User Experience Researcher - Defense Aviation Logistics

SteerBridge Strategies is a modern technology company delivering innovative, mission‑focused solutions to the U.S. Government and private sector. Leveraging deep expertise in federal acquisition, digital transformation, and emerging technologies, we deliver agile, commercial‑grade capabilities that accelerate operational effectiveness and drive measurable mission success.At the core of SteerBridge is our people—especially the veterans whose leadership, problem‑solving mindset, and commitment to excellence elevate every project we support. We don’t simply hire exceptional talent; we cultivate it, creating meaningful career pathways for veterans, military spouses, and professionals who share our passion for advancing technology and strengthening the missions we serve.POSITION OVERVIEWWe are seeking a UX Researcher to support a mission-critical Defense Aviation Logistics application used by federal customers. This role focuses on deep user research, usability validation, and workflow optimization. SteerBridge applies proven design patterns such as Medallion Architecture to structure, validate, and operationalize data within mission-critical aviation analytics platforms. The UX researcher will play a critical role in ensuring these architectural patterns translate into clear, usable, and decision-ready experiences for operators working in high-consequence environments.The UX Researcher will primarily focus on aviation readiness, fleet sustainment, maintenance, and supply chains. The role will support operational planning systems supporting users that include aviation maintainers, logisticians, planners, and key decision makers operating under time pressure and incomplete information. This will be a hybrid position based out of Vienna, VA.BenefitsHealth insuranceDental insuranceVision insuranceLife Insurance401(k) Retirement Plan with matchingPaid Time OffPaid Federal HolidaysKEY RESPONSIBILITIESPlan and conduct qualitative and quantitative research (interviews, contextual inquiries, diary studies, surveys).Collaborate with engineering and data teams to ensure architectural patterns and system constraints are accurately reflected in user workflows and decision-support experiences.Design and execute usability testing on prototypes and production systems.Analyze research findings and synthesize insights into actionable recommendations.Develop personas, journey maps, and task flows.Support information architecture and workflow design.Collaborate with designers, product owners, engineers, SMEs, and leadership.Conduct competitor and domain research to inform design decisions.REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS3+ years UX Research or Human Factors experienceStrong command of UX research methodologiesExperience with complex, regulated, or enterprise systemsAbility to translate complex data into clear insights.PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONSExperience with aviation, defense, fleet management, or logistics systemsTools & ArtifactsFigma, FigJam, or similar collaboration toolsUX research platforms (e.g., UserTesting, Qualtrics, Optimal Workshop)Documentation tools for research readouts and product artifacts$115,000 - $135,000 a yearAnnually, commensurate with experience and location.USE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCESteerBridge Strategies may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support portions of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications or analyzing resumes. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. All final hiring decisions are made by humans.SteerBridge Strategies is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where all qualified applicants and employees are treated with respect and dignity—regardless of race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law.We also provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities in accordance with applicable laws. If you require assistance during the application process, we encourage you to reach out so we can support your needs.We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.