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Design Researcher Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Akuna Capital

Quantitative Researcher

Chicago, IL · On-site

$145K/yr

To do this successfully, we design and implement our own low latency technologies, trading ... What you'll do as a Quantitative Researcher at Akuna: Akuna's Trading and Research teams are ...

Akuna Capital

Quantitative Researcher

Chicago, IL · On-site

$145K/yr

To do this successfully, we design and implement our own low latency technologies, trading ... What you'll do as a Quantitative Researcher at Akuna: Akuna's Trading and Research teams are ...

IMC

Quantitative Researcher - Futures

Chicago, IL · On-site

They will contribute not only to signal generation but also work w/ developers in design and implementation of a robust research framework that allows for new ideas to be researched, tested, and put ...

Trading Interview

Quantitative Researcher

Chicago, IL · On-site

$131 - $160/hr

To do this successfully, we design and implement our own low latency technologies, trading ... What you'll do as a Quantitative Researcher at Akuna: Akuna's Trading and Research teams are ...

IMC B.V.

Quantitative Researcher - Futures

Chicago, IL · On-site

$250 - $300/hr

They will contribute not only to signal generation but also work w/ developers in design and implementation of a robust research framework that allows for new ideas to be researched, tested, and put ...

IMC

Quantitative Researcher - Futures

Chicago, IL · On-site

$250K - $300K/yr

They will contribute not only to signal generation but also work w/ developers in design and implementation of a robust research framework that allows for new ideas to be researched, tested, and put ...

Interface

Electrical Design Engineer III

Chicago, IL · On-site

$85 - $125/hr

Researching commercially available equipment. * System design with direction from mentor and/or senior engineer. * Provide exemplary customer service to internal team members and clients. What You'll ...

Edgehog Trading

Quantitative Researcher

Chicago, IL · On-site

Design, backtest, and iterate on quantitative trading models from ideation through production ... Contribute to research infrastructure: data pipelines, evaluation frameworks, and reproducibility ...

Edgehog Trading

Quantitative Researcher

Chicago, IL · On-site

$120 - $175/hr

Design, backtest, and iterate on quantitative trading models from ideation through production ... Contribute to research infrastructure: data pipelines, evaluation frameworks, and reproducibility ...

EFOR

Design Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

Design Engineers - R&D (2 postes ouverts) Location: Chicago Area (On-site - 100%) Start Date: ASAP Position Overview We are seeking two Design Engineers to support R&D project teams at our client ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsDesign Researcher JobsDesign Researcher Jobs in Chicago, IL

Design Researcher information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$30.9K

$116.5K

$169.5K

How much do design researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for design researcher in Chicago, IL is $116,511.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $158,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

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 increase with proficiency in research methods, user experience tools, and cross-disciplinary collaboration.

What is a design researcher?

A design researcher is a professional who investigates user needs, behaviors, and preferences to inform the development of products, services, or interfaces. They use methods such as interviews, surveys, and usability testing, often working closely with designers and product teams to ensure user-centered solutions.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Design Researcher jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Design Researcher jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Design Researcher jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Design Researcher jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Design Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Design Researcher job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 84% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,511 per year, or $56 per hour.

Quantitative Researcher

Akuna Capital

Chicago, IL • On-site

$145K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

About Akuna:

Akuna Capital is an innovative trading firm with a strong focus on collaboration, cutting-edge technology, data driven solutions, and automation. We specialize in providing liquidity as an options market maker - meaning we are committed to providing competitive quotes that we are willing to both buy and sell. To do this successfully, we design and implement our own low latency technologies, trading strategies, and mathematical models. 

Our Founding Partners first conceptualized Akuna in their hometown of Sydney. They opened the firm's first office in 2011 in the heart of the derivatives industry and the options capital of the world - Chicago. Today, Akuna is proud to operate from additional offices in Sydney, Shanghai, London, and Singapore. 

What you'll do as a Quantitative Researcher at Akuna:

Akuna's Trading and Research teams are seeking Quant Researchers to join a multidisciplinary group of mathematicians, statisticians, technologists and traders. These teams drive the development of trading strategies and predictive models by combining quantitative rigor with deep expertise in financial markets. In this role, you will join one of our Quant teams based on your experience and interests, including Low Latency/MMS, Quant Strategy Research, Volatility & Pricing, Delta One and Quant Development.

We are looking for talented researchers who can apply and develop machine learning algorithms to contribute to Akuna's strategy portfolio. In this role, you will: 

  • Develop trading strategies using statistical and machine learning algorithms
  • Drive improvements in predictive models through rigorous signal and feature research
  • Design and optimize machine learning workflows to support scalable, efficient, and reproducible research
  • Bring a results-driven mindset paired with strong collaboration and communication skills. 

Qualities that make great candidates: 

  • 3+ years of strong professional work experience in statistics, machine learning or related area
  • BS/MS/PhD degree in a technical field - Engineering, Computer Science, Math, Physics, or similar
  • Proven research background in academic or professional environment
  • Programming experience in Python or C++
  • Expertise in statistics and machine learning
  • Financial experience or knowledge of trading is a plus
  • The ability to react quickly and accurately to rapidly changing market conditions, including the ability to quickly and accurately respond and/or solve math and coding problems are essential functions of the role

In addition to technical skillsets, Akuna values the unique perspectives people can bring to the table to collaboratively solve complex problems and drive Akuna forward. We want all groups to feel empowered to apply, even if you don't meet every qualification. We welcome your application and encourage you to take the first steps toward your future with us! 

Please note that level/title, as well as team placement, will be determined upon the conclusion of the interview process. If you are a current student or recent graduate, please take a look at our Entry Level and Intern positions. 

In accordance with Illinois Equal Pay Act, the minimum base salary starts at $145,000. Exact compensation offered may vary based on many factors including, but not limited to, the candidate's experience, qualifications, and skill set. This role is also eligible for a discretionary performance bonus as part of the total compensation package and includes a comprehensive benefits package that may encompass employer-paid medical, dental, vision, retirement contributions, paid time off, and other benefits. The minimum base salary herein was determined in good faith by Akuna Capital LLC.

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