Sr UX Researcher, Remote

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:   

This is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of essential job functions, but rather a general overview of the principal responsibilities.  

• Create engaging and rewarding conversations with users in interviews. Can paint a vivid picture of who our users are and their needs. Is an expert in iterating on UX frameworks to adapt them to their use case or creates new methodologies. 

• Lead research projects and initiatives, leveraging strong relationships and expertise in UX research methodologies to deliver high-quality insights. 

• Develop and articulate the rationale behind research methodologies, incorporating insights from user feedback and anticipating potential challenges. 

• Take ownership of specific research areas, aligning research findings with broader product and portfolio vision and business goals. 

• Actively participate in cross-functional meetings, actively planning agendas and communicating research findings to stakeholders. 

• Mentor and collaborate with junior team members, providing guidance and support in UX research best practices and methodologies. 

• Support the recruitment and hiring process, actively participating in candidate screening and interviews to build a diverse and talented research team. 

• Recognize the broader business goals and technical constraints associated with each research effort. 

• Align research decisions with broader business goals and technical constraints, ensuring the successful delivery of high-quality products that meet user needs and drive business value. Advocate for the importance of UX research in achieving strategic objectives. 

• Supports and/or develops an environment in which Thrivent employees and colleagues are focused on continuous improvement, exceptional employee engagement, and an unwavering commitment to our clients.  Shapes and/or supports a culture that represents the Thrivent purpose, promise and values, ensuring that Thrivent’s trust and reputation remain strong with its clients.   

Describe below the audience this role will interact with and level of influence they will have on those roles.  

• Fellow design and product team (collaboration) 

• UX Researchers and junior designers (mentorship) 

• Product Managers, Design Managers, Engineering Managers (working sessions, presentations) 

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS:   

 Required: 

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in fields such as Psychology, Sociology, Anthropology, Computer Science, Human-Computer Interaction, or a related field.  

• 6+ years of proven experience as a UX Research or similar role, with a portfolio showcasing your ability to research to inform critical experience questions with extensive experience leading UX Research initiatives for digital products. 

• Demonstrated expertise in UX research principles and methodologies and their limitations, including qualitative and quantitative research techniques. 

• Strong problem-solving abilities, capable of uncovering actionable insights from complex data sets. 

• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate research findings to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. 

• Proficiency in human-centered design, with a focus on understanding and addressing user needs. 

• Leadership qualities, including the ability to inspire and motivate cross-functional teams towards a common goal. 

• Excellent collaboration and teamwork skills, with the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams in a fast-paced environment. 

Preferred:   

• Ability to align ideas within large, complex products and programs with cross-functional business, design, and delivery teams.  

• Experience leading user-driven concept development and persuade and gain buy-in for user-driven ideas from non-design stakeholders. 

• Knowledge and experience working in diversified financial services. 

• Relevant agile experience.