UX Researcher - Bay Area

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UX Researcher Company: AnswerLab Location: San Francisco, California Job Type: Other Category: User Experience (UX) Research Date Posted: July 24, 2025 Experience Level: 5-10 Years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead end-to-end User Experience (UX) research studies, from methodology consultation to final deliverable presentation, ensuring alignment with client business objectives.
• Cultivate and manage strong, trusted relationships with clients, acting as a consultative partner throughout the research lifecycle to drive impactful outcomes.
• Analyze qualitative research data to extract deep user insights, translating findings into clear, actionable recommendations that influence product strategy and development.
• Develop compelling presentations and written deliverables that effectively communicate research findings and strategic guidance to senior-level stakeholders within Fortune 500 companies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically for an on-site UX Researcher, emphasizing in-person client interaction and research sessions, which is a key differentiator for this position. The role requires a consultative approach to client engagement and a strong ability to translate research findings into tangible business impact.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the end-to-end execution of UX research studies, including initial scoping, methodology consultation, and the development of research instruments like moderator guides and screeners.
• Conduct qualitative research sessions, including moderating remote and in-person user interviews and usability tests, ensuring a high-quality participant experience.
• Analyze qualitative data to identify key user behaviors, pain points, and motivations, synthesizing findings into actionable insights that address specific client research questions.
• Develop comprehensive client deliverables, such as slide decks and written reports, that clearly articulate research findings, strategic recommendations, and potential next steps for product development.
• Present research findings and recommendations to diverse client teams, including senior business managers and executives, facilitating understanding and driving informed decision-making.
• Proactively identify and propose creative solutions to research challenges, contributing to the continuous improvement of internal processes and the establishment of client best practices.
• Manage research projects to ensure they remain on schedule, within scope, and on budget, while maintaining high-quality standards.
• Contribute to AnswerLab's internal knowledge base by documenting best practices and sharing expertise to foster a culture of continuous learning and development.
• Collaborate closely with clients to ensure research outputs directly meet their business needs and strategic objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities highlight a blend of hands-on research execution and strategic client management. Emphasis is placed on consultative guidance, end-to-end project ownership, and the ability to influence client strategy through data-driven insights. The requirement for in-person sessions is a critical aspect of the role's execution.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Undergraduate or advanced degree in a relevant field such as Experimental Psychology, Cognitive Psychology, Human Factors, Human-Computer Interaction, or a related discipline with a strong foundation in qualitative research methods.

Experience:

• A minimum of 4 years of hands-on experience conducting qualitative user research, with prior experience in the UX space or a closely related research field (e.g., market research, academia, public health).
• Demonstrated experience leading consulting engagements with clients or stakeholders, either specifically in research or within a management consulting context that leverages analytical data.
• Proven track record of successfully designing and creating research documentation, including discussion guides, participant screeners, test protocols, and comprehensive final reports.
• Proficiency in using online collaboration and research tools for remote sessions (e.g., Zoom, WebEx, GoToMeeting).
• Experience presenting findings and recommendations to senior-level business managers and executives.

Required Skills:

• Qualitative Research Expertise: Deep understanding and practical application of qualitative research methodologies.
• Client Consultation & Management: Ability to build trusted client relationships, provide consultative guidance, and manage stakeholder expectations.
• End-to-End Project Management: Proven ability to independently manage research projects from initiation to completion, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to scope and budget.
• Data Analysis & Synthesis: Strong analytical skills to interpret qualitative data, identify patterns, and synthesize findings into actionable insights.
• Presentation & Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to craft and deliver compelling presentations to diverse audiences.

Preferred Skills:

• Proactive Problem-Solving: Demonstrated ability to explore creative solutions to research challenges and improve processes.
• Adaptability & Flexibility: Capacity to handle change effectively and manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Team Collaboration: Experience working collaboratively with internal teams and clients to achieve project goals.
• Documentation & Best Practices: Aptitude for documenting processes and contributing to internal knowledge sharing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a balance of deep research expertise and strong consulting and client-facing skills. The requirement for 4+ years of experience in qualitative research and client engagement positions this as a mid-to-senior level role. Experience with Fortune 500 clients is a significant plus.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a portfolio showcasing a range of qualitative UX research projects, highlighting the scope, methodologies employed, and the impact of your findings.
• Include examples of research plans, moderator guides, and analysis frameworks used in past projects.
• Showcase well-structured client deliverables, such as presentation decks and written reports, that effectively communicate insights and recommendations.
• Provide evidence of client collaboration and how you managed relationships and incorporated client feedback throughout the research process.

Process Documentation:

• Examples of how you've documented research processes, including best practices for participant recruitment, data collection, and analysis.
• Showcase instances where you've contributed to improving internal research processes or established new best practices for client engagements.
• Demonstrate your ability to manage project timelines, scope, and budgets effectively, with samples of project management documentation if available.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated as a formal requirement, a strong portfolio is implicitly expected for a UX Researcher role of this nature. Candidates should be prepared to present case studies that clearly articulate their process, problem-solving skills, and the impact of their research on product development and business outcomes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Given the San Francisco location, the experience level (5-10 years), and the nature of the work with Fortune 500 clients, a competitive salary range is expected. Based on industry benchmarks for UX Researchers in the Bay Area with this level of experience, the estimated salary range is $100,000 - $150,000 annually.
• This estimate accounts for the high cost of living in the San Francisco Bay Area and the specialized skills required for consulting-based UX research.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development, training, and conference attendance.
• Support for creating a productive work environment.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses or profit sharing.

Working Hours:

• The role is expected to require a standard full-time commitment, approximately 40 hours per week. However, overtime may be required to meet project deadlines, as stated in the physical requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary information was not provided. The range is an estimation based on industry standards for a UX Researcher with 5-10 years of experience in a high-cost-of-living area like San Francisco. Benefits are typical for a professional services firm.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: User Experience (UX) Research and Experience Strategy. AnswerLab partners with leading global brands to enhance their digital products and services through user-centered insights. Company Size: While not explicitly stated, AnswerLab appears to be a specialized consulting firm, likely falling into the small to medium-sized business (SMB) category within the professional services sector. This suggests a close-knit team environment with opportunities for direct impact. Founded: The founding date is not provided, but the company's established client roster (Amazon, American Express, Google, Meta) indicates a significant history and reputation in the industry.

Team Structure:

• The UX Research team likely comprises experienced researchers who operate with a high degree of autonomy, managing their own client engagements.
• Researchers typically report into a Research Lead or Director, with potential for matrixed reporting on client project teams.
• Cross-functional collaboration is inherent, with researchers working closely with client product managers, designers, engineers, and marketing teams, as well as internal AnswerLab strategists and project managers.

Methodology:

• AnswerLab's approach is data-driven and user-centered, focusing on uncovering the "why" behind user behavior to inform product direction and strategy.
• The firm emphasizes consultative partnerships, guiding clients through research processes and translating insights into measurable business impact.
• Continuous innovation in research methods and technologies is likely a core practice, encouraging team members to explore new tools and approaches.

Company Website: https://answerlab.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: AnswerLab positions itself as a strategic partner for its clients, focusing on delivering actionable insights that drive business results. The culture appears to be collaborative, intellectually stimulating, and focused on professional growth, with an emphasis on core values that promote trust, service, and innovation.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role fits within the "Mid-Level" to "Senior" UX Researcher career path. With 4+ years of experience, the individual is expected to lead studies independently, manage client relationships, and contribute to strategic decision-making. Reporting Structure: Typically, a UX Researcher would report to a Research Manager or Director. They would also work within project teams, collaborating with other researchers, strategists, and client-side counterparts. Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on product development and business strategy by providing critical user insights that shape product direction, improve user experience, and ultimately drive customer satisfaction and business growth for AnswerLab's clients.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific research methodologies (e.g., generative research, evaluative research, longitudinal studies) or industry verticals.
• Consultative Leadership: Develop advanced consultative skills, client management capabilities, and strategic advisory experience, potentially leading to roles like Senior UX Researcher, Principal Researcher, or Research Lead.
• Knowledge Contribution: Contribute to AnswerLab's internal knowledge library, document best practices, and potentially mentor junior researchers, fostering leadership potential.
• Client Relationship Management: Grow into managing key client accounts and becoming a trusted advisor for major brands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career trajectory for a UX Researcher at a firm like AnswerLab involves a progression from executing research to strategically advising clients and potentially leading research initiatives or client relationships. Continuous learning and a focus on delivering tangible business impact are key drivers for advancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role requires in-person sessions, indicating a hybrid or on-site work model. AnswerLab likely maintains professional office spaces in the Bay Area that can be used for client meetings, internal collaboration, and focused work. Office Location(s): San Francisco, California. This location offers access to a vibrant tech and innovation ecosystem, with numerous client sites also potentially located within the Bay Area. Workspace Context:

• The environment is expected to be collaborative, fostering interaction with colleagues on client projects and internal initiatives.
• Access to necessary UX research tools, software, and potentially prototyping tools will be provided.
• The workspace should support both focused individual work (analysis, report writing) and dynamic team collaboration. Work Schedule: While a standard 40-hour week is typical, the role may require flexibility to accommodate client schedules, project deadlines, and the need for in-person research sessions, which can sometimes extend beyond standard business hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "in-person sessions" and "client meetings at designated client sites" strongly suggests that this is not a remote position. Candidates must be willing and able to work on-site in the Bay Area and travel to client locations as needed.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will likely conduct an initial phone screen to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.
• Hiring Manager Interview: A more in-depth discussion with the hiring manager focusing on research experience, project examples, and understanding of AnswerLab's approach.
• Research/Portfolio Review: Candidates will be asked to present a portfolio of their work, detailing specific research projects, methodologies, findings, and impact. This is a critical step to evaluate practical skills and communication abilities.
• Team/Peer Interviews: Interviews with other researchers or team members to assess collaboration style, problem-solving approaches, and alignment with AnswerLab's core values.
• Client Simulation/Case Study: Potentially a simulated client interaction or a case study exercise to assess consultative skills, strategic thinking, and ability to translate research into business recommendations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project, clearly outlining the user problem, research questions, methodology, your specific role, key findings, and actionable recommendations.
• Impact: Quantify the impact of your research whenever possible (e.g., "led to a 15% increase in conversion," "identified critical usability issues that were subsequently resolved").
• Process: Be prepared to walk through your research process, explaining the rationale behind your methodological choices and how you adapted to challenges.
• Presentation: Practice presenting your portfolio concisely and engagingly, focusing on storytelling and clearly articulating your contributions. Tailor your presentation to AnswerLab's focus on client partnership and strategic impact.
• Deliverables: Include examples of high-quality deliverables (reports, slide decks) that demonstrate your ability to communicate complex findings clearly.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you handle ambiguity, manage challenging client relationships, and navigate research roadblocks.
• Prepare examples of how you've applied AnswerLab's core values (e.g., building trust, providing amazing service, exploring creative solutions) in past roles.
• Anticipate questions about your preferred research methods, how you stay current with UX research trends, and your approach to synthesizing data from multiple sources.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role heavily emphasizes practical experience and the ability to articulate research processes and their business impact. A well-prepared portfolio is crucial for success, serving as the primary evidence of a candidate's capabilities. Expect a focus on consultative skills and client management.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Remote Research Platforms: Proficiency with tools like Zoom, WebEx, GoToMeeting for moderating remote sessions and conducting interviews.
• Qualitative Data Analysis Software: Familiarity with tools for analyzing qualitative data, such as Dovetail, NVivo, or similar qualitative analysis software, to manage and synthesize interview transcripts and notes.
• Survey Platforms: Experience with tools like Qualtrics, SurveyMonkey, or Google Forms for creating screeners and potentially collecting supplementary data.
• Collaboration Tools: Proficiency in standard office productivity suites (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace) for creating documentation and presentations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While primarily qualitative, familiarity with basic analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics) can be beneficial for understanding user behavior context.
• Proficiency in presentation software (e.g., PowerPoint, Google Slides) is essential for creating client-facing reports and deliverables.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct requirement, understanding how UX research integrates with CRM systems or marketing automation platforms can provide valuable context for client discussions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The job description highlights experience with remote research tools and presentation software. While specific qualitative analysis tools are not named, familiarity with common platforms is expected for effective data synthesis.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Build Trust: Fostering strong, reliable relationships with clients and colleagues through transparency and integrity in research and communication.
• Provide Amazing Service: Dedication to exceeding client expectations by delivering high-quality research, actionable insights, and exceptional client experience.
• Support and Encourage Inclusivity: Committing to creating an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued and contribute to richer research outcomes.
• Jump in to Help Others: A proactive, team-oriented approach, readily assisting colleagues and contributing to shared success.
• Handle Change with Flexibility: Adaptability and resilience in navigating evolving project needs, client requests, and industry trends.
• Innovate Our Products and Processes: A commitment to continuous improvement, exploring new research methods, tools, and approaches to enhance research quality and client value.
• Explore Creative Solutions to Challenges: Proactive problem-solving and a willingness to think outside the box to overcome research obstacles and deliver impactful results.
• Make AnswerLab a Great Place to Work: Contributing positively to the company culture, fostering a supportive and engaging work environment.

Collaboration Style:

• AnswerLab emphasizes a collaborative approach, both internally among researchers and strategists, and externally with clients.
• Expect a culture that values open communication, knowledge sharing, and mutual support.
• Researchers are expected to partner closely with clients, integrating them into the research process and acting as a true extension of their teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: AnswerLab's core values are central to their culture and approach to client work. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate how their past experiences align with these values, particularly in areas of client service, trust-building, and innovative problem-solving.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Client Management in a Consulting Environment: Balancing the needs of multiple clients with varying expectations and project demands.
• Navigating Complex Business Problems: Translating broad client business questions into focused, researchable questions and delivering insights that address strategic objectives.
• Adapting Research Methods: Flexibility to tailor research methodologies to specific client contexts, timelines, and budgets.
• Communicating Insights Effectively: Ensuring that research findings are understood and acted upon by diverse stakeholder groups, including those less familiar with research processes.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Methodologies: Exposure to and training in a wide range of qualitative UX research methods, potentially including emerging techniques.
• Consultative Skill Development: Opportunities to hone client management, strategic advisory, and presentation skills through hands-on experience and mentorship.
• Industry Exposure: Working with a diverse portfolio of clients across various industries, gaining broad market and user understanding.
• Internal Knowledge Sharing: Contributing to and learning from a community of experienced UX professionals within AnswerLab.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant growth potential for individuals who thrive in a client-facing, consulting environment. The challenges are directly tied to developing advanced research and advisory skills, making it an excellent opportunity for career advancement in UX strategy.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to consult with a client on research methodology. What was the situation, your approach, and the outcome?" (Focus on consultative skills, client engagement, and methodological rationale).
• "How do you ensure your research findings are actionable and directly address client business objectives?" (Highlight your synthesis and recommendation development process).
• "Walk me through a complex research project you led from start to finish. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Demonstrate end-to-end project management, problem-solving, and resilience).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about AnswerLab's mission and our approach to UX research?" (Show you've researched the company and align with their client-focused, strategic approach).
• "How do you embody our core value of 'Provide Amazing Service' in your work?" (Prepare specific examples of going above and beyond for clients or colleagues).
• "Describe a situation where you had to handle change with flexibility. How did you adapt your research plan or approach?" (Illustrate your adaptability and problem-solving skills).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select 3-4 diverse projects: Choose projects that best showcase your range of skills, methodologies, and impact.
• Focus on the "Why": Clearly articulate the client's business problem and your research objectives.
• Detail your process: Walk through your methodology, participant recruitment, data collection, and analysis steps.
• Highlight insights and recommendations: Present your key findings clearly and explain the strategic recommendations you provided.
• Quantify impact: Whenever possible, share the business impact or outcomes of your research.
• Practice your delivery: Ensure you can present your portfolio concisely (aim for 15-20 minutes for the presentation itself) and answer questions thoughtfully. Be prepared to discuss your role specifically in team projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely involve a structured assessment of your research expertise, client management skills, and cultural fit. Be prepared to articulate your process, demonstrate impact, and connect your experience to AnswerLab's values and client-centric approach.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this UX Researcher position:

• Submit your application through the provided link: https://answerlab.bamboohr.com/careers/171
• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a strong portfolio that clearly demonstrates your expertise in qualitative UX research, consultative client engagement, and end-to-end project management. Prepare to discuss your specific contributions to each project.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your 4+ years of qualitative research experience, client-facing roles, and successes in delivering actionable insights. Use keywords such as "UX Research," "Qualitative Research," "Stakeholder Management," "Consulting," and "Client Delivery."
• Interview Practice: Rehearse your responses to common UX research and behavioral interview questions. Practice presenting your portfolio concisely and engagingly, focusing on storytelling and impact. Be ready to discuss your understanding of AnswerLab's core values.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with AnswerLab's website, client work, and mission. Understand their approach to UX research and experience strategy, and be prepared to articulate why you are a good fit for their client-focused culture.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with AnswerLab before making application decisions.