Staff UX Designer (Research Focus)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Staff UX Designer (Research Focus)

Company: Rocket Communications

Location: Colorado Springs, Colorado, United States

Job Type: Full Time Employment

Category: User Experience (UX) Design / Research

Date Posted: May 06, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead quantitative user research initiatives, translating complex data into actionable design recommendations for mission-critical applications.

• Drive the human-centered design process within enterprise UX projects, focusing on space capabilities and cutting-edge technologies.

• Analyze and synthesize user research data to define user needs and inform strategic design decisions for complex systems.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to solve challenging user experience problems in government and defense sectors.

• Contribute to the strategic direction of UX design, leveraging deep expertise in research methodologies and complex domain design.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically focused on quantitative research within UX design, indicating a need for a candidate who can not only conduct research but also rigorously analyze and interpret numerical data to drive design outcomes. The emphasis on "mission-critical" and "space capabilities" suggests a high-stakes environment requiring meticulous attention to detail and a strong understanding of complex systems. The hybrid nature requires local presence, and the clearance requirement is paramount.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct and lead quantitative user research studies to gather data on user behavior, needs, and pain points within complex enterprise systems.

• Analyze and synthesize large datasets from user research, identifying key trends, insights, and patterns relevant to system usability and effectiveness.

• Translate research findings into clear, concise, and actionable recommendations for UX/UI design improvements, wireframes, and prototypes.

• Develop user personas, journey maps, and task flows based on quantitative data to inform design strategies and ensure user-centricity.

• Collaborate closely with product managers, engineers, and stakeholders to integrate user insights into the product development lifecycle and ensure alignment with mission objectives.

• Define and track key UX metrics to measure the impact of design changes and identify areas for continuous improvement in user experience.

• Advocate for the user throughout the design process, ensuring that design decisions are grounded in user data and human factors principles.

• Contribute to the development and refinement of UX research methodologies and best practices within the organization.

• Present research findings and design recommendations to stakeholders at various levels, effectively communicating complex information and justifying design choices.

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of user research techniques, UX design trends, and industry best practices, particularly within defense and aerospace sectors.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the "Staff" level title and 10+ years of experience, responsibilities will likely include mentorship, strategic input, and a degree of autonomy in defining research approaches. The emphasis on quantitative analysis suggests a need for proficiency in statistical interpretation and data visualization.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Psychology, Cognitive Science, Computer Science, Design, or a related field is required.

Experience:

• Minimum of 10 years of professional experience in UX/UI design, with a significant focus on user research within enterprise or complex domain environments.

• Proven track record of applying quantitative research methodologies to solve user experience challenges and drive product improvements.

Required Skills:

• Expert proficiency in quantitative user research methodologies (e.g., surveys, A/B testing, analytics data analysis, statistical modeling).

• Deep understanding of the full human-centered design process, from research and discovery to ideation, prototyping, and validation.

• Strong data analysis and synthesis skills, with the ability to translate complex data into clear, actionable insights and recommendations.

• Proficiency in UX/UI design principles, wireframing, prototyping tools, and user flow development.

• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to articulate complex research findings and design rationale to diverse audiences.

• Active Secret Clearance is a mandatory requirement.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with qualitative research methodologies to complement quantitative findings.

• Familiarity with statistical software packages (e.g., SPSS, R, Python for data analysis).

• Experience with UX analytics platforms and tools.

• Knowledge of human factors engineering principles and their application in system design.

• Ability to obtain Top Secret/SCI (TS/SCI) clearance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for 10+ years of experience at a "Staff" level implies leadership potential, strategic thinking, and the ability to mentor junior designers. The explicit mention of "quantitative user research" as an expert area is a critical differentiator.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a strong portfolio showcasing a minimum of 10 years of UX/UI design experience, with a clear emphasis on quantitative user research projects.

• Provide case studies that detail your process for conducting quantitative research, analyzing data, and translating findings into tangible design solutions for complex enterprise applications.

• Include examples of how you have measured the impact of your design decisions using quantitative metrics and demonstrated ROI or significant improvements in user efficiency/effectiveness.

• Showcase your ability to navigate complex design challenges, particularly in domains requiring high reliability and user performance.

Process Documentation:

• Detail your approach to planning and executing quantitative research studies, including methodology selection, participant recruitment, and data collection strategies for enterprise-level products.

• Illustrate your process for synthesizing large volumes of quantitative data, including the tools and techniques used for analysis and the creation of impactful reports or presentations.

• Provide examples of how you have documented user flows, system interactions, and design specifications based on research insights for complex technical systems.

• Explain your methods for iterating on designs based on ongoing quantitative feedback and performance monitoring.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Staff UX Designer role with a research focus, the portfolio should heavily emphasize the candidate's ability to design and execute rigorous quantitative research, analyze complex datasets, and translate those findings into impactful design solutions for complex systems. Demonstrating the ability to measure and articulate the business impact of UX research is crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $127,000 - $185,000 per year

Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

• Dedicated Health Advocate to assist with healthcare navigation

• Employer Sponsored and Voluntary Supplemental Benefits

• 401k Retirement Savings Plan with Company Match

• Health and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

• Flexible Time Off (FTO) policy

• Paid Holidays

• Paid Parental Leave

• Annual Professional Development Funds for continuous learning

• Commuter Benefits

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for personal and professional support

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time workweek, typically 40 hours.

• Hybrid work arrangement requiring a balance of remote and in-office presence in Colorado Springs, CO.

• Flexibility may be available, but core hours will likely align with team collaboration needs and project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is based on the information in the job description. The benefits listed are comprehensive and typical for a professional role in the US technology sector, with a notable emphasis on professional development and employee well-being. The "annual revenue bonus" is contingent on company success.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Enterprise UX Design, Technology, Government Contracting (specifically Space Capabilities)

Company Size: Small company, dispersed across the U.S.

Founded: Information not provided, but the company is involved in designing for space capabilities and cutting-edge technologies, suggesting a focus on innovation and advanced solutions.

Team Structure:

• The team is described as small, fun, friendly, and supportive, despite the challenging and complex nature of the work.

• Being a small, dispersed company suggests a collaborative and agile team environment where individuals may wear multiple hats and have direct access to leadership.

Methodology:

• Focus on quantitative research and data synthesis to drive design decisions.

• Application of human-centered design principles to complex, mission-critical systems.

• Emphasis on solving challenging user experience problems within specialized domains (space, defense).

• A supportive team environment that encourages collaboration despite geographical dispersion.

Company Website: rocketcom.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes a blend of challenging, high-stakes work with a supportive and friendly team dynamic. The small, dispersed nature implies a need for strong communication skills and self-sufficiency, while the focus on government contracting highlights the importance of security and adherence to specific protocols.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Staff UX Designer (Research Focus)

This "Staff" level designation, combined with 10+ years of experience, signifies a senior individual contributor role. It implies a high degree of autonomy, strategic influence, and the expectation to lead complex research initiatives, mentor others, and contribute to the overall UX strategy. The focus on quantitative research positions the individual as an expert in a critical area of UX practice.

Reporting Structure:

• The specific reporting structure isn't detailed, but in a small company, a Staff UX Designer might report to a Head of Design, Director of Product, or CTO.

Operations Impact:

• The role's impact is directly tied to the success of mission-critical applications for space capabilities and cutting-edge technologies.

• Effective UX research and design will ensure the usability, efficiency, and safety of systems critical to national security and technological advancement, directly influencing operational effectiveness and mission success.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in quantitative UX research, advanced analytics, and specialized domains like aerospace or defense UX.

• Leadership: Transition into a UX Lead or Managerial role, overseeing research teams or entire UX functions as the company grows.

• Strategic Influence: Become a key voice in product strategy and technology development, shaping the future direction of Rocket Communications' UX offerings.

• Professional Development: Leverage annual professional development funds for advanced training, certifications, or conference attendance relevant to UX research and complex systems design.

• Mentorship: Guide and mentor junior UX designers, contributing to the development of the UX practice within the company.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Staff" title and 10+ years of experience indicate a senior individual contributor role with significant strategic potential. Growth opportunities will likely involve deepening expertise, potentially moving into leadership, or influencing broader product and technology strategies.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid role, requiring presence in an office environment in Colorado Springs, CO, alongside remote work capabilities.

Office Location(s): Colorado Springs, Colorado, United States. This location is significant due to its proximity to military installations and defense contractors, aligning with the company's focus on space capabilities and government work.

Workspace Context:

• The hybrid model offers flexibility while requiring in-person collaboration, likely to foster team cohesion and facilitate sensitive discussions given the nature of the work.

• As a small, dispersed company, the office environment may be collaborative and dynamic, with opportunities for direct interaction with colleagues.

• Access to necessary tools and technology for UX design and research will be provided, supporting both remote and in-office work.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time hours (approx. 40 hours/week) are expected.

• The hybrid arrangement implies a need for structured scheduling to ensure adequate in-office days for collaboration, while remote days allow for focused work.

• Due to the nature of government contracts, adherence to schedules and deadlines is critical.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role requires candidates to be local to Colorado Springs and comfortable with a mix of remote and in-office work. The company's focus suggests a professional, security-conscious environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications, experience, and alignment with the role's research focus and clearance requirements.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager to delve deeper into your experience, research methodologies, and understanding of complex domains. Expect questions about your approach to quantitative research and problem-solving.

• Portfolio Presentation/Case Study: You will likely be asked to present a detailed case study from your portfolio, focusing on a quantitative research project. This will assess your process, analytical skills, and ability to communicate findings effectively.

• Team/Peer Interview: Interviews with other UX designers or cross-functional team members to evaluate your collaboration style, cultural fit, and technical acumen.

• Security & Clearance Verification: Thorough vetting of your existing Secret Clearance and discussion about obtaining TS/SCI.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss strategic alignment and long-term fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Everything: Focus on case studies where you used quantitative research. Clearly articulate the research questions, methodologies, data analysis techniques, and the resulting insights.

• Show Your Process: Detail your step-by-step approach, from defining research objectives to synthesizing data and presenting recommendations. Use visuals to illustrate your process.

• Highlight Impact: For each case study, clearly demonstrate the impact of your work. Use metrics, KPIs, or descriptive outcomes to show how your research influenced design decisions and led to measurable improvements (e.g., increased task completion rates, reduced error rates, improved user satisfaction scores).

• Complexity & Domain: Showcase projects involving complex enterprise systems or specialized domains. If you have experience in government, defense, or aerospace, highlight it.

• Clarity & Conciseness: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, easy to navigate, and concisely presents your best work. Tailor your presentation to emphasize quantitative research skills.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss how you would approach a hypothetical quantitative research challenge for a mission-critical application.

• Practice articulating your thought process for analyzing and interpreting user data under pressure.

• Consider how you would present complex findings to a non-technical audience.

• Understand the importance of security and data privacy in government contracting environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the research focus and "Staff" level, expect a rigorous portfolio review and likely a presentation component that probes your quantitative analysis and data synthesis capabilities. The security clearance is a non-negotiable prerequisite.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Prototyping & Design: Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD, or similar industry-standard tools for wireframing and prototyping.

• User Research Platforms: Tools for survey creation and distribution (e.g., SurveyMonkey, Qualtrics), analytics platforms (e.g., Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics), and potentially specialized tools for quantitative data collection.

• Data Analysis & Visualization: Proficiency in tools like Excel, Google Sheets, SPSS, R, Python (for statistical analysis), and dashboarding tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) for presenting quantitative findings.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Experience with web analytics tools to understand user behavior patterns and identify areas for research.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, an understanding of how UX impacts CRM adoption and effectiveness in enterprise settings can be beneficial.

• Familiarity with project management and collaboration tools (e.g., Jira, Confluence, Asana) for workflow management and team communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on quantitative research suggests a strong need for proficiency in data analysis and visualization tools, beyond standard UX design software. Experience with tools used in government or defense contracting environments might also be advantageous.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: A core value, emphasizing the use of quantitative research and analytics to inform every aspect of design and strategy.

• User-Centricity: A commitment to understanding and advocating for user needs, particularly in high-stakes environments where usability is paramount.

• Excellence & Precision: A dedication to high-quality work, accuracy, and attention to detail, essential for mission-critical applications.

• Collaboration: A supportive and friendly team environment that encourages open communication and teamwork, even across dispersed locations.

• Innovation: A drive to work on cutting-edge technologies and solve complex problems that push the boundaries of UX design.

• Integrity & Security: Adherence to strict security protocols and ethical standards, given the nature of government contracting.

Collaboration Style:

• The team values a collaborative approach, likely characterized by open communication, constructive feedback, and shared problem-solving.

• Given the hybrid nature and dispersed team, effective asynchronous communication and documentation are key.

• Expect cross-functional collaboration with product managers, engineers, and potentially clients, requiring clear articulation of UX needs and findings.

• A supportive culture suggests an environment where team members are willing to help each other overcome challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values likely reflect a blend of typical tech company ideals with the specific demands of government contracting, such as a strong emphasis on data, precision, and security.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Domain: Designing for space capabilities and cutting-edge technologies requires a steep learning curve and an ability to grasp complex technical concepts.

• Quantitative Data Synthesis: Effectively analyzing and drawing actionable insights from large, potentially messy, datasets can be challenging.

• Security Clearance Requirements: The need for an active Secret Clearance and the potential to obtain TS/SCI is a significant hurdle and ongoing responsibility.

• Hybrid Work Management: Balancing remote productivity with the need for in-office collaboration in a small, dispersed team structure.

• Meeting High Stakes Requirements: Ensuring that design decisions directly contribute to the success and safety of mission-critical operations.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Quantitative Methods: Opportunities to deepen expertise in statistical analysis, predictive modeling, and advanced research techniques.

• Domain Expertise: Gaining in-depth knowledge of space capabilities, defense systems, and government contracting environments.

• Leadership Development: Potential to grow into leadership roles, manage research projects, or mentor other designers.

• Professional Certifications: Utilizing annual professional development funds to pursue relevant certifications in UX, research, or specific technologies.

• Industry Conferences: Attending conferences focused on UX, human factors, or aerospace/defense technology to stay abreast of emerging trends.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenges revolve around the technical complexity, rigorous research demands, and security requirements. Growth is tied to deepening expertise, potential leadership, and domain specialization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you used quantitative research to solve a complex user experience problem. What was your process, what data did you analyze, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on data analysis, synthesis, and impact).

• "How would you approach designing a user interface for a critical command and control system in space? What quantitative research methods would you prioritize?" (Assess understanding of domain, risk, and research strategy).

• "Imagine you have conflicting quantitative data from different sources. How would you reconcile these discrepancies to make design recommendations?" (Probe analytical rigor and problem-solving).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working on applications for space capabilities and cutting-edge technologies?" (Gauge genuine interest in the domain).

• "How do you approach collaboration in a hybrid, dispersed team environment?" (Assess communication and teamwork skills).

• "What does 'mission-critical' mean to you in the context of UX design?" (Understand your perspective on high-impact work).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select a Strong Quantitative Case Study: Choose a project where you heavily utilized quantitative methods, analyzed data, and achieved measurable results.

• Structure for Clarity:

  • Problem: Clearly define the user problem or business challenge.
  • Your Role: Specify your responsibilities, especially related to research.
  • Methodology: Detail the quantitative research methods used (surveys, analytics, A/B tests, etc.).
  • Data Analysis: Show how you processed and analyzed the data. Use charts, graphs, and statistics.
  • Insights & Recommendations: Translate data into clear, actionable insights and design recommendations.
  • Solution: Show the resulting design changes or product features.
  • Impact/Outcome: Quantify the results (e.g., % improvement in task success, reduction in errors, increase in engagement).

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Expect questions about your statistical interpretations, sample sizes, and the limitations of your research.

• Highlight Clearance Relevance: If applicable, briefly mention how your experience aligns with the security and reliability needs of government projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Expect interview questions to heavily probe your quantitative research skills, analytical capabilities, and ability to translate data into actionable design for complex, high-stakes systems. The portfolio presentation will be a critical evaluation point.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Staff UX Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on jobs.lever.co.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your 10+ years of experience, specifically emphasizing your expertise in quantitative user research, data analysis, human-centered design, and experience with complex/enterprise domains. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate your portfolio to prominently feature case studies demonstrating your quantitative research process, data synthesis skills, and measurable impact on enterprise applications. Ensure it's easily accessible and clearly articulates your contributions.

• Research Rocket Communications: Understand their mission, focus on space capabilities, and their role as an enterprise UX design company. Familiarize yourself with their website and any public information available.

• Practice Your Portfolio Presentation: Rehearse presenting your chosen quantitative research case study, focusing on clarity, conciseness, and the ability to answer in-depth questions about your methodology and findings. Be ready to discuss your experience with security clearances.

⚠️ 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. The clearance requirement is critical and must be met.