Senior UX Researcher

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior UX Researcher

Company: Dentsu

Location: USA - Remote - California

Job Type: Full time

Category: User Experience Research / Market Research

Date Posted: 2026-08-12

Experience Level: 5-10 years

Remote Status: Hybrid (3 days in office for those within commuting distance of a hub office)

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage comprehensive qualitative and quantitative UX research initiatives for a strategic client.

• Serve as the primary onshore point of contact, fostering strong client relationships and ensuring clear communication.

• Synthesize complex qualitative and quantitative data into actionable insights that drive client strategy.

• Execute research studies with rigor, manage fieldwork, and collaborate with offshore research teams.

• Contribute to account growth and renewal decisions through high-quality research delivery and client satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a critical "onshore research lead" within a long-term client partnership, emphasizing a blend of methodological expertise, client relationship management, and the ability to deliver fast-turnaround insights. The role requires a researcher who can operate with autonomy while also supporting a distributed team.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and execute in-depth interviews (IDIs), diary studies, and quantitative surveys tailored to diverse research questions and participant demographics.

• Act as the main client liaison, proactively managing expectations, resolving issues, and presenting findings with confidence and clarity.

• Distinguish and articulate findings, interpretations, and actionable recommendations based on synthesized qualitative and quantitative data.

• Independently lead US-based studies, while also providing expertise and support to the offshore India research team for complex or larger engagements.

• Oversee all aspects of fieldwork execution, including participant recruitment partnerships, moderation, data quality assurance, and strict timeline adherence in a dynamic consulting environment.

• Uphold the highest standards of research rigor and client communication, recognizing that work directly impacts client renewal and account expansion.

• Collaborate closely with quantitative research partners for advanced statistical analyses, including methodologies like MaxDiff, TURF, and Conjoint.

• Navigate ambiguity and client relationship complexities with a calm, problem-solving approach, particularly when faced with competing priorities or unclear project direction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for a researcher who can manage the full research lifecycle with a strong client-facing component. The emphasis on distinguishing between observation, interpretation, and recommendation points to a need for critical thinking and strategic insight generation beyond mere data collection.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a background in Psychology, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Anthropology, Sociology, Statistics, or a related field is highly beneficial for understanding user behavior and research methodologies.

Experience: Minimum of 5–7 years of professional experience in UX research or market research, with a proven track record of leading complex research projects from inception to delivery.

Required Skills:

• Demonstrable expertise in conducting in-depth interviews (IDIs) and diary studies across various research contexts, with extensive fieldwork experience.

• Hands-on experience in designing and analyzing quantitative survey research, including exposure to statistical methods.

• Proficiency in at least one statistical analysis tool or programming language, such as R or Python.

• Strong synthesis and analytical capabilities to identify patterns, surface novel insights, and clearly differentiate between raw data, interpretation, and speculation.

• Excellent written communication skills, with the ability to produce polished, research-defensible insight documents and client-ready presentations.

• Proven client-facing skills, including confident presentation delivery, graceful handling of pushback, and maintaining professional composure under pressure.

• Ability to work autonomously on projects while effectively contributing to larger team efforts, balancing independence with collaboration.

• Experience moderating research with diverse participant populations and adapting approaches to different contexts.

• Adaptability to work in a consulting environment characterized by fast timelines, shifting priorities, and competing stakeholder needs. Preferred Skills:

• Experience conducting research within technology companies or the consumer tech sector.

• Familiarity with popular research platforms and tools such as dscout, Qualtrics, SPSS, or similar survey and analysis software.

• Background or coursework in behavioral economics, user psychology, or related theoretical frameworks.

• Experience working with distributed or offshore research teams, facilitating effective cross-geo collaboration.

• Exposure to competitive intelligence or broader market research methodologies beyond core UX.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills emphasize a blend of deep research execution capabilities (IDIs, surveys, statistical analysis) and critical soft skills (client management, communication, problem-solving under pressure). Preferred qualifications suggest a desire for candidates with broader industry exposure and familiarity with common research technologies.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 detailed case studies demonstrating end-to-end UX research projects, from initial problem definition to actionable insights and impact.

• For each case study, clearly articulate the research objectives, methodology chosen (and rationale), participant profiles, key findings, and specific recommendations.

• Include examples of how your research directly influenced product or strategic decisions, ideally with quantifiable outcomes or demonstrated impact on user experience metrics.

• Present examples of polished client-ready deliverables, such as insight reports, presentation decks, or journey maps, highlighting your communication and visualization skills.

• Demonstrate experience with both qualitative (e.g., IDIs, diary studies) and quantitative (e.g., surveys, A/B testing analysis) research methodologies. Process Documentation:

• Be prepared to discuss your personal research process, including how you approach study design, participant recruitment, data collection, synthesis, and reporting.

• Provide examples of how you ensure research rigor and ethical considerations throughout the research lifecycle.

• Detail your approach to translating complex research findings into clear, concise, and actionable insights for diverse audiences, including non-research stakeholders.

• Explain how you manage competing priorities, adapt to shifting project scopes, and ensure timely delivery in a fast-paced environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates are expected to provide concrete evidence of their research capabilities through a portfolio. The emphasis is on demonstrating not just the execution of research, but also the strategic thinking, client management, and impact of that research.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $78,000 - $135,000 annually.

• Methodology: This range is provided directly in the job posting. Placement within the range will be determined by factors including relevant experience, skills, knowledge, and other legally permissible considerations.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health coverage: Medical, vision, and dental insurance.

• Income protection: Life insurance, short-term and long-term disability insurance.

• Retirement savings: 401k plan.

• Work-life balance: Flexible paid time off, at least 15 paid holidays per year, paid sick and safe leave, and paid parental leave.

• Compliance with local leave laws, such as Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act.

• Further details available at www.dentsubenefitsplus.com.

Working Hours: Full-time employment, typically 40 hours per week. The role requires flexibility to meet client and company needs, which may include adapting to project timelines and stakeholder availability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is specific and should be considered a key data point. The benefits package is comprehensive, covering health, financial security, and work-life balance, which are attractive to experienced professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Dentsu operates within the advertising, marketing, and communications industry, with a focus on digital transformation and client solutions. The "Ugam" brand mentioned likely refers to a specific Dentsu agency or division focused on data analytics and research.

Company Size: Dentsu is a large, global organization, indicating a robust infrastructure and potential for cross-functional collaboration. This size can offer both stability and opportunities for diverse project exposure.

Founded: Dentsu has a long history, founded in 1906, signifying a stable and established presence in the industry. This longevity suggests a culture that values long-term relationships and strategic growth.

Team Structure:

• The role involves leading research initiatives, suggesting a degree of autonomy within the research function.

• Collaboration is expected with both onshore and offshore research teams, as well as with quantitative research partners and potentially client-side teams.

• The role acts as a primary point of contact for a strategic client, implying close integration with account management and client strategy teams. Methodology:

• Emphasis on rigorous qualitative and quantitative research methodologies.

• Focus on translating data into actionable insights for clients.

• Client relationship management is integrated into the research process.

• Fast-turnaround insights delivery is a key component of the operational methodology.

Company Website: www.dentsu.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Dentsu's global presence and long history suggest a company with established processes and a strong client focus. The mention of "Ugam" may indicate a specialized unit within Dentsu, potentially focused on data-driven insights, which is highly relevant to this UX Researcher role.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a "Senior" UX Researcher role, indicating a mid-to-senior level position requiring substantial independent work, client interaction, and mentorship potential. It's a step above a standard UX Researcher, demanding leadership in execution and client management.

Reporting Structure: While not explicitly stated, a Senior UX Researcher typically reports to a Research Lead, Director of UX, or a similar senior operations or research management role. They will also be expected to guide and support more junior researchers (including offshore teams).

Operations Impact: The role's success is directly tied to client satisfaction, account renewal, and growth. The researcher's insights and client management directly influence strategic decisions and the client's perception of Dentsu's value, making it a high-impact position within the client engagement.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific research methodologies (e.g., advanced quantitative analysis, longitudinal studies) or industry verticals (e.g., consumer tech).

• Leadership Development: Opportunity to lead larger, more complex projects, mentor junior team members, and potentially manage a small team or a specific client account's research function.

• Client Strategy Influence: Grow into a more strategic advisory role, helping clients define their research needs and long-term user experience vision.

• Cross-functional Exposure: Gain experience working across different Dentsu agencies or divisions, understanding broader marketing and digital transformation strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" title implies a trajectory beyond just executing research tasks. The role offers opportunities for specialization, leadership, and strategic influence, aligning with typical career progression in UX research and consulting.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Dentsu operates a hybrid work model. Employees within commuting distance of hub offices (Chicago, metro Detroit, Los Angeles, New York City) are expected to work from the office three days per week. Those living outside commuting range may be designated as remote.

Office Location(s): Hub offices are in Chicago, metro Detroit, Los Angeles, and New York City. The role is designated "USA - Remote - California," implying the candidate must be based in California and potentially expected to attend an office if within a commutable distance of a California hub (likely Los Angeles).

Workspace Context:

• The hybrid model aims to balance flexibility with in-person collaboration to "spark ideas and strengthen teams."

• Expect a dynamic consulting environment with frequent client interactions, potentially involving high-stakes presentations and tight deadlines.

• Access to Dentsu's resources, tools, and global network will be available.

• Collaboration with both onshore and offshore teams will be a regular part of the work environment.

Work Schedule: Full-time (40 hours/week) with an expectation of flexibility. While the role is remote within California, the hybrid policy means potential in-office days if located near a hub. The consulting nature suggests that working hours may need to adapt to client needs and project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid policy is a key detail. While remote, the expectation for 3 days in-office for those within commuting distance means candidates in California need to consider proximity to the Los Angeles hub. This model aims to foster collaboration while offering flexibility.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a recruiter screen to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit. Be prepared to articulate your career trajectory and interest in Dentsu.

• Hiring Manager Interview: Deeper dive into your UX research experience, methodologies, client management skills, and problem-solving approach. Expect behavioral questions.

• Portfolio Review & Presentation: A critical stage where you will present 1-2 detailed case studies from your portfolio. Focus on the research process, insights, and impact. Be ready to answer in-depth questions about your methodology and decision-making.

• Team/Stakeholder Interviews: Interviews with potential peers, cross-functional partners, or senior leadership to assess collaboration style, technical depth, and strategic thinking.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader to discuss overall fit and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select case studies that best represent the required skills (IDIs, surveys, client management, data synthesis, impact). Showcase variety if possible.

• Structure for Clarity: For each case study: Problem/Opportunity -> Research Questions -> Methodology (with rationale) -> Participants -> Key Findings -> Actionable Insights -> Recommendations -> Impact/Outcome.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use metrics or specific examples to demonstrate the business or user impact of your research.

• Highlight Client Management: Emphasize how you managed client expectations, presented findings, handled feedback, and built partnerships.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about your methodological choices, data analysis process, challenges encountered, and how you would handle similar situations.

Challenge Preparation:

• Methodology Discussion: Be ready to discuss the pros and cons of various research methods and when to apply them.

• Insight Generation: Practice articulating how you move from raw data to compelling, actionable insights.

• Client Scenarios: Prepare for questions about how you would handle difficult client conversations, competing priorities, or ambiguous project briefs.

• Technical Skills: If R/Python are mentioned, be prepared to discuss your experience level and specific applications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process heavily emphasizes practical application and client-facing capabilities. A strong portfolio presentation is crucial for demonstrating research expertise and strategic thinking.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Qualitative Research Platforms: dscout (preferred), or similar tools for diary studies, remote interviews, and qualitative data management.

• Survey & Analytics Platforms: Qualtrics (preferred), or similar platforms for survey design, distribution, data collection, and quantitative analysis.

• Statistical Analysis: Proficiency in R or Python is required for statistical methods. Familiarity with SPSS is also preferred.

• Presentation Software: Tools like PowerPoint or Google Slides for creating client-ready insight reports and presentations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Experience with data synthesis tools and techniques to combine qualitative and quantitative findings.

• Ability to create clear visualizations and dashboards to communicate research outcomes. CRM & Automation:

• While not primary research tools, familiarity with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce) and project management tools (e.g., Asana, Jira) can be beneficial for understanding client contexts and managing project workflows.

• Understanding of how research insights can feed into marketing automation or customer journey mapping processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specific mention of dscout and Qualtrics indicates these are likely heavily utilized platforms. Proficiency in statistical tools like R or Python is a key technical requirement, suggesting a need for a researcher comfortable with quantitative data analysis.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Research Rigor: A deep commitment to methodological soundness and ethical research practices.

• Client Centricity: Prioritizing client needs, building strong partnerships, and delivering value that drives client success.

• Actionable Insights: Focusing on translating data into practical, impactful recommendations that clients can act upon.

• Collaboration: Working effectively with both onshore and offshore teams, as well as cross-functional partners and clients.

• Problem-Solving: A proactive, calm, and solution-oriented approach to challenges and ambiguity.

• Adaptability: Thriving in a fast-paced, dynamic consulting environment with shifting priorities.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Working closely with client strategy, account management, and potentially creative or technical teams.

• Global Teamwork: Effectively collaborating with and supporting offshore research teams, requiring clear communication and delegation.

• Feedback Exchange: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback to improve research quality and team dynamics.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that encourages sharing best practices, learnings, and insights across the team and with clients.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture values a blend of deep methodological expertise and strong interpersonal skills, essential for client-facing consulting roles. The emphasis on actionable insights and client impact is paramount.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Competing Priorities: Juggling multiple client projects with varying deadlines and stakeholder demands in a fast-paced consulting environment.

• Navigating Ambiguity: Helping clients clarify their research needs and overcoming unclear project briefs or shifting project scopes.

• Cross-Cultural Collaboration: Effectively partnering with and supporting an offshore research team, requiring strong communication and delegation skills.

• Client Pushback: Confidently defending research findings and recommendations when challenged by clients, while remaining adaptable.

• Keeping Pace with Technology: Staying current with evolving UX research tools, methodologies, and analytical techniques.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Methodologies: Opportunities to deepen expertise in quantitative analysis (MaxDiff, Conjoint, TURF) or specialized qualitative techniques.

• Client Strategy: Developing a deeper understanding of client business objectives and how research can strategically influence them.

• Leadership Skills: Mentoring junior researchers, leading complex projects, and potentially taking on client advisory roles.

• Industry Exposure: Working with diverse clients and projects across various sectors, particularly within technology and consumer tech.

• Global Collaboration: Enhancing skills in managing and collaborating with distributed global teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents challenges inherent to consulting, such as managing ambiguity and competing demands. However, these challenges are coupled with significant growth opportunities in specialization, leadership, and strategic client impact.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to design a research study with limited resources or a very tight deadline. How did you prioritize and ensure quality?" (Assesses adaptability, prioritization, and process optimization)

• "How do you approach synthesizing qualitative and quantitative data to uncover truly novel insights, rather than just reporting observations?" (Tests analytical depth and insight generation skills)

• "Walk me through a challenging client presentation where you faced pushback on your findings. How did you handle it, and what was the outcome?" (Evaluates client management, communication, and resilience) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Dentsu and this specific Senior UX Researcher role within the Ugam brand?" (Assess research into the company and alignment with its values)

• "How do you approach building and maintaining strong, long-term relationships with clients?" (Gauges client-centricity and partnership skills)

• "Describe your experience working with distributed or offshore teams. What strategies do you use to ensure effective collaboration?" (Tests cross-cultural collaboration and team leadership potential) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: Frame your case studies as narratives – the challenge, your journey, the discovery, and the impact.

• Focus on "Why": Clearly articulate the "why" behind your methodological choices.

• Show, Don't Just Tell: Use visuals from your actual work (anonymized if necessary) to illustrate your process and findings.

• Quantify Impact: If possible, present metrics that demonstrate the business value or user experience improvements resulting from your research.

• Be Prepared for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your process, decisions, and how you'd handle variations of the scenario.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of research methodology, exceptional client management skills, and the ability to translate data into strategic business value. The portfolio presentation is a key differentiator.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior UX Researcher position:

• Submit your application through the Dentsu careers portal.

• Tailor your resume: Highlight specific UX research projects, methodologies used (IDIs, diary studies, surveys), statistical analysis experience (R/Python), client-facing accomplishments, and any experience with dscout or Qualtrics. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare your portfolio: Select 2-3 strong case studies that showcase your end-to-end research process, client management, and impactful insights. Ensure they are well-structured and visually compelling.

• Practice your presentation: Rehearse presenting your case studies, focusing on clarity, conciseness, and demonstrating your strategic thinking and communication skills. Be ready to answer detailed questions about your methodology and findings.

• Research Dentsu and Ugam: Understand their mission, values, and recent work, particularly in the tech or consumer tech space, to better articulate your interest and cultural fit.

⚠️ 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.

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