Principal Researcher, AI & Data Platforms

salesforce.com, inc.; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 197,000 - 314,000; Full time

Job summary

Salesforce is seeking a Principal Researcher to distill complex problems into insights guiding product strategy, design, and business decisions. The role requires AI/data platform expertise and experience with enterprise software in a cross-functional, cross-team environment.

You will lead research initiatives, mentor teams, and drive customer value through structured research methods and stakeholder collaboration across product management, design, engineering, and customer success.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience conducting research in product or tech contexts.
• Advanced understanding of qualitative and quantitative methods.
• Excellent project management, storytelling, and presentation skills.
• Strong knowledge of survey methodologies and tools (MaxDiff, Conjoint, segmentation, analytics).
• Proven track record influencing product direction with insights.
• Ability to design and lead both strategic and tactical research engagements.

Responsibilities

• Scope and drive full research initiatives from planning to execution.
• Partner with senior management across product, design, engineering, and customer success.
• Conduct strategic, generative, and evaluative research using appropriate methods.
• Synthesize findings into actionable insights and business value narratives.
• Work on fast-paced projects with attention to scope and timelines.
• Mentor and collaborate across the Research & Insights organization.

Skills

10+ years research experience

Qualitative methods

Quantitative methods

Research planning

Stakeholder management

Cross-functional collaboration

Storytelling & presentation

Education

University degree in research/business/human behavior

Tools

MaxDiff

Conjoint analysis

SPSS

R

Job description

Salesforce is seeking a Principal Researcher to distill complex problems into insights guiding product strategy, design, and business decisions. The role requires AI/data platform expertise and experience with enterprise software in a cross-functional, cross-team environment.

You will lead research initiatives, mentor teams, and drive customer value through structured research methods and stakeholder collaboration across product management, design, engineering, and customer success.