Junior UX Researcher (x,f,m)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Junior UX Researcher (m,f,d)

Company: DKB Code Factory

Location: Berlin, Germany

Job Type: Full-time

Category: User Experience Research / Product Research

Date Posted: 2026-10-30T09:58:54

Experience Level: Junior / Early Career (0-2 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead end-to-end UX research initiatives, from initial research questions to the final delivery of actionable insights, within a dynamic retail banking environment.

• Design and execute a variety of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, including in-depth interviews, usability testing, concept testing, and surveys, to uncover user needs and pain points.

• Collaborate closely with Product Owners, Designers, and Engineers to integrate customer understanding into the product development lifecycle, ensuring a user-centric approach.

• Establish and maintain continuous user interview formats to foster a consistent customer feedback loop within product teams, driving a culture of user empathy.

• Support the generation of testable hypotheses from research findings and contribute to the evaluation of A/B tests to validate product improvements.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Junior/mid-level UX Researcher, indicating a need for foundational knowledge and practical experience, with opportunities for mentorship and growth under experienced researchers. The emphasis on "owning research end to end" suggests a high degree of autonomy for the candidate, balanced by the support of senior team members. The company's focus on retail banking products used by millions highlights the significant impact this role can have.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the entire research lifecycle for assigned projects, from initial stakeholder briefing and defining research objectives to the final presentation of clear, impactful findings and recommendations.

• Plan, recruit participants for, and conduct qualitative research methods such as in-depth user interviews, moderated and unmoderated usability tests, and concept validation studies.

• Develop and deploy quantitative research instruments, including surveys and questionnaires, to gather broader user sentiment and behavioral data.

• Implement and manage ongoing user interview programs, embedding customer contact routines directly within product teams to ensure continuous user feedback integration.

• Translate research insights into testable hypotheses for Product Managers and Designers, and assist in the analysis and interpretation of A/B test results to inform data-driven product decisions.

• Communicate research findings effectively through compelling storytelling, well-crafted research artifacts (e.g., reports, personas, journey maps), and persuasive presentations to diverse stakeholder groups, influencing product strategy and roadmap.

• Champion user-centricity by educating product teams on user needs, motivations, and behaviors, fostering a deeper understanding of the customer base.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize end-to-end ownership, suggesting the candidate will be expected to manage the entire research process independently, from planning and execution to analysis and reporting. The inclusion of establishing "continuous user interview formats" points towards a proactive approach to building ongoing research cadences rather than isolated projects. The expectation to "share insights in a way that sticks" highlights the importance of strong communication and influencing skills.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Psychology, Social Sciences, Design, Computer Science, or a closely related field. Experience:

• Demonstrated experience in UX or Customer Experience (CX) research, gained through internships, working student roles, or previous junior researcher positions.

• Proven ability to work in a structured manner, transforming raw, potentially complex data into clear, actionable findings and insights. Required Skills:

• Proficiency in qualitative research methodologies, including conducting in-depth interviews, usability testing (moderated and unmoderated), and concept testing.

• Familiarity with survey design principles and basic statistical understanding for quantitative data analysis.

• Strong analytical skills to synthesize data from various sources and derive meaningful conclusions.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex findings clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences, including non-researchers.

• Fluency in both German and English, both written and spoken, for effective collaboration and communication. Preferred Skills:

• Hands-on experience with A/B testing and experimentation frameworks, including hypothesis formulation, test setup, and result interpretation.

• Familiarity with designing and analyzing quantitative research, such as surveys and statistical analysis.

• Experience with user research platforms and tools for participant recruitment, survey deployment, and usability testing.

• A foundational understanding of product development cycles and agile methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of academic background and practical experience. The requirement for fluency in both German and English is critical given the company's location and potential international user base. The "cherry on top" section specifically calls out A/B testing experience, suggesting it's a highly valued skill that can differentiate candidates. The encouragement to apply even if not meeting every requirement signals a focus on potential and cultural fit.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrated examples of end-to-end research projects, showcasing the ability to define research questions, select appropriate methodologies, and execute research plans.

• Case studies highlighting how research insights have directly influenced product decisions, design iterations, or strategy development, with clear articulation of the impact.

• Evidence of presenting research findings to stakeholders, illustrating communication skills and the ability to translate complex data into understandable and actionable recommendations.

• Examples of research artifacts such as user interview summaries, usability test reports, survey analyses, or journey maps. Process Documentation:

• Explanations of your research process, detailing how you approach planning, participant recruitment, data collection, analysis, and reporting for research projects.

• Demonstration of structured thinking in turning qualitative and quantitative data into clear, compelling findings and actionable insights.

• Examples of how you have collaborated with product teams (e.g., Product Owners, Designers, Engineers) throughout the research process.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated as a formal "portfolio requirement," the responsibilities and qualifications strongly imply the need for a portfolio that showcases practical application of research skills. Candidates should be prepared to present detailed examples of their work, demonstrating not just research execution but also their ability to drive product impact and communicate effectively.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated range of €45,000 - €60,000 annually for a Junior UX Researcher in Berlin, Germany. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for early-career UX researchers in major German tech hubs, considering the cost of living and typical compensation structures for full-time positions in the tech and finance sectors. Benefits:

• Personal Development Support: Opportunities for continuous learning, training, and professional growth.

• Collaborative Work Environment: A culture that fosters teamwork, open communication, and mutual support.

• Team Events: Regular team-building activities and social gatherings (e.g., Morning Daily, Afterwork Drinks) to strengthen community bonds.

• Health & Wellness: Potential for company-sponsored health initiatives or benefits.

• Employee Assistance Programs: Support services for employees' well-being.

• Modern Workplace: Access to contemporary tools and technologies within a well-equipped office environment.

Working Hours:

• Standard 40-hour work week, with flexibility to accommodate research needs and project deadlines. The hybrid model allows for a balance between in-office collaboration and remote work.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary ranges are estimates based on general market data for Junior UX Researchers in Berlin. Specific compensation will depend on the candidate's exact experience, skills, and qualifications. The listed benefits are inferred from the "a_place_to_stay_together" section and common offerings in the German tech industry.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Financial Technology (FinTech) / Retail Banking Technology. DKB Code Factory operates within the digital transformation arm of DKB (Deutsche Kreditbank AG), focusing on developing innovative digital products for retail banking customers. This sector is characterized by rapid technological advancements, a strong emphasis on data security, and a drive to enhance customer experience in a highly regulated environment.

Company Size: Part of DKB, which is a significant bank, but DKB Code Factory itself likely functions as a more agile, tech-focused unit, potentially with hundreds to a few thousand employees within the broader DKB group. This size offers the stability of a large organization combined with the agility of a dedicated digital factory.

Founded: DKB Code Factory is a relatively new entity within the established DKB bank. The exact founding date is not provided, but its existence signifies DKB's commitment to modernizing its digital offerings and fostering an innovative tech culture.

Team Structure:

• The UX Research team is likely integrated within product squads or a central UX/Product department. As a Junior UX Researcher, you would report to a Senior UX Researcher or a Head of UX/Research.

• You will collaborate closely with Product Owners, UX/UI Designers, Software Engineers, and potentially Data Analysts within cross-functional product teams.

• The reporting structure supports a collaborative environment where researchers provide critical user insights to guide product development decisions. Methodology:

• A strong emphasis on data-driven decision-making, leveraging both qualitative and quantitative user research to inform product strategy and design.

• Agile development methodologies are likely employed, requiring researchers to adapt to iterative product cycles and provide timely insights.

• A focus on continuous improvement and experimentation, evidenced by the mention of A/B testing and hypothesis validation.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context is derived from the "DKB Code Factory" name and its implied role within a larger banking institution. The "a_place_to_stay_yourself," "a_place_to_stay_curious," and "a_place_to_stay_together" framing suggests a culture that values individuality, curiosity, and strong team cohesion, aiming to blend innovation with a supportive work environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Junior/Mid-Level UX Researcher. This level signifies a foundational role where the individual is expected to execute defined research tasks under guidance but also begin to take ownership of smaller projects. It's a critical stage for developing core research competencies and understanding how to translate findings into business impact.

Reporting Structure: You will likely report to a Senior UX Researcher or a Lead UX Designer/Researcher, who will provide mentorship, guidance on complex projects, and support for your professional development. Collaboration will be a key aspect, working within cross-functional product teams composed of Product Owners, Designers, and Engineers.

Operations Impact: Your work will directly influence the design and functionality of retail banking products used by millions of customers. By uncovering user needs and pain points, you will help shape intuitive, efficient, and user-friendly digital banking experiences, contributing significantly to customer satisfaction, product adoption, and ultimately, the bank's digital strategy and success.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Develop deep expertise in specific research methodologies (e.g., advanced qualitative techniques, experimental design, data analysis) or domain areas within retail banking.

• Project Ownership: Progress to leading larger, more complex research initiatives with greater strategic impact.

• Mentorship: Gain experience by mentoring future junior researchers or interns.

• Cross-Functional Leadership: Potentially move into roles that bridge research and product strategy, or lead research efforts within specific product domains.

• Industry Knowledge: Deepen understanding of FinTech and retail banking challenges and opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Junior/mid" designation implies a role that is beyond an entry-level internship but still requires significant development and support. The growth opportunities are framed around deepening expertise and increasing autonomy, common paths for UX researchers in established tech companies.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid. This model suggests a blend of in-office collaboration and remote flexibility, allowing for structured team interaction while maintaining personal work-life balance. The office is likely designed to foster collaboration, with meeting rooms, breakout spaces, and areas for focused work.

Office Location(s): Berlin, Germany. As a major European tech hub, Berlin offers a vibrant ecosystem for innovation and talent. The specific office location within Berlin would be detailed during the application process.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: The office will likely feature areas conducive to team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and cross-functional discussions, essential for research and product development.

• Tools & Technology: Access to modern research tools, software, and hardware necessary for conducting qualitative and quantitative studies, as well as standard office productivity suites.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular face-to-face interaction with colleagues from UX, Product, and Engineering, fostering a strong sense of team and shared purpose.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is typical in Germany. The hybrid arrangement offers flexibility, allowing for effective management of research timelines and personal commitments, balancing focused individual work with collaborative team activities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "a_place_to_stay_yourself" and "a_place_to_stay_together" themes suggest an environment that balances individual autonomy with strong community and teamwork, which is reflected in the hybrid work model.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A brief call with HR or a recruiter to assess basic qualifications, cultural fit, and interest in the role.

• Hiring Manager/Team Interview: A more in-depth discussion with the hiring manager or a senior researcher to explore your experience, research philosophy, and problem-solving skills. This stage may involve discussing your portfolio.

• Practical Exercise/Case Study: Candidates may be asked to complete a take-home assignment or a live exercise simulating a research task (e.g., analyzing a dataset, outlining a research plan for a given problem, or critiquing a design).

• Team/Stakeholder Interviews: Meetings with potential cross-functional collaborators (e.g., a Product Owner, a Designer) to assess collaboration style and communication effectiveness.

• Final Interview: Potentially a final round with a senior leader to confirm fit and discuss career aspirations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Choose 2-3 strong projects that best showcase your skills in end-to-end research, diverse methodologies, and impactful insights.

• Structure Your Stories: For each project, clearly outline the problem, your role and responsibilities, the research methods used, key findings, the insights derived, and the impact on product decisions. Quantify impact where possible.

• Highlight Process: Detail your research process from planning to reporting, demonstrating your structured thinking and methodology.

• Visuals are Key: Include relevant visuals such as interview transcripts (anonymized), survey results summaries, user journey maps, wireframes, or prototypes that were tested.

• Be Prepared to Discuss: Be ready to talk through your portfolio items in detail, answer clarifying questions, and articulate your rationale behind methodological choices.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize projects that align with the responsibilities of this Junior UX Researcher role, particularly those involving qualitative methods and influencing product decisions in a tech or finance context.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Context: If given a case study, thoroughly research DKB Code Factory, DKB, and the retail banking landscape to understand potential user needs and business objectives.

• Outline Your Approach: For any task, start by clearly stating your understanding of the problem and outlining your proposed research plan, including target users, methods, and key questions.

• Focus on Insights & Impact: Demonstrate how you would move from raw data to actionable insights and how those insights would translate into concrete product recommendations.

• Communication is Crucial: Practice presenting your findings clearly and concisely, anticipating questions from stakeholders who may not have a research background.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is inferred based on standard practices for UX Researcher roles in tech companies. The emphasis on portfolio and case studies is crucial for roles that require demonstrating practical skills and impact. The encouragement to apply even if not meeting all criteria suggests that the interview process will heavily weigh potential and problem-solving abilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Prototyping & Testing Platforms: Tools like Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD (for design collaboration and usability testing), UserTesting.com, Lookback, Maze, or similar platforms for conducting moderated and unmoderated usability and prototype tests.

• Survey & Data Collection Tools: Platforms such as SurveyMonkey, Typeform, Google Forms, Qualtrics, or similar for designing and deploying surveys and collecting quantitative data.

• Collaboration & Documentation: Tools like Jira, Confluence, Miro, Mural, Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides), or Microsoft Office Suite for project management, team collaboration, documentation, and insight sharing.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Basic Statistical Software: Familiarity with tools or libraries for basic statistical analysis (e.g., R, Python libraries like Pandas/NumPy, or even advanced Excel functions).

• Data Visualization Tools: Experience with tools like Tableau, Power BI, or even advanced features within spreadsheet software for presenting quantitative findings.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly a CRM/automation role, understanding how user feedback integrates into CRM systems or product analytics platforms (e.g., Amplitude, Mixpanel) can be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The tools listed are standard for UX Researchers, focusing on qualitative and quantitative data collection, analysis, and collaboration. The "cherry on top" mention of A/B testing suggests familiarity with experimentation platforms might also be a plus.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Curiosity: A deep-seated desire to understand users, their behaviors, motivations, and the "why" behind their actions. This drives the core of UX research.

• User-Centricity: Placing the user at the heart of all product decisions, advocating for their needs and ensuring a positive and effective user experience.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Valuing evidence from research to inform hypotheses, validate assumptions, and guide product development, rather than relying solely on intuition.

• Collaboration & Transparency: Openly sharing findings, methodologies, and challenges with the team, fostering a collective understanding and buy-in for user insights.

• Continuous Improvement: A commitment to iterating on research processes and product designs based on feedback and learnings.

• Passion & Enjoyment: A belief that dedication to one's work should be balanced with enjoying the process and celebrating successes together.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively participating in product team rituals (e.g., sprint planning, reviews) to ensure research is integrated seamlessly into the development workflow.

• Proactive Communication: Regularly updating stakeholders on research progress, emerging insights, and potential implications.

• Empathetic Storytelling: Translating research data into compelling narratives that resonate with diverse audiences, fostering empathy for the user across the organization.

• Feedback Loop: Open to receiving and providing constructive feedback on research approaches, insights, and product recommendations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values are inferred from the company's descriptive language ("a_place_to_stay_yourself," "a_place_to_stay_curious," "a_place_to_stay_together") and the nature of UX research roles. The emphasis is on a blend of individual drive, intellectual curiosity, collaborative spirit, and a commitment to user advocacy.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Research Rigor with Speed: In an agile environment, there's often pressure to deliver insights quickly. The challenge is to maintain research quality while meeting tight deadlines.

• Influencing Stakeholders: Effectively communicating complex research findings and advocating for user needs to stakeholders with varying priorities and perspectives.

• Synthesizing Diverse Data: Integrating insights from various research methods (qualitative, quantitative, A/B tests) into a cohesive understanding of user behavior.

• Defining the 'Right' Problems: Moving beyond surface-level user requests to uncover the underlying problems and unmet needs that research can address.

• Navigating a Regulated Industry: Understanding and working within the constraints and requirements of the retail banking sector.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Methodology Deep Dive: Gain in-depth experience and potentially training in advanced qualitative techniques, experimental design, or quantitative analysis specific to financial products.

• Domain Expertise: Develop specialized knowledge in retail banking, customer financial behaviors, and the FinTech landscape.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Hone skills in working effectively with product management, design, and engineering teams.

• Mentorship: Receive guidance from experienced researchers on complex projects and career development.

• Impactful Projects: Contribute to products that have a significant user base, providing tangible evidence of your research's impact.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are common for junior researchers in fast-paced environments, particularly in regulated industries. Growth opportunities focus on skill development, domain expertise, and increasing leadership potential within the UX research field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a research project you led end-to-end. What was the problem, what methods did you use, what were your key findings, and what was the impact on the product?" (Focus on structure, methodology, insight derivation, and impact).

• "How would you approach understanding the needs of a specific user segment for our mobile banking app? What methods would you prioritize and why?" (Assess your strategic thinking, methodological choice rationale, and user-centric approach).

• "Imagine you've conducted user interviews and found conflicting feedback. How would you synthesize these findings and present them to the product team?" (Test your ability to handle ambiguity, triangulate data, and communicate complex results).

• "How do you ensure your research findings are actionable and lead to real product changes?" (Probe your understanding of stakeholder influence, communication strategy, and driving impact). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about DKB Code Factory and working in the retail banking tech space?" (Research the company's mission, products, and recent news. Connect your interests to their work).

• "How do you approach collaboration with designers and engineers who may have different perspectives?" (Highlight your teamwork skills, empathy, and ability to find common ground).

• "Describe a time you had to advocate for a user's needs when there was resistance from stakeholders." (Demonstrate your conviction, communication skills, and ability to use data to support your case).

• "What does 'a_place_to_stay_yourself' and 'a_place_to_stay_together' mean to you in a professional context?" (Reflect on how these values align with your work style and expectations). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: For each project, frame it as a narrative: the challenge, your approach, the journey of discovery, the key insights, and the resolution/impact.

• Focus on 'Why' and 'So What': Clearly articulate why you chose certain methods and so what the findings mean for the product and users.

• Show, Don't Just Tell: Use visuals (screenshots, diagrams, key quotes, charts) to illustrate your points and make your presentation engaging.

• Be Concise and Clear: Aim for clarity and brevity. Respect the time of your interviewers and be prepared to go deeper on specific aspects if asked.

• Highlight Your Role: Be specific about your contributions, especially if it was a team project.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview questions are crafted to assess core UX research competencies, strategic thinking, communication skills, and cultural fit, aligning with the role's responsibilities and the company's stated values. The portfolio presentation advice focuses on demonstrating impact and clear communication.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Junior UX Researcher position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the DKB Code Factory careers page.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight relevant coursework, internships, and projects that demonstrate your UX research skills, methodologies (qualitative, quantitative), and any experience with product development cycles. Use keywords from the job description (e.g., UX Research, Qualitative Research, Usability Testing, Data Analysis).

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Compile 2-3 strong case studies showcasing end-to-end research projects. Ensure each case study clearly outlines the problem, your role, methodology, key findings, insights, and demonstrated impact. Be ready to present this virtually or in person.

• Research the Company: Familiarize yourself with DKB Code Factory's mission, products, and the broader DKB banking services. Understand their target audience and any recent digital initiatives.

• Practice Your Storytelling: Prepare to discuss your portfolio projects and research experiences using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result), focusing on demonstrating your problem-solving skills, analytical abilities, and collaborative approach.

⚠️ 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.