Lead UX Researcher

About the Role

Starbucks is seeking a Lead User Experience Researcher to join the team and collaborate closely with designers, product managers, and business partners. This role involves conducting a range of research activities—exploratory, formative, and evaluative—that support confident decision-making across teams. The ideal candidate will be a self-driven detailed professional capable of leading significant research initiatives, adapting quickly to shifting priorities, and working effectively with cross-functional groups. Strong communication skills and alignment with Starbucks's mission and values are essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide consultative guidance across design and product teams at multiple organizational levels to identify research priorities and plan studies for both generative and evaluative objectives.
• Lead full-cycle research projects and facilitate the team's experience through each phase.
• Utilize diverse qualitative research methods, alongside selected quantitative approaches, to uncover user insights.
• Create and deliver research tools and artifacts such as personas, frameworks, use cases, design principles, and scenarios to empower designers, product managers, and business stakeholders.
• Effectively communicate findings, tailoring presentations to various audiences through compelling storytelling and creative formats.
• Secure leadership endorsement by connecting research outcomes to business goals and quantifying value.
• Champion the dissemination and visibility of user insights company-wide through innovative presentation and evangelism.
• Develop educational materials, processes, and experiences to support and expand the UX Research discipline within the organization.

Experience and Skills Required

• At least 6 years of experience conducting research focused on software and digital user experiences.
• Over 2 years experience managing large-scale research initiatives and influencing product roadmaps.
• Proficiency with various qualitative research techniques such as concept testing, ethnographic-style fieldwork, group discussions, card sorting, participatory workshops, and remote studies.
• Demonstrated ability to design, administer, and analyze quantitative survey data.
• Exceptional skills in communication, presentation, and writing.
• Proven history of building successful collaborations with product managers, designers, analysts, engineers, business leaders, and executives.
• Experience leading remote research studies is required.

Benefits and Perks

• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life insurance (basic and supplemental), and voluntary insurance offerings for employees and their families.
• Access to disability coverage (short-term and long-term), paid parental leave, family expansion reimbursements, paid vacation accrued from the date of hire, sick leave, paid holidays, and personal days annually.
• Participation options in a 401(k) retirement plan with employer match, discounted company stock purchase program, equity opportunities, emergency savings incentives, and financial well-being services.
• Education benefits including full tuition coverage for a first bachelor’s degree through an online university program, student loan management support, and other educational opportunities.
• Additional perks such as backup care and DACA reimbursement.
• Vacation accrual policies vary by state, with maximum accruals detailed according to role and location.

Equal Opportunity and Accommodation

Starbucks is an equal opportunity employer that ensures fair employment consideration regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristics. The company also accommodates applicants with disabilities and provides contact information for assistance.