Senior UX Researcher

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior UX Researcher

Company: Linda Werner & Associates

Location: Menlo Park, CA, United States; Seattle, WA, United States; New York, NY, United States

Job Type: Contract - 9 Month Position

Category: User Experience Research / Product Operations

Date Posted: 2026-09-09T17:55:10

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead end-to-end User Experience (UX) research initiatives, focusing on a strong quantitative foundation for large-scale consumer products.

• Drive product strategy and influence senior leadership through compelling research findings and actionable recommendations.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including Product, Design, Content, and Data Science, to ensure a user-centered approach.

• Utilize a mix of quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods research to uncover user needs and evaluate product experiences.

• Leverage AI tools to enhance research workflows and gain deeper insights across product development cycles.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Senior UX Researcher," the emphasis on quantitative research, large-scale surveys, and influencing product direction positions this role as highly integrated with product operations and GTM strategy, particularly in understanding market needs and user adoption. The "Contract - 9 Month Position" indicates a project-based need, likely for a significant product initiative.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Plan, design, and execute comprehensive UX research studies, prioritizing quantitative methodologies such as large-scale consumer surveys.

• Develop robust research instruments, including survey questionnaires, discussion guides, and study protocols.

• Conduct qualitative research methods like interviews and usability testing to complement quantitative findings.

• Analyze and synthesize complex data sets from surveys and other research methods to identify key user insights.

• Translate research findings into clear, concise, and actionable recommendations for product roadmaps and design iterations.

• Present research outcomes and strategic recommendations to diverse stakeholders, including product managers, designers, and senior leadership.

• Foster strong relationships with cross-functional partners to ensure research insights are integrated into product development processes.

• Support iterative product development by providing timely research for rapid feedback cycles.

• Navigate ambiguity in research questions, data quality issues, and evolving business priorities with a proactive and adaptive approach.

• Integrate and experiment with AI tools to optimize research efficiency and depth of analysis.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic research planning, meticulous execution of quantitative studies, and strong communication skills for influencing product decisions. The emphasis on "large scale consumer surveys" and "influencing product direction" points to a role that directly impacts Go-To-Market (GTM) strategies by validating user needs and product-market fit.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human-Computer Interaction, Psychology, Sociology, Anthropology, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience. Experience:

• 5+ years of dedicated UX research or human-centered research experience.

• Senior-level research experience is strongly preferred, demonstrating leadership in research projects.

• Proven experience in designing, fielding, and analyzing large or complex consumer surveys.

• Demonstrated ability to translate research findings into actionable product and design recommendations. Required Skills:

• Expertise in quantitative research methodologies, with a strong emphasis on survey design and statistical analysis.

• Proficiency in selecting and applying appropriate UX research methods (quantitative, qualitative, mixed-methods) based on research objectives.

• Strong stakeholder management and influence skills to effectively communicate research value and drive adoption of findings.

• Experience presenting research insights and strategic recommendations to executive leadership.

• Ability to work with ambiguity and adapt to evolving business priorities and research challenges.

• Familiarity with AI tools for research workflow enhancement. Preferred Skills:

• Mixed methods research experience with a deep understanding of qualitative research techniques.

• Experience building and managing research trackers to monitor product performance and user sentiment over time.

• Vendor or research supplier management experience, including providing performance feedback.

• Prior experience in consumer product or messaging research, with specific knowledge of platforms like WhatsApp.

• Curiosity, a collaborative spirit, and receptiveness to feedback are highly valued.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for "substantial quantitative and survey research depth" is a critical differentiator. Candidates with primarily qualitative backgrounds will likely not meet the core needs of this role, indicating a need for strong analytical skills beyond typical qualitative moderation. The mention of "Prior Meta experience" suggests a preference for candidates familiar with large tech company operational structures and research pipelines.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a strong track record of leading end-to-end research projects, emphasizing quantitative survey design and analysis.

• Include detailed case studies that demonstrate the ability to translate complex data into clear, actionable product recommendations.

• Highlight projects where research directly influenced product direction, strategy, or GTM efforts.

• Provide examples of how research findings were communicated to and adopted by cross-functional teams and leadership.

• Demonstrate proficiency in utilizing a range of research tools and methodologies, with a focus on survey platforms and analytical software. Process Documentation:

• Document the process of designing and fielding large-scale consumer surveys, including sampling strategies, questionnaire design best practices, and data quality checks.

• Illustrate the process of synthesizing mixed-methods research findings, showing how quantitative and qualitative data were integrated to form comprehensive insights.

• Detail the methodology for presenting research findings to diverse audiences, including executive readouts and workshop facilitation.

• Showcase experience in supporting iterative product development cycles through rapid research and feedback loops.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior UX Researcher role with a strong quantitative focus, the portfolio should heavily feature examples of survey design, data analysis, and the impact of those findings on product strategy. Quantifiable results and demonstrated influence on product roadmaps will be key differentiators.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry standards for a Senior UX Researcher role in locations like Menlo Park, Seattle, and NYC, with 5-10 years of experience, a contract rate is estimated to be between $75-$120 per hour. This range accounts for the specialized quantitative focus, senior-level responsibilities, and the contract nature of the position. Benefits:

• Dental insurance

• Health insurance

• Health savings account

• Life insurance

• Paid time off

• Retirement plan

• Vision insurance Working Hours:

• 40 hours per week, with an expected 8-hour shift, Monday to Friday. While a standard schedule, flexibility may be offered depending on project needs and team collaboration requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hourly rate for a contract role of this seniority and specialization can vary significantly. The provided range is a benchmark, and candidates should be prepared to negotiate based on their specific experience and the perceived value they bring to the 9-month project. The benefits listed are typical for contract roles, though their extent and duration should be confirmed.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: The company operates within the broader technology and consulting sector, likely supporting large-scale consumer product companies. The specific focus on UX research suggests an emphasis on user-centric design and product development, aiming to enhance user engagement and satisfaction for client products.

Company Size: Linda Werner & Associates is likely a mid-sized to large consulting firm or a specialized research agency, indicated by its engagement with large-scale consumer products and multiple major tech hubs. This size suggests a structured environment with established processes but also potential for impactful individual contributions.

Founded: Information on the founding date is not provided, but the company's engagement with large consumer products and its presence in key tech locations implies a mature and established organization.

Team Structure:

• The UX research team is part of a collaborative research organization, suggesting a dedicated function within the company or for its clients.

• Researchers will partner closely with Product, Design, Content, Data Science, and other cross-functional stakeholders, indicating a highly integrated and collaborative work environment.

• The role involves influencing product direction, implying a respected position within the project teams and direct access to decision-makers. Methodology:

• The team employs a mix of quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods research to understand user needs and evaluate experiences.

• A strong emphasis is placed on designing and analyzing large-scale consumer surveys.

• Research findings are translated into actionable insights, frameworks, and recommendations to guide product strategy.

• The team supports rapid research cycles to inform iterative product development.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on "large scale consumer products" and the specific requirements for quantitative research suggest that Linda Werner & Associates likely partners with major tech companies, potentially those with extensive user bases and complex product ecosystems. This context is crucial for understanding the scope and impact of the research.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior-level UX Researcher position, indicating a significant level of autonomy and responsibility. The role requires end-to-end ownership of research projects, strategic influence, and the ability to mentor or guide less experienced researchers if applicable. The focus on quantitative research at a senior level positions this as a specialized, high-impact role within product operations.

Reporting Structure: The researcher will report to a Research Lead or Manager within the organization, while closely collaborating with Product Managers, Designers, and Data Scientists. The ability to influence product direction suggests a flat or matrixed reporting structure where research insights are highly valued and integrated into decision-making processes.

Operations Impact: The Senior UX Researcher's work directly impacts product strategy, user experience, and ultimately, consumer adoption and satisfaction. By providing data-driven insights, this role helps mitigate product risks, optimize user journeys, and ensure products meet market demands, thereby contributing significantly to the success of Go-To-Market (GTM) strategies.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in advanced quantitative survey methodologies, statistical analysis, and AI-driven research tools.

• Leadership Development: Gain experience in leading complex research initiatives, managing stakeholder relationships, and potentially mentoring junior researchers.

• Cross-functional Exposure: Broaden understanding of product development lifecycles, GTM strategies, and data science applications by working closely with diverse teams.

• Project Variety: Exposure to a portfolio of large-scale consumer products offers opportunities to research diverse user segments and product types.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this is a contract role, the "Senior" title and the emphasis on influencing product direction indicate that successful performance could lead to further contract extensions or opportunities within Linda Werner & Associates or their clients, particularly in roles requiring advanced quantitative research and product strategy input.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is designated as "Onsite," requiring the researcher to work from one of the specified office locations (Menlo Park, Seattle, or NYC). This suggests a collaborative office environment designed for in-person teamwork and knowledge sharing.

Office Location(s):

• Menlo Park, CA, United States

• Seattle, WA, United States

• New York, NY, United States

These locations are prime tech hubs, offering access to a vibrant professional community and potential networking opportunities.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely be designed to foster collaboration, with opportunities for in-person brainstorming sessions, readouts, and informal discussions with cross-functional teams.

• Access to necessary research tools, software, and potentially dedicated lab spaces for usability testing may be provided.

• The environment will encourage close partnership with Product, Design, and Data Science teams, facilitating seamless integration of research into the product development pipeline. Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, typically Monday to Friday, with 8-hour shifts. While adherence to this schedule is expected, the dynamic nature of product development may occasionally require flexibility to meet critical deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The onsite requirement for this contract role suggests a need for close team integration and in-person collaboration, which can be particularly beneficial for complex research projects and stakeholder alignment in fast-paced product environments.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter will likely conduct an initial screening to assess basic qualifications, experience, and fit for the contract duration.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager focusing on your quantitative research expertise, project leadership, and experience with large-scale surveys.

• Portfolio Review & Presentation: A key stage where you will present a selection of your work, likely focusing on a quantitative research project, demonstrating your process, findings, and impact. Be prepared to discuss survey design, data analysis, and how you translated insights into actionable recommendations.

• Cross-functional Stakeholder Interviews: Interviews with potential collaborators (e.g., Product Managers, Designers, Data Scientists) to assess your ability to partner effectively and influence product decisions.

• Final Interview: May involve a discussion with senior leadership or a more in-depth problem-solving exercise.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Everything: Prioritize projects that showcase your quantitative research skills, including survey design, sample sizes, statistical analysis, and measurable outcomes.

• Show Impact: Clearly articulate the business impact of your research. How did your findings influence product strategy, improve user metrics, or drive revenue? Use data to back these claims.

• Highlight Process: Detail your end-to-end research process, from problem definition and research planning to data collection, analysis, and recommendation delivery.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize projects that align with large-scale consumer products and demonstrate experience with mixed methods or AI tools if applicable.

• Prepare for Case Studies: Be ready to walk through a specific research project in detail, explaining the challenges, your approach, the insights derived, and the resulting actions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Quantitative Problem Solving: Practice designing surveys for hypothetical product scenarios, identifying key metrics, and outlining analysis plans.

• Stakeholder Influence Scenarios: Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated complex findings to non-researchers and influenced product roadmaps.

• AI Tool Integration: Be ready to discuss how you would leverage AI tools in your research workflow for efficiency or deeper analysis.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on quantitative research means your portfolio should prominently feature examples of survey design, data analysis, and the resulting impact on product strategy. Be prepared to speak in detail about statistical methods and how you derive actionable insights from large datasets.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Survey Platforms: Proficiency with enterprise-level survey tools such as Qualtrics, SurveyMonkey Enterprise, or similar platforms for designing, fielding, and analyzing large-scale surveys.

• Statistical Software: Experience with statistical analysis tools like SPSS, R, Python (with libraries like Pandas, NumPy, SciPy), or SAS for in-depth quantitative data analysis.

• AI Research Tools: Familiarity with emerging AI-powered tools for research assistance, data analysis, sentiment analysis, or user journey mapping.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Visualization Tools: Experience with tools like Tableau, Power BI, or Looker for creating dashboards and visually communicating research findings to stakeholders.

• General Analytics Platforms: Exposure to tools like Google Analytics or Adobe Analytics to understand user behavior within digital products.

CRM & Automation:

• While not primary, understanding how research insights integrate with CRM data (e.g., Salesforce) or marketing automation platforms can be beneficial for understanding the broader customer lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the strong quantitative focus, expect to demonstrate deep proficiency with survey platforms and statistical analysis tools. The mention of "AI tools" suggests a forward-thinking approach, so familiarity with these is a significant advantage.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: A core value emphasizing the use of robust quantitative and qualitative data to inform all product decisions and strategies.

• User-Centricity: A commitment to understanding and prioritizing user needs, ensuring that research directly translates into improved user experiences and product value.

• Collaboration & Partnership: A strong emphasis on working effectively with cross-functional teams to integrate research insights seamlessly into the product development lifecycle.

• Actionable Insights: A focus on delivering research findings that are not just informative but also practical, clear, and directly applicable to product strategy and execution.

• Adaptability & Agility: Comfort with navigating ambiguity, adapting to evolving priorities, and supporting rapid research cycles within fast-paced product environments.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Partnerships: Researchers are expected to work as embedded partners with Product, Design, and Data Science teams, fostering a shared understanding of user needs and product goals.

• Transparent Communication: Open and clear communication of research plans, findings, and recommendations is crucial for building trust and driving consensus.

• Feedback-Oriented: A culture that encourages constructive feedback, both in providing feedback on research partners and in receiving feedback to improve research processes and outcomes.

• Knowledge Sharing: Opportunities to share learnings and best practices across research projects and teams, contributing to the collective expertise of the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture likely values rigorous analysis, clear communication, and proactive collaboration. Being able to demonstrate how you've successfully influenced product decisions through data and worked effectively with diverse teams will be key to fitting into this environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Quantitative Rigor with Qualitative Nuance: Effectively integrating deep quantitative survey analysis with qualitative insights to provide a holistic understanding of user behavior.

• Influencing Senior Stakeholders: Navigating organizational dynamics to ensure research findings are heard, understood, and acted upon by leadership, particularly when challenging existing assumptions.

• Navigating Ambiguity: Tackling research questions that are ill-defined or evolving, requiring strong problem-framing skills and adaptability.

• Data Quality Management: Ensuring the integrity and quality of data from large-scale surveys, especially when dealing with complex instruments or diverse respondent pools.

• Rapid Iteration Cycles: Delivering timely and impactful research insights within compressed timelines to support agile product development.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Quantitative Techniques: Opportunity to hone skills in advanced statistical modeling, experimental design, and survey weighting techniques.

• AI in Research: Gain hands-on experience with AI tools to enhance research efficiency, analyze large datasets, and uncover novel insights.

• Product Strategy Influence: Develop stronger strategic thinking and influencing skills by working closely with product leadership on critical product decisions.

• Cross-functional Expertise: Deepen understanding of product management, design thinking, and data science principles through close collaboration.

• Project Leadership: Gain experience managing complex, multi-faceted research projects from inception to completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the need for a researcher who is not only technically skilled but also a strategic thinker and effective communicator. The growth opportunities point towards roles that offer significant professional development in specialized areas of UX research and product strategy.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex consumer survey you designed and fielded. What were your key research objectives, how did you ensure data quality, and what were the most impactful findings?" (Focus on survey design, analysis, and actionable insights).

• "How do you approach translating large quantitative datasets into clear, compelling recommendations for product and design teams?" (Highlight your synthesis and communication process).

• "Tell me about a time you had to influence senior leadership with your research findings, especially when they were resistant to your recommendations." (Demonstrate stakeholder management and influence skills).

• "How would you use AI tools to enhance the research process for a large-scale consumer product evaluation?" (Showcase awareness of modern research technologies). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to this Senior UX Researcher role at Linda Werner & Associates, given its strong quantitative focus?" (Research the company and articulate alignment).

• "How do you typically collaborate with Product Managers, Designers, and Data Scientists on research projects?" (Provide specific examples of cross-functional teamwork).

• "Describe your experience working with ambiguity in research projects. How do you define scope and drive clarity?" (Showcase problem-solving and adaptability). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Quantify Impact: For each project presented, clearly state the business goals, the research questions, the methodology used (emphasizing quantitative aspects), key findings, and the tangible impact (e.g., metrics improved, product changes made).

• Structure for Clarity: Organize your presentation logically: problem, approach, findings, recommendations, impact. Use visuals effectively to illustrate data and insights.

• Focus on Process: Be ready to deep-dive into your survey design process, analytical methods, and how you synthesized mixed-methods data.

• Demonstrate Influence: Highlight instances where your research directly led to significant product decisions or strategy shifts.

📝 Enhancement Note: Be prepared to discuss statistical significance, survey weighting, and how you derive actionable insights from quantitative data. Your portfolio should be a strong testament to your ability to manage and execute complex survey research projects.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Greenhouse link.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that best showcase your quantitative UX research expertise, particularly those involving large-scale surveys and demonstrable impact on product strategy. Ensure these projects highlight your end-to-end process from design to actionable insights.

• Tailor Your Resume: Optimize your resume to highlight keywords related to quantitative research, survey design, mixed-methods, data analysis, stakeholder influence, and product strategy. Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Prepare Your Presentation: Rehearse your portfolio presentation, focusing on clearly articulating your research process, key findings, and the business impact of your work, especially for quantitative studies.

• Research the Company: Familiarize yourself with Linda Werner & Associates' work, their clients (if publicly available), and their approach to UX research. Understand their focus on large-scale consumer products and quantitative methodologies.

⚠️ 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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