UI Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UI Designer

Company: Telenav

Location: Shanghai, China

Job Type: Full time

Category: UX/UI Design & Research

Date Posted: 2026-08-03

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is pivotal in driving the user experience strategy for Telenav's cutting-edge in-car navigation and connected car digital experiences.

• The position requires end-to-end ownership of UX research projects, focusing on understanding user needs and behaviors across global markets, particularly within the automotive sector.

• Success hinges on translating complex product and business questions into actionable research plans and delivering data-driven insights that inform product and design decisions.

• The role demands strong collaboration with cross-functional teams, including product managers, UX/UI designers, and engineers, to ensure user-centricity throughout the development lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "UI Designer," the detailed responsibilities and requirements clearly indicate a UX Researcher role. The focus is on research methodologies, data analysis, and providing insights to inform design, rather than the visual design execution typically associated with UI Design. This enhanced description will reflect the UX Research focus.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Independently lead and execute comprehensive UX research projects for in-car navigation and automotive applications (e.g., in-car music) across key global markets.

• Define clear research objectives, develop detailed research plans, identify participant profiles, and establish project timelines, effectively prioritizing research activities based on project needs and available resources.

• Plan and conduct a variety of research methodologies, including qualitative (in-depth interviews, contextual inquiries, diary studies, focus groups), quantitative (surveys), and mixed-methods research.

• Execute concept testing and usability testing to validate design concepts and identify areas for improvement.

• Conduct international and cross-cultural user research, directly engaging with overseas users and coordinating participant recruitment, translation, and external research resources as needed.

• Perform targeted market and competitive experience research to identify user needs, regional differences, product gaps, and potential opportunities relevant to specific product questions.

• Analyze qualitative and quantitative research findings to synthesize clear user insights, identify behavioral patterns, map user journeys, define opportunity areas, and prioritize product opportunities.

• Effectively communicate research outcomes through comprehensive reports, compelling presentations, interactive workshops, and other appropriate formats to project teams and management.

• Collaborate closely with product managers, UX/UI designers, engineers, and cross-functional teams to provide clear, actionable research evidence that directly supports product and design decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities highlight a senior-level UX Researcher with significant autonomy. The emphasis on "end-to-end UX research projects," "independently managing," and "cross-cultural research" points to a need for someone who can drive research initiatives from conception to delivery with minimal supervision.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Master’s degree preferred in Human-Computer Interaction, Psychology, Cognitive Science, Human Factors, Sociology, Anthropology, Market Research, Service Design, Interaction Design, or related disciplines.

• Candidates with equivalent professional expertise and research experience at the bachelor’s level will also be considered. Experience:

• 5+ years of experience in UX Research, Human Factors, Market Research, Service Design Research, or related fields, with demonstrated experience independently managing end-to-end user research projects. Required Skills:

• Strong expertise in either qualitative or quantitative research methodologies, with the ability to select and apply appropriate approaches based on specific decision-making needs.

• Proven ability to independently define research plans, develop research materials, moderate interviews or usability testing sessions, analyze research evidence, and deliver clear, actionable recommendations.

• Experience conducting user research with international participants or across multiple countries and cultures.

• Good English communication skills, with the ability to independently moderate research sessions in English, interview overseas users, develop research materials, and present research findings to global stakeholders.

• Familiarity with data analysis tools such as Excel, SPSS, or similar, with the ability to organize survey data and conduct basic statistical analysis.

• Strong analytical judgment with the ability to distinguish user evidence from assumptions, identify research limitations, and clearly communicate confidence levels, risks, and trade-offs.

• Excellent collaboration, structured communication, and stakeholder communication skills, with the ability to support product and design decisions through research evidence while considering product goals and practical project constraints. Preferred Skills:

• Experience conducting research for automotive digital products, including automotive HMI, navigation, maps, mobility services, driver assistance, voice interaction, in-car music, or media experiences.

• Experience researching both consumer-facing products and complex systems, including multi-device or cross-platform experiences.

• Ability to effectively leverage AI tools to improve research efficiency in areas such as research planning, transcription, coding, insight synthesis, competitor analysis, and research operations, while maintaining appropriate human review and data privacy practices.

• Additional language proficiency beyond Chinese and English is a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a blend of deep research methodology expertise and practical application within the automotive context. The preference for AI tool utilization signals a forward-thinking approach to research operations.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate end-to-end ownership of UX research projects, showcasing the entire research lifecycle from problem definition to insight delivery.

• Include case studies that highlight your ability to translate complex product and business questions into clear research objectives and plans.

• Showcase examples of diverse research methodologies employed (qualitative, quantitative, mixed-methods) and justify the selection of these methods.

• Provide evidence of cross-cultural or international research experiences, detailing how you navigated cultural nuances and diverse user groups.

• Present clear, actionable insights derived from research, demonstrating how these insights directly influenced product or design decisions and led to measurable improvements. Process Documentation:

• Detail your process for defining research problems and formulating research questions.

• Showcase your methodology for participant recruitment, screening, and management, especially for international studies.

• Illustrate your approach to data analysis for both qualitative and quantitative data, including synthesis techniques and the generation of user insights.

• Document your methods for communicating research findings effectively to various stakeholders (e.g., presentations, reports, workshops).

• Include examples of how you have collaborated with product managers, designers, and engineers, detailing the workflow for integrating research into the product development process.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is critical for this role, as it will be the primary means of demonstrating practical experience and research capabilities. The emphasis should be on the process and impact of the research, not just the final deliverables.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Given the location (Shanghai, China), experience level (5-10 years), and industry (Technology/Automotive), a competitive salary range for a Senior UX Researcher would typically fall between ¥300,000 - ¥550,000 CNY per year. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in Tier 1 cities in China, considering the specialized nature of automotive UX research. Benefits:

• Flexible and supportive work environment.

• Opportunities for remote work, offering a hybrid work arrangement.

• Exposure to global product development, working on cutting-edge automotive technologies.

• International travel opportunities to conduct user research and understand global markets firsthand.

• Opportunity to see designs implemented in millions of vehicles worldwide.

• Comprehensive benefits package (details typically provided during the interview process). Working Hours:

• Standard full-time position, likely around 40 hours per week.

• The hybrid work arrangement offers flexibility in managing work hours and location.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on industry data for Shanghai, China, for a senior-level UX Researcher. Benefits are derived from the provided text and common offerings for tech companies in this sector.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Technology (Automotive Software & Services)

Company Size: Telenav is a mid-to-large-sized technology company, indicated by a significant global presence and partnerships with major automotive manufacturers. This size suggests a structured environment with established processes but also room for individual impact.

Founded: Telenav was founded over a decade ago, positioning it as an established player in the connected car space, with a history of innovation in in-car navigation and location-based services.

Team Structure:

• The UX Research function likely sits within a broader Design or Product organization.

• The team structure is expected to be collaborative, with UX Researchers working closely with UX/UI Designers, Product Managers, and Engineering leads.

• Reporting lines may involve a UX Research Lead or Director, with an emphasis on cross-functional project teams. Methodology:

• Telenav's approach to product development is driven by digital transformation and innovation in the automotive industry.

• Emphasis on data-driven decision-making, leveraging user research to inform product strategy and design.

• Focus on user-centric design principles to enhance the connected car digital experience.

• Integration of AI tools to improve research efficiency and effectiveness.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context emphasizes Telenav's position at the forefront of automotive digital transformation, highlighting the strategic importance of user experience research in shaping future connected car technologies.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Senior UX Researcher, requiring significant independent management of projects and expertise in research methodologies. It is a key individual contributor role with substantial influence on product direction.

Reporting Structure: The UX Researcher will likely report to a UX Research Manager or Director, and will work closely with Product Managers, UX/UI Designers, and Engineering teams on a project-by-project basis.

Operations Impact: The research conducted directly impacts the development of user-facing features in millions of vehicles. Insights from this role are crucial for understanding user needs, regional differences, and market opportunities, thereby influencing product strategy, feature prioritization, and overall user satisfaction and adoption of Telenav's connected car services.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in automotive UX research, focusing on specific areas like HMI, AI-driven features, or cross-cultural UX.

• Leadership: Transition into a UX Research Lead or Manager role, mentoring junior researchers and overseeing larger research initiatives.

• Cross-functional Mobility: Move into Product Management or UX Design roles, leveraging a deep understanding of user needs.

• Skill Advancement: Develop advanced quantitative analysis skills, explore AI-driven research tools, and gain proficiency in new research methodologies.

• Global Exposure: Expand research scope to cover more global markets or take on lead roles for international research efforts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth potential is significant, offering paths for both increased research specialization and broader product development leadership, underpinned by a strong understanding of user behavior in the rapidly evolving automotive technology landscape.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Shanghai, China, and is described as having a hybrid work arrangement, suggesting a modern office environment designed for collaboration, combined with the flexibility of remote work.

Office Location(s): Shanghai, China. This location places Telenav within a major technological hub in Asia, facilitating access to talent and market insights.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is likely designed to foster collaboration, with meeting rooms, common areas, and potentially dedicated research facilities.

• Access to necessary technology, software, and tools for research and analysis will be provided.

• Opportunities for close interaction with product, design, and engineering teams to ensure seamless integration of research findings into the development process. Work Schedule:

• Full-time position, approximately 40 hours per week.

• The hybrid model allows for flexibility, balancing in-office collaboration with remote workdays, which is beneficial for deep work and research analysis.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work model reflects a modern approach to workplace flexibility, aiming to balance collaborative needs with individual productivity requirements for research professionals.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter will review your application and resume, focusing on years of experience, relevant methodologies, and industry background.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager (likely a UX Research Lead or Director) to assess your research philosophy, project management skills, and fit with the team. Be prepared to discuss your portfolio at a high level.

• Portfolio Review & Presentation: A dedicated session where you will present 1-2 key UX research case studies from your portfolio. Focus on your process, insights, impact, and how you collaborated with teams.

• Cross-functional Interviews: Interviews with Product Managers, UX/UI Designers, and potentially Engineers to evaluate your collaboration style, communication skills, and ability to integrate research into the product development lifecycle.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader to discuss overall fit, career aspirations, and strategic thinking.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Impact: For each case study, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the research methods used, key insights, and the tangible impact on the product or business. Quantify results whenever possible.

• Showcase Process: Detail your end-to-end research process, from problem definition and planning to analysis and reporting. Explain your rationale for choosing specific methodologies.

• Highlight Collaboration: Provide examples of how you partnered with cross-functional teams, how you incorporated their feedback, and how your research influenced their decisions.

• Address Challenges: Be prepared to discuss challenges encountered during research projects, how you overcame them, and what you learned.

• Tailor to Telenav: If possible, include research examples relevant to automotive, HMI, navigation, or connected car services.

Challenge Preparation:

• Methodology Deep Dive: Be ready to discuss your proficiency in various qualitative and quantitative research methods and when to apply them.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Prepare to walk through how you would approach a hypothetical research problem relevant to Telenav's products.

• Communication Skills: Practice articulating complex research findings clearly and concisely, adapting your message for different audiences (e.g., technical teams vs. business stakeholders).

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to rigorously assess both research expertise and collaborative capabilities, with a strong emphasis on the candidate's ability to translate research into actionable business outcomes.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Data Analysis Software: Excel (required), SPSS (required), R (plus), Python (plus). Familiarity with statistical analysis is key.

• Research Platforms: Experience with survey tools (e.g., Qualtrics, SurveyMonkey, Google Forms) and potentially specialized usability testing platforms.

• AI Tools: Ability to leverage AI for research planning, transcription, coding, insight synthesis, competitor analysis, and research operations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Tools for organizing and visualizing quantitative data.

• Proficiency in creating clear, impactful reports and presentations. CRM & Automation:

• While not directly CRM-focused, understanding how research insights feed into product roadmaps and development workflows is essential.

• Familiarity with project management tools (e.g., Jira, Asana) for tracking research tasks and collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The tech stack emphasizes strong analytical capabilities, particularly with quantitative data, and an openness to integrating AI tools into the research workflow.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• User-Centricity: A deep commitment to understanding and advocating for the user's needs and experiences.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Relying on evidence and insights derived from research to inform strategy and design.

• Collaboration: Working effectively with cross-functional teams to achieve shared goals.

• Innovation: Contributing to cutting-edge digital experiences in the rapidly evolving automotive industry.

• Global Perspective: Understanding and respecting diverse user needs and market differences across the world.

Collaboration Style:

• Researchers are expected to be proactive collaborators, embedding themselves within product and design teams.

• Open communication and a willingness to share findings and insights are crucial.

• The culture likely encourages constructive feedback and iterative improvement based on research outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture values a user-first approach, supported by rigorous research and strong collaboration, all within an innovative and globally-minded environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Global Diversity: Conducting effective research across diverse cultures and languages, requiring sensitivity and adaptability.

• Automotive Complexity: Understanding the intricate user experience within the automotive HMI context, including safety considerations and multi-modal interactions.

• Integrating AI Tools: Effectively incorporating AI tools into the research workflow while maintaining ethical standards and human oversight.

• Translating Insights into Action: Ensuring research findings are clearly communicated and acted upon by product and engineering teams, often within tight project constraints.

• Balancing Research Rigor with Speed: Delivering timely insights in a fast-paced product development environment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Research Methodologies: Opportunities to explore and master new qualitative and quantitative techniques.

• Automotive UX Specialization: Deepen knowledge of automotive human-factors, HMI design, and connected car ecosystems.

• AI in Research: Develop expertise in leveraging AI tools for enhanced research efficiency and insight generation.

• Cross-Cultural Research Expertise: Build a strong track record in international research, potentially leading global research initiatives.

• Mentorship: Learn from experienced researchers and product professionals within Telenav.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents significant opportunities for professional growth by tackling complex challenges within a dynamic industry, with a focus on advanced methodologies and emerging technologies like AI.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a challenging UX research project you led. What was the problem, your approach, the outcome, and what did you learn?" (Focus on end-to-end ownership, methodology, and impact.)

• "How do you approach research for a new product feature in a market where you have limited prior knowledge of user behavior?" (Assess your ability to plan and execute research in unfamiliar territories.)

• "Walk me through your process for synthesizing qualitative and quantitative data into actionable insights." (Demonstrate your analytical rigor and ability to connect data to strategy.)

• "How do you ensure your research findings are understood and acted upon by product managers and engineers?" (Highlight your collaboration and communication skills.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Telenav and our work in the connected car space?" (Research Telenav's mission, recent news, and product offerings.)

• "How do you approach working with cross-functional teams with different priorities and perspectives?" (Showcase your collaborative and diplomatic skills.)

• "How would you leverage AI tools in your UX research process at Telenav?" (Demonstrate your understanding of AI's potential and limitations in research.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: For each case study, follow a clear narrative: Problem/Opportunity -> Your Role & Objectives -> Research Methodology -> Process & Execution -> Key Insights -> Recommendations/Impact -> Learnings.

• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, use data to illustrate the impact of your research (e.g., "Research led to a 15% improvement in task completion rates," or "Insights informed a product pivot that increased user engagement by 20%").

• Visuals: Use compelling visuals (e.g., personas, journey maps, key quotes, screenshots of prototypes/designs influenced by research) to bring your case studies to life.

• Conciseness: Be mindful of time. Focus on the most impactful aspects of each project and be prepared to answer detailed questions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a deep understanding of UX research principles, practical experience in diverse methodologies, strong analytical and communication skills, and a clear understanding of how research drives product success, particularly within the automotive technology domain.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this UX Researcher position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday link.

• Tailor your Resume: Highlight experience with UX Research methodologies, cross-cultural studies, and experience in the automotive or technology sectors. Use keywords from the job description such as "UX Research," "Human Factors," "Qualitative Research," "Quantitative Research," "Usability Testing," and "Data Analysis."

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 of your strongest UX research projects that showcase end-to-end ownership, diverse methodologies, and measurable impact. Ensure your portfolio clearly articulates your role, process, insights, and the outcomes of your research.

• Prepare for Case Studies: Practice presenting your portfolio case studies, focusing on storytelling, clarity of insights, and the impact of your research. Be ready to discuss your methodology and rationale in detail.

• Research Telenav: Familiarize yourself with Telenav's products, mission, and recent developments in the connected car and automotive technology space. Understand their target markets and user base.

⚠️ 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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