User Experience Research Associate information
See Chicago, IL salary details
$16.84 - $19.70
2% of jobs
$19.70 - $22.56
5% of jobs
$22.56 - $25.42
11% of jobs
$26.96 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$25.42 - $28.27
13% of jobs
$28.27 - $31.13
12% of jobs
The median wage is $32.47 / hr.
$31.13 - $33.99
16% of jobs
$33.99 - $36.85
15% of jobs
$37.24 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$36.85 - $39.71
12% of jobs
$39.71 - $42.57
7% of jobs
$42.57 - $45.43
4% of jobs
$45.43 - $48.29
3% of jobs
How much do user experience research associate jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for user experience research associate in Chicago, IL is $33.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.97 and $38.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
To thrive as a User Experience Research Associate, you need a solid understanding of qualitative and quantitative research methods, user-centered design principles, and usually a degree in human-computer interaction, psychology, or a related field. Familiarity with tools like UserTesting, Lookback, Optimal Workshop, and data analysis software such as SPSS or Excel is often expected. Strong communication, analytical thinking, and empathy are crucial soft skills for translating research insights into actionable design recommendations. These skills ensure that user needs are accurately identified and addressed, leading to effective and engaging product experiences.
As a User Experience Research Associate, you'll work closely with designers, product managers, and engineers to inform and improve product decisions. Your primary role involves gathering user insights through interviews, usability tests, and surveys, then synthesizing and presenting your findings to these teams. This collaborative environment allows you to advocate for users' needs and influence design iterations, ensuring that products are intuitive and user-centered. Regular cross-functional meetings and workshops are common, and your input will be key in prioritizing features or enhancements based on user data.
User Experience Research Associates are professionals who support the research process in UX teams by gathering, analyzing, and interpreting data about users and their interactions with products or services. They help plan and conduct studies such as interviews, usability tests, and surveys to understand user needs, behaviors, and pain points. Their insights guide design decisions, ensuring products are user-friendly and meet the needs of their target audience. UX Research Associates often collaborate closely with designers, product managers, and engineers throughout the development process.
What are the most commonly searched types of User Experience Research jobs in Chicago, IL?
The most popular types of User Experience Research jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for User Experience Research Associate jobs?
Cities near Chicago, IL with the most User Experience Research Associate job openings: