Design Researcher

Aquent; Toronto; Hybrid; CAD 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Aquent is seeking a Design Researcher in Toronto for a hybrid role. This position focuses on shaping user experiences through research, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and fostering a culture where design and research methodologies are integrated. Ideal candidates hold a BA/BS degree and bring 3+ years of research experience, contributing to innovative solutions that impact millions.

Benefits

Inclusive and supportive work culture

Opportunity to contribute to products used by millions

Collaboration with experts in digital design

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of research experience required.
• Experience with technical design research tools and methodologies.
• Appreciation for design thinking is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute design research strategies.
• Moderate sessions with users to gather insights.
• Communicate research findings to stakeholders.

Skills

Technical understanding of design research theory

Working knowledge of design research methodologies

Experience working on cross-functional teams

Education

BA/BS degree in a related field

MA/MS degree or certification in a related field

Job description

Hybrid; Toronto, CA; in office 3 days per week

Our goal is to become our industry’s leader in exceptional digital experiences. To get there, we’re putting strategy, research, design principles, and technical innovation at the centre of everything we do. But we need exceptional digital professionals, like you, to bring our process to life.

This is a hybrid role with 3 days per week worked in our client’s Toronto office.

What will you do?

We want every point of contact with our clients to feel important to them. That’s where you come in. Design Researchers shape the experiences we create through each of our digital products.

You’ll work with a cross functional group of designers, product managers and developers. Embedded in a product, journey or channel, you will identify upcoming decisions that need research inputs, propose methodologies, carry out fieldwork, analyse, and socialize the implications.

We believe that research is not to be a silo or a black box that outputs ‘insights’, if you believe this as well, we can achieve this together by working closely with the rest of the team to ensure they are participating along each step of the way.

What you would work on:

Design Research Strategy

• Build relationships with key stakeholders within and outside of the design team

• Support designers and business stakeholders in prioritizing potential research activities

• Develop research fieldwork approaches (moderated or unmoderated) which address business and design objectives

Research and Testing (Execution, Synthesis, Analysis):

• Develop research activities to evaluate prototypes, improve understanding of current context, or to generate new understanding of changing user needs

• Moderate live sessions with users and RBC people covering high-complexity or sensitive topics

• Communicate core themes and implications from your research activities to the design team and other stakeholders

• Design and facilitate ideation sessions and collaborative work activities

What’s in it for you:

• You’ll find yourself in a culture where designers feel included, valued, and heard; in a supportive environment surrounded by peers who excel in their area of expertise.

• You’ll work on solutions used by millions of people and contribute to a company that truly values customer experience and remains a Global Digital leader.

• You’ll work with a team that’s pushing the boundaries of digital product design as we strive to improve the lives of the people and communities we serve.

• You’ll help to shape Design Research as a practice at RBC and, by example, with your peers around the globe.

What do you need to succeed?

Must-have

• BA/BS degree in Psychology, Anthropology, Sociology, Information Studies, Design (e.g. interaction, graphic, visual communications, product, industrial), Human Computer Interaction (HCI), Computer Science (CS), or a related field or equivalent practical experience

• A minimum of 3 years of experience in research

• Technical understanding of design research theory / design research tools

• Working knowledge of a variety of design research methodologies

• Experience working on cross-functional teams

Nice to have

• MA/MS degree or certification in Psychology, Anthropology, Sociology, Information Studies, Design (e.g. interaction, graphic, visual communications, product, industrial), Human Computer Interaction (HCI), Computer Science (CS), or a related field

• Appreciation for the potential of ‘design thinking’

• Experience working within a large organization and within an agile environment

• Experience contributing to the launch of a digital product

The target hiring compensation range for this role is C$47.81 to C$53.13 an hour. Compensation is based on several factors including, but not limited to education, relevant work experience, relevant certifications, and location.

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Client Description

Are you ready to join a distinguished financial institution that is committed to empowering clients and communities? Our client is a leading provider of banking and financial services, renowned for its customer-centric approach and innovative solutions. With a rich history of success and a strong focus on diversity and inclusion, our client is dedicated to building a better future for all. Join us in our mission to make a positive impact and drive meaningful change.