Lead Design Researcher

Humana

. Define and deliver research programs across the design process, from early exploration and strategy through ideation, prototyping, testing, and implementation .

Posted 11/10/2026full-timeRemote • United StatesSenior💰 $126,300 - $173,700 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in leading design research programs and employing user-centered methodologies to enhance product strategies and experiences. Proficient in synthesizing research findings and collaborating with cross-functional teams to drive innovation in digital products.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Design Research LeadershipUser-Centered DesignAgile Product DevelopmentCommunication SkillsResearch Methodologies

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Design ThinkingPrototypingWireframingStoryboardingCompetitive BenchmarkingResearch PlanningInterview Guide DevelopmentSynthesis of Research FindingsConcept TestingMicro-Journey Analysis

Soft Skills

Problem-SolvingCoachingManagement

Certifications & Qualifications

Master's Degree or Higher in Research-Related Discipline

Industry Keywords

Human-Centered DesignDigital ProductUX ResearchMedicarePHI/HIPAA Compliance

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Define and deliver research programs across the design process, from early exploration and strategy through ideation, prototyping, testing, and implementation
Partner with Product Design, Content Design, Product Management, Analytics, and Engineering to develop user-centered experiences for Medicare consumers
Uncover insights that drive prioritization, planning, and product-strategy decisions through an agile test-and-learn approach
Create service and product concepts using storyboarding, wireframing, and other visual mediums
Conduct current-state research and competitive benchmarking for micro-journeys
Recruit and screen candidates for research and concept testing
Develop research plans and interview guides
Train team members to conduct research and concept studies
Synthesize research findings and collaborate with product managers to add items to the backlog
Iterate requirements, concepts, and vision documentation
Collaborate with customers, operators, and leadership to propose experience improvements aligned with priority measures
Lead teams in synthesizing findings into insights and business recommendations
Collaborate and co-create with product teams and business partners to quantify concept value
Create communication artifacts defining current-state and future-state optimized experiences

Requirements

What you’ll need

Master's degree or higher in a research-related discipline (e.g., Design Strategy, Human Computer Interaction, Interaction Design, Human Factors, Psychology, Anthropology, Cognitive Science)
8+ years of experience leading design research contributions in innovation, human-centered design, and/or digital product
5+ years of experience independently managing design research programs
Exceptional communication, problem-solving, coaching and management skills
Understanding and experience with a variety of UX and design research methodologies
Experience with design thinking and agile product development environments
Only candidates with Citizenship or Lawful Permanent Residency in the U.S. will be considered
Must meet minimum home internet speeds of 25 Mbps download and 10 Mbps upload
Must work from a dedicated space without ongoing interruptions to protect member PHI/HIPAA information

Benefits

Comp & perks

Bonus incentive plan based upon company and/or individual performance
Medical benefits
Dental benefits
Vision benefits
401(k) retirement savings plan
Paid time off
Company holidays
Personal holidays
Paid parental leave
Paid caregiver leave
Short-term disability
Long-term disability
Life insurance
Remote work
Occasional travel to Humana offices for training or meetings
Dedicated home workspace requirement to protect member PHI/HIPAA information
Humana may require internet service upgrades if necessary