Senior UX Researcher

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior UX Researcher

Company: Maxon

Location: Bad Homburg (Metropolitan Area Frankfurt) or Berlin, Germany

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: UX Research / Product Development

Date Posted: 2026-05-15

Experience Level: 5-10 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and own the comprehensive UX research strategy for Cinema 4D, guiding product development from concept to post-launch.

• Serve as the primary internal expert on the workflows, needs, and behaviors of professional artists using complex 3D software.

• Translate research insights into actionable product decisions and strategic direction for design and product management teams.

• Drive improvements in research processes and methodologies, actively mentoring junior researchers to elevate team capabilities.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including design, engineering, and product management to ensure user-centered product development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior individual contributor with significant strategic influence, requiring deep expertise in user research methodologies and a strong understanding of complex technical software environments, specifically within the 3D design and VFX industries. The emphasis on owning research strategy and mentoring suggests a leadership trajectory within the research function.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and execute end-to-end research strategies for Cinema 4D, utilizing a range of qualitative and quantitative methods (e.g., usability tests, contextual inquiries, diary studies, surveys) to address specific design and product questions.

• Conduct in-depth user interviews and observational studies to gain a profound understanding of how professional artists conceptualize, create, and interact with 3D software tools.

• Synthesize complex research findings into clear, concise, and compelling reports and presentations tailored for diverse stakeholders, including executives, product managers, and engineering teams, influencing go/no-go decisions on significant features.

• Proactively identify existing gaps and opportunities within the current research processes, proposing and implementing improvements to enhance efficiency, rigor, and impact.

• Mentor and guide other UX researchers within the team, fostering a culture of continuous learning and elevating the overall quality and strategic contribution of the research function.

• Collaborate with product managers to define research objectives, prioritize research initiatives, and integrate user insights into product roadmaps and feature development cycles.

• Work closely with UX designers to translate research findings into intuitive and effective user interface designs and interaction models.

• Provide expert guidance to engineering teams on user behavior, task flows, and usability considerations throughout the development process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on approach to research combined with strategic leadership. The expectation to "own research strategy" and "deliver findings that drive real decisions" indicates a need for a candidate who can not only execute research but also champion user advocacy and influence product direction at a senior level. Mentoring responsibilities suggest a peer leadership role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Psychology, Sociology, Computer Science, or a related field is typically expected for senior UX research roles.

Experience: 5+ years of dedicated UX research experience, with a strong emphasis on complex or highly technical software products.

Required Skills:

• Extensive expertise in a wide array of qualitative research methods (e.g., usability testing, contextual inquiry, in-depth interviews, diary studies, ethnographic research) and quantitative research methods (e.g., surveys, A/B testing, analytics analysis).

• Proven ability to select and apply the most appropriate research methodologies to diverse design and product challenges.

• Demonstrated track record of translating ambiguous research findings into concrete product decisions and strategic recommendations, influencing leadership.

• Strong understanding of user-centered design principles and product development lifecycles.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English, with the ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and persuasively to technical and non-technical audiences.

• Experience working effectively in cross-functional teams, including design, product management, and engineering.

Preferred Skills:

• Hands-on research experience with 3D design software such as Cinema 4D, Blender, Houdini, Maya, or similar tools.

• Practical experience as a practitioner or passionate observer within 3D design, motion graphics, or VFX workflows.

• Experience in building, scaling, or maturing a UX research practice within a design organization.

• Familiarity with German language and communication styles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Preferred Skills" section strongly indicates a desire for domain-specific knowledge in 3D creative software, which is a significant advantage. The requirement for translating findings into leadership-level decisions emphasizes strategic impact and influence.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrable examples of research projects that clearly articulate the research problem, chosen methodologies, execution, and resulting insights.

• Case studies showcasing how research directly influenced product strategy, design decisions, and ultimately led to measurable improvements in user experience or product adoption.

• Evidence of ability to manage research across the full product lifecycle, from early concept validation to post-launch analysis.

• Examples of how complex findings were communicated effectively to drive action and consensus among cross-functional teams.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates are expected to detail their approach to defining research strategies, including how they prioritize research questions and select appropriate methods based on project goals and constraints.

• Presentation of structured approaches to synthesizing qualitative and quantitative data to extract actionable insights.

• Examples of how research findings are translated into clear, actionable recommendations for design and product teams, including mockups or user journey maps where applicable.

• Documentation of experience in establishing or improving research processes, demonstrating an understanding of research operations best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior UX Researcher role, a robust portfolio is critical. It should not just present completed projects but also highlight the candidate's strategic thinking, methodological rigor, and impact on product outcomes, especially within complex software domains. The emphasis on "driving real decisions" means the portfolio must showcase influence and tangible results.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: For a Senior UX Researcher in Germany (Bad Homburg/Berlin), with 5-10 years of experience in complex technical software, the estimated annual salary range is typically between €70,000 and €95,000 gross. This can vary based on specific experience, negotiation skills, and the exact scope of responsibilities.

Benefits:

• Detailed onboarding program to ensure a smooth integration into the company and team.

• A dedicated mentor to provide guidance and support during the initial familiarization period.

• Wide range of individual development possibilities, including training, workshops, and potential for further specialization.

• Opportunities for professional growth and career advancement within the research team and Maxon.

• Contribution to the development of industry-leading creative software used by professionals worldwide.

• Competitive employment package typical for a German-based technology company.

Working Hours: Standard full-time working hours in Germany are typically 38-40 hours per week. While this is an on-site role, Maxon may offer some flexibility in daily start and end times, common in the German tech industry, allowing for effective work-life balance and accommodating research activities.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on industry benchmarks for Senior UX Researchers in major German tech hubs like Frankfurt and Berlin, considering the company's industry (creative software) and the role's seniority. Benefits are derived from the "WHAT WE OFFER" section and common practices for international tech companies in Germany.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Maxon operates within the Software and Creative Media industry, specializing in high-end 3D animation, motion graphics, VFX, and visualization software. They are a key player in providing tools for filmmakers, designers, and artists globally.

Company Size: Maxon is a medium-to-large sized company, indicated by the need for structured teams and dedicated HR processes. This size allows for both specialized roles and cross-functional collaboration without excessive bureaucracy.

Founded: Maxon was founded in 1987 and has a long-standing history in the professional creative software market, known for its flagship product, Cinema 4D. This longevity suggests a stable, established company with deep expertise and a commitment to innovation.

Team Structure:

• The UX Research team is part of a larger Design and Research department, focusing on product strategy and user experience improvement for Maxon's software suite.

• This Senior UX Researcher will likely report to a Head of UX Research, Design Lead, or Product Management Lead, with direct collaboration with Product Managers and UX Designers.

Methodology:

• Maxon's approach to product development is user-centric, integrating research insights throughout the entire product lifecycle, from ideation to iteration.

• Data analysis and insights are driven by both direct user feedback (qualitative) and product usage data (quantitative), aiming for a comprehensive understanding of user needs and pain points.

• Workflow planning and optimization are key, with a focus on enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of creative professionals using their tools.

• Automation and efficiency practices are likely embedded in their software development, aiming to streamline complex tasks for users.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company description highlights a passion for empowering artists and a commitment to customer fulfillment. The "Maxonian" identity suggests a strong internal culture focused on curiosity, learning, and collaboration. The industry context is crucial for understanding the complexity of the software and the user base.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior-level position within the UX Research discipline. It signifies a significant level of expertise, autonomy, and responsibility. A Senior UX Researcher is expected to lead complex research initiatives, mentor others, and have a substantial impact on product strategy.

Reporting Structure: The Senior UX Researcher will likely report into a management role within the Design or Product organization (e.g., Head of UX Research, Director of Product Design). They will work closely with Product Managers and Engineering Leads, acting as a key advisor.

Operations Impact: The impact of this role is on the strategic direction and user-centricity of Cinema 4D, a flagship product. By ensuring the software meets the evolving needs of professional artists, the researcher directly influences customer satisfaction, product adoption, competitive positioning, and ultimately, revenue.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific research methodologies or delve further into the technical intricacies of 3D software workflows.

• Leadership: Transition into a lead researcher role, managing a team of researchers, or move into product management with a strong user-advocacy foundation.

• Cross-functional Mobility: Potentially move into roles within Product Strategy, User Experience Design, or even Technical Evangelism given the domain expertise.

• Skill Development: Continuous learning opportunities offered by Maxon, including advanced training, conferences, and internal workshops, will support growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" title implies a path towards leadership, either through managing people or becoming a principal individual contributor with broad strategic influence. Maxon's commitment to "individual development possibilities" suggests a supportive environment for career progression.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, indicating a traditional office environment. Maxon likely offers modern office spaces designed to foster collaboration and creativity, common in the tech industry.

Office Location(s): The role is based in either Bad Homburg (near Frankfurt) or Berlin, Germany. Both locations offer vibrant city environments with good infrastructure and access to talent.

• Bad Homburg: Offers a more suburban, yet well-connected, environment within the Rhine-Main metropolitan area, close to Frankfurt.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is expected to be collaborative, with opportunities for direct interaction with designers, product managers, and engineers, facilitating the iterative design process.

• Access to necessary research tools, software, and potentially specialized hardware for testing complex 3D applications will be provided.

• The environment likely encourages a culture of open communication and knowledge sharing, crucial for effective UX research in a technical field.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time. While on-site, German companies often provide a degree of flexibility in daily working hours, allowing employees to manage their schedules effectively around core business needs and personal commitments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement suggests that in-person collaboration and immersion in the company's creative and technical environment are highly valued for this role. The choice between Bad Homburg and Berlin offers candidates flexibility based on their preferred lifestyle and work environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will assess your resume and cover letter for basic qualifications and alignment with the role.

• Hiring Manager/Team Interview: This stage will likely involve discussions about your experience, research philosophy, and approach to complex technical products. Expect behavioral questions and a deep dive into your background.

• Portfolio Presentation: You will be asked to present a selection of your best work. This is a critical step where you demonstrate your research process, insights, and impact. Prepare 2-3 detailed case studies.

• Skills Assessment/Case Study: A practical exercise might be given, such as analyzing a research problem, proposing a research plan, or critiquing a design, to assess your problem-solving and analytical skills.

• Cross-functional Team Interviews: Interviews with designers, product managers, and engineers to assess your collaboration style and ability to work effectively with these disciplines.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership to discuss strategic fit and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Impact: Clearly articulate the problem you were solving, your research approach, the insights you uncovered, and most importantly, the tangible impact your work had on the product and business outcomes. Use metrics where possible (e.g., increased task success rates, reduced error rates, improved user satisfaction scores).

• Showcase Methodology: Detail why you chose specific research methods. Demonstrate your expertise in both qualitative and quantitative approaches and your ability to select the right tool for the job.

• Tell a Story: Structure your case studies as narratives. Begin with the user problem or business objective, walk through your research process, present your findings compellingly, and conclude with the actions taken and their results.

• Tailor to Maxon: Highlight any experience with complex software, 3D design, motion graphics, or VFX. If you have experience with Cinema 4D or similar tools, make that prominent.

• Presentation Skills: Practice presenting your portfolio. Be articulate, confident, and prepared to answer in-depth questions about your process and decisions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would approach researching a new feature for Cinema 4D or how you would investigate a reported usability issue.

• Prepare to articulate your understanding of the target user base (filmmakers, motion designers, VFX artists) and their unique workflows.

• Think about how you would balance research rigor with the fast-paced nature of product development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is paramount for a Senior UX Researcher. Candidates must be prepared to demonstrate not just research execution but also strategic thinking, influence, and measurable impact, especially within the context of complex creative software.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Research Platforms: Proficiency with tools for surveys (e.g., SurveyMonkey, Qualtrics, Google Forms), usability testing (e.g., UserTesting.com, Lookback, Maze), and participant recruitment.

• Collaboration & Whiteboarding: Tools like Miro, Mural, or similar for collaborative brainstorming, affinity mapping, and workshop facilitation.

• Prototyping Tools (for review): Familiarity with tools used by designers (e.g., Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD) to understand and critique prototypes.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Software: Experience with statistical analysis tools (e.g., SPSS, R, Python libraries like Pandas/NumPy) for quantitative data, and qualitative data analysis tools (e.g., Dovetail, NVivo) for thematic analysis.

• Product Analytics: Familiarity with tools like Google Analytics, Mixpanel, Amplitude, or custom internal tools to understand user behavior within software.

• Visualization Tools: Ability to create clear charts and graphs using tools like Excel, Tableau, or direct output from analysis software.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly managing CRM/automation, understanding how user data might be captured or how user feedback loops are managed within a company's systems (e.g., Salesforce, Jira) is beneficial for context.

• Familiarity with project management tools like Jira or Asana for tracking research tasks and progress.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack emphasizes tools for data collection, analysis, synthesis, and communication. For this role, proficiency in qualitative data analysis and experience with tools that support complex software research (e.g., screen recording, detailed user flow analysis) would be highly advantageous.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Curiosity & Learning: A strong drive to understand users deeply and a commitment to continuous learning about new research methods and the evolving creative industry.

• Customer Fulfillment & Inspiration: A dedication to empowering artists and inspiring creativity through well-designed, user-friendly software.

• Collaboration: A belief in the power of teamwork, open communication, and shared learning across disciplines to achieve common goals.

• Excellence: A pursuit of high-quality research and impactful insights that contribute to best-in-class software products.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: A commitment to using user data and research findings to inform product strategy and design choices.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Active participation in product development teams, working closely with Product Management, Design, and Engineering to ensure user insights are seamlessly integrated.

• Constructive Feedback: A culture that encourages open and honest feedback, both giving and receiving, to improve research practices and product outcomes.

• Knowledge Sharing: A willingness to share research findings, methodologies, and learnings across the team and broader organization to foster a collective understanding of the user.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's stated values – "curious learners," "obsessed with customer fulfillment and inspiration," and "encourage and motivate each other" – directly translate into the expected team culture. This Senior UX Researcher should embody these values in their daily work and interactions.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Software: Researching highly complex, technical 3D software requires a deep understanding of the user's domain and the ability to grasp intricate workflows.

• Translating Technical Findings: Bridging the gap between sophisticated user workflows and actionable product requirements for design and engineering teams.

• Balancing Research Rigor with Pace: Ensuring thorough research is conducted while meeting the demands of agile product development cycles.

• Staying Ahead of Industry Trends: The VFX, motion graphics, and 3D design industries evolve rapidly; keeping research methods and understanding current is crucial.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Domain Expertise: Deepen knowledge of 3D animation, VFX, and motion graphics workflows by engaging with the user community and internal experts.

• Methodological Advancement: Explore and implement emerging research techniques and tools relevant to complex software.

• Mentorship & Leadership: Develop leadership skills through mentoring junior researchers and potentially leading larger research initiatives.

• Industry Events: Attend conferences and workshops related to UX, HCI, and the creative technology industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge lies in the depth of technical expertise required from both the software and its users. Growth opportunities are clearly tied to deepening this domain knowledge and developing leadership capabilities within the research function.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to research a highly complex technical product. What were the biggest challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Focus on your process for understanding intricate systems and user needs.)

• "How would you approach defining the research strategy for a new, unproven feature in Cinema 4D? What methods would you prioritize and why?" (Demonstrate strategic thinking, methodological selection, and understanding of product lifecycle stages.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Maxon and our specific user base (filmmakers, motion designers, VFX artists)?" (Research Maxon's products, mission, and recent news. Show genuine interest in the creative industry.)

• "How do you see your role as a Senior UX Researcher contributing to a culture of curiosity and customer fulfillment?" (Align your values and approach with Maxon's stated company values.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Impactful Case Studies: Choose 2-3 projects that best showcase your strategic thinking, methodological breadth, and measurable impact on product decisions. Prioritize projects related to complex software if possible.

• Structure Each Case Study: Clearly outline the problem/opportunity, your research objectives, the methods used (and rationale), key findings, your recommendations, and the resulting outcomes/impact. Use visuals where appropriate.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, include metrics that demonstrate the success of your research (e.g., improvements in usability, adoption rates, task completion times, user satisfaction).

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about your specific choices, challenges encountered, alternative approaches you considered, and how you navigated disagreements or pushback.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only strong research skills but also strategic influence, domain understanding (creative software), and alignment with Maxon's collaborative and user-centric culture.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior UX Researcher position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday link.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your experience with complex software, your expertise in both qualitative and quantitative research methods, and any experience with 3D design, motion graphics, or VFX workflows. Quantify your achievements whenever possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Select your strongest 2-3 case studies that demonstrate your strategic research approach, impact on product decisions, and ability to work with technical products. Ensure it's polished, well-organized, and ready for presentation.

• Research Maxon: Familiarize yourself with Maxon's products (especially Cinema 4D), their mission, target audience, and recent company news. Understand their position in the creative software market.

• Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse presenting your portfolio case studies, focusing on clear communication, strategic insights, and measurable impact. Be ready for in-depth questions.

⚠️ 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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