UX Research Lab Technician - Part Time - Hybrid in Eden Prairie MN

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UX Research Lab Technician - Part Time - Hybrid

Company: UnitedHealth Group

Location: Eden Prairie, MN, United States

Job Type: Part-time

Category: Research Operations / User Experience Support

Date Posted: June 2, 2026

Experience Level: Early Career (0-2 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid (4 days in-office)

🚀 Role Summary

• Provide essential operational and technical support for User Experience (UX) research activities, ensuring seamless execution of studies.

• Manage and maintain the UX research lab environment, including equipment setup, troubleshooting, and participant experience.

• Facilitate the creation of research artifacts by editing recorded sessions and clipping key insights for stakeholder consumption.

• Contribute to the continuous improvement of lab operations, hybrid research methodologies, and overall research efficiency.

• Uphold strict data privacy and compliance standards, including HIPAA, for all participant information and research data.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as an early-career opportunity within a large healthcare organization, focusing on the critical operational backbone of a UX research team. The emphasis is on technical proficiency, meticulous organization, and a proactive approach to supporting research initiatives. While not directly conducting research, the technician's contribution is vital for generating actionable insights that inform product development and user experience improvements.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lab and Session Support: Prepare physical and virtual lab spaces for UX research sessions, ensuring all necessary equipment (e.g., A/V, computers, software) is functional and ready for use.

• Study Coordination: Assist UX researchers with day-to-day study logistics, including participant scheduling, technical checks, and real-time note-taking during moderated sessions.

• Research Output & Session Editing: Edit recorded research sessions (both in-person and remote) to extract key moments, create highlight reels, and organize supporting materials for efficient stakeholder review and insight dissemination.

• Operational Management: Maintain research equipment, troubleshoot common technical issues with hardware and software, and ensure the overall reliability of research tools and platforms.

• Lab Innovation & Optimization: Proactively identify and propose improvements for lab utilization, hybrid research support, and participant/stakeholder experiences, contributing to the evolution of research capabilities.

• Participant Experience Management: Serve as the primary point of contact for research participants, ensuring a welcoming, professional, and comfortable environment, and providing clear instructions throughout their participation.

• Data Management & Security: Facilitate data capture by recording sessions, organizing notes, managing secure file storage, and adhering to strict data handling and privacy protocols.

• Compliance and Privacy Assurance: Ensure all research activities and data handling practices strictly comply with HIPAA, company policies, and established research ethics standards.

• Process and Documentation: Maintain accurate documentation of lab usage, study throughput, and operational metrics. Support the organization's research repository by archiving session outputs and ensuring accessibility of insights.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with UX researchers, designers, and strategists to anticipate needs, streamline lab processes, and enhance the overall research workflow and experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical support, administrative coordination, and a contribution to the research output itself through editing. The emphasis on "Lab Innovation & Optimization" and "Participant Experience Management" suggests a role that requires not just execution but also a degree of strategic thinking about how to improve research operations. The explicit mention of HIPAA compliance underscores the sensitive nature of the data handled in a healthcare context.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a degree in a related field such as Human-Computer Interaction, Psychology, Sociology, Communications, Information Technology, or a technical discipline would be beneficial. Relevant certifications in A/V technology or video editing could also be advantageous.

Experience:

• Minimum of 1 year of experience in a role involving research coordination, lab operations, technical support, media production, or a closely related field. Internships and academic lab experience are considered.

• Minimum of 1 year of hands-on experience with video editing software (e.g., Adobe Premiere, Final Cut, Descript, or similar). Required Skills:

• Research Operations Support: Ability to manage the logistical and technical aspects of research studies.

• Video Editing Proficiency: Skilled in using video editing software to produce clear and concise research artifacts.

• A/V Equipment Troubleshooting: Competent in setting up and resolving basic technical issues with audio-visual equipment.

• Participant Experience Management: Excellent interpersonal skills to ensure a positive and professional participant journey.

• Data Management & Security: Understanding of secure file storage, data organization, and privacy protocols.

• Technical Aptitude: Ability to quickly learn and operate various software and hardware tools used in research.

• Organizational Skills: Strong attention to detail, time management, and ability to prioritize tasks effectively.

Preferred Skills:

• Lab Setting Experience: Prior experience working in a dedicated research or technical lab environment.

• UX Research Methodologies: Familiarity with common UX research approaches and tools (e.g., user interviews, usability testing, surveys).

• UX Research Tools: Experience with platforms such as MUIQ, dscout, or various survey tools.

• Process Improvement Initiative: Demonstrated ability to identify opportunities for enhancing workflows, tools, or operational efficiency.

• HIPAA Compliance Knowledge: Understanding of healthcare privacy regulations and their application in research settings.

• Proactive Collaboration: A team-oriented mindset with a drive to contribute to collective goals and continuous improvement.

• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication for clear stakeholder interactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements clearly indicate an entry-level to junior-level role. The emphasis on both technical skills (video editing, A/V troubleshooting) and operational skills (coordination, participant management) is key. The preferred qualifications point towards candidates who can not only perform the tasks but also think critically about improving the research process, especially within a regulated industry context like healthcare.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Video Editing Examples: Showcase 2-3 examples of edited research sessions, highlighting your ability to extract key moments, create highlight reels, or assemble concise artifact clips. Demonstrate proficiency in storytelling through edited media.

• Workflow Documentation Sample: Include a brief example of how you might document a process or workflow, such as setting up a hybrid research session or a participant onboarding process. This should illustrate your organizational and documentation skills.

• Problem-Solving Case Study (Optional but Recommended): If possible, include a brief description of a time you identified and solved a technical or operational problem in a lab or project setting, focusing on the steps taken and the outcome.

• Data Organization Example: A visual representation or description of how you would organize and secure research data (e.g., session recordings, notes, participant PII) following specific protocols.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Demonstrate an understanding of how to map out and document standard operating procedures for lab activities, such as session preparation, participant check-in, and A/V setup.

• Implementation & Automation: While not a primary focus, show awareness of how tools and documented processes can contribute to efficiency and consistency in research operations.

• Measurement & Analysis: Provide examples of how operational metrics (e.g., session throughput, equipment uptime, participant feedback on logistics) could be tracked and reported to inform improvements.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an early-career role like this, the portfolio expectations are geared towards demonstrating practical skills and potential rather than extensive project management experience. The focus is on tangible outputs like edited videos and clear documentation, showcasing the candidate's ability to execute and improve operational processes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The stated hourly pay range is $23.89 to $42.69 per hour. This range is determined by factors including local labor market conditions, educational background, work experience, and certifications.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Includes health, dental, and vision insurance, typically with competitive employer contributions.

• Incentive Programs: Opportunities for performance-based bonuses or rewards.

• Recognition Programs: Formal and informal recognition for achievements and contributions.

• Equity Stock Purchase: Potential to invest in company stock, offering a stake in the company's growth.

• 401k Contribution: Retirement savings plan with employer matching contributions (subject to eligibility requirements).

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. The job description mentions 40 hours per week in the context of a hybrid schedule, implying that the "part-time" designation might refer to a specific role type within a larger full-time framework, or there could be a slight discrepancy. However, the base description defines it as Part-time. Assuming a standard part-time arrangement, hours could be flexible but would likely require consistent availability during core business hours for the 4 in-office days.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is specific and is a key differentiator for this role. The benefits listed are standard for a large corporation like UnitedHealth Group and should be appealing to candidates seeking stability and comprehensive support. It's crucial for applicants to clarify the exact weekly hours expected for this "part-time" role, especially given the mention of a 40-hour week in the context of a hybrid schedule.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Healthcare. UnitedHealth Group operates at the intersection of health insurance and healthcare services, making it a leader in transforming healthcare delivery, affordability, and accessibility through data, technology, and a focus on patient outcomes.

Company Size: UnitedHealth Group is a massive, Fortune 100 company, employing hundreds of thousands of individuals globally. This scale means ample resources, structured processes, and diverse career paths, but also a need for individuals who can navigate large organizational systems and contribute within established frameworks.

Founded: 1977. With decades of history, UnitedHealth Group has a well-established presence and a deep understanding of the healthcare landscape, continuously adapting to evolving industry needs and technological advancements.

Team Structure:

• UX Research Team: This role supports a dedicated UX Research team. The team likely comprises experienced UX Researchers, Strategists, and potentially Designers who rely on the Lab Technician for operational excellence.

• Reporting Structure: The technician will likely report to a Lead UX Researcher, a UX Research Manager, or a Head of UX Research Operations. The exact structure will depend on the team's internal organization.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: The technician will collaborate extensively with UX researchers and designers. They will also interact with participants and potentially other operational or IT support staff within UnitedHealth Group.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Insights: UnitedHealth Group emphasizes evidence-based decision-making, driven by robust data analysis from research, market trends, and operational metrics.

• Process Optimization: Continuous improvement of workflows, tools, and operational efficiency is a core theme, especially within large organizations aiming for scalability and cost-effectiveness.

• User-Centricity: The company's mission is to help people live healthier lives, underscoring a deep commitment to understanding and serving the needs of their members and patients.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: UnitedHealth Group's status as a healthcare giant means that operational roles like this are critical for maintaining compliance, efficiency, and a high standard of user experience, especially given the sensitive nature of health data. The culture likely values accountability, data integrity, and a commitment to improving healthcare outcomes.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an early-career, specialized operational role. It's focused on supporting a specific function (UX Research) rather than managing broad revenue or sales operations. It provides foundational experience in research support, technical coordination, and data handling within a large enterprise.

Reporting Structure: The role typically reports to a senior member of the UX Research team (e.g., Manager or Lead Researcher), who provides guidance on research priorities and operational needs. Collaboration is primarily with the immediate UX research team.

Operations Impact: While not directly driving revenue, this role indirectly impacts business outcomes by ensuring the UX research team can operate efficiently and generate high-quality insights. These insights lead to better product design, improved user satisfaction, and ultimately, better health outcomes and business performance for UnitedHealth Group. The efficient operation of the lab and effective presentation of research findings contribute to faster product iteration cycles and more informed strategic decisions.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization in Research Operations: Develop deep expertise in supporting UX research, potentially moving into roles like UX Research Coordinator, Senior Lab Technician, or Research Operations Specialist.

• Technical Skill Development: Expand proficiency in video editing, A/V technology, and potentially data analysis tools, becoming a go-to technical resource.

• Transition to UX Research: Gain exposure to research methodologies and participant interaction, which could serve as a pathway to entry-level UX Research Assistant or Junior UX Researcher roles, depending on further education and skill development.

• Broader Operations Roles: With experience in a large organization, opportunities may arise to move into other operational support functions within UnitedHealth Group, leveraging transferable skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for this role is primarily within the specialized field of research operations or UX support. It offers a structured environment for learning and skill development, particularly for those interested in the operational side of user experience research in a healthcare context.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work arrangement, requiring 4 days per week in the Eden Prairie, MN office. This suggests a blend of in-person collaboration and focused remote work.

Office Location(s): Eden Prairie, Minnesota. This location is a suburban hub with accessibility to talent and resources within the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office setting is designed to foster collaboration among UX researchers, designers, and other team members. Expect shared workspaces and meeting rooms equipped for A/V presentations and hybrid interactions.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to a dedicated research lab equipped with A/V recording equipment, computers, software for research and editing, and potentially specialized UX research tools. IT support will be available for technical issues.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for direct interaction with UX researchers and designers for task coordination, feedback, and process improvement discussions. The role is integral to the daily functioning of the research team.

Work Schedule: The role is described as part-time, but with 4 in-office days per week, it implies a significant commitment. The mention of 40 hours suggests it might be considered a full-time role with a hybrid schedule, or a compressed part-time schedule. Clarification on exact weekly hours and flexibility during core business hours is important. The schedule will need to accommodate research session times and participant availability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model with a significant in-office component is typical for roles requiring hands-on technical setup and direct collaboration. The Eden Prairie location places the role within a major metropolitan area, offering access to amenities and a diverse talent pool.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will review applications and resumes, likely focusing on relevant experience in research support, technical skills, and video editing.

• Technical/Skills Assessment: A practical exercise or interview may assess your proficiency with video editing software, ability to troubleshoot A/V equipment, and understanding of data privacy.

• Behavioral Interview: Questions will explore your collaboration style, problem-solving approach, how you handle feedback, and your understanding of research operations. Be prepared to discuss how you handle sensitive information and your motivation for working in healthcare UX.

• Team/Hiring Manager Interview: This stage will likely involve deeper dives into your experience, your understanding of the role's impact, and your fit with the team's culture and UnitedHealth Group's values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose your strongest 2-3 video editing samples that best represent your skills in creating clear, concise research artifacts. If possible, include examples that show your ability to convey insights effectively through editing.

• Contextualize Your Work: For each portfolio piece, briefly explain the project, your role, the tools used, and the specific contribution you made. For process documentation, explain the problem it solves and its benefits.

• Highlight Operational Skills: If you have examples of process documentation or problem-solving related to lab operations, include them. This demonstrates your ability to support and improve research workflows.

• Emphasize Data Integrity: Be ready to discuss your approach to handling sensitive participant data and ensuring compliance (e.g., HIPAA), even if your examples don't directly involve PII.

Challenge Preparation:

• Video Editing Challenge: You might be asked to edit a short provided clip into a highlight reel or extract specific moments based on given criteria. Practice using common editing tools under time constraints.

• Troubleshooting Scenario: Be prepared to walk through how you would diagnose and resolve a common technical issue (e.g., microphone not working, software crashing) in a research session context.

• Process Improvement Discussion: Think about how you would improve the participant check-in process or the organization of recorded session files. Focus on clarity, efficiency, and security.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely to be multi-stage, emphasizing both technical capability and operational acumen. A strong portfolio demonstrating practical skills in video editing and process thinking will be crucial for standing out.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Video Editing Software: Adobe Premiere, Final Cut Pro, Descript, or similar professional-grade video editing suites. Proficiency in these is a core requirement.

• A/V Equipment: Familiarity with setting up and troubleshooting microphones, cameras, speakers, and recording devices used in both physical and virtual environments.

• Collaboration Platforms: Microsoft Teams, Zoom, or similar for remote session support and team communication.

• Operating Systems: Windows and macOS, as research labs often utilize both.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Survey Platforms: Tools like Qualtrics, SurveyMonkey, or internal UHG platforms for participant feedback or data collection.

• Note-Taking/Collaboration Tools: Tools that facilitate real-time note-taking during sessions and sharing of findings (e.g., Miro, Mural, Confluence, or specific UX research platforms).

CRM & Automation:

• UX Research Platforms (Preferred): Experience with platforms designed for managing research studies, participants, and data, such as MUIQ or dscout.

• File Management & Storage: Secure cloud storage solutions (e.g., OneDrive, SharePoint) and understanding of data organization principles for large media files.

• Ticketing/Support Systems: Potentially used for managing IT requests or lab equipment maintenance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack emphasizes tools for media production and collaboration. A candidate's ability to quickly adapt to and troubleshoot these systems will be highly valued. Familiarity with specialized UX research platforms is a strong plus.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Accountability: Taking ownership of lab operations, equipment, and participant experiences to ensure smooth research execution.

• Coachability: Openness to learning new tools, processes, and feedback from researchers to continuously improve performance.

• Communication: Clear and effective communication with researchers, participants, and stakeholders regarding session logistics, technical status, and deliverables.

• Proactiveness: Anticipating needs, identifying potential issues before they arise, and suggesting improvements to workflows and lab efficiency.

• Collaboration: Working effectively as part of the UX research team, supporting colleagues, and contributing to a shared goal of delivering impactful insights.

• Growth Mindset: A willingness to learn, adapt, and contribute new ideas for evolving research capabilities and lab operations.

Collaboration Style:

• Supportive & Responsive: The technician acts as a key support function, requiring a responsive and helpful approach to researcher requests and participant needs.

• Process-Oriented: Emphasis on following established procedures for data handling, equipment maintenance, and session setup to ensure consistency and compliance.

• Feedback-Driven: A culture that encourages feedback exchange between researchers and the lab technician to refine processes and improve the overall research experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: UnitedHealth Group's stated values of "Caring. Connecting. Growing together." are likely reflected in the team culture. For this role, it translates to a supportive, detail-oriented, and collaborative approach to enabling impactful UX research.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Technical Needs: Supporting a range of researchers with potentially different technical requirements and comfort levels.

• Balancing In-Person and Remote Support: Effectively managing logistics and troubleshooting for both physical lab sessions and remote participant experiences.

• Data Security and Compliance: Consistently adhering to strict HIPAA and privacy regulations when handling sensitive participant data and recordings.

• Rapidly Evolving Tools: Keeping pace with new technologies and software updates in video editing and research support tools.

• Time Management: Juggling multiple tasks, such as session preparation, real-time support, and post-session editing, often under tight deadlines.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Opportunities to gain certifications or advanced training in video editing software, A/V technology, or specific UX research platforms used by UHG.

• Exposure to UX Research: Deep immersion in UX research methodologies and processes, providing a strong foundation for understanding user-centered design principles.

• Process Improvement Projects: Involvement in initiatives to optimize lab workflows, implement new tools, or enhance the participant experience, fostering project management and strategic thinking skills.

• Mentorship: Potential to be mentored by experienced UX researchers and operations professionals within UnitedHealth Group.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents a unique opportunity to become an expert in the operational mechanics of UX research within a leading healthcare organization, offering a clear path for specialized growth.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operational Support: "Describe a time you supported a technical or operational process in a lab or project setting. What was your role, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on process, troubleshooting, and support.)

• Technical Proficiency: "How do you ensure the quality and accuracy of your video edits, especially when clipping key research moments?" (Highlight attention to detail, editing techniques, and understanding of research context.)

• Participant Experience: "How would you make a research participant feel comfortable and welcome, especially if they are new to participating in research or using technology for it?" (Emphasize empathy, clear communication, and patience.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• Healthcare Context: "Why are you interested in supporting UX research within the healthcare industry, and what do you understand about the importance of privacy like HIPAA in this field?" (Show awareness of industry specifics and compliance.)

• Team Collaboration: "Describe your ideal working relationship with UX researchers or designers. How do you best support a team's objectives?" (Focus on responsiveness, proactivity, and communication.)

• Growth Mindset: "Tell me about a time you identified an opportunity to improve a process or tool and what you did about it." (Demonstrate initiative and a desire for continuous improvement.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Start with Impact: Begin by showcasing your strongest video editing sample, explaining its purpose and how it effectively communicates research insights.

• Demonstrate Process: For any process documentation samples, walk through the problem it solves and the benefits of your structured approach.

• Highlight Technical Skills: Be ready to discuss the specific tools and techniques you used in your video editing or troubleshooting examples.

• Connect to the Role: Explicitly link your portfolio examples to the responsibilities and requirements of the UX Research Lab Technician role at UnitedHealth Group.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating practical technical skills, a strong understanding of operational processes, and an appreciation for the sensitive nature of healthcare data and user experience research.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this UX Research Lab Technician position:

• Submit Your Application: Navigate to the provided URL and complete the online application form.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your experience with video editing software, A/V equipment, lab coordination, participant interaction, and any data privacy knowledge (especially HIPAA). Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Edited 10+ research sessions per month," "Reduced equipment setup time by 15%").

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Gather your best video editing examples and any documentation samples that showcase your organizational and process-thinking skills. Ensure they are easily accessible (e.g., via a link to a cloud storage or portfolio website).

• Research UnitedHealth Group: Understand their mission, values, and recent work in healthcare innovation. Familiarize yourself with the importance of UX research in the healthcare sector.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare for common interview questions related to technical skills, problem-solving, collaboration, and your motivation for the role and industry. Rehearse your portfolio presentation.

⚠️ 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.