(USA) Director, Design Research

Walmart; Bentonville (AR); On-site; USD 130,000 - 260,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

401(k) & stock purchase

Paid time off

Live Better U education benefit

Employee discounts

Job summary

Walmart's Design Research team seeks a Director to lead qualitative and quantitative research, manage cross-functional partnerships, and synthesize data into actionable insights that inform design and product strategy. This role oversees usability testing, research strategy, and stakeholder engagement across a global retail environment.

You will shape design practices, collaborate with UX, product, and engineering to drive customer-centric solutions, and guide research processes that improve

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in UI/UX design, graphic design, visual communication, product design, computer science, information technology, or related area with 6 years’ experience in market research, business analysis, UX design research, or related area.
• Option 2: 8 years' experience in market research, business analysis, UX design research, or related area.
• 3 years' supervisory experience.
• Vaccination requirement as defined by CDC guidelines or accommodation permissible by law.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of comprehensive design research strategies to address key business and customer challenges.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders to align research objectives and drive actionable insights.
• Oversee qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, ensuring adherence to best practices and ethical standards.
• Synthesize research findings to inform design decisions and improve user experience and interface outcomes.
• Facilitate stakeholder engagement and consensus-building through clear communication and data-driven narratives.
• Guide usability testing and iteration processes to validate design solutions and optimize customer interactions.
• Foster continuous improvement by evaluating research processes and integrating emerging methods.

Skills

Qualitative research

Quantitative research

Usability testing

Data analysis

Cross-functional leadership

UX/UI principles

Education

Bachelor's degree in UI/UX design

Master’s degree in UI/UX design

Job description

1601 Se 10th St
Bentonville, AR 72716-0000

R-2587672

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$130,000 - $260,000/yr

Position Summary

Role summary:
The(USA)Director,DesignResearchleadsstrategicinitiativestoadvanceuserexperiencethroughcomprehensivequalitativeandquantitativeresearchmethodologies.Thisroleinvolvesmanagingcross-functionalpartnerships,synthesizingdatasources,anddrivingactionableinsightsthatalignwithbusinessobjectives.Thedirectorfosterscollaborationacrossteamsandmarkets,ensuringresearchoutcomessupportinnovationandcustomer-centricsolutions.Byoverseeingusabilitytesting,stakeholderengagement,andresearchstrategydevelopment,thispositionplaysacriticalroleinshapingdesignpracticesthatenhanceproductvalueandoperationalexcellencewithinadynamic,globalenvironment.

About the team:
Join a distinguished research and experience strategy team dedicated to advancing retail through rigorous, research-driven design. This team uncovers valuable insights that enhance the daily experiences of millions of customers across various environments. As leaders in retail innovation, they develop and implement best-in-class research systems and operations to deliver exceptional customer experiences. Collaborating across multiple functions, the team addresses complex challenges to redefine commerce and consumer services. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to impactful research initiatives that shape the future of retail while supporting Walmart’s mission to provide access and dignity for all customers.

What you'll do

• Lead the development and execution of comprehensive design research strategies to address key business and customer challenges.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders to align research objectives and drive actionable insights.
• Oversee qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, ensuring adherence to best practices and ethical standards.
• Synthesize research findings to inform design decisions and improve user experience and interface outcomes.
• Facilitate stakeholder engagement and consensus-building through clear communication and data-driven narratives.
• Guide usability testing and iteration processes to validate design solutions and optimize customer interactions.
• Foster continuous improvement by evaluating research processes and integrating emerging methods.

What you'll bring

• Extensive experience in qualitative and quantitative design research methodologies, including usability testing and data analysis techniques.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage stakeholder engagement effectively across varied business environments.
• Strong expertise in user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design principles to inform research strategies and outcomes.
• Demonstrated skill in synthesizing research findings to influence product and technology decisions aligned with business objectives.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to build consensus and present insights clearly to varied audiences.
• Strategic mindset with a track record of driving continuous improvement and innovation in research processes.

At Walmart, we offer competitive pay as well as performance-based bonus awards and other great benefits for a happier mind, body, and wallet.

Health benefits include medical, vision and dental coverage.

Financial benefits include 401(k), stock purchase and company-paid life insurance.

Paid time off benefits include PTO (including sick leave), parental leave, family care leave, bereavement, jury duty, and voting.

Other benefits include short-term and long-term disability, company discounts, Military Leave Pay, adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement, and more.

You will also receive PTO and/or PPTO that can be used for vacation, sick leave, holidays, or other purposes. The amount you receive depends on your job classification and length of employment. It will meet or exceed the requirements of paid sick leave laws, where applicable.

For information about PTO, see https://one.walmart.com/notices

Live Better U is a Walmart-paid education benefit program for full-time and part-time associates in Walmart and Sam's Club facilities. Programs range from high school completion to bachelor's degrees, including English Language Learning and short-form certificates. Tuition, books, and fees are completely paid for by Walmart.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to a specific plan or program terms.

For information about benefits and eligibility, see One.Walmart.

The annual salary range for this position is $130,000.00 - $260,000.00. Additional compensation includes annual or quarterly performance bonuses. Additional compensation for certain positions may also include :

• Stock

Minimum Qualifications...

Option 1: Bachelor's degree in UI/UX design, graphic design, visual communication, product design, computer science, information technology, or related area and 6 years’ experience in market research, business analysis, UX design research, or related area.
Option 2: 8 years' experience in market research, business analysis, UX design research, or related area.
3 years' supervisory experience.
As permitted by applicable law, provide evidence of full vaccination as defined by CDC guidelines OR secure approval of medical or religious accommodation for the vaccination mandate.

Preferred Qualifications...

Driving product development in a design research area, Market Research, Business Analysis, UX Design Research, or related area, Master's degree in UI/UX Design, Interactive and Visual Design, Product Design, or related area, Related industry experience (for example, retail, supply chain, eCommerce, healthcare), Research or design certification (for example, IDEOU - Foundations in Design Thinking Certificate), We value candidates with a background in creating inclusive digital experiences, demonstrating knowledge in implementing Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2 AA standards, assistive technologies, and integrating digital accessibility seamlessly. The ideal candidate would have knowledge of accessibility best practices and join us as we continue to create accessible products and services following Walmart’s accessibility standards and guidelines for supporting an inclusive culture.

Primary Location...

1601 SE 10th St, Bentonville, AR 72716, United States of America Walmart and its subsidiaries are committed to maintaining a drug-free workplace and has a no tolerance policy regarding the use of illegal drugs and alcohol on the job. This policy applies to all employees and aims to create a safe and productive work environment.

Walmart is committed to maintaining a drug-free workplace and has a no tolerance policy regarding the use of illegal drugs and alcohol on the job. This policy applies to all employees and aims to create a safe and productive work environment.

Benefits you’ll enjoy

Discount Card

Get 10% off

Walmart associates are eligible for a 10% discount card on most regular-priced items and fresh produce in-store and on select items at Walmart.com. Eligible after 90 days of employment.

Live Better U

100% covered

Earn a degree or in-demand skills certificates with no debt- Walmart covers 100% of tuition and books. Live Better U offers 60+ programs for Associates to pursue their dreams.

Ready to grow your career? Walmart Academy offers job-specific retail training and leadership courses to help Associates reach their career goals.

Enjoy 401(k) matching and stock purchase plans.

Paid time off

Take a break as needed for vacation, sick leave, holidays, parental leave, and more

Medical, dental, vision, and wellness programs for you and your family

Access mental health resources and assistance programs for life’s challenges

Training, leadership programs, and clear paths to advance.

Imagine a workplace surrounded by innovation.At Walmart’s new Home Office in Bentonville, Arkansas, we’re redefining what it means to work at a global leader.

Set on 350 acres of thoughtfully revitalized land, our new campus seamlessly integrates the charm of Northwest Arkansas with cutting edge design and technology. From biking trails and outdoor courtyards to flexible, tech-enabled workspaces, every detail reflects our commitment to sustainability, connection, and culture.

With amenities like on-site childcare at our Little Squiggles Children’s Enrichment Center, the Walton Family Whole Health & Fitness Center, and a vibrant food hall featuring local and international favorites, we’re creating a space where work-life balance isn’t just a goal—it’s a reality.

Beyond the campus, Bentonville offers a dynamic lifestyle with world-class dining, art at the Crystal Bridges Museum, and countless outdoor activities.

Whether you’re exploring High South cuisine, enjoying live performances at our new amphitheater, or cycling the Razorback Greenway, you’ll experience the perfect blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities.

Join us at Walmart and grow your career alongside a community that feels like home.

This isn’t just a workplace—it’s a destination for leaders eager to make a difference.