Design Research Specialist

We are currently looking for a Research Specialist to join our team in Holland, MI.     

We are seeking a strategic and curious Design Thinking Research Specialist to lead human-centered research that shapes innovative workplace experiences. This role involves conducting studies, running focus groups, synthesizing insights, and delivering actionable recommendations. You'll apply design thinking to uncover user needs, analyze workspace trends, and embed the voice of the customer into product and experience development.

Job Responsibilities

• 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/without accommodation.
• Uses office automation, communication, software, and tools used in Haworth office environment.
• Performs other duties within scope as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree or equivalent in Human-Centered Design, Design Strategy, Behavioral Science, UX Research, Market Research, Interactive Design, or similar relevant field of study
• Education Equivalency: Associate's Degree plus 2 years additioanl Design Research or UX experience OR 4 years additional Design Research or UX experience if no post-secondary education
• 2 years of Design Research or UX research experience
• Applicant must include a hyperlink to a portfolio, sample research report or writing examples that demonstrate the applicant’s skills and abilities within research.  These samples should demonstrate your ability to visualize and communicate data or a graphic of an insight or research process.
• Military Equivalency at www.mynextmove.org/vets/find/military
• Applicants must be able to work in Holland, without relocation assistance
• Applicants must possess an unrestricted right to work in the US to be eligible for this position
• Must be able to work onsite at the Holland Headquarters 

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