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Design Researcher Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Through trend analysis and market research, you will be responsible for creating and maintaining design books and journals. You will quickly come to appreciate the complexities of growing a global ...

Through trend analysis and market research, you will be responsible for creating and maintaining design books and journals. You will quickly come to appreciate the complexities of growing a global ...

CAD Designer (Hybrid NY or WI)

Dodgeville, WI · Hybrid

$28 - $38.50/hr

Research print trends and collect materials for seasonal inspiration and product direction. * Collaborate on seasonal concept prints in support of the Concept Team under the direction of the Sr CAD ...

Web Design Tutor

Madison, WI · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes the intersection of aesthetics and functionality and connects web design to brand identity, user experience research, and front-end development. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive ...

Key Responsibilities Hardware Design Research, plan, design, and develop electronic circuit designs in accordance with product requirements as established from various sources, including engineering ...

Key Responsibilities Hardware Design Research, plan, design, and develop electronic circuit designs in accordance with product requirements as established from various sources, including engineering ...

Showing results 41-60

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:

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.

Product Design Engineer III

Springs Window Fashions

Middleton, WI • On-site

$132K - $159K/yr

Other

Posted 19 days ago


Springs Window Fashions rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description
The Best Experience Company
Our tagline is "The Best Experience Company." More than just a set of words, it represents the essence of who we are at Springs Window Fashions. As North America's premier window covering company, we're committed to creating the Best Experience for our associates, consumers and end users, business partners, and communities. We want you to join our team of passionate self-starters who believe the world is full of Best Experience opportunities. So, if you're excited about the thought of a Best Experience career with a team focused on creating Best Experiences for all, we want to hear from you!
Position Summary
Responsible for creating, supporting, and developing innovative automated products designs and processes. This is successfully accomplished by understanding, accurately specifying, and adhering to customer requirements, utilizing and applying quality tools and methods, and pursuing continuous improvement in all aspects of product and process design. These efforts have a direct impact on reducing costs while improving value, reliability, and performance. The Product Design Engineer will plan and manage design engineering of automated window shade systems, including motor selection, component design, and system integration.
Objectives
Concept Development (30%)
  • Identify consumer and market needs; translate them into product requirements using QFD and other structured design tools.
  • Develop multiple concepts and functional prototypes for evaluation.
  • Participate in consumer focus groups and market research activities.
  • Reduce early concepts to commercially viable solutions.
  • Create mechanical drawings and 3D models.
  • Support evaluation of concept patentability and help identify potential IP risks.

Design Development (50%)
  • Coordinate and prioritize design and engineering activities based on NPD and product management goals.
  • Design products and components with emphasis on safety, durability, reliability, manufacturability, value, and ease of assembly.
  • Contribute to both short-term and long-term design and development planning.
  • Establish design specifications, select materials, and evaluate potential suppliers.
  • Estimate product and tooling costs and assist with project justification.
  • Facilitate design reviews across functional groups and integrate manufacturability feedback into designs.
  • Prepare reports, summaries, and presentations related to engineering activities.
  • Maintain engineering files, drawings, and documentation in accordance with internal standards.
  • Interface with suppliers and purchasing to resolve supplier-related quality issues.

Administrative & Continuous Improvement (20%)
  • Collaborate with NPD and Marketing to introduce new product concepts and improve existing products.
  • Support and follow the New Product Development stage-gate process.
  • Review patents and help assess potential patent risks.
  • Participate in continuous improvement initiatives (root-cause analysis, corrective actions, 5S, process improvements).
  • Maintain and organize lab areas according to 5S principles.

Requirements
Education & Experience
  • BS in Engineering with a minimum of 6+ years of relevant engineering experience.
  • Must be flexible with assignments, able to work independently, and collaborate effectively in a team environment.
  • Must be organized, methodical, able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously, and capable of meeting established timelines.
  • Receives direction from the Engineering Manager. Expected to manage multiple large or medium scope projects and must document testing and communicate results clearly.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Design & Technical Skills
  • Strong conceptual and detailed design skills.
  • Creativity and innovation proficiency, including concept generation and early design exploration.
  • 3D CAD proficiency (SolidWorks preferred; AutoCAD experience acceptable).
  • Knowledge of drafting standards (e.g., ASME Y14).
  • Experience with metal, plastic, and wood components and processing preferred (Ex. injection molded plastic parts, die cast and die stamped metal parts, aluminum extrusions, and molded wood products)
  • Experience with prototype fabrication for fast learnings.
  • Familiarity with QFD and other customer-driven design translation tools.
  • Strong general math/calculation abilities.

Project & Documentation Skills
  • Technical writing skills for specifications, lab reports, and project updates.
  • Ability to collect, organize, and manage engineering data.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Effective verbal and written communication.
  • Ability to manage work according to established project timelines.
  • Ability to balance and prioritize while working on multiple projects simultaneously.

Software & Tools
  • Proficiency in Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and general PC skills.
  • Experience with project management tools (e.g., MS Project, SmartSheets, etc).
  • Experience using PLM and ERP systems and general document control environments.

Interpersonal & Collaboration Skills
  • Strong interpersonal skills for working with engineering, suppliers, marketing, manufacturing, and cross-functional teams.

How We Work to Deliver a Best Experience: Our Culture
  • Our Core Value: We do the right thing, always
  • Our Seven Cultural Behaviors
    • Empowerment - We trust our people.
    • Ownership - We take 100% responsibility for our roles actions, and results.
    • Leadership - We all lead by example and talk direct with respect (DWR).
    • One Team - We are One Springs Team.
    • Customer First - We consider our customers' needs before every decision.
    • Continuous Innovation - We are constantly learning, innovating, and improving.
    • Speed - We define priorities and operate with a sense of urgency and agility.

What Springs Window Fashions employees say

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