Lead Product Designer / User Experience / Usability Analytics (6312)

itD Tech
Full-time

πŸ“ Job Overview

Job Title: Lead Product Designer / User Experience / Usability Analytics (6312)

Company: itD Tech

Location: Remote (United States)

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: User Experience (UX) Research / Product Analytics

Date Posted: September 9, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-8+ years)

Remote Status: Fully Remote

πŸš€ Role Summary

  • Lead end-to-end usability research across a variety of digital touchpoints including web, mobile applications, and emerging AI-enabled interfaces, driving user-centered strategy.

  • Champion user needs throughout the product development lifecycle by synthesizing qualitative and quantitative data into actionable insights for product, design, and engineering teams.

  • Integrate and leverage AI-enabled tools and workflows to enhance research efficiency, speed, and impact, while upholding rigorous methodologies and ethical data practices.

  • Act as a thought partner and mentor within the User Experience team, contributing to the advancement of research practices, fostering innovation, and promoting responsible AI integration.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: This role is a hybrid of UX Research and Product Analytics, with a strong emphasis on leveraging AI tools. The "Lead" title suggests significant autonomy and mentorship responsibilities, implying a need for strong strategic thinking and leadership potential beyond individual contributor tasks. The focus on "Usability Analytics" and "AI-enabled tooling" points towards a data-driven approach to understanding user behavior and optimizing experiences.

πŸ“ˆ Primary Responsibilities

  • Spearhead high-impact research studies from initiation to completion, applying sound judgment to select appropriate methodologies for diverse research questions.

  • Conduct foundational research to inform and shape product and design strategy for complex, high-priority initiatives within the organization.

  • Analyze a wide range of qualitative research data, including usability tests, in-depth interviews, participatory design sessions, and heuristic evaluations, integrating these findings with quantitative and behavioral data.

  • Translate research findings into clear, concise, and actionable insights and specific design recommendations for product and design teams.

  • Identify and connect research signals across multiple projects to uncover patterns, synergies, and broader strategic opportunities for product improvement.

  • Communicate research insights effectively through compelling storytelling, making complex findings accessible and actionable for stakeholders at all levels, from developers to executives.

  • Utilize approved AI tools to accelerate study setup, data analysis, synthesis, desk research, survey drafting, and report generation, ensuring maintained rigor, researcher judgment, and accountability.

  • Design and evaluate research for AI-driven experiences, including agentic, conversational, and personalized AI features, focusing on usability, trust, transparency, and behavioral insights.

  • Contribute to the development and implementation of responsible AI practices in research, addressing data privacy, PII handling, model limitations, bias awareness, disclosure, and human validation of AI-generated outputs.

  • Maintain and enhance an organized, accessible, and AI-queryable knowledge base of past research findings to promote discoverability and reusability across teams and tools.

  • Integrate research insights directly into shared product, design, and engineering workflows, ensuring evidence reaches partners at their point of work.

  • Serve as a strategic thought partner during product discovery, strategy formulation, and problem framing phases.

  • Navigate ambiguity in project priorities, concurrent workstreams, and problem spaces, providing clarity on evolving scope, user needs, and decision-making processes.

  • Mentor junior researchers and designers in user-centered processes, elevating the team's overall methodology, AI-enabled practices, and insight quality.

  • Evaluate and recommend emerging research methods, AI tools, and innovative ways of working, guiding the team in adopting valuable approaches and phasing out less effective ones.

  • Participate in internal practice community meetings and collaborate on industry thought leadership initiatives, contributing to blogs, media materials, and digital transformation practice building.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on AI integration and responsible AI practices within research, which is a key differentiator. The inclusion of "Digital Transformation practice" and "client case studies" suggests the role operates within a consulting or agency-like framework, even if it's an internal role for a tech company. The mentorship aspect indicates a senior-level expectation.

πŸŽ“ Skills & Qualifications

Education: While specific educational requirements are not listed, a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Psychology, Sociology, Anthropology, Information Science, Computer Science, or a related field is typically expected for roles of this nature. Advanced degrees may be preferred for more complex strategic initiatives.

Experience: 5–8+ years of progressive experience in UX research, product research, or a closely related research discipline.

Required Skills:

  • Demonstrated portfolio showcasing successful digital product research across mobile and/or omnichannel experiences, including case studies of end-to-end research projects.

  • Proven practical experience utilizing research tools and integrating AI-enabled workflows or emerging methods to demonstrably improve research quality, speed, or impact.

  • Extensive experience leading complex research initiatives that have directly influenced product, design, and cross-functional strategy.

  • Strong proficiency in a variety of qualitative research methodologies, including usability testing, in-depth interviews, contextual inquiry, and ethnographic studies.

  • Ability to effectively synthesize qualitative findings with quantitative data (e.g., analytics, A/B test results, behavioral metrics) to form comprehensive insights.

  • Excellent communication and storytelling skills, with the ability to articulate complex research findings and their implications to diverse audiences, including executive leadership.

  • Experience in heuristic evaluations and understanding of user-centered design principles.

  • Demonstrated ability to navigate ambiguity and manage multiple concurrent research projects in a fast-paced environment.

  • Foundational understanding of responsible AI practices, data privacy, and PII handling in research contexts. Preferred Skills:

  • Experience designing and researching AI-driven user experiences (e.g., conversational AI, generative AI interfaces).

  • Familiarity with advanced AI tooling for research acceleration (e.g., AI-powered synthesis platforms, automated analysis tools).

  • Experience in consulting or working within a client-facing environment, managing stakeholder expectations and delivering impactful research recommendations.

  • Proven ability to mentor and guide junior researchers and designers.

  • Experience contributing to industry thought leadership through publications, presentations, or internal knowledge sharing.

  • Familiarity with A/B testing and experimentation design.

  • Knowledge of data analysis and visualization tools for presenting quantitative findings.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The requirements strongly emphasize practical experience with AI in research and the ability to lead complex, strategic initiatives. The portfolio requirement is critical and should highlight the candidate's ability to translate research into tangible product improvements and strategic direction, especially concerning AI-driven features.

πŸ“Š Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • A comprehensive portfolio is essential, demonstrating a deep understanding of the research lifecycle from problem definition to actionable insights and impact measurement.

  • Showcase at least 2-3 detailed case studies that highlight end-to-end research projects, emphasizing the research questions, methodologies employed, key findings, and the impact of your recommendations on product strategy or user experience.

  • Include examples of how you have synthesized qualitative and quantitative data to form holistic insights, particularly in the context of digital products (web, mobile, omnichannel).

  • Provide evidence of your experience using AI-enabled tools or emerging methods to enhance research processes, detailing the specific tools used and the benefits achieved (e.g., increased efficiency, deeper insights).

  • Demonstrate your ability to translate complex research findings into clear, compelling narratives and actionable recommendations for diverse stakeholders, including executive summaries or presentations.

  • Showcase experience in evaluating AI-driven experiences, including aspects of usability, trust, and transparency. Process Documentation:

  • Candidates should be prepared to discuss their approach to defining and documenting research processes, ensuring rigor, participant trust, data integrity, and client privacy.

  • Highlight experience in establishing or improving research workflows, particularly those that incorporate AI-enabled components for efficiency and effectiveness.

  • Be ready to articulate how research insights are documented and shared across teams, and how they contribute to a knowledge base for future reuse, potentially with AI query capabilities.

  • Demonstrate understanding of how to design research that specifically addresses the nuances of AI-driven experiences and responsible AI practices.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The portfolio should prominently feature projects involving AI integration in research and demonstrate the candidate's ability to lead strategic initiatives. The emphasis on "actionable insights" and "impact measurement" suggests a need for quantifiable outcomes in portfolio case studies. The "client case studies" mentioned in internal responsibilities imply a need to showcase client-facing research impact.

πŸ’΅ Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: For a Lead UX Researcher with 5-8+ years of experience in the United States, particularly in a remote capacity, the estimated salary range would be between $120,000 and $170,000 annually. This range is an estimate based on industry benchmarks for similar roles, considering the seniority, specialized skills (AI integration, product strategy), and the remote work model. Specific compensation will depend on individual experience, qualifications, and the candidate's location within the US.

Benefits:

  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans to support employee health and well-being.

  • Life insurance coverage for financial security and peace of mind.

  • Paid holidays to ensure work-life balance and time for rest and rejuvenation.

  • 401K plan with matching contributions, providing a strong retirement savings opportunity.

  • Access to networking programs designed to foster professional connections and collaboration.

  • Robust career learning and development programs, offering opportunities for skill enhancement and professional growth.

Working Hours: The role is expected to require approximately 40 hours per week, aligning with a standard full-time employment arrangement. While fully remote, candidates should be prepared to align with core working hours for team collaboration and stakeholder engagement, with potential flexibility depending on project needs and team coordination.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on typical compensation for lead UX researchers in the US market with extensive experience and specialized skills. The benefits package is directly pulled from the provided company description, highlighting standard but comprehensive offerings. The working hours are based on the AI-derived ai_working_hours field.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏒 Company Culture

Industry: Technology Consulting & Software Development. itD Tech positions itself as a modern consulting firm focused on digital transformation, blending software development with strategic advisory services. This implies a dynamic, client-focused environment that values innovation and agility.

Company Size: The company description suggests a growing firm that empowers employees and rejects strong hierarchies, implying a medium to large size, likely ranging from 200-1000 employees, or potentially larger if it's a global operation implied by "global community." The "new generation" descriptor points to a more modern, potentially less bureaucratic structure.

Founded: The founding date is not explicitly provided, but the description "new generation of consulting and software development company" suggests it is a relatively modern firm, likely founded within the last 10-20 years, aiming to disrupt traditional consulting models.

Team Structure:

  • The User Experience (UX) team is likely composed of UX researchers, designers, and potentially UX strategists, working collaboratively on digital product initiatives.

  • This role will report into a UX lead or practice manager, with potential for cross-functional collaboration with product managers, engineers, data scientists, and business stakeholders.

  • The company's emphasis on "no strong hierarchy" suggests a flatter organizational structure where collaboration and direct communication are encouraged across different levels and departments. Methodology:

  • Data Analysis & Insights: A strong emphasis on data-driven decision-making, utilizing both qualitative research findings and quantitative analytics to inform product strategy and user experience improvements.

  • Workflow Planning & Optimization: Focus on streamlining research processes, especially through the integration of AI-enabled tools, to enhance efficiency and research impact.

  • Automation & Efficiency: Proactive adoption of new technologies and methods, such as AI, to optimize research workflows, accelerate insights generation, and improve the speed and quality of deliverables.

Company Website: https://itdtech.com/

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The company culture is described as innovative, agile, and employee-empowering, with a focus on digital transformation. The "woman- and minority-led firm" aspect highlights a commitment to diversity and inclusion. The "no strong hierarchy" and "dynamic self-starter" emphasis suggests an environment that rewards initiative and proactive contribution.

πŸ“ˆ Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a "Lead" position, indicating a senior-level role that requires not only deep expertise in UX research and AI-enabled methodologies but also the capacity to mentor others, influence strategy, and drive best practices. It's a role that bridges individual contribution with team leadership and strategic impact.

Reporting Structure: The role will likely report to a Director or VP of User Experience, or a Head of Product Design/Research within itD Tech. The "internal responsibilities" section mentions working with "leadership on career fast-track opportunities," suggesting a clear path for advancement and visibility.

Operations Impact: The operations impact is significant, as this role directly influences product strategy, client experience, and the adoption of cutting-edge research methodologies (AI-enabled). By advocating for user needs and translating research into actionable insights, the lead researcher helps shape products that are more user-friendly, effective, and ultimately successful in the market, contributing to client satisfaction and business growth.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Operations Skill Advancement: Deepen expertise in AI-enabled research techniques, advanced qualitative and quantitative analysis, and specialized areas like AI product research.

  • Leadership Development: Opportunities to lead research initiatives, mentor junior team members, and contribute to the strategic direction of the UX practice within itD Tech.

  • Career Advancement: Potential to move into roles such as Principal UX Researcher, UX Research Manager, Head of UX Research, or Product Strategy roles, with a clear pathway for career progression within the organization. The mention of "career fast-track opportunities" and contributing to "Digital Transformation practice" suggests a proactive approach to employee development and advancement.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The "Lead" title signifies a crucial step in a UX researcher's career, moving beyond execution to strategic influence and mentorship. The emphasis on AI integration and "digital transformation" points to a forward-thinking career path within a company focused on modernizing services.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Fully Remote. This position offers the flexibility of working from any location within the United States.

Office Location(s): While the role is remote, the company operates globally and has offices in various locations, which may be relevant for networking events or occasional in-person collaboration opportunities as mentioned in the internal responsibilities. The primary operational focus for this role is within the United States.

Workspace Context:

  • The remote work environment necessitates strong self-discipline, excellent time management, and effective virtual communication skills.

  • Collaboration will primarily occur through digital tools, requiring proficiency in platforms for video conferencing, instant messaging, and project management.

  • Access to company-provided AI tools and research platforms will be crucial for fulfilling job responsibilities, supporting efficient data analysis and synthesis.

  • Opportunities for virtual networking and team engagement are provided to foster a sense of community and collaboration among remote employees.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is approximately 40 hours per week. While remote, maintaining consistent communication and availability during core business hours for the US region is expected to facilitate seamless collaboration with internal teams and potential clients. Flexibility may be offered based on project demands and team coordination.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The remote nature of the role requires candidates to be self-motivated and adept at virtual collaboration. The mention of virtual networking and team events suggests an effort to maintain team cohesion in a distributed workforce.

πŸ“„ Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  • Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and relevant experience.

  • Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion focused on your background, experience, approach to UX research, and understanding of AI-enabled workflows. This may include behavioral questions and a review of your portfolio.

  • Skills Assessment/Case Study: Candidates may be asked to complete a research exercise or present a detailed case study from their portfolio, demonstrating their ability to conduct research, synthesize findings, and provide actionable recommendations, potentially with a focus on AI integration.

  • Team/Cross-functional Interviews: Meetings with potential colleagues (UX researchers, designers, product managers) to assess cultural fit, collaboration style, and ability to work effectively within a team.

  • Final Interview: A conversation with senior leadership to discuss strategic thinking, leadership potential, and overall fit with the company's vision and values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Showcase AI Integration: Clearly highlight projects where you have used AI tools or methods to enhance research speed, efficiency, or insight generation. Detail the tools used and the tangible benefits achieved.

  • End-to-End Case Studies: Present 2-3 in-depth case studies that walk through the entire research process: problem definition, research design, execution, analysis, synthesis, and impact. Quantify the impact of your recommendations whenever possible.

  • Data Synthesis: Demonstrate your ability to blend qualitative and quantitative data, showing how you derive comprehensive insights.

  • Storytelling & Actionability: Structure your portfolio presentations to tell a compelling story about the user problem, your research approach, and the actionable recommendations that led to positive outcomes.

  • Tailor to the Role: Emphasize projects that align with the responsibilities of this Lead UX Researcher role, particularly those involving complex initiatives, strategic influence, and potentially AI-driven experiences.

Challenge Preparation:

  • Research Design: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach a given research problem, including methodology selection, participant recruitment, and potential use of AI tools.

  • Insight Synthesis: Practice articulating how you would synthesize complex data sets into clear, actionable insights.

  • AI in Research: Be ready to discuss your perspective on the ethical use of AI in research, its benefits, limitations, and how you ensure researcher judgment remains paramount.

  • Stakeholder Communication: Prepare examples of how you have effectively communicated research findings and influenced decision-makers.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes practical application of UX research skills, particularly with AI integration, and the ability to influence strategy. The portfolio is a critical component, and candidates should be prepared to present detailed case studies demonstrating impact and AI proficiency.

πŸ›  Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

  • UX Research Platforms: Tools for conducting usability testing, surveys, and interviews (e.g., UserTesting.com, Optimal Workshop, SurveyMonkey, Qualtrics).

  • AI-Enabled Research Tools: Approved AI platforms for study setup, analysis, synthesis, desk research, survey drafting, and reporting (specific tools not listed, but candidates should be proficient in leveraging AI for research acceleration).

  • Data Analysis & Synthesis Tools: Software for qualitative data analysis (e.g., NVivo, Dovetail) and quantitative analysis (e.g., SPSS, R, Python for statistical analysis).

  • Design & Prototyping Tools: Familiarity with tools like Figma, Sketch, or Adobe XD for understanding design artifacts and providing feedback.

Analytics & Reporting:

  • Web & Mobile Analytics: Proficiency with tools such as Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics, or similar platforms for understanding user behavior and tracking key metrics.

  • Business Intelligence (BI) Tools: Experience with BI platforms like Tableau, Power BI, or Looker for creating dashboards and visualizing data trends.

  • A/B Testing Platforms: Familiarity with tools for designing and analyzing experiments (e.g., Optimizely, VWO).

CRM & Automation:

  • While not directly a CRM role, understanding how research insights feed into CRM strategies and marketing automation is beneficial. Familiarity with common CRM platforms (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot) and marketing automation tools can be advantageous.

  • Collaboration & Project Management Tools: Proficiency with tools such as Jira, Asana, Trello, Slack, and Microsoft Teams for project tracking, team communication, and workflow management.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The technology stack heavily emphasizes AI-enabled tools for research acceleration, alongside traditional UX research and analytics platforms. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with a broad range of tools relevant to understanding user behavior and informing product development.

πŸ‘₯ Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

  • Innovation: A commitment to exploring and adopting new technologies and methodologies, particularly AI, to push the boundaries of UX research and digital transformation.

  • Expertise: A dedication to maintaining high standards of research rigor, analytical depth, and strategic insight, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development.

  • Teamwork: Strong emphasis on cross-functional collaboration, knowledge sharing, and mutual support within the UX team and across other departments.

  • Initiative: Encouragement for self-starters who proactively identify opportunities, propose solutions, and take ownership of their work.

  • Respect for All: A diverse and inclusive environment where all voices are valued, and contributions are recognized.

  • Passion for Client Service: A dedication to understanding and meeting client needs, delivering exceptional outcomes and building strong client relationships.

  • Balance: A culture that supports work-life balance and employee well-being.

Collaboration Style:

  • Cross-functional Integration: Researchers are expected to collaborate closely with product managers, designers, engineers, and business stakeholders to ensure research is integrated into the product development lifecycle.

  • Process Review & Feedback: An open environment for constructive feedback on research methodologies, findings, and deliverables, fostering continuous improvement.

  • Knowledge Sharing: Active participation in internal practice community meetings and sharing of insights through case studies, blogs, and other materials to build collective knowledge.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The company culture values innovation, expertise, and collaboration, with a strong emphasis on proactive contribution and a client-centric approach. The integration of AI into research practices is likely a core element of their innovative approach.

⚑ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • Navigating Ambiguity: The role requires comfort with evolving project scopes, changing priorities, and complex problem spaces, demanding strong adaptability and clarity-building skills.

  • AI Integration & Ethics: Effectively leveraging AI tools while maintaining research rigor, ensuring data privacy, and addressing potential biases requires careful consideration and continuous learning.

  • Cross-functional Influence: Translating complex research findings into actionable strategies that influence diverse stakeholders (from developers to executives) requires strong communication and persuasion skills.

  • Pace of Innovation: Staying abreast of rapid advancements in AI technology and research methodologies, and discerning which innovations to adopt, presents an ongoing challenge.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • AI Research Specialization: Opportunity to become a subject matter expert in AI-enabled research methodologies and their application in product development.

  • Strategic Leadership: Developing skills in product strategy, cross-functional leadership, and influencing executive decision-making through impactful research.

  • Mentorship & Team Development: Gaining experience in mentoring junior researchers and contributing to the growth and development of the UX practice.

  • Industry Exposure: Potential to contribute to industry thought leadership, attend conferences, and engage in continuous learning through company-sponsored programs and networking opportunities.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The role offers significant opportunities for professional growth by tackling complex challenges at the intersection of UX research and AI, with a clear path for leadership development and specialization.

πŸ’‘ Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • "Describe a complex product strategy initiative where your research significantly influenced the direction. How did you navigate ambiguity and communicate your findings to stakeholders?" (Focus on strategic influence, problem framing, and communication.)

  • "Walk me through a research project where you integrated AI-enabled tools. What tools did you use, what were the benefits, and how did you ensure the integrity of the findings?" (Focus on AI integration, methodology, and data integrity.)

  • "How would you approach designing research for a new AI-driven feature, such as a conversational agent? What specific usability and ethical considerations would you prioritize?" (Focus on AI research design, ethical considerations, and usability.) Company & Culture Questions:

  • "Based on our company description and values, how do you see your approach to UX research aligning with our emphasis on innovation and digital transformation?" (Focus on cultural fit and alignment with company mission.)

  • "How have you mentored or guided junior researchers or designers in the past? Describe a situation where you helped elevate the team's research practices." (Focus on leadership and mentorship capabilities.)

  • "What are your thoughts on the responsible use of AI in research? How do you ensure participant trust and data privacy when using AI tools?" (Focus on ethical considerations and responsible AI practices.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Prioritize AI Impact: Begin by showcasing a case study where AI integration led to significant improvements in research efficiency, depth of insight, or speed to market. Clearly articulate the problem, your AI-driven solution, and the measurable outcome.

  • Demonstrate Strategic Influence: Select projects that clearly show how your research influenced product roadmaps, design decisions, or overall business strategy. Use data and storytelling to illustrate the impact.

  • Emphasize Data Synthesis: Be prepared to explain how you combined qualitative and quantitative data to form comprehensive insights, especially for complex digital products.

  • Conciseness and Clarity: Structure your presentation logically, focusing on the most impactful aspects of each project. Use visuals effectively and be ready to answer detailed questions about your process.

  • Connect to itD: Whenever possible, draw parallels between your experience and the company's stated values and focus areas, such as digital transformation and client service.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should heavily focus on demonstrating expertise with AI in research, strategic thinking, and the ability to influence cross-functional teams. The portfolio presentation is key to showcasing practical application of these skills.

πŸ“Œ Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

  • Submit your application through the provided application link on Greenhouse.

  • Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and portfolio to highlight your experience with AI-enabled research tools, complex end-to-end research initiatives, and your ability to synthesize qualitative and quantitative data. Prepare 2-3 detailed case studies that showcase your impact.

  • Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your 5-8+ years of experience in UX research, emphasizing achievements and quantifying results where possible. Integrate keywords such as "UX Research," "Usability Analytics," "AI-enabled tooling," and "Product Strategy."

  • Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your research process, particularly how you leverage AI for efficiency and insight generation. Prepare to discuss your approach to mentorship and cross-functional collaboration. Rehearse your portfolio presentation to ensure it's clear, concise, and impactful.

  • Company Research: Familiarize yourself with itD Tech's website, values, and focus areas (e.g., digital transformation, innovation). Understand how your skills and experience can contribute to their mission and client success.

⚠️ 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.

Application Requirements

Candidates must have 5-8+ years of experience in UX or product research with a portfolio demonstrating digital and omnichannel expertise. Proficiency in research methodologies and the ability to influence cross-functional strategy are essential requirements.