(Senior) UX Researcher:in / Research Manager (m/w/d)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: (Senior) UX Researcher / Research Manager (m/w/d)
Company: Allround Team GmbH
Location: Köln, Germany
Job Type: Full-time
Category: User Experience Research / Market Research
Date Posted: January 21, 2026
Experience Level: Mid-Senior (2-5 years)
Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on the critical intersection of User Experience (UX) Research and Human-Machine Interaction (HMI) within the automotive sector.
• The position involves leading and executing user research studies to enhance the understanding, usability, and overall user experience of in-vehicle interfaces.
• Key responsibilities include client relationship management, proposal development, and delivering comprehensive research reports and presentations.
• Success in this role requires a strong foundation in both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, coupled with excellent analytical and project management skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the provided job title is "(Senior) UX Researcher:in / Research Manager," the core responsibilities and required experience suggest a mid-to-senior level role focusing on hands-on UX research execution and client-facing activities, with potential for management depending on the candidate's background and the specific team structure. The emphasis on "improving the understanding, usability and user experience of human-machine interfaces in vehicles" positions this as a specialized UX Research role within the automotive domain.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and execute comprehensive user research studies, including usability testing, user interviews, surveys, and heuristic evaluations, specifically for Human-Machine Interfaces (HMI) within automotive contexts.
• Design and implement research methodologies for online evaluations, driving simulator studies, and real-world road testing to gather actionable insights.
• Analyze qualitative and quantitative research data, translating complex findings into clear, concise, and impactful recommendations for product and system improvements.
• Develop detailed research reports, compelling presentations, and persuasive proposals tailored to client needs and project objectives.
• Manage and nurture relationships with existing clients, ensuring high levels of satisfaction and identifying opportunities for ongoing research collaboration.
• Contribute to the strategic development of UX research initiatives and best practices within the agency.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including designers, engineers, and product managers, to ensure research insights are integrated into the product development lifecycle.
• Conduct competitive analysis and market research to inform UX strategies and identify emerging trends in automotive HMI.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities have been expanded to reflect typical senior UX Researcher and Research Manager duties, emphasizing the full research lifecycle from design and execution to analysis and client communication. The inclusion of specific research methods like usability testing, interviews, and surveys, along with the mention of driving simulators and road testing, provides a more detailed picture of the role's scope within the automotive sector.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• A completed university degree (Hochschulstudium) in a relevant field such as Market Research, Psychology, Social Sciences, Economic Sciences, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), or a comparable discipline is required.

Experience:

• Proven professional experience in User Experience (UX) Research is essential.
• Demonstrated experience in Project Management, Customer Management, or a similar client-facing role is required.
• Experience in leading projects independently and managing client relationships is a strong asset.
• Prior experience within the automotive industry is considered advantageous.

Required Skills:

• UX Research Expertise: Deep understanding and practical application of qualitative and quantitative research methods (e.g., usability testing, user interviews, surveys, persona development, journey mapping).
• HMI/Usability: Strong knowledge of Human-Machine Interaction principles and a proven ability to evaluate and improve the usability and user experience of complex interfaces.
• Analytical & Methodological Skills: Excellent analytical capabilities and a solid grasp of research methodologies, with the ability to design and execute studies effectively.
• Client Management: Proven ability to manage client relationships, understand their needs, and deliver high-quality research services.
• Project Leadership: Demonstrated experience in independently leading research projects from inception to completion, including planning, execution, and reporting.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex findings clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences.
• Microsoft Office Proficiency: Advanced skills in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for report generation, data analysis, and presentations.
• Language Proficiency: Very good command of both German and English, both written and spoken.
• Driving License: A valid Class B driver's license is required for on-site and road-based research activities.
• Proactive & Structured Work Style: A highly reliable, structured, and self-directed approach to work, with a proactive attitude and the ability to take initiative.
• Flexibility & Adaptability: A flexible mindset and a quick ability to grasp new concepts and adapt to changing project requirements.

Preferred Skills:

• Automotive Affinity: A strong interest in technology, modern automobiles, and driver assistance systems is highly desirable.
• Experience with Driving Simulators: Practical experience utilizing driving simulators for HMI research.
• Statistical Software: Familiarity with statistical analysis software (e.g., SPSS, R) for quantitative data analysis.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills have been elaborated to provide a more detailed understanding of the expectations for a UX Researcher and Research Manager. This includes specifying the types of qualitative and quantitative methods, emphasizing HMI principles, and detailing the communication and project management aspects crucial for client-facing roles. The inclusion of a driving license and language skills are critical practical requirements.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Research Case Studies: Showcase detailed case studies of UX research projects you have led or significantly contributed to. Each case study should clearly outline the research problem, objectives, methodology employed, your specific role, key findings, and the impact of your research on product improvements or business outcomes.
• Methodological Diversity: Demonstrate experience with a range of qualitative and quantitative research methods, providing examples of how you selected and applied appropriate techniques for different research questions.
• Data Synthesis & Reporting: Include examples of how you synthesize complex research data into actionable insights and present findings in clear, compelling reports and presentations. Highlight your ability to tailor communication to different stakeholder groups.
• Client-Facing Deliverables: Showcase examples of proposals, client presentations, and final research reports that highlight your client management and communication skills.
• Impact & ROI Demonstration: Where possible, quantify the impact of your research. This could include metrics related to improved usability, increased user satisfaction, reduced development costs, or enhanced product adoption.

Process Documentation:

• Research Design Documentation: Evidence of well-documented research plans, including clear objectives, research questions, participant recruitment criteria, and detailed methodological approaches.
• Workflow Optimization: Examples of how your research insights have led to documented improvements in user workflows, interface design, or overall user experience.
• Post-Research Analysis: Documentation demonstrating your process for analyzing research data, identifying patterns, and deriving actionable recommendations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section has been tailored to highlight specific requirements for UX Research and Project Management roles. The emphasis is on demonstrating a structured approach to research, the ability to synthesize complex data into actionable insights, and the capacity to communicate findings effectively to clients, which is crucial for a client-facing agency role. Quantifying impact is a key differentiator for senior roles.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for Senior UX Researchers and Research Managers in Cologne, Germany, with 2-5 years of experience, a competitive annual salary range is estimated between €55,000 and €75,000. This range can vary based on the depth of automotive-specific experience and the candidate's proven track record in project leadership and client management.

Benefits:

• Flexible Working Models: Offers flexible working hours and arrangements to support work-life balance.
• Attractive Compensation: Competitive salary package.
• Home Office Option: Support for remote work, including a subsidy for home office equipment.
• Deutschlandticket: Subsidized public transportation pass for Germany.
• Training Opportunities: Opportunities for continuous professional development and further education.
• Adjustable Desks: Ergonomic workstations with height-adjustable desks.
• Office Refreshments: Provision of snacks and beverages in the modern office.
• 30 Vacation Days: Generous annual leave allowance.
• Company Pension Scheme: Contribution to a company-backed retirement plan.
• Diverse Client Portfolio: Exposure to a wide range of reputable clients across various sectors.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours, typically around 40 hours per week, with flexibility offered through hybrid work arrangements.

📝 Enhancement Note: A salary range has been estimated based on the role, experience level, and location (Cologne, Germany). This estimation utilizes common salary data sources for UX Research and Project Management roles in Germany, adjusted for the specified experience level and the agency context. The benefits have been detailed based on the provided list, with added context relevant to operations professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry:

• The company operates within the Consulting and Technology Services sectors, specifically focusing on delivering tailored solutions for brand and product experience. Their expertise in HMI and UX research places them within the specialized niche of Automotive Technology Consulting and User Experience Design Services.
• Market Context: The automotive industry is undergoing significant transformation, with a strong emphasis on digital cockpits, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), and seamless user integration. Allround Team GmbH positions itself as a key partner in navigating these complex technological and user-centric challenges for automotive clients.

Company Size:

• As an "inhabergeführte Agentur" (owner-managed agency), Allround Team GmbH likely operates as a small to medium-sized enterprise (SME). Company size is not explicitly stated but is generally under 250 employees, often between 50-150.
• Operations Implications: In an SME environment, operations professionals often experience a more hands-on, versatile role. They may be involved in a broader range of activities, have direct access to leadership, and see the immediate impact of their work. Collaboration is typically more direct and less siloed.

Founded:

• Founded in 1999, Allround Team GmbH has a long-standing history and established presence in the market, suggesting stability, accumulated expertise, and a mature client base.

Team Structure:

• Operations Team Aspect 1: The UX Research and Project Management team likely comprises specialized researchers, project managers, and potentially UI/UX designers. Team size might range from a few core members to a larger departmental structure depending on project volume.
• Operations Team Aspect 2: Reporting structures are typically flat ("flachen Hierarchien") in owner-managed agencies, with direct reporting lines to department leads or the agency's management.
• Operations Team Aspect 3: Cross-functional collaboration is a cornerstone, involving close partnerships with design, development (if applicable), and client-side teams to ensure research insights are effectively integrated and acted upon.

Methodology:

• Operations Process 1: Data Analysis and Insights: Emphasizes rigorous analysis of both qualitative and quantitative data to derive actionable user insights, often involving statistical tools and qualitative coding techniques.
• Operations Process 2: Workflow Planning and Optimization: Focuses on understanding user workflows and identifying friction points to optimize interface design and overall user journeys.
• Operations Process 3: Automation and Efficiency Practices: While not explicitly stated for this role, an agency's operations would likely leverage project management tools and potentially CRM systems to manage client projects and internal processes efficiently.

Company Website:

• https://www.allround-team.com/de/home/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context has been fleshed out to provide a clearer picture of Allround Team GmbH. The industry classification, market positioning within automotive technology, and implications of being an SME are detailed. The team structure and operational methodologies are inferred based on typical agency operations and the role's requirements, providing a more comprehensive view for potential applicants.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level:

• This role is positioned as either a Senior UX Researcher or a Research Manager.
• Senior UX Researcher: Implies a high degree of autonomy, the ability to lead complex research projects independently, mentor junior researchers, and contribute strategically to research design and methodology. This level requires deep expertise in research techniques and a strong understanding of how research informs product strategy.
• Research Manager: Suggests a leadership role with direct responsibility for managing a team of researchers, overseeing multiple projects simultaneously, client relationship management at a strategic level, and potentially business development. This level requires strong leadership, strategic thinking, and business acumen. The specific focus will depend on the candidate's experience and the company's immediate needs.

Reporting Structure:

• In an owner-managed agency with flat hierarchies, the Senior UX Researcher/Research Manager would likely report directly to a Head of Research, Creative Director, or one of the agency's principals/owners. This structure allows for direct access to leadership and faster decision-making.

Operations Impact:

• The operations impact is significant, directly influencing the usability, desirability, and ultimate success of automotive HMIs and related technologies. By ensuring user-centric design, the role contributes to:
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction and brand loyalty.
  • Reduced risks associated with product launches by validating designs with real users.
  • Improved safety and efficiency of vehicle operation through intuitive interfaces.
  • Strategic guidance for clients on future product development and user experience direction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Deepen expertise in specialized automotive HMI research, explore advanced analytics techniques, or gain proficiency in emerging research methodologies (e.g., AI-driven research, mixed-methods integration).
• Leadership Development: For those excelling as Senior Researchers, there's a clear path to Research Manager roles, involving team leadership, strategic project oversight, and client account management.
• Industry Specialization: Become a recognized expert in automotive UX research, potentially leading to opportunities in larger automotive companies or specialized research consultancies.
• Business Development: Contribute to expanding the agency's client base and service offerings in UX research and HMI consulting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path and growth opportunities have been detailed, acknowledging the dual nature of the title (Senior Researcher vs. Manager). The emphasis is on the impact of UX research in the automotive sector and the specific growth trajectories available within an agency setting, linking them to operations skill development and leadership potential.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type:

• The company offers a hybrid work environment, combining the benefits of remote work with the advantages of an in-office presence. The office is described as "modern" and located in Köln-Ehrenfeld.

Office Location(s):

• The primary office location is Köln (Cologne), Germany. The specific district mentioned is Ehrenfeld, known for its vibrant atmosphere and good accessibility. The presence of a Deutschlandticket subsidy implies good public transport connectivity.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The flat hierarchy and agency culture foster open communication and collaboration. The office is likely designed to encourage interaction, with shared workspaces and meeting areas.
• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to standard office technology (Microsoft Office Suite) is guaranteed. This role will likely utilize specialized UX research software for data collection, analysis, and reporting. The company's focus on automotive HMI might also mean access to driving simulators or specialized testing equipment, though this is not explicitly stated.
• Operations Team Interaction: The hybrid model allows for focused individual work at home while encouraging in-office days for team meetings, brainstorming sessions, client interactions, and collaborative problem-solving.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time employment with flexible working time models. This implies that while core hours might exist for team collaboration and client availability, there's a degree of autonomy in structuring the workday to accommodate personal needs and optimize productivity, particularly when working from home.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment description is enhanced to reflect the hybrid model and the implications for operations professionals. It emphasizes the collaborative aspects of agency culture, the potential for specialized tools, and the flexibility offered in the work schedule, which are key considerations for potential applicants.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening (Phone/Video Call): A preliminary discussion to assess basic qualifications, experience, cultural fit, and understanding of the role's core responsibilities. Be prepared to briefly articulate your UX research philosophy and interest in automotive HMI.
• Skills Assessment / Case Study Presentation: This stage will likely involve a practical exercise or a presentation of a past research project. Prepare a detailed case study from your portfolio that demonstrates your ability to conduct research, analyze data, and derive actionable insights. Focus on the process and the impact.
• In-Depth Interview(s) with Team/Management: Discussions to delve deeper into your experience, leadership potential (if applicable), problem-solving skills, and how you approach client management. Expect behavioral questions assessing your work style, collaboration approach, and alignment with company values.
• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership or agency principals to confirm fit and discuss terms.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 2-3 strong case studies that best represent your skills in UX research, HMI, and project management, ideally with automotive or complex technology examples.
• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, clearly outline:
  • The Challenge: What was the client's problem or research objective?
  • Your Role & Approach: What specific actions did you take? What methodologies did you use and why?
  • The Process: Detail your steps from planning to execution and analysis.
  • Key Findings: What were the most significant insights derived?
  • The Impact: How did your research influence the product, strategy, or client's decision-making? Quantify results where possible.
• Highlight Data Synthesis: Show how you translate raw data into meaningful insights and actionable recommendations.
• Demonstrate Client Communication: Include examples of how you presented findings and managed client expectations.
• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize your experience with HMI, automotive context, and your ability to work in a client-facing agency environment.

Challenge Preparation:

• Research Design Exercise: Be prepared to outline a research plan for a hypothetical automotive HMI scenario. Consider objectives, target users, methodologies, and key questions.
• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Anticipate questions about how you would handle challenging research situations, difficult clients, or conflicting stakeholder priorities. Focus on your structured approach and communication strategies.
• Presentation Skills: Practice presenting your case studies concisely and engagingly, anticipating questions from the interviewers.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides concrete advice tailored to UX research roles in an agency setting. It outlines a typical interview process, offers specific guidance on portfolio presentation for UX research, and suggests preparation strategies for potential challenges, emphasizing the demonstration of process, impact, and client communication skills.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• UX Research Platforms: Proficiency with tools such as UserTesting.com, Lookback, Maze, UserZoom, or similar platforms for remote usability testing and user feedback collection.
• Qualitative Data Analysis: Familiarity with tools like Dovetail, NVivo, or ATLAS.ti for coding, thematic analysis, and synthesizing qualitative data.
• Quantitative Data Analysis & Visualization: Experience with tools like Excel, Google Sheets, SPSS, R, or Python for statistical analysis, and dashboarding tools like Tableau, Power BI, or Google Data Studio for visualizing quantitative findings.
• Survey Tools: Expertise in platforms like SurveyMonkey, Typeform, Qualtrics, or Google Forms for designing and deploying surveys.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Reporting Software: Ability to generate comprehensive research reports using standard office software (Microsoft Word, PowerPoint) and potentially specialized reporting tools.
• Data Visualization Tools: Skills in creating clear and impactful charts and graphs to communicate research findings effectively.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not explicitly mentioned, experience with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot) could be beneficial for understanding client management processes within an agency.
• Project Management Tools: Familiarity with project management software like Asana, Trello, Jira, or Monday.com for managing research projects, timelines, and tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section details the expected technology stack for a UX Researcher/Manager role, focusing on tools critical for research execution, data analysis, and reporting. The inclusion of project management tools is relevant for the managerial aspect of the role and agency operations.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Diversity & Inclusion: The company explicitly states they "live diversity," valuing varied perspectives and backgrounds, which is crucial for comprehensive user research.
• Appreciative Communication: Emphasis on respectful, constructive, and open dialogue within the team and with clients, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.
• Respect: A foundational value ensuring all team members and stakeholders are treated with dignity and consideration.
• Reliability: A commitment to delivering high-quality work consistently and meeting client expectations, critical for an agency's reputation.
• Authenticity: Encouraging genuine interactions and a true representation of oneself and the company's capabilities.
• Efficiency & Process Optimization: As an agency, there's an inherent drive to optimize workflows, improve research processes, and deliver value efficiently to clients.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: A strong emphasis on working collaboratively across different disciplines (UX Research, Design, Client Management) to ensure research insights are integrated seamlessly into client solutions.
• Feedback Culture: An environment that encourages constructive feedback exchange to foster continuous improvement in both individual performance and team processes.
• Knowledge Sharing: Practices that promote sharing of research findings, methodologies, and best practices across the team to build collective expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture and values have been elaborated based on the company's stated principles. This section highlights how these values translate into the daily operations and collaboration dynamics relevant to a UX research professional within the agency.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Client Demands with Research Rigor: Managing multiple client projects with varying priorities and deadlines while maintaining the scientific integrity and depth of UX research.
• Navigating Automotive Complexity: Understanding and researching complex HMI systems, driver assistance technologies, and evolving automotive UX trends requires continuous learning and adaptation.
• Translating Technical Findings: Effectively communicating complex technical research findings to non-technical stakeholders (clients, management) in a clear, concise, and impactful manner.
• Adapting to Hybrid Work: Optimizing collaboration and maintaining team cohesion and productivity within a hybrid work environment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Automotive UX Training: Access to industry-specific training, workshops, and conferences focused on automotive HMI, autonomous driving UX, and future mobility trends.
• Methodological Deep Dives: Opportunities to explore and master advanced research techniques, statistical modeling, or emerging UX research tools.
• Leadership and Management Skills: For those aiming for management roles, development programs focusing on team leadership, client relationship management, and strategic project oversight.
• Mentorship: Potential for mentorship from senior leaders within the agency or industry experts.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section anticipates potential challenges and outlines specific growth avenues relevant to the role. The focus is on continuous learning within the specialized automotive UX field and developing leadership competencies for career progression.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a challenging UX research project you led, focusing on your methodology, the insights you uncovered, and the impact it had on the product or client." (Focus on process, data synthesis, and ROI.)
• "How would you approach researching the usability of a new driver-assistance system for a diverse user group in a driving simulator?" (Demonstrate your research design thinking, consideration of context, and method selection.)
• "Imagine a client is pushing for research to validate a design they've already committed to. How would you navigate this situation to ensure you deliver objective and valuable insights?" (Assess your ethical approach, communication skills, and ability to manage stakeholder expectations.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you specifically about UX research in the automotive industry, and why Allround Team GmbH?" (Show genuine interest and research into the company's work and values.)
• "How do you contribute to a collaborative and appreciative team environment, especially in a hybrid setting?" (Align your response with the company's stated values and address hybrid work dynamics.)
• "Describe a time you had to influence stakeholders with your research findings. What was your strategy?" (Highlight your persuasive communication and strategic thinking.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame your case studies as compelling narratives. Begin with the challenge, detail your journey through the research process, highlight the "aha!" moments (insights), and conclude with the tangible impact.
• Visuals: Use clear, professional visuals (charts, anonymized personas, key UI snippets) to illustrate your points, but avoid overwhelming slides.
• Interactive Q&A: Be prepared for detailed questions about your methodology, data analysis, and decision-making process. Engage actively and demonstrate your critical thinking.
• Focus on "Why": For every methodological choice, be ready to explain why you chose it and how it best addressed the research objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides specific, actionable advice for preparing for interviews, including example questions tailored to UX research and the automotive industry. It emphasizes demonstrating strategic thinking, client management skills, and a deep understanding of research processes and their impact.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on join.com.
• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio prominently features 2-3 strong case studies showcasing your UX research expertise, particularly any experience with automotive HMI or complex technology interfaces. Clearly articulate your process, findings, and measurable impact.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight keywords and responsibilities mentioned in the job description, such as "UX Research," "HMI," "Project Management," "Qualitative/Quantitative Research," and "Client Management." Quantify achievements wherever possible.
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your research process, methodologies, and the impact of your work. Prepare to discuss your experience with client interactions and your understanding of the automotive industry's UX landscape. Rehearse presenting your portfolio case studies concisely.
• Company Research: Thoroughly familiarize yourself with Allround Team GmbH's work, client portfolio, and company values. Understand their market position in automotive technology consulting and how your skills align with their 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.