Senior UX Researcher

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior UX Researcher

Company: Ruby Labs

Location: Ukraine (Remote within +/- 4 hours of CET)

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: UX Research & Product Insights

Date Posted: 2026-05-05

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (4-6+ years)

Remote Status: Fully Remote

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive product innovation and growth by establishing and managing a robust UX research practice, encompassing both qualitative and quantitative methodologies.

• Directly influence key business metrics such as conversion rates, customer retention, and funnel optimization through actionable, data-driven insights.

• Collaborate closely with Product, Growth, and Design leadership to ensure all product decisions are grounded in real user data, moving beyond assumptions.

• Take ownership of the research agenda, proactively identifying research opportunities and prioritizing them for maximum business impact.

• Translate complex research findings into clear, prioritized recommendations that can be immediately implemented by product and design teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a foundational contributor to a high-growth D2C product, with a strong emphasis on immediate impact and a fast-paced, iterative development environment. The expectation is for the Senior UX Researcher to not only conduct research but also to champion its adoption and influence strategic decision-making.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Define, own, and execute the end-to-end UX research agenda, aligning with Product and Growth leadership priorities for a high-growth D2C product.

• Design and conduct a variety of structured research studies, including in-depth user interviews, usability tests, surveys, diary studies, and in-product feedback mechanisms.

• Analyze user behavior data from session recordings (e.g., Clarity, Hotjar), heatmaps, and product analytics platforms (e.g., Mixpanel, GA4, Amplitude) to pinpoint friction points and identify behavioral patterns impacting conversion and retention.

• Perform thorough competitor research to benchmark industry best practices and uncover opportunities for product differentiation and user experience enhancement.

• Establish and track quantitative research metrics alongside qualitative insights to provide a holistic view of user experience and its business impact.

• Synthesize complex qualitative and quantitative data into clear, concise, and actionable recommendations, prioritizing them for immediate implementation by product and design teams.

• Collaborate with the Product and Growth teams to develop data-backed hypotheses for A/B tests, directly contributing to iterative optimization processes.

• Develop, maintain, and socialize a centralized, searchable research repository to ensure easy access to insights and learnings across the organization.

• Proactively identify gaps in analytics instrumentation and collaborate with the data team to ensure comprehensive data collection for research and analysis.

• Contribute to establishing research best practices, standards, and frameworks within the organization, positioning research as a core, integrated function.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a proactive, hands-on approach to research, with a clear mandate to drive measurable business outcomes. The emphasis on "setting the agenda," "advocating for change with measurable impact," and "shipping into product within days" indicates a dynamic, results-oriented environment where research is directly tied to product iteration and growth.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a strong foundation in fields related to human-computer interaction, psychology, sociology, market research, or a related discipline is highly beneficial.

Experience: 4-6+ years of dedicated UX research experience within a product-centric company (agency experience is less preferred). This experience should demonstrate a proven ability to independently manage and execute research projects from inception to outcome.

Required Skills:

• Expertise in designing and conducting end-to-end qualitative research, including user interviews, usability testing (moderated and unmoderated), and contextual inquiries.

• Proven ability to design and execute quantitative research, including survey design, data collection, and statistical analysis to derive meaningful results.

• Strong proficiency in analyzing user behavior data from tools such as Clarity, Hotjar, FullStory, Mixpanel, GA4, or Amplitude.

• Demonstrated ability to synthesize disparate qualitative and quantitative data sources into coherent, actionable insights and prioritized recommendations.

• Deep understanding of conversion funnels, A/B testing principles, and iterative product optimization processes common in D2C and SaaS environments.

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

• A strong track record of operating autonomously, driving research initiatives forward, and influencing product decisions.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience working with D2C SaaS or subscription-based business models.

• Background or strong understanding of behavioral psychology, customer journey mapping, and user onboarding optimization strategies.

• Familiarity with Conversion Rate Optimization (CRO) tools and established frameworks.

• Experience in building a UX research practice from the ground up or within an early-stage team.

• Demonstrated ability to mentor or guide junior researchers, fostering a collaborative research environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required experience level and the emphasis on independent operation suggest this role is for an individual contributor who can act as a subject matter expert and drive the research function forward with minimal oversight. The preference for product company experience over agency experience indicates a need for familiarity with the pace and product lifecycle of ongoing development.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 detailed case studies demonstrating end-to-end UX research projects.

• Each case study should clearly outline the research problem, your specific role and responsibilities, the methodologies employed (qualitative and quantitative), the key findings, and the actionable recommendations derived.

• Quantify the impact of your research where possible, highlighting how your insights led to specific product improvements, feature enhancements, or business metric improvements (e.g., increased conversion, reduced churn).

• Include examples of how you synthesized complex data, visualized findings, and presented them to stakeholders to drive decision-making.

Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of how you have documented research processes, such as research plans, study protocols, synthesis frameworks, or research repository structures.

• Showcase your ability to define clear research objectives and link them directly to business goals and product strategy.

• Illustrate how you have translated research insights into concrete product requirements or A/B testing hypotheses.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the emphasis on "proper research practice" and "measurable impact," a portfolio is crucial for demonstrating practical application of research skills and their effectiveness in a product development context. The ability to articulate process and quantify outcomes will be key differentiators.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on market research for Senior UX Researchers in Eastern European countries with a CET time zone alignment (e.g., Ukraine, Poland, Romania) and considering the "4-6+ years of experience" requirement, the estimated annual salary range for this role is approximately €40,000 - €65,000 (or equivalent in USD). This estimation accounts for the remote nature of the role, the company's D2C focus, and the emphasis on driving business metrics.

Benefits:

• Remote Work Environment: Full flexibility to work from any location, fostering work-life balance.

• Unlimited PTO: Comprehensive paid time off, allowing employees to manage their personal time and well-being without strict day limits.

• Paid National Holidays: Observance of national holidays with paid time off.

• Company-provided MacBook: Access to a company-issued MacBook for optimal work performance.

• Flexible Independent Contractor Agreement: This offers potential tax advantages, greater autonomy, and flexibility compared to traditional employment. It also provides opportunities for networking and reduced employment obligations.

Working Hours: The role is full-time, with an expected commitment of approximately 40 hours per week. The company operates within the CET time zone, requiring candidates to be available for collaboration within approximately ± 4 hours of CET to ensure effective communication and team syncs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on publicly available data for similar roles in the specified regions and experience levels. The "Flexible Independent Contractor Agreement" is a significant benefit that offers unique advantages but also requires careful consideration of local tax and legal implications by the candidate.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Technology, focused on innovative consumer products across Health, Education, and Entertainment sectors. Ruby Labs operates as a fast-paced tech company with a strong D2C product orientation.

Company Size: While not explicitly stated, the mention of "building and scaling a high-growth D2C product" and "early-stage team" in the "nice to have" section suggests a growing, potentially mid-sized company that is dynamic and agile.

Founded: The founding date is not provided, but the emphasis on innovation and product development implies a company that is established enough to operate in multiple industries but still focused on rapid growth and iteration.

Team Structure:

• The UX Research function is likely being established or significantly scaled, with the Senior UX Researcher expected to play a pivotal role in defining its structure and processes.

• This role will report into Product or Design leadership, working closely with Product Managers, Growth Marketers, and Designers.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decisions: A central tenet is grounding all product decisions in real user data rather than assumptions.

• Agile & Iterative: The company moves fast, ships often, and expects research to keep pace with rapid development cycles.

• Impact-Focused: Research is expected to have a measurable impact on key business metrics like conversion, retention, and funnel performance.

Company Website: https://rubylabs.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is characterized by speed, ambition, and a strong focus on results. The description "we move fast, aim high, and expect the same from our team" suggests a demanding yet rewarding environment for high-achievers.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is a "Senior" position, indicating a significant level of autonomy and responsibility. It signifies an individual contributor role with the potential to influence strategy and establish best practices within the UX research domain. It's a step towards leadership in research operations or product strategy.

Reporting Structure: The Senior UX Researcher will likely report to a Director or VP of Product, Design, or a related functional lead. They will work collaboratively with Product Managers, Growth teams, and Designers, acting as a key partner in product development.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct and critical impact on the company's success by ensuring that product development is user-centric and data-informed. This translates directly into improved customer acquisition, engagement, and retention, which are vital for a D2C business.

Growth Opportunities:

• Research Practice Development: Opportunity to build and shape the UX research function from its early stages, defining methodologies, tools, and processes.

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in both qualitative and quantitative research, conversion rate optimization, and behavioral analytics.

• Leadership Potential: With proven success in driving impact and establishing research frameworks, there's potential for future leadership roles in research management or product strategy.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain broad experience working across Product, Growth, and Design, enhancing understanding of the full product lifecycle and business drivers.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a unique opportunity for an experienced researcher to make a significant mark by establishing a research practice in a fast-growing company. The emphasis on autonomy and direct impact suggests a career trajectory focused on driving tangible business outcomes.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a fully remote position, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere.

Office Location(s): While the company operates within the CET time zone, the remote nature means employees are not tied to a specific physical office. The requirement for +/- 4 hours of CET suggests a focus on synchronous collaboration during core European business hours.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Despite being remote, strong emphasis is placed on collaboration with Product, Growth, and Design teams. Regular virtual syncs and communication are expected.

• Tools & Technology: Access to essential tools for research and analysis, including session recording software, product analytics platforms, and potentially collaboration/documentation tools. A company-provided MacBook ensures a consistent and high-performing tech setup.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for interaction will be through virtual meetings, Slack/communication channels, and collaborative documentation platforms. The company culture values ambition and high performance, suggesting a dynamic and engaged remote team.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time (approximately 40 hours/week). While remote, availability within a +/- 4 hour CET window is crucial for effective team collaboration and timely communication. This allows for participation in key meetings and real-time problem-solving.

📝 Enhancement Note: The remote work environment is a key feature, supported by a flexible contractor agreement. However, the CET time zone requirement is critical for ensuring smooth collaboration with the core team.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Recruiter Screening (40 minutes): Initial conversation to assess general fit, motivation, and high-level experience. Be prepared to discuss your career trajectory, interest in Ruby Labs, and your understanding of the Senior UX Researcher role.

• Technical Interview (60 minutes): In-depth discussion focusing on your UX research methodologies, experience with qualitative and quantitative research, tool proficiency (product analytics, session recording), and ability to synthesize data. Expect to discuss specific projects and challenges from your past experience.

• Final Interview (60 minutes): This likely involves a deeper dive into your strategic thinking, problem-solving skills, collaboration style, and how you would approach establishing research practices. You may be asked to present a case study from your portfolio or discuss hypothetical scenarios.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 2-3 of your strongest, most relevant projects that showcase end-to-end research and measurable impact. Prioritize projects that align with D2C products, conversion optimization, or user behavior analysis.

• Structure for Impact: For each case study, clearly articulate the problem statement, your unique contribution, the research process, key findings, actionable recommendations, and most importantly, the outcomes or impact achieved (quantify whenever possible).

• Showcase Process & Tools: Be ready to discuss the specific tools and methodologies you used and why you chose them. Demonstrate your understanding of how research integrates with product development and A/B testing.

• Tell a Story: Frame your case studies as narratives that highlight your problem-solving skills, strategic thinking, and ability to influence product decisions through user insights.

Challenge Preparation:

• Hypothetical Scenarios: Be prepared for questions asking how you would approach research for a specific product feature, a drop in conversion rates, or a new user onboarding flow. Focus on your process: defining objectives, choosing methodologies, and translating findings into action.

• Stakeholder Management: Practice articulating how you would collaborate with Product Managers, Designers, and Growth teams, manage differing opinions, and advocate for user needs while balancing business goals.

• Establishing a Practice: If asked about building a research function, outline a phased approach, including defining standards, selecting tools, integrating with existing workflows, and demonstrating value.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is structured to assess both technical research skills and strategic thinking, with a strong emphasis on practical application and business impact. A well-prepared portfolio is essential for demonstrating these capabilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• User Research Platforms: Proficiency in tools for user interviews, usability testing (e.g., UserTesting.com, Lookback), survey design and analysis (e.g., SurveyMonkey, Typeform, Qualtrics).

• Behavioral Analytics: Strong experience with product analytics platforms such as Mixpanel, Google Analytics 4 (GA4), Amplitude, or similar, for tracking user behavior and identifying trends.

• Session Recording & Heatmaps: Experience utilizing tools like Clarity, Hotjar, FullStory, or Contentsquare to analyze user interactions on a granular level.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Synthesis: Ability to pull data from various sources and synthesize it into coherent insights.

• Reporting Tools: Experience creating clear and compelling reports and presentations of research findings, likely using tools like Google Slides, PowerPoint, or specialized reporting dashboards.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how user research data can inform CRM strategies or customer segmentation within a CRM context is a plus. Familiarity with how user feedback can trigger automated workflows or inform marketing campaigns is beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The job description explicitly mentions Clarity, Mixpanel, GA4, and Amplitude. Therefore, demonstrable experience with these or comparable tools is critical. The emphasis on synthesizing data from multiple sources highlights the need for analytical prowess beyond just operating individual tools.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Data-Driven: A core value is making decisions based on concrete user data and analytics, not assumptions.

• Ambition & High Performance: The company culture encourages individuals to "aim high," "grow at the speed of their own ambition," and "give their best every single day."

• Impact & Results: There's a strong emphasis on achieving measurable outcomes and recognizing those who deliver results.

• Agility & Speed: The company moves fast and ships often, requiring adaptability and a proactive approach to research and implementation.

• Ownership & Autonomy: Individuals are expected to take ownership of their work and operate independently, driving projects from initiation to completion.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Researchers are expected to work closely with Product, Growth, and Design teams, fostering a collaborative environment where insights are shared and acted upon.

• Proactive Communication: Given the remote setup, proactive and clear communication via channels like Slack and virtual meetings is essential.

• Feedback Exchange: An open culture for feedback is implied, encouraging continuous improvement of research practices and product development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture is geared towards driven individuals who thrive in a fast-paced, results-oriented environment. The ideal candidate will be proactive, autonomous, and passionate about using research to drive tangible business success.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Establishing Research Infrastructure: As a key player in building the research practice, you'll face the challenge of defining processes, selecting tools, and gaining buy-in from various teams.

• Pace of Development: The need to "ship often" means research must be conducted and delivered rapidly, requiring efficient methodologies and quick synthesis.

• Balancing User Needs with Business Goals: A constant challenge will be translating user insights into recommendations that align with business objectives and conversion targets.

• Remote Collaboration: Effectively collaborating and influencing stakeholders in a fully remote setting requires strong communication and engagement skills.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Foundational Role: Opportunity to build and own a critical function within a growing company, providing significant professional development.

• Broad Skill Development: Expand expertise in D2C product research, conversion rate optimization, and advanced behavioral analytics.

• Industry Exposure: Gain hands-on experience with innovative consumer products across multiple sectors (health, education, entertainment).

• Mentorship & Leadership: Potential to mentor junior team members as the research function grows and to step into leadership roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents a significant opportunity for a researcher eager to make a substantial impact and develop their career in a dynamic, growth-oriented tech company. The challenges are directly tied to the growth and development of the research function itself.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "How would you establish a UX research practice at Ruby Labs, given our focus on D2C products and rapid iteration?" (Focus on phased approach, key milestones, stakeholder engagement, and demonstrating early wins.)

• "Describe a time you had to make a difficult trade-off between user needs and business constraints. How did you navigate this, and what was the outcome?" (Highlight your ability to balance user advocacy with business realities and data-driven decision-making.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What excites you about Ruby Labs' mission and our approach to building consumer products?" (Research their products, "About Us" page, and connect your passion for user-centered design to their goals.)

• "How do you approach advocating for the user in a fast-paced environment where speed is critical?" (Emphasize your ability to deliver timely, actionable insights that inform rapid iterations.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Start with the "Why": Clearly state the business problem or user challenge your research addressed.

• Detail Your "How": Explain your research process – methodologies, participant recruitment, data collection, and analysis techniques. Be specific about the tools you used.

• Highlight the "What": Present your key findings, focusing on insights that were surprising or particularly impactful.

• Emphasize the "So What": Detail your recommendations and, crucially, the impact they had on the product and business metrics. Quantify this impact whenever possible.

• Be Prepared for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your choices, alternative approaches, and how you would adapt your findings to Ruby Labs' specific context.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess your ability to not only conduct research but also to strategically apply it to drive business growth in a fast-paced, remote environment. Demonstrating a clear understanding of D2C metrics and a proactive approach to research leadership will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior UX Researcher position:

• Submit your application through the provided Ashby link.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate 2-3 strong case studies that demonstrate your end-to-end UX research expertise, focusing on projects with measurable business impact in D2C or SaaS environments. Ensure your portfolio clearly outlines your process, findings, and outcomes.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your experience with qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, specific tools (Mixpanel, Clarity, etc.), and your ability to translate research into actionable product insights and A/B test hypotheses. Use keywords from the job description.

• Practice Your Narrative: Be ready to articulate your research process, strategic thinking, and how you drive impact during interviews. Practice presenting your portfolio case studies concisely and persuasively.

• Research Ruby Labs: Familiarize yourself with Ruby Labs' products, mission, and company culture. Understand their focus on D2C and rapid iteration to tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

⚠️ 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.