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Contract Design Researcher Jobs in Springfield, IL

University of Illinois

Catering Supervisor

Springfield, IL · On-site

$15.96 - $17.55/hr

Recommends new methods, techniques, and procedures to improve operations, may conduct research for ... checks contracts, correspondences, and catering arrangements. * Hires and trains service ...

All JobsContract Design Researcher JobsContract Design Researcher Jobs in Springfield, IL

Contract Design Researcher information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$29.7K

$112.1K

$163K

How much do contract design researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract design researcher in Springfield, IL is $112,096.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,400.00 and $152,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract design researcher?

A Contract Design Researcher is a professional hired on a temporary or project basis to conduct research that informs and improves design decisions. They gather insights about users, markets, and competitors through methods like interviews, surveys, and usability testing. Their findings help design teams create more user-friendly and effective products or services. Unlike full-time employees, contract researchers typically work for a set period or on specific projects, offering flexibility to both the employer and the researcher.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract design researcher?

To thrive as a Contract Design Researcher, you need a solid background in user research methodologies, design thinking, and data analysis, usually supported by a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with tools such as Figma, Miro, UserTesting, and qualitative/quantitative research platforms is typically required. Strong communication, adaptability, and stakeholder management skills help you collaborate effectively and translate insights into actionable design recommendations. These skills are crucial for delivering research-driven solutions that inform design decisions and meet client objectives within project timelines.

What are the typical challenges faced by contract design researchers when integrating into new teams or projects?

Contract design researchers often join projects with established teams and tight timelines, which can make it challenging to quickly build rapport and understand the project's context. They are expected to adapt rapidly, learn new organizational processes, and collaborate effectively with stakeholders who may have differing expectations. Successful contract researchers proactively communicate, clarify project goals early, and leverage their fresh perspective to provide valuable insights while remaining flexible to evolving project needs.

What is the difference between Contract Design Researcher vs User Experience Designer?

AspectContract Design ResearcherUser Experience Designer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Design, Psychology, or related fields; research certificationsBachelor's or Master's in Design, Human-Computer Interaction, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, client sites, or remote; focus on user insightsDesign studios, tech companies, or remote; focus on product interfaces
Industry UsageMarket research, product development, consultingWeb, app, and software development, tech industry
Common Search IntentUnderstanding research roles, project scope, skills neededDesign processes, portfolio building, career paths

The Contract Design Researcher primarily focuses on gathering user insights through research methods, while the User Experience Designer concentrates on creating and optimizing user interfaces. Both roles often collaborate but differ in their core responsibilities and skill sets. Understanding these differences helps job seekers and employers find the right fit for their project needs.

What are the most commonly searched types of Design Researcher jobs in Springfield, IL?

The most popular types of Design Researcher jobs in Springfield, IL are:

What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Contract Design Researcher jobs?

Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Contract Design Researcher job openings:

Contract Design Researcher jobs near you

LEAD ELECTRICAL ENGINEER (ELECTRICAL ENGINEER V)

State of Illinois

Springfield, IL • On-site

$6.8K - $10K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

State Of Illinois rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 75 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 50 rated states

Job description

Job Requisition ID: 57569 IPR#26-01589
Opening Date: 08/10/2026
Closing Date: 08/24/2026
Agency: Department of Transportation
Position Title: Electrical Engineer V 
Salary: Anticipated Starting Salary: $6,837 Monthly; Full Range: $6,837 - $10,831 Monthly
Job Type: Salaried
Category: Full Time 
County: Sangamon
Number of Vacancies: 1
Bargaining Unit Code: NR916 Pro Tech Teamsters

This position is a union position; therefore, provisions of the relevant collective bargaining agreement/labor contract apply to the filling of this position.  

All applicants who want to be considered for this position MUST apply electronically through the illinois.jobs2web.com website. State of Illinois employees should click the link near the top left to apply through the SuccessFactors employee career portal.

Applications submitted via email or any paper manner (mail, fax, hand delivery) will not be considered.

 

 

Why Work for Illinois?

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you're helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you're part of something bigger-something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home. No matter what state career you're looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule-flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

Position Overview

This position is accountable for preparing plans, contract documents, estimates, and engineering design, approving material shop drawings, and conducting field inspections.  This position reviews consultant submittals associated with electrical, lighting, and pump station installations for the Office of Highways Project Implementation (OHPI). 

Essential Functions
  • Prepares plans, design calculations, special provisions, contract documents, and estimates for electrical installations, pump stations, highway lighting, sign lighting, navigation obstruction lighting, tunnels, and other lighting projects.
  • Reviews and recommends plans, design calculations, specifications, contract documents, and estimates for all electrical and lighting items contained in contracts let by the department.
  • Performs field reviews and final inspections of roadway lighting and pump station projects under contract.
  • Provides recommendations for modifications and revisions to the plans, policies, and special provisions used to develop roadway lighting and pump station plans and contract documents based on relevant codes and technology changes.
  • Advises various contractors, consultants, suppliers, and departmental agencies on roadway lighting and pump stations design under the direction of the Electrical and Mechanical Unit Chief.
  • Performs duties in compliance with departmental safety rules.  Performs all duties in a manner conducive to the fair and equitable treatment of all employees.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Current registration as a licensed Professional Engineer PLUS ten years of related experience in the practice of electrical engineering with responsibility for supervising difficult engineering projects or important technical research.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Registration as a Lighting Certified Professional.
  • A bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from an ABET accredited college or university.
  • Thorough knowledge of modern methods and techniques as applied to the design, installation, and maintenance of electrical systems and equipment.
  • Thorough knowledge of all local/state/national codes, standards, and regulations governing or applicable to the design, construction, and operation of electrical projects.
  • Supervisory experience.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills.
Conditions of Employment
  • Valid driver's license.
  • Occasional statewide travel with overnight stays.
  • Successful completion of a background screening.
  • Certain provisions of the revolving door restrictions contained in 5 ILCS 430/5-45 apply to this position. As a result, the employee should be aware that if offered non-State employment during state employment or within one year immediately after ending State employment, the employee shall, prior to accepting any such non-State employment offer, notify the Office of the Executive Inspector General for the Agencies of the Illinois Governor (OEIG) or may be subject to a fine.
  • The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description.

About the Agency

The Illinois Department of Transportation is seeking to hire a Lead Electrical Engineer. 

The IDOT team works diligently to provide safe, cost-effective transportation for Illinois in ways that enhance quality of life, promote economic prosperity and protect our environment. We are problem solvers and leaders, constantly searching for innovations and improvements in support of our commitment to providing the best multimodal transportation system for Illinois. Our team fosters a culture of inclusivity. We value diversity and hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards as we work together for a common purpose. Team members frequently collaborate with colleagues and others outside the department to best meet customer needs. 

The department offers extensive training and career advancement opportunities. Employees also receive a robust benefit package including:

  • Monday-Friday work schedule
  • Flexible work schedules in several program areas (flexible time, hybrid scheduling)
  • Health, Life, Vision, and Dental Insurance
  • Pension Plan
  • (12) Weeks paid Maternity/Paternity Leave
  • Deferred Compensation Program and other pre-tax benefit programs (Medical/Daycare)
  • Employees earn (12) paid Sick Days annually
  • New Employees earn (10) paid Vacation Days their first year of service and can earn up to (25) paid Vacation Days annually
  • Employees earn (3) paid Personal Days annually
  • (13-14) paid holidays annually (based on start date)
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Employee Assistance Program and/or mental health resources

We invite qualified applicants to apply to become part of our team. We are confident that you will take pride in serving Illinois and its residents and visitors.

Work Hours: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM Monday - Friday
Work Location: 2300 S Dirksen Pkwy, Springfield, Illinois, 62764

Work Office: Office of Highways and Intermodal Project Implementation, Bureau of Design and Environment 

Agency Contact: DOT.CONTACTHR@ILLINOIS.GOV

Posting Group: Transportation; Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics

Certain provisions of the revolving door restrictions contained in 5 ILCS 430/5-45 apply to this

position. As a result, the employee should be aware that if offered non-State employment during State

employment or within one year immediately after ending State employment, the employee shall, prior

to accepting any such non-State employment offer, notify the Office of the Executive Inspector

General for the Agencies of the Illinois Governor ("OEIG") or may be subject to a fine.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Use the "Apply" button at the top right or bottom right of this posting to begin the application process.

If you are not already signed in, you will be prompted to do so. 

State employees should sign in to the career portal for State of Illinois employees - a link is available at the top left of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon. 

Non-State employees should log in on the using the "View Profile" link in the top right of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon.  If you have never before signed in, you will be prompted to create an account.

If you have questions about how to apply, please see the following resources:

State employees: Log in to the career portal for State employees and review the Internal Candidate Application Job Aid

Non-State employees: on Illinois.jobs2web.com - click "Application Procedures" in the footer of every page of the website.

Seasonal and temporary workers should use a personal e-mail address when applying for jobs.

The main form of communication will be through email. Please check your "junk mail", "spam", or "other" folder for communication(s) regarding any submitted application(s). You may receive emails from the following addresses:

  • donotreply@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com
  • systems@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com

What State Of Illinois employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

State of Illinois logo

About State of Illinois

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Illinois is not a traditional company, but rather a governmental entity encompassing diverse agencies and departments that serve the constituents of Illinois. Based in Illinois, United States, this governmental body communicates with its citizens through the official website illinois.gov. The website is a one-stop resource for Illinois residents to access information about the state's services, including education, healthcare, transportation, and public safety, among others.

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Springfield, IL, US

Year founded

2009

Social media

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