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Design Researcher Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

AFL-CIO

Writer/Researcher (Temporary)

Washington, DC · On-site

$78K/yr

The Writer/Researcher is part of the Materials and Research team in the Political/Electoral ... Track the progress of the materials you write through the design, posting, and approval process on ...

Capital One

Distinguished Applied Researcher

Mclean, VA · On-site

Build AI foundation models through all phases of development, from design through training, evaluation, validation, and implementation. * Engage in high impact applied research to take the latest AI ...

Capital One

Distinguished Applied Researcher

Mclean, VA · On-site

Build AI foundation models through all phases of development, from design through training, evaluation, validation, and implementation. * Engage in high impact applied research to take the latest AI ...

AFL-CIO

Writer/Researcher (Temporary)

Washington, DC

$78K/yr

... design, posting, and approval process on the Working Families Toolkit. ● Performs other duties as assigned. QUALIFICATIONS: ● BA or BS in a field with substantive writing, research, political, or ...

Capital One

Distinguished Applied Researcher

Mclean, VA · On-site

Build AI foundation models through all phases of development, from design through training, evaluation, validation, and implementation. * Engage in high impact applied research to take the latest AI ...

HOK

Design Professional

Washington, DC · On-site

Together, we cultivate a culture of design excellence at the confluence of art and science ... Performs product research; assists project designers and project architects with materials ...

Bixal

Sr. Service Designer/UX Researcher

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$125K - $130K/yr

Bixal is hiring a Senior Service Designer / UX Researcher to join our Developer Experience team on ... Design service blueprints, interaction patterns, user flows, and high-fidelity prototypes for ...

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Design Researcher information

See Washington salary details

$34K

$128.1K

$186.3K

How much do design researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for design researcher in Washington is $128,099.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,900.00 and $174,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a design researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Design Researcher, you need strong skills in qualitative and quantitative research methods, user-centered design, and a relevant degree in fields such as design, psychology, or human-computer interaction. Experience with tools like usability testing platforms, survey software, and data analysis programs is highly valuable, and certifications such as UX Certification can enhance your profile. Exceptional communication, active listening, and problem-solving abilities set standout design researchers apart. These combined skills ensure that research findings effectively inform product decisions and result in solutions that truly meet user needs.

What are some common challenges faced by design researchers, and how do they overcome them?

Design Researchers often face challenges such as recruiting the right participants, balancing tight project timelines, and ensuring that research insights are integrated into the design process. Overcoming these hurdles typically involves collaborating closely with designers, product managers, and engineers, as well as advocating for the importance of user research within cross-functional teams. Being adaptable and maintaining strong organizational and communication skills can help navigate shifting priorities and ensure that research findings have a meaningful impact. Many organizations support ongoing learning and encourage Design Researchers to experiment with new research methods and tools, helping them grow in their roles.

What does a design researcher do?

A Design Researcher studies user needs, behaviors, and pain points to inform design decisions. They use qualitative and quantitative research methods—such as interviews, surveys, and usability testing—to gather insights. Their findings help teams create user-centered products and services that are both functional and enjoyable. Design Researchers collaborate closely with designers, product managers, and developers to refine and improve user experiences.

How much does a design researcher earn?

The average salary for a design researcher varies by experience and location but typically ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually. Entry-level roles may start around $50,000, while experienced professionals with specialized skills can earn over $120,000. Salaries often depend on industry, company size, and the research tools used.

How much do design researchers make?

Design researchers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level roles may start lower, while experienced professionals or those in senior positions can earn over $120,000. Skills in user research, data analysis, and familiarity with tools like UserTesting or Optimal Workshop can influence compensation.
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Design Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Design Researcher job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 83% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,099 per year, or $61.6 per hour.

Writer/Researcher (Temporary)

AFL-CIO

Washington, DC • On-site

$78K/yr

Temporary

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Are you passionate about economic fairness and social justice? Do you want to improve the lives of working people and strengthen the labor movement? If you answered, “Yes!,” then the AFL-CIO may be the right place for you. We are the largest federation of labor unions in the United States, and our team of dynamic professionals is dedicated to growing worker power and ensuring every working person has a voice on the job. When you work at the AFL-CIO, you’re more than just an individual employee—you’re helping to lead a movement with a proud history and a bright future ahead.

The Writer/Researcher is part of the Materials and Research team in the Political/Electoral & Issues Mobilization hub. The Materials and Research team is primarily responsible for the development and dissemination of:

       Communications materials for electoral, legislative, and issue campaigns

       Candidate, legislative, and issue research

This position reports to the Assistant Political Director.

This is a temporary position not to exceed November 30, 2026.

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES:

      Work with the Materials and Research team to conceptualize and write campaign materials such as fliers, local union letters, fact sheets, and walk or phone scripts.

       Conduct ongoing, in-depth research on political candidates and legislative issues.

       Create, maintain, and update research documents for use by the Campaigns, Political, Communications, and Digital Strategies departments, as the basis of many different facets of member and external communications.

       Track candidate statements, actions, and votes.

       Write summaries and briefings with pertinent information for use in campaigns.

       Work with field staff to ensure materials produced satisfy the needs of the field program.

       Fact check direct mail pieces and other materials as needed.

       Track the progress of the materials you write through the design, posting, and approval process on the Working Families Toolkit.

       Performs other duties as assigned. 

QUALIFICATIONS:

       BA or BS in a field with substantive writing, research, political, or analytical focus, or equivalent experience.

       2-3 years experience in political campaigns or party committees with specific demonstrated experience in campaign research and communications.

       Effective time management skills, including demonstrated ability to manage and prioritize multiple tasks and projects, including demonstrated experience in developing campaign and/or personal work plans and goals.

       Knowledge of the workings of the labor movement and its structure.

       Demonstrated excellent computer research skills including web-based and Nexis-Lexis research.

       Demonstrated proficiency with Microsoft Word and Excel, Google Suites, and overall excellent computer skills.

       Demonstrated superior writing and messaging skills – writing sample required.

       Demonstrated ability to adjust tone and arguments for a variety of audiences. 

       Ability to assess political issues and identify relevant information for a Labor political program.

       Demonstrated ability to work well within a team.

       Ability to work long and extended hours including weekends.

Writing samples required.

Employment Type: TEMPORARY

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