Sr UX Researcher, Remote

DUTIES & 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.    

• 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.