Design Studio Research Specialist

About the role

We’re looking for a passionate Design Thinking Research Specialist to join a dynamic team driving end-to-end, human-centered research that shapes innovative workplace and product solutions. In this role, you’ll lead studies from strategy and design through execution, insight synthesis, and storytelling; uncovering meaningful user needs and translating them into actionable recommendations. You’ll explore everything from big-picture workplace trends to hands-on product usability, embedding the voice of the customer into every stage of development. Collaborating cross-functionally, you’ll help turn insights into impactful innovations that elevate user experience and drive product success.

Responsibilities

• Represent a Design Thinking mindset and process with ability to convert ideas into design insights working closely with Designers, Engineers, Business teams, and Marketing.
• Analyze research data, identify patterns and trends, and develop actionable insights to inform business decisions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including product management, marketing, and sales, to provide research support and insights.
• Conduct qualitative and quantitative research to identify market trends, customer and user needs, and competitive landscape.
• Manage small-scale research projects, including defining objectives, developing methodologies, and delivering results within budget and timeline.
• Communicate research findings and insights through clear and concise reports, storytelling, presentations, and visualizations.
• Provide market, customer and user research data and insights to support new product development, product positioning, and go-to-market strategies.
• Monitor industry publications, attend relevant conferences, and stay abreast of emerging trends and technologies and industry requirements.
• Must be able to perform all essential job functions with or without accommodation.
• Use office automation, communication, software, and tools used in Haworth office environment.
• Perform other duties within scope as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Design, UX design, Design Research, Behavioral, Organization Sciences, or similar field of study.
• Education Equivalency: Associate's Degree plus 2 years related experience OR 4 years related experience if no post-secondary education.
• 2+ years experience on a product design team, UX team or Research team.
• Ability to travel up to 10% of the time.
• Applicants must be able to work in Holland, MI without relocation assistance.
• Applicants must possess an unrestricted right to work in the US to be eligible for this position.
• Military Equivalency at www.mynextmove.org/vets/find/military.

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience leading or contributing to design thinking projects from discovery through prototyping and testing.
• Skilled in conducting qualitative research such as interviews, ethnographic studies, and contextual inquiries.
• Ability to synthesize research into actionable insights, including personas, journey maps, and service blueprints.
• Strong visual and storytelling skills to communicate user needs and research findings effectively.
• Comfortable presenting insights to senior stakeholders and influencing strategic decisions.
• Experience with usability research and human-centered design methods.
• Adept at navigating ambiguity, experimenting independently, and solving problems creatively.
• Collaborative team player who thrives in cross-functional environments and manages multiple projects simultaneously.
• Empathetic, open-minded, and receptive to feedback and diverse perspectives.
• Self-starter who enjoys variety, innovation, and working in R&D or fast-paced, evolving settings.
• Background in consulting, UX research, or design research—experience in the furniture industry.
• Formal training or certification in design thinking or related methodologies.

About Haworth

Headquartered in Holland, Michigan, Haworth is a family-owned global powerhouse at the forefront of innovation and sustainable design in the workspace interiors industry. Here, you'll have access to state-of-the-art resources, collaborate with cross-functional teams of passionate innovators, and experience a blend of global reach with personal growth opportunities. Whether you're developing new manufacturing processes, implementing smart factory solutions, or designing tomorrow's workspace solutions, you'll be empowered to make a lasting impact while growing your career. We believe in the power of collaboration and strive to create a culture where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to make a difference.

Benefits

• 20 Days Paid Time Off: Plus, the option to buy up to 5 extra days.
• Health Benefits: Priority Health Medical options, Delta Dental, and Vision Insurance.
• 401k Match: Contribute 6% of your annual salary, and Haworth will match up to 7%.
• Insurance Coverage: Company-provided Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, and Life Insurance.
• On-Site Gym: Well-equipped gym, open 24/7.
• Annual Bonus Programs
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Volunteer Time Off
• Parental Leave
• Pet Insurance
• Zero Waste to Landfill