participate in study execution, including accompanying project managers during field phases like real drives or simulator sessions.
• Contribute to the content and statistical analysis of qualitative and quantitative data, such as video or eye-tracking data.
• Prepare and compile results into comprehensive presentations for stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically for an internship (Praktikanten) and focuses on User & UX Research within the automotive industry. The hybrid work arrangement suggests a blend of on-site work for hands-on study execution and remote work for data analysis and presentation preparation. The core responsibilities indicate a strong emphasis on data gathering, analysis, and reporting, typical of entry-level roles in consumer research and UX.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Study Support: Assist in the planning, execution, and wrap-up of user and usability studies, particularly within the automotive context, from project initiation to final presentation delivery.
• Secondary Data Analysis: Conduct thorough research and analysis of existing data to identify emerging trends, market shifts, and evolving customer needs relevant to the automotive sector.
• Customer Satisfaction Insights: Support the analytical breakdown and interpretation of findings from global customer satisfaction surveys, translating raw data into actionable insights.
• Research Design Contribution: Aid in the conceptualization and development of exploration guides and survey instruments for both qualitative (exploratory) and quantitative (measurement) research initiatives.
• Fieldwork Assistance: Provide direct support during the operational phase of studies, including accompanying project leads during real-world driving scenarios or in driving simulator environments.
• Data Evaluation (Qualitative & Quantitative): Engage in the content-analytical and statistical evaluation of collected data, which may include analyzing video footage, eye-tracking data, survey responses, and interview transcripts.
• Presentation Development: Create and refine result presentations, synthesizing complex data and findings into clear, concise, and impactful visual narratives for project stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities highlight a hands-on role involving direct participation in research projects. The emphasis on "automotive context" and specific activities like "real drives or in the driving simulator" points to a specialized area within UX research. The inclusion of both qualitative and quantitative data analysis suggests a well-rounded research experience.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Currently enrolled in an ongoing degree program in Engineering Psychology, Psychology, Human Factors, or a closely related field.

Experience:

• Demonstrated foundational knowledge in quantitative and qualitative research methodologies.
• Experience with data analysis and data visualization techniques.
• Previous exposure to or a strong interest in the automotive industry is highly beneficial.

Required Skills:

• German Language Proficiency: Excellent command of the German language (written and spoken) for effective communication and documentation.
• English Language Proficiency: Good command of the English language (written and spoken) for international project collaboration and research material.
• MS Office Suite: Confident and proficient user of Microsoft Office products, particularly Excel for data analysis and PowerPoint for presentation creation.
• Research Methods: Understanding of fundamental qualitative and quantitative research principles.
• Data Analysis & Visualization: Basic skills in analyzing data and presenting findings visually.
• Teamwork & Collaboration: Ability to work effectively within a team environment, contributing to shared goals and fostering a collaborative atmosphere.
• Adaptability & Learning: High degree of willingness to learn new skills and adapt to evolving project requirements and methodologies.
• Motivation & Enthusiasm: Genuine passion for understanding consumer perceptions of brands and products, especially within the automotive sector.

Preferred Skills:

• Statistical Software: Familiarity with statistical analysis software such as SPSS or R.
• Human Factors Principles: Understanding of Human Factors principles and their application in product development.
• Consumer Research: Basic knowledge of consumer research methodologies and applications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a strong academic foundation in relevant fields and practical skills in data handling and presentation. The preference for SPSS or R indicates a desire for candidates with some statistical analysis capability, aligning with the quantitative aspects of the role. The "open person with high learning readiness, team spirit, and flexibility" further underscores the internship nature and the need for a motivated, adaptable individual.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Research Case Studies: Showcase examples of past research projects (academic or personal) demonstrating your involvement in the entire research lifecycle, from problem definition to data analysis and reporting.
• Data Analysis Samples: Include samples of data analysis, particularly if you have experience with quantitative datasets or qualitative coding, highlighting your ability to derive insights.
• Presentation Examples: Provide examples of presentations you have created to communicate research findings, emphasizing clarity, visual appeal, and the ability to convey key takeaways effectively.
• Methodological Understanding: Briefly outline the research methodologies you are familiar with and your understanding of when to apply qualitative versus quantitative approaches.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Demonstrate an understanding of how research projects are structured and managed, from initial planning and participant recruitment to data collection and analysis phases.
• Tool Proficiency Examples: If you have used specific research tools (e.g., survey platforms, qualitative analysis software, statistical packages), include brief descriptions or screenshots of your work.
• Insight Generation: Illustrate instances where your analysis led to a specific insight or recommendation, even if in an academic context.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an internship role, the portfolio requirements will focus on academic projects, personal initiatives, or coursework that demonstrates foundational research skills. The emphasis will be on potential and methodological understanding rather than extensive professional experience. Candidates should highlight any projects involving data analysis, presentation creation, or research design.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• As this is an internship position, compensation will likely be in line with German internship standards. Based on typical internship rates for comparable roles in the automotive and consulting sectors in Bavaria, a range of €800 - €1,200 per month is a reasonable estimate for a full-time internship. This can vary based on the exact duration and specific responsibilities.

Benefits:

• Teamwork & Culture: Belonging to a supportive team with a familial atmosphere, flat hierarchies, and regular team events.
• Work-Life Balance: Opportunities for mobile working (hybrid) and flexible working hours, with a trust-based working time model.
• Employee Discounts: Access to attractive offers through a corporate benefits portal.
• Modern Workspace: A contemporary office environment with good public transport links.
• Refreshments: Complimentary coffee, fruit, water, and occasional treats like cake are provided.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are expected, likely around 40 hours per week, with flexibility and trust-based working time arrangements allowing for a good work-life balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on common internship compensation in Germany for roles requiring specific academic backgrounds and offering practical experience. The benefits focus on the positive work environment, flexibility, and perks typical of modern companies, particularly appealing to interns seeking a good learning and working experience.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Consulting (User Experience Consulting, Consumer Research) Company Size: Approximately 230 employees. This indicates a medium-sized, established company with a significant operational footprint, offering both stability and opportunities for impact without being overly bureaucratic. Founded: Not explicitly stated, but the company has an established international presence and serves "blue chip companies," suggesting a history of successful client engagements and growth.

Team Structure:

• Specialization: The company boasts around 230 employees, implying specialized teams within UX consulting and consumer research, catering to diverse client needs across various industries.
• Reporting: Given the mention of "flat hierarchies," the reporting structure is likely direct and efficient, allowing for clear communication channels between interns and project leads or managers.
• Collaboration: Cross-functional collaboration is inherent in a consulting environment, with teams likely working together on client projects, sharing expertise from different research and consulting disciplines.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Insights: The company integrates the user and consumer perspective into product/service development, relying heavily on data analysis and research to drive client success.
• Process Optimization: Consultants work across all product development phases, suggesting a structured approach to project management and client engagement, focused on delivering valuable outcomes.
• User-Centric Approach: A core methodology involves placing the user and consumer at the center of the product development lifecycle, ensuring that insights directly inform design and strategy.

Company Website: usaneers.de

📝 Enhancement Note: SI & Usaneers operates as an international consultancy focused on UX and consumer research, serving major clients. The company size suggests a dynamic environment where interns can gain exposure to a wide range of projects and learn from experienced professionals in a collaborative, user-centric setting. The focus on "blue chip companies" implies a high standard of work and client expectation.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is an entry-level internship, designed to provide foundational experience in User and UX Research. It serves as a crucial stepping stone for individuals aspiring to careers in market research, consumer insights, UX design, and product development consulting. The scope is project-based support and learning.

Reporting Structure: Interns will likely report directly to a Project Manager or a Senior Researcher who oversees their tasks and provides guidance. This direct line of communication facilitates learning and integration into project teams.

Operations Impact: While an intern's direct impact is primarily through supporting project deliverables, their contributions to data analysis and presentation preparation directly influence the insights generated for clients. This work ultimately helps clients improve their products and services by understanding user needs, thereby contributing to client success and the company's reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Gain hands-on experience with industry-standard UX research methodologies, data analysis techniques, and presentation software. Opportunity to learn from experienced professionals.
• Industry Exposure: Deepen understanding of the automotive industry's product development processes and consumer behavior within this sector.
• Networking: Build professional connections within a reputable consulting firm and potentially with client representatives.
• Potential for Future Roles: A successful internship can open doors for future employment opportunities within SI & Usaneers or related firms, depending on performance and company needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This internship is a significant opportunity for practical learning and skill development in a specialized field. The growth potential lies in acquiring robust research skills and gaining industry-specific knowledge, which are transferable to various roles in product development and market research.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The company promotes a modern office environment with good connectivity. This suggests a professional, well-equipped workspace designed for collaboration and focused work. Office Location(s): Ingolstadt, Bavaria, Germany. This location is strategically relevant given the company's focus on the automotive industry, with Ingolstadt being a significant hub for automotive companies (e.g., Audi).

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: The emphasis on "teamwork" and "flat hierarchies" implies an environment that encourages open communication and collaborative problem-solving, likely with designated areas for team discussions.
• Technology & Tools: Interns will have access to the necessary office equipment and potentially specialized research software (e.g., statistical packages, presentation tools) as required for their tasks.
• Team Interaction: Regular team events and a familial atmosphere suggest ample opportunities for informal interaction and learning from colleagues.

Work Schedule: The "flexible working hours" and "mobile working" policies indicate a modern approach to work, allowing interns to balance their academic commitments with practical experience, while still ensuring core working hours are met for team collaboration and project continuity.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Ingolstadt location is a key advantage for this role, placing interns within a significant automotive industry ecosystem. The hybrid and flexible work environment is designed to support both productive work and employee well-being.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a review of CV and cover letter, with a focus on academic background, relevant coursework, and demonstrated interest in UX research and the automotive sector.
• HR/Hiring Manager Call: A preliminary discussion to assess cultural fit, motivation, and basic qualifications. This is where the "open person with high learning readiness, team spirit, and flexibility" aspect will be evaluated.
• Skills Assessment/Case Study: A practical exercise may be given, potentially involving a small data analysis task, a presentation of a past project, or a hypothetical research scenario. This will test your understanding of research methods and analytical capabilities.
• Team/Project Lead Interview: A more in-depth discussion focusing on your understanding of UX research, your specific skills, and how you would contribute to ongoing projects. This is also an opportunity to ask detailed questions about the role and team.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Relevant Projects: Focus on academic projects, personal research initiatives, or any coursework that demonstrates your understanding of research methodologies (qualitative/quantitative), data analysis, and presentation skills.
• Showcase Process: For each project, briefly outline the research question, the methods used, your role in the analysis, and the key insights or outcomes.
• Quantify Achievements: If possible, use numbers to describe the scope of your work (e.g., number of participants, dataset size, presentation audience).
• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize projects related to user behavior, consumer insights, or any experience within the automotive sector if available.
• Keep it Concise: For an internship, a few well-explained projects are better than many with superficial details.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand Research Fundamentals: Be prepared to discuss basic principles of qualitative and quantitative research, their pros and cons, and when to apply them.
• Data Interpretation: Practice interpreting simple datasets or qualitative feedback. Understand how to identify trends and draw basic conclusions.
• Presentation Skills: Rehearse presenting a project or a hypothetical scenario clearly and concisely. Focus on storytelling and conveying key messages.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with SI & Usaneers' work, their client portfolio, and their focus on UX and consumer research, especially in the automotive industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be structured to assess not only technical skills but also the candidate's attitude, learning potential, and cultural fit, which are critical for an internship role. The portfolio should serve as concrete evidence of their foundational capabilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• MS Office Suite: Essential for daily tasks, including Excel for data analysis and reporting, and PowerPoint for creating compelling presentations of research findings.
• Statistical Software: Proficiency or familiarity with SPSS or R is preferred for quantitative data analysis, allowing for more in-depth statistical evaluation of research results.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Visualization Tools: Experience with tools that can translate raw data into understandable charts and graphs for reports and presentations. This could include advanced Excel features or dedicated visualization software.
• Survey Platforms: Familiarity with platforms used for creating and distributing quantitative surveys (e.g., SurveyMonkey, Qualtrics, or internal tools).

CRM & Automation:

• Project Management Tools: While not explicitly mentioned, interns may encounter project management software used by the teams to track tasks, deadlines, and project progress.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack leans towards standard office productivity tools and statistical software. The emphasis is on analytical capabilities and the ability to communicate findings effectively through presentations, rather than deep expertise in complex enterprise systems.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• User-Centricity: A core value is deeply understanding and integrating the user and consumer perspective into product and service development.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Insights derived from research and data analysis are paramount in guiding client strategies and product improvements.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: The company fosters a supportive, familial atmosphere where team members work together to achieve common goals and share expertise.
• Excellence & Professionalism: Serving "blue chip companies" necessitates a commitment to high-quality work, meticulous research, and professional client interactions.
• Continuous Learning: In a dynamic field like UX and consumer research, a proactive approach to learning new methodologies and staying updated on industry trends is crucial.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Teams likely collaborate across different research specializations (qualitative, quantitative, UX) and consulting disciplines to provide comprehensive solutions to clients.
• Open Communication: Flat hierarchies and a familial atmosphere encourage open dialogue, feedback exchange, and a supportive environment for asking questions and sharing ideas.
• Knowledge Sharing: The collective expertise of ~230 employees suggests a culture that values sharing knowledge and best practices to enhance team capabilities and project outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to be a blend of professional consulting rigor and a supportive, collaborative team environment. Values align with the core tenets of user research and client service.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Automotive Industry: Navigating the specific nuances, trends, and consumer expectations within the automotive sector can be challenging.
• Data Volume & Variety: Handling and analyzing diverse datasets (qualitative interviews, quantitative surveys, behavioral data like eye-tracking) requires strong analytical and organizational skills.
• Translating Data into Insights: The primary challenge is moving beyond raw data to derive meaningful, actionable insights that directly inform product development and strategy.
• Fast-Paced Project Cycles: Consulting environments often involve tight deadlines and dynamic project requirements, demanding adaptability and efficient time management.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Methodological Expertise: Gain hands-on experience with a wide range of user and consumer research techniques, from exploratory qualitative methods to robust quantitative analysis.
• Industry Immersion: Develop a deep understanding of the product development lifecycle within the automotive industry.
• Professional Skills: Enhance skills in data analysis, presentation, communication, and project support through practical application.
• Mentorship: Benefit from guidance and feedback from experienced researchers and project managers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The internship offers a structured environment to tackle these challenges with support, turning them into significant learning opportunities.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Research Methodology: "Describe a research project you've worked on (academic or personal). What was the research question, what methods did you use, and what were your key findings?" Prepare to articulate your process and justify your methodological choices.
• Data Analysis & Interpretation: "How would you approach analyzing [a specific type of data, e.g., survey responses, interview transcripts]? What challenges might you encounter?" Think about common analysis techniques and potential pitfalls.
• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a client wants to understand why users are abandoning a specific feature in their car's infotainment system. How would you start investigating this problem?" Focus on a structured, user-centric approach.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation: "Why are you interested in UX research, and specifically in the automotive industry?" Connect your passion to the company's work and industry focus.
• Teamwork: "Describe a time you worked effectively in a team. What was your role, and how did you contribute to the team's success?" Highlight your collaboration skills and adaptability.
• Learning Aptitude: "How do you approach learning new tools or methodologies?" Demonstrate your proactive learning attitude.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Process: For each portfolio item, clearly explain the "why" (the research question/problem), the "how" (the methods and tools used), and the "what" (the findings and recommendations).
• Visual Clarity: Ensure your presentations are clean, well-organized, and easy to follow. Use visuals effectively to support your points.
• Conciseness: Be prepared to walk through your portfolio efficiently, highlighting the most relevant aspects for the internship role. Avoid getting bogged down in excessive detail.
• Enthusiasm: Convey your passion for research and your eagerness to learn and contribute.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a solid understanding of research fundamentals, analytical thinking, effective communication, and a strong, adaptable attitude suitable for an internship.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on the Personio platform.
• Tailor Your CV: Highlight your academic background in psychology, human factors, or related fields. Emphasize any coursework or projects involving quantitative/qualitative methods, data analysis, and data visualization. Use keywords like "User Research," "UX Research," "Data Analysis," "MS Office," "SPSS/R" (if applicable).
• Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Clearly express your motivation for an internship in User & UX Research, your specific interest in the automotive industry, and why SI & Usaneers is your preferred choice. Showcase your enthusiasm, learning agility, and team spirit.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Gather examples of academic projects, research papers, or personal initiatives that demonstrate your skills in research methodology, data analysis, and presentation creation. Focus on clarity and showcasing your process.
• Research the Company: Familiarize yourself with SI & Usaneers' services, their client base (especially automotive), and their approach to UX and consumer research. Understand their values and culture to articulate your fit during interviews.

⚠️ 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.