Video Games User Research Specialist

Our client is seeking a passionate User Research Specialist to support research efforts focused on creating intuitive, engaging, and user‑centric product experiences. You will be embedded within a collaborative User Experience organization, working closely with product, design, and development partners to ensure user insights directly inform decision‑making. This role is ideal for someone who is analytical, curious about user behavior, and energized by fast‑paced product environments. Job Title: User Research Specialist Location: Irvine, CA Contract Length: ongoing Pay Rate: $42 What's the Job? Responsibilities Plan and execute qualitative and quantitative user research studies to evaluate product usability, user experience, and feature effectiveness. Collaborate with cross‑functional partners including product managers, designers, and engineers to define research goals and align studies with project timelines. Prepare research materials, select appropriate methodologies, and manage logistics for studies including interviews, surveys, usability tests, and focus groups. Conduct moderated and unmoderated research sessions, ensuring high‑quality, reliable data collection. Analyze research findings to identify patterns, pain points, and opportunities for improvement. Translate research insights into clear, actionable recommendations that inform product development and iteration. Prepare and present research findings to stakeholders in a clear, compelling manner. Communicate research progress, timelines, and outcomes effectively to project teams. Manage multiple studies concurrently while meeting deadlines in a fast‑moving environment. What's Needed? Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Human‑Computer Interaction (HCI), Human Factors Engineering (HFE), Human‑Centered Design & Engineering (HCDE), or a related field; Master’s or PhD strongly preferred . Experience designing and conducting user research studies across qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Strong understanding of research methods, data analysis, and reporting techniques. Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to present findings to diverse audiences. Highly organized, detail‑oriented, and able to work independently. Comfortable operating in a fast‑paced, iterative product environment. Must be an avid gamer ; prior professional gaming research experience is highly preferred. Nice to have Experience conducting user research specifically within gaming or interactive entertainment. Familiarity with product development lifecycles. Advanced degree in a related research discipline. Strong analytical mindset with the ability to synthesize complex data into clear insights. What's in it for me? Opportunity to work on impactful projects that influence product design and user experience. Collaborative work environment with dedicated professionals committed to innovation. Engagement in a role that values your insights and expertise in user research. Potential for ongoing contract renewal based on project needs and performance. Competitive hourly pay rate aligned with your skills and experience. Upon completion of waiting period consultants are eligible for: Medical and Prescription Drug Plans Dental Plan Vision Plan Health Savings Account Health Flexible Spending Account Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account Supplemental Life Insurance Short Term and Long Term Disability Insurance Business Travel Insurance 401(k), Plus Match Weekly Pay If this is a role that interests you and you'd like to learn more, click apply now and a recruiter will be in touch with you to discuss this great opportunity. We look forward to speaking with you! About ManpowerGroup, Parent Company of: Manpower, Experis, Talent Solutions, and Jefferson Wells. ManpowerGroup® (NYSE: MAN), the leading global workforce solutions company, helps organizations transform in a fast‑changing world of work by sourcing, assessing, developing, and managing the talent that enables them to win. We develop innovative solutions for hundreds of thousands of organizations every year, providing them with skilled talent while finding meaningful, sustainable employment for millions of people across a wide range of industries and skills. Our expert family of brands – Manpower, Experis, Talent Solutions, and Jefferson Wells – creates substantial value for candidates and clients across more than 75 countries and territories and has done so for over 70 years. We are recognized consistently for our diversity – as a best place to work for Women, Inclusion, Equality and Disability and in 2023 ManpowerGroup was named one of the World's Most Ethical Companies for the 14th year – all confirming our position as the brand of choice for in‑demand talent. #J-18808-Ljbffr