UX Research Analyst

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UX Research Analyst

Company: Zeiders Enterprises, Inc.

Location: Woodbridge, VA

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: User Experience (UX) Research / Human-Centered Design Operations

Date Posted: 2026-08-28

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Conduct comprehensive user research activities to inform the development and enhancement of a cloud-hosted enterprise digital services platform.

• Plan and execute usability testing sessions to gather critical insights on user interactions, feature effectiveness, and workflow optimization.

• Analyze qualitative and quantitative user feedback, platform usage patterns, and research data to identify actionable usability improvements and drive platform enhancements.

• Collaborate closely with the Human-Centered Design Lead, product owners, and engineering teams to translate research findings into concrete design recommendations and feature specifications.

• Contribute to the creation of essential user experience artifacts, including user personas, journey maps, and detailed usability reports, to guide product strategy and development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within a company that specializes in military and family support, suggesting a focus on user research for platforms that serve government agencies, military personnel, and their families. The emphasis on a "cloud-hosted enterprise digital services platform" indicates a need for experience with complex, large-scale systems and potentially sensitive data environments. This is not a typical GTM or Revenue Operations role, but the analytical and process-driven nature of UX research aligns with operational thinking, particularly in product development lifecycle operations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Plan, design, and conduct user research studies, including interviews, surveys, and observational studies, to understand user needs and behaviors.

• Facilitate and moderate usability testing sessions, both moderated and unmoderated, to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of platform features.

• Collect, synthesize, and analyze user feedback, usage data, and research findings to identify pain points and opportunities for improvement.

• Develop and present comprehensive research reports, including key findings, actionable recommendations, and supporting data, to stakeholders.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including product managers, designers, and engineers, to integrate user insights into the product development lifecycle.

• Create and maintain user research artifacts such as user personas, user journey maps, empathy maps, and task flows.

• Support the evaluation of new features and enhancements through user testing and feedback mechanisms during development and post-launch.

• Participate actively in Agile ceremonies and contribute to sprint planning, backlog refinement, and retrospectives with a user-centric perspective.

• Advocate for the user throughout the product development process, ensuring that user needs are prioritized and met.

• Stay current with the latest UX research methodologies, tools, and industry best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on a "human-centered design" approach, which is critical for government-facing or support-oriented platforms. The need to "validate that implemented capabilities meet user needs" points to a results-oriented research function that directly impacts product quality and user satisfaction, a key operational metric in product development.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), User Experience Design, Psychology, Information Systems, Computer Science, or a closely related field. Experience:

• A minimum of five years of progressive experience supporting user research, usability testing, or user experience analysis.

• Demonstrated experience conducting and analyzing qualitative and quantitative user data related to user behavior and system usage patterns.

• Proven experience working within Agile development environments, collaborating effectively with product owners and engineering teams. Required Skills:

• Expertise in planning and executing various user research methodologies (e.g., interviews, surveys, contextual inquiries, usability testing).

• Proficiency in analyzing qualitative and quantitative data to derive actionable insights and user requirements.

• Strong ability to translate complex research findings into clear, concise, and actionable recommendations for design and product teams.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present research findings effectively to diverse audiences.

• Experience supporting web-based applications or digital services platforms, understanding their unique user interaction challenges.

• Familiarity with Agile delivery methodologies and cross-functional team collaboration within these frameworks.

• Strong analytical skills and a methodical approach to problem-solving. Preferred Skills:

• Experience conducting user research for enterprise-level or cloud-hosted digital platforms.

• Familiarity with common usability testing tools, research platforms (e.g., UserTesting.com, Qualtrics), or analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics, Hotjar).

• Proven experience in developing comprehensive user research artifacts such as user personas, journey maps, and detailed usability reports.

• Experience supporting enterprise applications used by diverse and potentially specialized user communities.

• Prior experience supporting digital platforms within federal government or large enterprise contexts.

• Possession of relevant user experience research or usability certifications is considered a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for 5+ years of experience suggests this is not an entry-level position, and candidates should be prepared to demonstrate a solid track record of research execution and impact. The preference for experience with enterprise or federal platforms is a key differentiator.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated portfolio showcasing a range of user research projects, demonstrating a clear understanding of research design, execution, and analysis.

• Case studies that highlight your process for identifying user needs, conducting research, and translating findings into tangible product improvements.

• Examples of research artifacts produced, such as detailed user personas, comprehensive journey maps, and impactful usability reports.

• Evidence of how your research directly influenced product decisions or improved user experience metrics, demonstrating ROI.

• Documentation of your experience with various research methodologies and your rationale for choosing specific methods for different project challenges. Process Documentation:

• Clearly outline the steps taken in your research process, from initial problem definition to final recommendation delivery.

• Illustrate how you manage research projects, including timelines, stakeholder communication, and ethical considerations.

• Demonstrate your approach to synthesizing research data and identifying key themes and insights.

• Show how you collaborate with design and development teams to implement research-driven recommendations.

📝 Enhancement Note: For UX Research roles, a portfolio is crucial. Candidates should prepare to present detailed case studies that not only showcase their research skills but also their ability to drive impact and collaborate effectively within a product development lifecycle. This aligns with operational efficiency by ensuring research efforts lead to measurable improvements.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on the location (Woodbridge, VA), experience level (5-10 years), and the nature of government contracting work, a competitive salary range for a UX Research Analyst is estimated to be between $85,000 and $120,000 annually. This range accounts for the required expertise, the specialized nature of the industry, and the cost of living in the Northern Virginia region. Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement savings plan with company match (e.g., 401(k)).

• Paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Opportunities for professional development, training, and certifications.

• Potential for government contract-specific benefits or allowances.

• Life insurance and disability coverage. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, typically 40 hours per week.

• The role is on-site, requiring consistent in-office presence.

• Occasional flexibility may be required to accommodate research participant schedules or critical project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates are based on industry benchmarks for UX Research Analysts in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area, factoring in the specific requirements of government contracting and the stated experience level. The "contingent opportunity" note suggests the role's commencement is tied to a contract award, which could influence start dates and potentially offer project-based incentives.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Military and Family Support Services, Behavioral Health, Work-Life Education Programs. Zeiders Enterprises, Inc. operates within sectors that are critical to national defense and the well-being of service members and their families. This context implies a mission-driven culture with a strong emphasis on quality, reliability, and ethical conduct.

Company Size: Zeiders Enterprises, Inc. is a mid-sized organization, typically employing between 201-500 employees. This size allows for a balance between structured processes and a more personal, collaborative work environment, where individual contributions can be highly visible.

Founded: Founded in 1987, Zeiders Enterprises has a long-standing history of providing specialized support services. This longevity suggests stability, established processes, and a deep understanding of their client base and operational needs.

Team Structure:

• The UX Research Analyst will likely be part of a Human-Centered Design (HCD) team or a broader Product Development/IT department.

• They will report to a Human-Centered Design Lead or a similar managerial role overseeing UX and research functions.

• Close collaboration is expected with Product Owners, Scrum Masters, UX/UI Designers, and Software Engineers within Agile development teams.

• The team structure emphasizes cross-functional collaboration to ensure user-centricity is embedded throughout the product lifecycle. Methodology:

• The company's focus on military and family support, coupled with the role's responsibilities, suggests a commitment to rigorous, data-driven research methodologies.

• Agile methodologies are explicitly mentioned, indicating an iterative approach to development and a focus on continuous improvement.

• The emphasis on "human-centered design" implies a methodology that prioritizes understanding and meeting user needs through research, design, and testing.

Company Website: Zeiders.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on military and family support is a significant cultural indicator. Candidates should be prepared to discuss how their research skills can directly contribute to improving the lives of service members and their families, aligning with the company's mission.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is classified as an experienced professional, likely mid-level to senior, given the 5+ years of required experience. It sits within the operational function of product development, focusing on ensuring the usability and effectiveness of digital platforms.

Reporting Structure: The UX Research Analyst will report to the Human-Centered Design Lead. This structure places the role within a specialized team dedicated to user experience, which then collaborates with broader product and engineering functions.

Operations Impact: The UX Research Analyst's work directly impacts the operational efficiency and user adoption of the enterprise digital services platform. By identifying and resolving usability issues, they contribute to reduced support costs, increased user satisfaction, and more effective utilization of the platform by its intended user communities. This role is crucial for ensuring the "product" (the platform) functions optimally from an end-user perspective.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific research methodologies or user groups relevant to military and family support.

• Leadership: Transition into a Lead UX Researcher or Human-Centered Design Lead role, mentoring junior researchers and shaping research strategy.

• Cross-Functional Advancement: Move into Product Management or UX Design roles, leveraging a strong understanding of user needs and product development.

• Process Improvement: Lead initiatives to optimize UX research processes within Zeiders, improving efficiency and impact.

• Learning & Development: Access training, conferences, and certifications to stay at the forefront of UX research practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth opportunities emphasize a path from individual contributor to leadership, with a strong emphasis on continuous learning and process optimization, aligning with core operational principles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based on-site in Woodbridge, VA, indicating a traditional office environment.

Office Location(s): Woodbridge, Virginia. This location is within the Northern Virginia technology corridor, offering access to a robust professional network and infrastructure.

Workspace Context:

• The work environment is described as typically quiet, conducive to focused analytical work and research synthesis.

• Access to standard office equipment is provided, including computers, phones, copiers, and printers.

• The role requires collaboration with cross-functional teams, suggesting opportunities for in-person interaction, team meetings, and brainstorming sessions.

• The environment supports both independent work and team-based projects, typical of Agile development settings. Work Schedule:

• Standard 40-hour work week.

• While primarily on-site, there may be occasional requirements for flexibility to accommodate research participant availability or urgent project needs, though this is not explicitly stated as a regular expectation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is a key factor for candidates to consider. It implies a structured work environment where direct collaboration and team integration are prioritized.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess alignment with the core requirements and experience.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion focused on your experience with user research methodologies, your approach to problem-solving, and your understanding of the role's responsibilities.

• Portfolio Review & Presentation: A critical stage where you will present your portfolio, detailing specific research projects, your process, findings, and the impact of your work. Expect to discuss case studies in depth.

• Team/Stakeholder Interviews: Meetings with potential team members (e.g., HCD Lead, designers, product managers) to assess collaboration skills, cultural fit, and technical acumen.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader, focusing on strategic thinking and long-term fit within Zeiders.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-4 strong projects that best showcase your diverse skills and impact.

• Structure Your Narratives: For each project, clearly define the problem, your role, the research methods used, your process, key insights, and the resulting impact or recommendations. Quantify impact where possible.

• Highlight Methodology: Explain why you chose specific research methods for each project.

• Show, Don't Just Tell: Include visual examples of artifacts (personas, journey maps, wireframes if applicable) and research outputs.

• Tailor to Zeiders: If possible, highlight projects that demonstrate experience with enterprise platforms, government users, or complex systems.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for potential scenario-based questions where you might be asked to outline your approach to a hypothetical research problem related to the company's platforms.

• Practice articulating your research process and findings concisely and persuasively.

• Be ready to discuss how you handle challenging research situations, such as low participant turnout or conflicting findings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is paramount for this role. Candidates must prepare a compelling presentation that clearly articulates their research process, analytical capabilities, and the tangible impact of their work on product development and user experience.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• User Research Platforms: Familiarity with tools like UserTesting.com, Lookback, Maze, or similar platforms for conducting remote and moderated/unmoderated usability testing.

• Survey & Feedback Tools: Experience with platforms like Qualtrics, SurveyMonkey, Google Forms, or Typeform for collecting user feedback and conducting surveys.

• Collaboration & Design Tools: Proficiency with tools such as Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD (for reviewing designs), and Miro or Mural for collaborative whiteboarding and journey mapping.

• Data Analysis Software: Experience with qualitative data analysis tools (e.g., Dovetail, NVivo) or statistical software for quantitative analysis (e.g., SPSS, R, or advanced Excel functions).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Web Analytics: Understanding of tools like Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics, or similar for analyzing platform usage data.

• Business Intelligence (BI) Tools: Familiarity with BI platforms for data visualization and reporting, though direct use might be less frequent than for dedicated analysts.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM/automation role, understanding how user feedback integrates with product management workflows and potentially CRM data for user segmentation would be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools aren't listed, the job description implies a need for standard UX research tools. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their proficiency with a range of qualitative and quantitative research platforms, as well as collaborative design and analytics tools.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Quality & Accuracy: A strong emphasis on delivering accurate, well-researched insights that lead to demonstrable improvements in platform usability and effectiveness.

• User-Centricity: A core value of prioritizing the needs, behaviors, and experiences of the end-users in all product development decisions.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering an environment where team members work together effectively across disciplines (UX, Product, Engineering) to achieve common goals.

• Adaptability & Innovation: Encouraging creative problem-solving and the willingness to adapt research approaches to meet evolving project needs and challenges.

• Mission Alignment: A dedication to supporting the company's mission of serving military and family support needs, driving a sense of purpose in the work.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role is designed for deep collaboration with design, product management, and engineering teams, working within Agile frameworks.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Encouraging the use of research data and insights to inform and validate product decisions.

• Constructive Feedback: A culture that values open communication and the exchange of constructive feedback to improve both individual work and team processes.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting the sharing of research findings and best practices across teams to build collective understanding and expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's mission-driven nature will likely permeate the culture. Candidates should demonstrate an understanding of and appreciation for the impact their work has on the lives of service members and their families.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Diverse User Groups: Researching for a "cloud-hosted enterprise digital services platform used by multiple stakeholder communities" means navigating the needs of potentially diverse user groups with varying technical proficiencies and priorities.

• Government Contract Environment: Working within a government contracting framework can involve specific compliance requirements, security protocols, and longer development cycles, requiring adaptability and attention to detail.

• Translating Insights to Action: The ongoing challenge of effectively translating research findings into actionable recommendations that product and engineering teams can implement, ensuring the research has a tangible impact.

• Balancing Research Rigor with Agile Speed: Finding the right balance between conducting thorough, rigorous research and meeting the fast-paced demands of Agile development cycles.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced UX Research Techniques: Opportunities to learn and apply cutting-edge research methodologies, including specialized qualitative and quantitative approaches.

• Domain Expertise: Deepening understanding of the military and family support domain, which can enhance research relevance and impact.

• Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Gaining exposure to product management, UX/UI design, and software development processes.

• Certifications & Training: Pursuing relevant UX certifications or attending industry conferences to enhance professional development and stay current.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to be mentored by senior UX professionals or lead research initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the need for candidates who are adaptable, detail-oriented, and skilled at influencing product direction based on user data, all critical operational competencies.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for planning and executing a user research study from start to finish. What factors do you consider when selecting research methodologies?"

• "How do you translate complex research findings into actionable recommendations for product and engineering teams? Can you provide an example?"

• "Walk me through a time you encountered conflicting user feedback or data. How did you reconcile it and what was the outcome?"

• "How do you ensure your research aligns with business objectives and product strategy, especially in an Agile environment?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Zeiders Enterprises and our mission to support military and family members?"

• "Describe your experience working in a government contracting environment or with federal digital platforms."

• "How do you approach collaboration with cross-functional teams, particularly designers, product managers, and engineers?"

• "How do you measure the impact of your user research on product development and user satisfaction?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Impact: Emphasize the "so what?" of your research. How did it change the product or improve the user experience?

• Be Methodical: Clearly explain your research process for each case study.

• Quantify When Possible: Use data and metrics to support your findings and the impact of your recommendations.

• Prepare for Questions: Anticipate questions about your methodology, challenges, and how you handled specific situations. Be ready to discuss trade-offs.

• Showcase Artifacts: Visually present your personas, journey maps, and reports to demonstrate your output.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared to articulate their research process, demonstrate problem-solving skills, and clearly communicate the impact of their work, showcasing strong operational thinking in their approach to research and product improvement.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this UX Research Analyst position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Zeiders Enterprises, Inc. recruiting portal.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight specific experience in user research, usability testing, data analysis, and Agile environments. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Improved task completion rate by X%").

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Select your strongest 3-4 projects and structure them with clear problem statements, methodologies, findings, and demonstrated impact. Be ready to present this in detail.

• Research Zeiders: Understand the company's mission, its services, and the types of platforms it supports. Consider how your UX research skills can contribute to their specific goals.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare for behavioral and situational questions, focusing on your research process, problem-solving abilities, and collaboration skills.

⚠️ 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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