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Design Researcher Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Renewaire

Mechanical Design Engineer

Waunakee, WI · On-site

$77K - $105K/yr

Have ownership with performing part and product design tasks as part of new product development projects and updates to existing products, research products and recommend product designs and ...

RenewAire LLC

Mechanical Design Engineer

Waunakee, WI · On-site

$77K - $105K/yr

Have ownership with performing part and product design tasks as part of new product development projects and updates to existing products, research products and recommend product designs and ...

Renewaire LLC

Mechanical Design Engineer

Waunakee, WI · On-site

$77K - $105K/yr

Have ownership with performing part and product design tasks as part of new product development projects and updates to existing products, research products and recommend product designs and ...

FAC Services

Mechanical CAD Designer

Verona, WI · On-site

ACS specializes in the engineering, integration and construction of technically complex R&D and ... Performs design work, from concept to manufacturing drawings within budget and on schedule.

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsDesign Researcher JobsDesign Researcher Jobs in Madison, WI

Design Researcher information

See Madison, WI salary details

$30.2K

$114K

$165.8K

How much do design researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for design researcher in Madison, WI is $113,982.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,500.00 and $155,200.00 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 popular job titles related to Design Researcher jobs in Madison, WI?

For Design Researcher jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Design Researcher jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Design Researcher jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Design Researcher jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Design Researcher job openings:

Design Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Design Researcher job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,982 per year, or $54.8 per hour.

Mechanical Design Engineer-New Product Development

Johnson Health Tech North America Inc

Cottage Grove, WI

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Johnson Health Tech rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

155th of 490 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Description


Help Design the Future of Fitness Equipment

Do you enjoy solving complex mechanical challenges and turning concepts into real-world products? Join our engineering team and help develop innovative fitness equipment used by customers around the globe.


As a Mechanical Design Engineer, you'll work cross-functionally with Project Engineering, Industrial Design, and Factory Engineering teams to bring new products from concept through production. This role is ideal for an engineer who enjoys hands-on product development, creative problem-solving, and collaborating with global teams to deliver high-quality consumer products.


You'll play a key role in product innovation, testing, manufacturing support, and continuous improvement throughout the product lifecycle.


What You'll Do:

Product Design & Engineering:

Design and develop mechanical components and assemblies for new fitness products

Create 3D CAD models and detailed engineering drawings using SolidWorks

Support product development from prototype through production launch

Collaborate with Industrial Design and Engineering teams to transform customer needs into innovative product solutions

Conduct technical design reviews and participate in engineering discussions

Develop and maintain Bills of Materials (BOMs)

Support tooling estimates, product costing, and manufacturability improvements

Perform or support DFMEA activities, strength analysis, and fatigue testing to validate designs


Research & Development:

Develop engineering test specifications and validation plans

Conduct product and component testing to evaluate design performance

Support innovation initiatives, including patent searches and invention disclosures

Research new technologies, materials, and design approaches


Manufacturing & Production Support:

Partner with factory engineering teams to optimize product quality, cost, and manufacturability

Support new product introduction into mass production

Troubleshoot production and design-related issues during launch

Review quality and inspection data to drive continuous improvement and value-engineering opportunities

Collaborate with Asia-based engineering and manufacturing teams to ensure successful product execution

Requirements

Required Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field

2+ years of mechanical design or product development experience

Proficiency with 3D CAD software (SolidWorks preferred)

Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills

Excellent communication and collaboration abilities

Ability to work effectively in cross-functional and global teams


Preferred Experience:

Experience with plastic injection molding

Consumer product development experience

Familiarity with DFMEA, testing, and validation processes

Experience working alongside Industrial Design teams

Passion for hands-on design, building, or mechanical projects


Why Join Us?

Design innovative products used by customers worldwide

Work on projects from concept through production

Collaborate with global engineering and manufacturing teams

Fast-paced, team-oriented product development environment

Opportunity to contribute to innovation and new technology development

Travel opportunities available both domestically and internationally



If you're passionate about product design, engineering innovation, and bringing ideas to life, we'd love to hear from you.  Equal Opportunity Employer, including Protected Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities.


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