Junior UX Researcher

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Junior UX Researcher

Company: Dentsu

Location: Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

Job Type: Full-time, Fixed-Term Contract (6 Months)

Category: User Experience Research, Market Research

Date Posted: 2026-05-28

Experience Level: Junior (1-3 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Execute end-to-end mixed-methods UX research programs focused on driver safety and user perception, ensuring alignment with user needs and NHTSA compliance standards.

• Design, conduct, and analyze quantitative surveys and qualitative studies, including diary studies and concept testing, to uncover actionable insights.

• Manage day-to-day research operations, coordinate with internal teams and clients, and ensure project milestones and quality standards are met.

• Translate complex data sets into clear, compelling reports and presentations using storytelling techniques to communicate findings effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a 6-month fixed-term contract, offering a focused opportunity to gain experience in a specialized area of UX research within the automotive safety sector. The emphasis on NHTSA compliance and driver distraction evaluations indicates a need for meticulous attention to detail and adherence to rigorous methodologies.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Research Execution & Project Management:

  • Own assigned research tasks from initiation to completion under senior researcher guidance, ensuring adherence to project timelines and quality benchmarks.
  • Assess project feasibility, including timelines and resource allocation, and proactively identify and flag potential risks.
  • Manage daily research study operations, facilitating communication and coordination between internal teams and external clients at critical project junctures (briefings, progress updates, debriefs).
  • Address and resolve escalations promptly, ensuring project scope is maintained or managed effectively, and keeping stakeholders informed of any deviations.

• Research Design & Analysis:

  • Design and implement quantitative surveys and qualitative research instruments (e.g., discussion guides, diary studies) with methodological rigor, selecting appropriate sampling and experimental approaches.
  • Conduct thorough data collection, including log analysis, and perform qualitative synthesis to translate findings into clear, data-backed, and actionable insights.
  • Identify patterns and trends across diverse datasets to generate relevant recommendations that directly address client business objectives and user needs.
  • Apply industry-standard eye-tracking methodologies and experience with scaled qualitative surveys for driver safety evaluations.

• Communication & Reporting:

  • Develop polished, insightful reports and presentations using PowerPoint or Google Slides, employing clear storytelling to convey research findings and recommendations.

  • Actively participate in team meetings, contributing prepared ideas and solutions, and foster a collaborative research environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The dual research tracks (User Research and Driver Safety Evaluation) with distinct testing cycles (3-week vs. 4-5-week) highlight the need for strong organizational skills and adaptability. The standardized intake process and templated plans suggest a structured environment where efficiency and adherence to guidelines are paramount.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: [While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Psychology, Human-Computer Interaction, Sociology, Anthropology, or a related field is typically expected for UX Research roles.]

Experience: 1–3 years of hands-on experience in UX research, market research, or a closely related field.

Required Skills:

• Demonstrated experience in quantitative survey design and an understanding of various sampling methods.

• Proficiency with at least one statistical software package (e.g., R, MATLAB, SPSS) for data analysis.

• Hands-on experience conducting small-scale qualitative research methodologies, including diary studies, concept testing, and usability testing.

• Strong command of MS Excel, Google Sheets, and presentation software such as PowerPoint and Google Slides.

• Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information.

• Superior communication and active listening skills, crucial for surfacing non-verbal cues and nuanced insights during research sessions.

• Ability to leverage industry-standard methods for eye-tracking studies.

Preferred Skills:

• Previous experience in driving safety research or in-vehicle user experience evaluations.

• Familiarity with NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) compliance standards and their implications for research design.

• Experience with mixed-methods research approaches, integrating quantitative and qualitative data.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role specifies "Junior," indicating that while practical experience is key, deep expertise in all areas may not be required. The emphasis on specific tools like R, MATLAB, or SPSS suggests a need for practical application rather than just theoretical knowledge. Experience in automotive safety is a significant advantage, pointing towards a niche focus for this role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate proficiency in designing and executing quantitative surveys and qualitative research methods.

• Showcase examples of data analysis, synthesis, and translation of findings into actionable insights and recommendations.

• Present case studies of research projects that required coordination and project management, highlighting your role in ensuring successful delivery.

Process Documentation:

• Showcase an understanding of research workflow design, from initial brief to final reporting, with a focus on efficiency and quality.

• Provide examples of how you have contributed to or managed the implementation of research processes, ensuring adherence to timelines and methodological rigor.

• Illustrate your approach to measuring the impact and effectiveness of research findings on product development or feature design.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio isn't explicitly requested, candidates should be prepared to discuss their past projects and demonstrate their capabilities through examples. The emphasis on structured processes and standardized plans in the project context suggests that candidates who can articulate their systematic approach to research will be highly valued.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: For a Junior UX Researcher role in Sydney, Australia with 1-3 years of experience, the estimated salary range is AUD $65,000 - $90,000 per annum. This estimate is based on typical market rates for similar positions in Sydney, considering the specified experience level and the nature of a fixed-term contract.

Benefits:

• Fixed-Term Contract: Opportunity for a defined period of focused project work.

• Professional Development: Exposure to specialized automotive safety research and mixed-methods approaches.

• Collaborative Environment: Work within a supportive team structure under senior guidance.

• Sydney Location: Opportunity to work in a vibrant city with access to professional networks.

• [Additional benefits typical for contract roles may include superannuation contributions as per Australian law, and potential for contract extension based on performance and project needs.]

Working Hours: This is a full-time role, typically equating to 38-40 hours per week, with the potential for some flexibility depending on project demands and team coordination needs. The specific working hours will be aligned with standard business operations in Sydney.

📝 Enhancement Note: As this is a fixed-term contract, benefits may differ from permanent roles. It's advisable to clarify specific benefits, including leave entitlements and potential for contract extension, during the interview process. The salary range is an estimate and should be confirmed with the hiring team.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Advertising, Media, and Marketing Services. As part of the Dentsu Aegis Network, the company operates within a global framework, providing a broad spectrum of marketing and communication services. This role interfaces with clients in the automotive sector, specifically focusing on safety and user perception.

Company Size: Dentsu is a large, global organization. While specific team sizes for UX research departments can vary, working within a large entity offers opportunities for exposure to diverse projects and large-scale operations.

Founded: Dentsu was founded in 1906, bringing a long history of innovation and adaptation in the advertising and media landscape. This legacy suggests a culture that values experience, strategic thinking, and long-term vision.

Team Structure:

• The UX research function likely operates within a larger UX, design, or insights department. This Junior UX Researcher will report to senior researchers, collaborating closely with them on specific projects.

• The reporting structure will involve guidance from senior UXRs and potentially project managers who oversee client engagements.

Methodology:

• The team employs a mix of quantitative and qualitative research methods, with a specific focus on mixed-methods approaches for safety-critical applications.

• Emphasis is placed on methodological rigor, particularly for NHTSA-compliant studies, ensuring data accuracy and reliability.

• Data-driven decision-making is paramount, with a focus on translating research findings into actionable recommendations that inform product strategy and user experience design.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Dentsu's global presence and diverse client base suggest that this role will offer exposure to high-stakes projects and complex client requirements. The emphasis on safety and compliance indicates a culture that prioritizes thoroughness, accuracy, and adherence to regulatory standards.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at the "Junior" level, suitable for individuals with 1-3 years of professional experience. It signifies an entry-level to early-career position focused on learning and executing research tasks under guidance.

Reporting Structure: The Junior UX Researcher will report to senior UX Researchers or a Research Lead. This structure facilitates mentorship and skill development, with direct oversight and feedback on research design, execution, and analysis.

Operations Impact: While primarily focused on research execution, the insights generated by this role directly impact product development and safety feature validation. By ensuring features meet user needs and regulatory compliance, the researcher contributes to user safety, product adoption, and ultimately, client success. The role bridges user needs with technical and regulatory requirements.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialized Skill Development: Deepen expertise in mixed-methods research, quantitative survey design, qualitative analysis, and specifically in automotive safety research and eye-tracking methodologies.

• Project Management Acumen: Gain experience in managing research tasks end-to-end, improving project scoping, timeline management, and stakeholder communication.

• Industry Exposure: Develop a strong understanding of the automotive industry's safety standards, regulatory landscape (NHTSA), and user perception challenges.

• Career Progression: This role can serve as a stepping stone to a full-time UX Researcher, Senior UX Researcher, or specialized roles in areas like automotive UX, safety research, or data analytics within Dentsu or the broader industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The 6-month fixed-term nature of this contract provides a concentrated period for skill acquisition and project contribution. While direct career progression within Dentsu isn't guaranteed, the experience gained will be highly transferable and valuable for future roles in UX research, particularly in specialized or regulated industries.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This role is designated as on-site in Sydney. It implies working within a professional office environment at Dentsu's Sydney location.

Office Location(s): The job description specifies "Sydney - 20 Windmill Street." This is a central business district location, likely offering good accessibility via public transport and proximity to amenities.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely be collaborative, with opportunities to interact with other researchers, designers, and project teams.

• Access to necessary tools and technology for research, data analysis, and reporting (e.g., statistical software, presentation tools, potentially eye-tracking equipment or software) is expected.

• The environment will foster a culture of rigorous research, data integrity, and client-focused delivery, particularly within the safety program context.

Work Schedule: A standard full-time work schedule (approximately 38-40 hours per week) is expected. While the role is on-site, there might be some flexibility in daily start/end times, subject to team and project needs, but the core working hours will align with standard Australian business operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Working on-site in Sydney provides direct access to team collaboration and company resources. The specific address indicates a professional office setting, conducive to focused research work and team interaction.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your application, resume, and any supplementary materials (e.g., portfolio link). Focus on highlighting relevant experience in UX research, quantitative/qualitative methods, and any automotive safety exposure.

• First Interview: Typically with a hiring manager or senior UX researcher. This stage will assess your foundational knowledge, understanding of research methodologies, and alignment with the role's requirements. Be prepared to discuss your experience with survey design, data analysis, and qualitative techniques.

• Case Study/Assignment: You may be given a research problem or scenario to analyze and present on. This assesses your analytical skills, ability to synthesize information, and communication style. Focus on demonstrating your process and how you arrive at actionable insights.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with additional team members or stakeholders. This stage often focuses on cultural fit, collaboration style, and how you would integrate into the team and contribute to ongoing projects.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Relevant Projects: Select 2-3 projects that best showcase your experience in quantitative survey design, qualitative research execution, data analysis, and reporting. Prioritize projects that demonstrate your ability to handle complex data or address specific user needs.

• Highlight Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions to each project, especially in areas like research design, data collection, analysis, and reporting.

• Showcase Impact: For each project, emphasize the outcomes and impact of your research. How did your findings inform decisions, improve a product, or meet specific objectives (like compliance)?

• Demonstrate Methodological Rigor: Explain the methodologies you used and why they were appropriate for the project goals. If you have experience with eye-tracking or driver safety evaluations, make sure to highlight this.

• Presentation Clarity: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate. Use clear, concise language and compelling visuals where appropriate.

Challenge Preparation:

• Methodology Application: Be ready to discuss how you would approach a given research problem using mixed-methods, quantitative surveys, or qualitative techniques.

• Data Interpretation: Practice interpreting sample data sets and articulating actionable insights and recommendations.

• Communication & Storytelling: Prepare to present your findings in a structured narrative that is easy for stakeholders to understand and act upon.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the specific focus on driver safety and NHTSA compliance, candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of research ethics, data privacy, and the importance of methodological rigor in safety-critical contexts. Highlighting any experience with regulated industries or complex compliance requirements will be beneficial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Quantitative Survey Platforms: Experience with survey tools for design and deployment (e.g., Qualtrics, SurveyMonkey, Google Forms).

• Statistical Software: Proficiency in at least one package such as R, MATLAB, or SPSS for quantitative data analysis.

• Presentation Software: Mastery of Microsoft PowerPoint and Google Slides for creating polished research reports and client presentations.

• Spreadsheet Software: Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets for data manipulation, organization, and basic analysis.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Ability to conduct log analysis and identify patterns and trends within datasets.

CRM & Automation:

Specialized Tools:

• Eye-Tracking Methodologies: Familiarity or experience with eye-tracking hardware and software for user behavior analysis.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specific statistical software (R, MATLAB, SPSS) indicates a need for strong quantitative analysis skills. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with these tools and how they've applied them in research contexts. Experience with eye-tracking is a distinct advantage.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A core value driving all research efforts, ensuring that product features prioritize user safety and adhere to regulatory standards.

• Data-Driven Insights: Commitment to rigorous data collection and analysis to provide evidence-based recommendations.

• User-Centricity: A deep understanding of user needs, perceptions, and behaviors as the foundation for product development.

• Methodological Rigor: Adherence to sound research principles and best practices to ensure the reliability and validity of findings.

• Collaboration & Communication: Fostering an environment where ideas are shared, feedback is constructive, and cross-functional teams work together effectively.

Collaboration Style:

• Team-Oriented: The role requires close collaboration with senior researchers, project managers, and potentially client-side teams.

• Proactive Communication: Regular updates, clear articulation of research progress, and timely flagging of issues are crucial for successful project management.

• Knowledge Sharing: Contributing to team meetings and sharing learnings to foster a collective understanding of research best practices and project insights.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on safety and compliance suggests a culture that values precision, thoroughness, and ethical research practices. Candidates who can demonstrate an understanding of these values and how they apply to research will be a strong fit.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Regulatory Landscapes: Understanding and applying NHTSA compliance standards to research design and analysis requires careful attention to detail and adherence to specific protocols.

• Balancing Research Tracks: Managing parallel research projects with different timelines and methodologies (e.g., 3-week user research vs. 4-5-week driver safety evaluations) demands strong organizational and time-management skills.

• Synthesizing Complex Data: Integrating findings from quantitative surveys, qualitative studies, and potentially eye-tracking data into a cohesive and actionable narrative can be challenging.

• Fixed-Term Contract Transition: For the individual, the challenge lies in maximizing learning and impact within a 6-month period and navigating the transition at the end of the contract.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Research Skills: Gain hands-on experience with advanced methodologies like eye-tracking and deep dives into automotive safety research.

• Project Management Experience: Develop robust project management skills by owning research tasks end-to-end and coordinating with multiple stakeholders.

• Industry Expertise: Build in-depth knowledge of the automotive industry, driver behavior, and safety regulations, which can open doors to specialized roles.

• Mentorship: Benefit from guidance and feedback from senior UX Researchers, accelerating professional growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a unique opportunity to specialize in a high-impact and safety-critical area of UX research. The challenges presented are directly tied to developing advanced skills and navigating complex industry requirements.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you designed and executed a quantitative survey. What were the key considerations for sampling and question design?" (Focus on methodological rigor, target audience, and potential biases).

• "Walk us through a qualitative research project you managed from start to finish. What were the main challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Highlight project management, participant recruitment, data analysis, and insight generation).

• "How would you approach designing a study to evaluate potential driver distraction in a new in-car feature, considering NHTSA guidelines?" (Demonstrate understanding of safety protocols, research design principles, and compliance factors).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you specifically about UX research in the automotive safety domain?" (Connect your passion for user experience with the critical nature of safety and compliance).

• "How do you ensure your research is actionable and relevant to business or product goals?" (Emphasize your ability to translate findings into concrete recommendations).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly define the problem, your role and methodology, the key findings, and the actionable recommendations/impact.

• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the value of your research (e.g., "identified usability issues that could have led to X% user error," or "findings informed a feature redesign that improved user satisfaction by Y%").

• Highlight Collaboration: Briefly mention how you collaborated with team members or stakeholders to achieve project goals.

• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate questions about your design choices, analytical approach, and how you handled challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: Be ready to discuss specific tools you've used (R, MATLAB, SPSS, eye-tracking software) and how you applied them. Emphasize your systematic approach and your ability to deliver clear, data-backed insights, especially in the context of safety and compliance.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Dentsu careers portal.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight experience directly relevant to UX research, quantitative survey design, qualitative methods, data analysis, and project management. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate 2-3 strong project examples that showcase your skills in research design, execution, analysis, and reporting, especially any related to automotive safety or regulated environments. Be ready to discuss these in detail.

• Research Dentsu: Understand their services, company values, and recent work, particularly within the automotive or technology sectors if possible.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers for common UX research interview questions, focusing on your methodologies, problem-solving approach, and ability to generate actionable insights. Practice articulating your experience with specific tools and techniques mentioned in the job description.

⚠️ 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.