Staff Design Researcher (AI)

TL;DR

Staff Design Researcher (AI): Leading end-to-end research for Horizon 3 innovation projects with an accent on validating breakthrough product concepts in AI, ML, and emerging technologies. Focus on driving structured experimentation, de-risking unproven ideas, and shaping the future of the enterprise technology landscape.

Location: Remote (US only). Not eligible for hire in San Francisco, Oakland, San Jose, or surrounding areas.

Salary: $141,520–$208,000 (varies by location).

Company

Twilio is a global leader in cloud communications, empowering developers and businesses to build personalized customer experiences through innovative software solutions.

What you will do

• Define and lead end-to-end qualitative and quantitative research for early-stage, exploratory projects.
• Provide strategic frameworks that connect research insights to business and product strategy.
• Distill complex data into actionable narratives for senior leadership and cross-functional teams.
• Collaborate with Product and Design to rapidly test hypotheses via prototypes and MVPs.
• Act as a primary customer advocate to ensure solutions meet future market needs.

Requirements

• 5+ years of experience in design or user research, preferably in innovation or new product development.
• Proven track record of leading ambiguous, zero-to-one research programs in high-growth tech environments.
• Mastery of diverse research methods, including ethnography, contextual inquiry, and rapid concept validation.
• Exceptional communication and storytelling skills with strong executive presence.
• Must be based in the United States (excluding San Francisco Bay Area).
• Bachelor’s or advanced degree in HCI, Design, Psychology, Anthropology, or related field.

Nice to have

• Experience working with AI/ML technology and customer engagement platforms.
• Background in trust, security, or fraud prevention.
• Experience guiding innovation in multi-sided platform environments.

Culture & Benefits

• Competitive pay and equity participation.
• Comprehensive healthcare, 401(k) retirement savings, and wellness programs.
• Generous time off, parental leave, and wellness leave.
• Remote-first culture with a focus on global inclusion and connection.
• Support for community impact and volunteering initiatives.