UX Research Internship - Summer 2026 at Uline

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UX Research Internship - Summer 2026 Company: Uline Location: Pleasant Prairie, WI Job Type: FULL_TIME, INTERN Category: UX Research, User Experience, Product Development Date Posted: 2025-08-20 Experience Level: 0-2 Years (Internship) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

Conduct comprehensive user research to inform product and website enhancements, focusing on improving the user experience for Uline's B2B clientele.
Translate research findings into actionable insights and data-driven recommendations to support customer-focused design decisions.
Actively participate in UX project lifecycles, from research planning and execution to stakeholder communication and deliverable creation.
Collaborate cross-functionally with business analysts, designers, and stakeholders to ensure successful execution of UX research initiatives.
Develop foundational skills in user research methodologies, data analysis, and professional presentation within a dynamic corporate environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this is an internship, the emphasis on "business projects," "stakeholder interviews," and "promoting customer-focused design decisions" indicates a significant level of responsibility and a focus on real-world impact, typical of professional operations roles. The mention of a "dedicated mentor" and "potential to join Uline full-time upon graduation" highlights a structured development program.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

Design and execute user research studies, including but not limited to usability testing, user interviews, surveys, and heuristic evaluations, to gather qualitative and quantitative data.
Develop detailed test plans, research protocols, and recruitment screener questionnaires aligned with project objectives and business requirements.
Synthesize research data and user feedback into clear, concise, and compelling reports and presentations that highlight key findings, insights, and actionable recommendations for design improvements.
Facilitate design thinking workshops, brainstorming sessions, and stakeholder feedback meetings to promote user-centricity and align on project direction.
Conduct thorough competitor analysis and market research to identify industry best practices, emerging trends, and opportunities for UX innovation.
Assist in the analysis of website analytics and user behavior data to identify areas for UX improvement and validate research hypotheses.
Document UX processes, research methodologies, and project outcomes for knowledge sharing and continuous improvement within the UX team.
Collaborate with business analysts and product managers to understand project goals, user needs, and technical constraints, ensuring research efforts are strategically aligned.

📝 Enhancement Note: These responsibilities are framed to reflect the operational aspects of UX research, emphasizing structured processes, data synthesis, cross-functional collaboration, and direct contribution to business objectives, mirroring the operational rigor expected in GTM or Sales Operations roles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Currently pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Psychology, Human Factors, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), UX Design, UX Research, Cognitive Science, Anthropology, Sociology, or a closely related field.
Must have completed at least two years of undergraduate study and be classified as a Junior-status student for the Summer 2026 internship.

Experience:

Academic or practical experience in conducting user research, usability testing, or similar qualitative/quantitative research methodologies.
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines in a project-oriented environment.

Required Skills:

User Research Methodologies: Proficiency in planning, conducting, and analyzing various user research methods (e.g., usability testing, interviews, surveys, card sorting).
Data Analysis & Synthesis: Ability to collect, analyze, and interpret qualitative and quantitative data to derive meaningful insights and actionable recommendations.
Communication & Presentation: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences.
Portfolio: A strong portfolio showcasing previous UX research projects, methodologies used, and impact of findings.
Collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively in a team environment and collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders.
Customer Focus: A strong understanding of and commitment to user-centered design principles and customer advocacy.

Preferred Skills:

UX Design Principles: Foundational knowledge of UX design principles, user interface patterns, and interaction design.
Workshop Facilitation: Experience assisting in or facilitating workshops, design sprints, or brainstorming sessions.
Competitor Analysis: Familiarity with conducting competitive analysis and benchmarking UX best practices.
UX Software Proficiency: Exposure to UX research tools (e.g., UserTesting.com, Lookback, Maze) or design tools (e.g., Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD) is a plus.
Statistical Analysis: Basic understanding of statistical concepts and tools for data analysis.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio, data synthesis, and cross-functional collaboration aligns with the operational requirements of ensuring research projects are executed efficiently and their findings are effectively communicated and integrated into business decisions.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

Research Case Studies: Detailed case studies demonstrating the end-to-end UX research process for at least 2-3 projects. Each case study should clearly outline the problem statement, research objectives, methodology, participant recruitment, data collection, analysis, key findings, and actionable recommendations.
Deliverable Examples: Samples of research deliverables, such as user personas, journey maps, usability test reports, and presentation decks, showcasing clarity, insightfulness, and professional presentation.
Methodology Application: Evidence of applying a range of UX research methodologies, with explanations of why specific methods were chosen for particular projects and how they addressed research questions.
Impact Demonstration: Clear articulation of the impact of research findings on design decisions, product improvements, or business outcomes, supported by metrics or qualitative feedback where possible.

Process Documentation:

Research Plan Creation: Ability to draft a structured research plan that includes background, research questions, hypotheses, methodology, participant criteria, recruitment strategy, and timeline.
Data Analysis Framework: Understanding of how to organize, code, and analyze qualitative data (e.g., thematic analysis) and quantitative data (e.g., survey results, usability metrics).
Insight Generation: Demonstrated ability to move beyond raw data to synthesize findings into meaningful, actionable insights that directly inform design and business strategy.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is tailored to highlight the operational rigor expected in UX research, focusing on the structured documentation of processes, clear articulation of methodologies, and the ability to demonstrate the tangible impact of research through a well-curated portfolio. This is crucial for operations roles where process adherence and measurable outcomes are paramount.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As an internship, compensation is typically competitive and paid hourly. For a Junior-level UX Research Intern in the Pleasant Prairie, WI area during Summer 2026, a realistic hourly rate would likely range from $20 to $28 per hour, depending on the candidate's academic standing, prior experience, and the specific scope of projects assigned.

Benefits:

Professional Work Experience: Gain hands-on experience working on real business projects, contributing to the development of one of the country's top B2B websites.
Dedicated Mentor: Receive guidance and support from an experienced UX professional who will provide personalized mentorship throughout the internship.
Complementary Housing: Uline provides complementary housing for out-of-town interns, reducing living expenses and facilitating relocation.
Positive and Collaborative Work Environment: Experience a supportive and team-oriented atmosphere that encourages learning and professional growth.
Competitive Pay: Earn a competitive hourly wage for the duration of the 12-week internship.
Potential Full-Time Employment: Opportunity for full-time conversion upon graduation, offering a direct pathway into a career at Uline.
"Lunch and Learn" Sessions: Participate in educational sessions to expand business and industry knowledge.
Networking Events: Engage in outings and networking events with fellow interns across various departments, fostering professional connections.
On-site Amenities: Access to an on-site café with freshly prepared meals and a first-class fitness center with a sauna and walking trails.

Working Hours:

This is a full-time internship position, typically requiring approximately 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday. The specific schedule will be coordinated with the intern's mentor and team to align with project needs and business operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is estimated based on industry standards for UX Research internships in the Midwest region, considering the company's reputation and the intern's academic level. The benefits listed are directly from the job description and are framed to highlight their value proposition for interns seeking professional development and comprehensive support.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Uline is a leading distributor of shipping, industrial, and packaging materials, serving a broad range of businesses across North America. This B2B focus dictates a need for a highly functional, efficient, and user-friendly digital experience for its customers. Company Size: Uline is a large and rapidly growing company with over 9,000 employees across 14 locations. This scale suggests robust operational processes, significant resources, and opportunities for interns to witness and contribute to large-scale projects. Founded: Uline was founded as a family-owned company, which often translates to a culture emphasizing long-term vision, employee dedication, and a strong sense of community. The focus on growth and stability is a key aspect of its operational philosophy.

Team Structure:

UX Team: Interns will likely be integrated into a dedicated UX Research or UX Design team, reporting to a UX Manager or Lead Researcher.
Reporting Structure: The intern will report to a dedicated mentor, who will oversee daily tasks, provide guidance, and facilitate learning. The mentor will likely be a senior member of the UX team.
Cross-functional Collaboration: UX researchers at Uline are expected to collaborate closely with various departments, including business analysts, product managers, IT, marketing, and sales, to gather requirements, present findings, and ensure user insights are integrated into business decisions.

Methodology:

Data-Driven Decision Making: Uline's approach emphasizes using data and research findings to guide product development and website enhancements, reflecting a commitment to evidence-based strategies.
Customer-Centricity: The core of UX research is understanding and advocating for the user. This role is central to ensuring Uline's digital platforms meet customer needs effectively.
Process Efficiency: As a distributor, efficiency is key. UX research contributes to optimizing user flows, reducing friction, and improving the overall productivity of customers interacting with Uline's online services.

Company Website: https://www.uline.jobs/

📝 Enhancement Note: This section contextualizes Uline's business and culture, drawing inferences about its operational priorities and how a UX Research intern would fit into that ecosystem. The emphasis on B2B, scale, and efficiency is crucial for understanding the UX team's impact.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is an entry-level internship, specifically designed for students early in their academic careers (Junior status) to gain foundational experience in UX Research. It serves as a stepping stone for future roles in UX, product management, or related operational fields. Reporting Structure: The intern will report to a dedicated mentor, likely a Senior UX Researcher or UX Lead. This direct reporting line ensures focused guidance and practical learning opportunities. The mentor will typically report to a UX Manager or Director. Operations Impact: UX Research directly impacts Uline's operational efficiency and revenue by improving the usability and effectiveness of its e-commerce platform. Enhanced user experiences lead to increased customer satisfaction, higher conversion rates, reduced support costs, and greater customer loyalty, all of which are critical operational metrics.

Growth Opportunities:

Skill Development: Opportunity to hone core UX research skills, learn new methodologies, and gain practical experience in a professional setting.
Industry Exposure: Exposure to the B2B distribution industry and the operational challenges and opportunities within it.
Networking: Build professional relationships with mentors, team members, and other interns, potentially leading to future career opportunities.
Full-Time Conversion: Successful interns may receive offers for full-time positions upon graduation, providing a clear career trajectory within Uline's operations or product teams.
Cross-functional Learning: Opportunities to learn about other business functions through "Lunch and Learn" sessions and interactions with various departments.

📝 Enhancement Note: This analysis frames the internship not just as a learning experience but as a strategic entry point into a career, highlighting the operational relevance of UX and the potential for long-term growth within a large, established company.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The internship is explicitly stated as an "in-person work environment" at Uline's Corporate Headquarters. This suggests a traditional office setting designed for collaboration and focused work. Office Location(s): The primary location is Uline's Corporate Headquarters at 12575 Uline Drive, Pleasant Prairie, WI 53158. The company also lists nearby locations such as Waukegan, IL, Glenview, IL, and Milwaukee, WI, indicating a regional presence, though the internship is specified for the Pleasant Prairie HQ.

Workspace Context:

Collaborative Environment: Uline emphasizes a "positive and collaborative in-person work environment," suggesting opportunities for team interaction, brainstorming, and shared learning.
On-site Amenities: Interns will have access to a full suite of on-site amenities, including an on-site café with executive chef-prepared meals and a first-class fitness center. These perks contribute to a high-quality work-life balance and a comfortable working environment.
Team Interaction: The internship structure, with a dedicated mentor and "Lunch and Learn" sessions, facilitates regular interaction with the UX team and other professionals within the company.

Work Schedule:

The internship is full-time, with a standard 40-hour work week. The schedule is expected to be Monday through Friday, typical of corporate operations. Flexibility may exist within the daily schedule, but the overall commitment is full-time.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section details the physical and social environment of the internship, emphasizing the benefits of an on-site role at a company that invests in employee amenities and a collaborative atmosphere. This is relevant for operations roles that often benefit from direct team interaction and a structured work setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

Initial Screening: Likely involves a review of the resume and academic background to ensure eligibility (Junior status, relevant field of study).
Portfolio Review: Candidates will be assessed based on their portfolio, which should demonstrate UX research skills, methodology application, and the ability to synthesize and present findings.
Behavioral/Situational Interviews: Expect questions assessing communication skills, collaboration abilities, problem-solving approaches, and how candidates handle specific work scenarios.
Technical/Skills-Based Questions: Potential questions related to UX research methodologies, data analysis, and design thinking.
Final Interview: May involve meeting with a hiring manager or senior team members to assess overall fit and potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Structure is Key: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project, with a clear narrative for each case study. Start with the problem, explain your process, and end with the impact.
Show, Don't Just Tell: Include visual artifacts (screenshots, wireframes, journey maps, report excerpts) to illustrate your work.
Highlight Your Role: Clearly define your specific contributions to each project, especially if it was a team effort.
Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, use data or metrics to demonstrate the positive outcomes of your research. If quantitative data is unavailable, use strong qualitative insights.
Tailor to the Role: Emphasize UX research skills and projects that align with Uline's B2B context and focus on improving user experience for business processes.

Challenge Preparation:

Practice Explaining Your Process: Be ready to walk through your portfolio projects step-by-step, articulating your decisions and reasoning clearly.
Prepare for "Why": Understand why you chose specific research methods and how they addressed the project's goals.
Anticipate Behavioral Questions: Prepare examples using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for questions about teamwork, problem-solving, and communication.
Research Uline: Familiarize yourself with Uline's business, its website, and its target audience to demonstrate genuine interest and understanding.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides actionable advice for candidates, focusing on the critical elements of a UX Research internship application, particularly the portfolio and interview stages, drawing parallels to the presentation and communication skills valued in operations roles.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

UX Research Platforms: Familiarity with platforms like UserTesting.com, Lookback, Maze, or similar tools for remote usability testing and user feedback collection would be beneficial.
Survey Tools: Experience with survey platforms such as SurveyMonkey, Qualtrics, or Google Forms for creating and distributing questionnaires.
Data Analysis Tools: Basic proficiency in spreadsheet software (e.g., Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets) for organizing and analyzing qualitative and quantitative data. Familiarity with qualitative data analysis software (e.g., Dovetail, NVivo) is a plus.
Presentation Software: Proficiency in tools like Microsoft PowerPoint, Google Slides, or Keynote for creating and delivering research findings presentations.

Analytics & Reporting:

Website Analytics: Exposure to tools like Google Analytics for understanding user behavior on websites is advantageous.
Reporting Dashboards: Experience with creating or interpreting reports and dashboards that visualize user data and research outcomes.

CRM & Automation:

While not a primary focus for this UX Research role, an understanding of how CRM systems (like Salesforce) and marketing automation platforms are used to manage customer relationships and data can provide valuable context for user needs in a B2B environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This outlines the typical technology stack for UX Research roles, emphasizing data handling, analysis, and presentation tools. These are transferable skills relevant to many operations functions that rely on data insights and reporting.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

Customer-Centricity: A deep commitment to understanding and serving the needs of Uline's B2B customers is paramount, driving research efforts towards practical solutions.
Data-Driven Approach: Decisions are informed by research data and analytics, fostering a culture of evidence-based strategy and continuous improvement.
Efficiency and Optimization: Uline's operational success hinges on efficiency; UX research contributes by streamlining user workflows and reducing friction points in digital interactions.
Collaboration and Teamwork: The company values collaboration across departments to achieve shared business objectives. UX researchers are expected to work seamlessly with various teams.
Growth and Development: Uline invests in its employees, offering opportunities for learning and career advancement, as evidenced by its internship program and focus on mentorship.

Collaboration Style:

Cross-functional Integration: UX researchers actively engage with business analysts, product managers, designers, and developers to integrate user insights into the product development lifecycle.
Feedback Loops: A culture of constructive feedback is likely present, where research findings are openly discussed, debated, and refined with stakeholders.
Knowledge Sharing: Interns are encouraged to participate in "Lunch and Learn" sessions and team meetings, fostering a shared learning environment for best practices and new techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding Uline's values and collaboration style is crucial for interns to integrate effectively. These principles often mirror the operational ethos of companies prioritizing efficiency, data, and customer satisfaction.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

Translating Research into Action: A common challenge is ensuring that research findings are effectively communicated and translated into concrete design changes that yield measurable business impact.
Balancing User Needs with Business Goals: Interns will learn to navigate the complexities of balancing user desires with business objectives, technical constraints, and project timelines.
Adapting to a Large Corporate Environment: For some, transitioning from academic projects to a large, established company's operational structure and processes may present a learning curve.
Working with Diverse Stakeholders: Effectively communicating with and gathering input from various departments, each with different priorities and perspectives, requires strong interpersonal and negotiation skills.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

UX Research Skill Enhancement: Deepen understanding and practical application of various research methodologies.
Industry Best Practices: Learn about UX research and design practices specific to the B2B distribution industry.
Professional Presentation Skills: Gain experience presenting complex findings to senior stakeholders.
Mentorship: Benefit from personalized guidance from experienced professionals, accelerating learning and career development.
Networking: Build a professional network within Uline and potentially the broader UX community.

📝 Enhancement Note: Identifying potential challenges and growth areas allows interns to proactively prepare and maximize their learning experience, aligning with an operations mindset of continuous improvement and problem-solving.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

"Tell me about a UX research project you're proud of. What was your process, what were the key findings, and what was the impact?"
- Preparation: Have a detailed case study ready from your portfolio. Focus on your specific role, the methodology chosen, the insights you uncovered, and how those insights informed design or business decisions. Quantify impact if possible.
"How do you approach synthesizing qualitative data from user interviews or usability tests?"
- Preparation: Explain your process for organizing, coding, and identifying themes. Mention tools you might use (even spreadsheets) and how you move from raw data to actionable insights.
"Describe a time you had to present research findings to stakeholders who had different opinions or priorities. How did you handle it?"
- Preparation: Use the STAR method. Focus on your communication strategy, how you addressed concerns, and how you advocated for the user's perspective while respecting business needs.
"Why are you interested in UX Research at Uline specifically?"
- Preparation: Research Uline's business, their website, and their market position. Connect your interests and skills to their specific needs and the B2B context. Mention your desire to learn about their operational efficiency through UX.
"How do you ensure your research is unbiased and representative of the target user group?"
- Preparation: Discuss your methods for participant recruitment, screener design, and unbiased question framing.

Company & Culture Questions:

"What do you know about Uline and our business?"
- Preparation: Review Uline's website, "About Us" section, and recent news. Understand their role as a distributor and their commitment to customer service.
"How do you think UX research contributes to operational efficiency in a company like Uline?"
- Preparation: Think about how improved website usability can reduce customer support calls, increase order accuracy, and streamline the purchasing process for B2B clients.
"Describe your ideal work environment and how you collaborate with team members."
- Preparation: Align your response with Uline's stated values of collaboration and a positive work environment.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

Narrative Flow: Present your portfolio projects as stories, guiding the interviewer through the problem, your approach, findings, and impact.
Visual Aids: Use clear, well-designed slides or a digital portfolio platform. Ensure visuals are legible and support your narrative.
Conciseness: Be mindful of time. Practice presenting your projects within designated timeframes. Focus on the most impactful aspects.
Confidence and Enthusiasm: Show genuine passion for UX research and a proactive attitude towards learning and contributing.

📝 Enhancement Note: This provides a structured approach to interview preparation, focusing on the types of questions UX research candidates can expect, with specific advice on how to showcase skills relevant to operations (e.g., efficiency, data-driven decisions) and how to present a compelling portfolio.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this UX Research Internship:

Submit your resume and academic transcripts through the Uline Careers portal.
Portfolio Customization: Curate your portfolio to prominently feature 2-3 UX research case studies that best demonstrate your skills in methodology, analysis, and delivering actionable insights relevant to a B2B context. Ensure your portfolio clearly articulates your role and the impact of your work.
Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight academic achievements, relevant coursework, any prior research experience (even academic projects), and key skills such as data analysis, communication, and collaboration. Use keywords from the job description.
Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your UX research process and findings clearly and concisely. Be ready to discuss your portfolio projects in detail and answer behavioral questions using the STAR method. Research Uline's business and its operational focus.
Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Uline's mission, values, and the B2B distribution industry. Understand how UX research contributes to operational efficiency and customer satisfaction within such an environment.

⚠️ 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.

UX Research Internship - Summer 2026