Lead UX Researcher for Emerging Experiences

Company Overview

Join a dynamic team at Disney Entertainment and ESPN Product & Technology where technology drives creativity and innovation. We are a global collective of engineers, product developers, designers, and data scientists advancing Disney's media business. Together, we build world-class products that enhance storytelling and deliver unforgettable experiences.

About the Role

We are seeking a passionate Lead UX Researcher for Emerging Experiences to shape future interactions with Disney+. In this influential role, you will lead exploratory and evaluative research across cutting-edge technologies, including immersive experiences. Collaborating with Product, Design, and Engineering teams, your insights will directly inform product strategy and innovation.

What You'll Do

• Lead comprehensive research programs for emerging technologies like XR, spatial computing, and multi-device ecosystems.
• Work closely with design and product leaders to establish research agendas aligned with business goals.
• Employ creative generative methods to uncover user needs and transform them into actionable insights.
• Conduct usability assessments in immersive environments to evaluate comfort and engagement.
• Craft compelling narratives from research findings to influence decision-making at all levels.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to navigate feasibility and inform iterative product testing.
• Partner with data scientists to enrich qualitative insights with quantitative data.
• Mentor junior researchers and designers in effective research methodologies and storytelling.
• Advocate for inclusivity and accessibility, ensuring technologies provide welcoming experiences for all users.

What To Bring

• 10+ years of hands-on experience in UX Research, Human Factors, or a related field, with a compelling portfolio of impactful studies.
• A Bachelor's degree and/or relevant work experience.
• Diverse expertise in both qualitative and quantitative research methods tailored to specific questions.
• Proven experience with user research in emerging tech domains (XR/VR/AR, spatial computing).
• A strong record of using research to steer product direction and strategy.
• Exceptional storytelling and synthesis abilities to make complex insights accessible.
• Comfort in ambiguity and creativity in designing research for uncharted territories.
• Deep empathy for users, translating their emotions and behaviors into design opportunities.
• Experience mentoring teams in advancing UX Research practices.

Bonus Points

• Advanced degree in a relevant field (Human-Computer Interaction, Cognitive Psychology, etc.).
• Familiarity with biometrics, eye-tracking technology, or spatial analytics.
• Experience with XR prototyping tools like Unity or Unreal.
• History of collaboration with creative or content-driven product teams.

The hiring range for this position in Santa Monica, CA, is $167,700.00 to $224,900.00 per year, and in San Francisco, CA is $183,700.00 to $246,400.00 per year. Compensation will consider internal equity and may vary based on the candidate's geographic region, skills, and experience. A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may accompany the compensation package alongside full benefits.

Location

Santa Monica, CA, USA

Date Posted

2025-11-10