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Design Research Assistant Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

cna

Research Scientist

Arlington, VA

Can effectively represent CNA as an organization. 6. Influences decisions by sponsors/ clients ... Knowledge of research design and research methods highly desired * Ability to work on progressively ...

CNA Corporation

Research Scientist

Arlington, VA

PRIMARY PURPOSE CNA is searching for a Research Scientist to join the Strategy and Policy Analysis ... Knowledge of research design and research methods highly desired * Ability to work on progressively ...

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Design Research Assistant information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Design Research Assistant, and why are they important?

A Design Research Assistant should have a solid background in user research methods, data analysis, and design principles, often supported by a degree in design, psychology, or a related field. Familiarity with qualitative and quantitative research tools, survey platforms, and design software like Adobe Creative Suite or Figma is typically required. Strong communication, organization, and critical thinking skills help them effectively collaborate and synthesize insights. These abilities are crucial for delivering actionable research that informs and improves design solutions.

How does a Design Research Assistant typically contribute to collaborative projects within a design team?

As a Design Research Assistant, you play a vital role in supporting collaborative projects by gathering user insights, conducting surveys or interviews, and synthesizing findings for the design team. You often work closely with UX/UI designers, product managers, and other researchers to ensure that user perspectives are integrated into the design process. Your ability to communicate research findings clearly and contribute to brainstorming sessions helps drive informed design decisions and fosters a user-centered approach throughout the project.

What are Design Research Assistants?

Design Research Assistants are professionals who support design teams by conducting research to inform and guide the design process. Their responsibilities typically include gathering user insights, analyzing data, assisting in usability testing, and preparing reports that help designers create user-centered products or experiences. They often use both qualitative and quantitative research methods and work closely with designers, researchers, and other stakeholders. This role is essential for ensuring that design solutions are based on real user needs and evidence.

What is the difference between Design Research Assistant vs User Experience Researcher?

AspectDesign Research AssistantUser Experience Researcher
CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in design, psychology, or related fieldsUsually a bachelor's or master's degree in human-computer interaction, psychology, or design
Work EnvironmentAssist in research tasks within design teams, often in agencies or corporate settingsConduct user research to improve digital products, often in tech or software companies
Employer & IndustryDesign firms, product companies, agenciesTech companies, software developers, digital agencies

While both roles involve user research, a Design Research Assistant typically supports research activities within design projects, focusing on gathering insights to inform design decisions. A User Experience Researcher conducts in-depth user studies to enhance digital experiences, often taking on more independent research responsibilities.

What job categories do people searching Design Research Assistant jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Design Research Assistant jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Design Research Assistant jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Design Research Assistant job openings:
Design Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Design Research Assistant job openings in Reston, VA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.
Research Scientist

Research Scientist

cna

Arlington, VA

Other

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION AND/OR DUTIES

1. Routinely produces analysis on structured and unstructured problems that meets CNA’s quality standards with limited direction and general supervision.  Demonstrates ability to develop and apply creative and innovative analytic solutions to complex problems with assistance/support from more senior staff. Shows the ability to synthesize analytic results into a broader context. Can lead complex analytic projects with supervision.  Begins to make connections and synthesize ideas across multiple, related studies.

2. Develops and maintains deep, specific institutional knowledge and expertise of primary clients/sponsors; their culture, organization, and issues.  Uses that knowledge to support training & mentoring of new staff, to support on-going work, and to support development and shaping of new work for existing clients/ sponsors.

3. Balances responsiveness to guidance with independent action.  Contributes productively and harmoniously to the work of others; treats everyone respectfully, professionally and fairly.  Independently identifies opportunities for collaboration within team, division, and operating unit. Supports supervisor's initiatives and helps make vision a reality. Recognizes and acknowledges contributions from subordinates.

4. Supports business development efforts and/or marketing activities by interacting with CNA managers and current clients/sponsors on securing follow on work (e.g., small grants, or above core projects), expanding or developing new ideas for future projects, and occasionally working with potential clients/sponsors on developing new project ideas.  Occasionally serves as internal reviewer of technical proposals.  

5. Interacts regularly and independently with clients/sponsors and related parties.  Typical interactions are at the "peer equivalent" level, but some level of interaction at senior level.  Can effectively represent CNA as an organization.

6. Influences decisions by sponsors/ clients; provide sponsors/clients with implementable recommendations.  Occasionally supports efforts to enhance CNA's reputation via publishing and outreach activities.

7. Demonstrates strong and effective communications skills, to include ability to summarize and synthesize larger pieces of work into effective executive summaries/executive briefings.  Can effectively present work to more senior and larger audiences.  Effectively communicates with & engages colleagues at all levels of the organization.

8. Works under limited direction and general supervision from division management.  Can lead projects of low to medium size and/or complexity, as well as significant tasks on large or more complex projects.  Effectively manages all aspects of assigned projects, to include delivery of high-quality analytic products on-time, and on-budget.  

9. Plays a supporting role in the mentoring and training of new staff individually or as a member of a project team. Regularly demonstrates initiative in pursuing improvements in the quality of our projects and analytic products.  Participates in corporate initiatives when asked to do so, and makes contributions to initiatives focused on making CNA a better place to work.

10. Performs other duties as assigned.


JOB REQUIREMENTS

1. Education: Minimum Master’s degree in a International relations, political science, history, or related discipline, PhD preferred.

2. Experience: Typical minimum requirements 5+ years of experience in research and analysis. Time spent in US Government is a plus.

3. Skills:

  • Knowledge of research design and research methods highly desired
  • Ability to work on progressively more difficult projects/analyses, including directing portions of large research projects or small to medium projects under general supervision
  • Ability to operate independently and proactively in the execution of assignments
  • Ability to work in a multi-disciplinary environment
  • Strong critical thinking skills
  • Strong planning and organizational skills
  • Excellent interpersonal skills
  • Strong and effective oral and written communication skills
  • Ability to interact directly and effectively with clients and influence their decisions.

  4. Other: Ability to obtain and maintain a Top-Secret Security Clearance.  

Required documents

1. Resume - Please upload your resume 

2. Cover letter - Please upload a cover letter as part of your application that introduces yourself, summarizes your relevant skills and experiences, and describes why you would be a valuable asset to CNA’s RSP Division.

3. Writing Sample - Please upload a research paper or journal article that demonstrates your writing and research skills (draft copies are acceptable).

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