Principal UX Researcher

At [REDACTED], we're on a bold mission to subsea data using innovative technology.

Using cutting-edge robotics, autonomous technology and world-class software, we're transforming how complex operations are carried out at sea. Our uncrewed systems are making ocean exploration and operations safer, smarter and more sustainable, helping unlock the vast potential of our oceans while reducing environmental impact. 🌍

This isn't a vision for the future. It's happening right now.

As we continue to push the boundaries of innovation and redefine what's possible in the maritime industry, we're looking for exceptional talent to join our fast-growing team.

[REDACTED] is seeking a Principal UX Researcher to lead and evolve user research strategy across our products, platforms and operational systems.

Partnering closely with Product, Engineering, AI, Hardware and Operations teams, you'll uncover user needs, analyse complex workflows and identify the problems worth solving before solutions take shape. Your insights will directly influence product strategy, engineering decisions and the development of intuitive, scalable experiences across marine robotics, autonomous systems, remote operations and data-driven platforms.

As the organisation's UX research expert, you'll champion user-centred thinking at every stage of the product lifecycle, helping shape technologies that perform in complex real-world environments. This is a highly visible, cross-functional role requiring strategic vision, strong stakeholder influence and the ability to thrive in fast-paced, technically challenging settings.

Requirements

What you will do! 🚀

• Lead UX research strategy across [REDACTED]’s products, platforms and operational systems.
• Conduct qualitative and quantitative research to uncover user needs, behaviours and workflow challenges.
• Partner with Product, Engineering, AI, Operations and Design teams to shape user-centred products and experiences.
• Translate complex technical and operational processes into actionable insights and product recommendations
• Drive research across autonomy platforms, robotics interfaces, mission systems and data products.
• Build trusted relationships with users, operational teams, engineers and customers to understand real-world challenges.
• Lead end-to-end research projects and embed evidence-based decision making across teams.
• Establish scalable research frameworks, best practices and repositories to mature research capabilities.
• Advocate for user-centred design and support teams in turning insights into meaningful product improvements.
• Influence product strategy, roadmap planning and prioritisation while identifying usability risks and adoption challenges early.
• Mentor colleagues and champion research excellence across the organisation.

What we look for!🔍

• Significant experience in a Senior, Lead, Staff or Principal UX Research role, with a track record of defining research strategy in complex technology environments.
• Expert in qualitative and quantitative research methods, with experience across enterprise software, operational platforms or highly technical products.
• Naturally curious, analytical and collaborative, with the ability to uncover user needs and turn complex findings into clear, actionable insights.
• Skilled at influencing stakeholders and partnering closely with Product Managers, Engineers and Designers.
• Comfortable operating in ambiguity, balancing user needs, technical constraints and business priorities.
• Experienced in facilitating workshops, driving cross-functional collaboration and shaping product direction.
• Equally effective thinking strategically and delivering hands-on research execution.
• Excellent communication, presentation and problem-solving skills, with fluent written and spoken English.

Nice to have! ✨

• Experience within robotics, autonomy, AI, marine technology, aerospace, defence or industrial technology environments.
• Experience researching operational or mission-critical workflows.
• Familiarity with data-heavy platforms, geospatial systems or remote operations.
• Experience with ResearchOps and scaling research functions.
• Experience working within fast-scaling or transformation-focused organisations.
• Understanding of accessibility and inclusive design principles.
• Experience conducting field research within operational environments.

Benefits

Salary: £90,000 - £95,000