Principal, Design Researcher

Walmart Walmart · Retail · Bentonville, AR

The Principal Design Researcher will shape and enhance the Associate journey by leading initiatives focused on improving belonging, engagement, and workplace culture using data-driven insights and strategic programs. This role involves designing and implementing listening programs and leveraging digital tools and platforms to foster a positive work environment. The candidate will collaborate with cross-functional teams, including HR, leadership, Engineering, Product, and Operations, and is expected to have experience with Experience Management Platforms and demonstrate curiosity with AI tools.

What you'd actually do

  1. Develop and implement a comprehensive Associate Experience strategy that aligns with business goals and enhances Associate belonging, engagement, and retention.
  2. Lead efforts to measure and improve belonging and engagement through surveys and a wide variety of always-on feedback channels across the global company.
  3. Design and execute listening initiatives that enhance the Associate Experience.
  4. Evaluate and implement digital tools and platforms that enhance communication, collaboration, and engagement among Associates.
  5. Work with HR, leadership, and business teams to ensure alignment of Associate Experience initiatives with broader organizational objectives.

Skills

Required

  • Masters or PhD degree in I/O Psychology, Organizational Behavior, Marketing Research, or a related field.
  • 10+ years of experience in employee experience, customer experience, organizational development, or a related function.
  • Strong proficiency and experience with Experience Management Platforms: Familiarity with industry-standard Experience Management tools, such as Qualtrics, NICE, Verint, Medallia, or similar platforms.
  • Adaptability: Experience leading large-scale, global programs in a high-growth, fast-paced organization with a strong focus on innovation and continuous improvement.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Proven track record of working effectively across departments and functions, particularly in coordinating with Engineering, Product, and Operations.
  • Strategic Thinking: Ability to simplify complex problems, think big, and develop scalable listening programs and solutions that align with Walmart's people-led, tech-powered strategy.
  • Bachelor's degree in UI/UX design, graphic design, visual communication, product design, computer science, information technology, or related area and 5 years’ experience in market research, business analysis, UX design research, or related area.
  • 7 years' experience in market research, business analysis, UX design research, or related area.

Nice to have

  • Advanced Analytical Skills: Proficiency in advanced data analysis techniques and tools (e.g., SPSS, R, Python, SQL) is a plus.
  • Driving product development in a design research area, Market Research, Business Analysis, UX Design Research, or related area, Master

What the JD emphasized

  • Experience Management Platforms
  • AI tools to support work-related tasks