UX Researcher
SOC 15-1255.00 · ESCO 2166 · OSCA 273239
Role snapshot
Overview
Plans and conducts studies with real users to understand their needs, frustrations, and behaviours. Synthesises interview transcripts, survey results, and usability test recordings into insights that directly influence design and product decisions, ensuring user-centered development.
Ensures product development is grounded in user needs, reducing risk, improving usability, and increasing user satisfaction and adoption.
On the job
- Design and execute research studies (interviews, surveys, usability tests, field studies)
- Recruit and screen participants for research studies
- Analyze qualitative and quantitative data to identify user behaviours, needs, and pain points
- Create research reports, presentations, and user personas to communicate findings and recommendations
- Collaborate with product managers, designers, and engineers to integrate research insights into product strategy and design
Tools & technology
Average salary
Job outlook
GrowingJob growth is expected to be above average over the next five years.
Education & training
Bachelor's or Master's degree in Human-Computer Interaction, Psychology, Sociology, Anthropology, or a related field is often preferred.
Career pathways
WHERE YOU COULD GO
CURRENT ROLE
UX Researcher
Product & UX
ADJACENT MOVES
STARTING POINTS
Who thrives here
Interest profile
investigative · IAC
Individuals who enjoy investigating complex problems, analyzing data, and creatively communicating insights to influence product direction tend to excel in this role.
Personality characteristics
Curious
Genuinely interested in understanding human behaviour and asking 'why' to uncover root causes of user problems.
Methodical
Approaches research systematically, ensuring rigor in data collection, analysis, and interpretation.
Collaborative
Enjoys working closely with diverse teams and presenting findings effectively to influence product decisions.
Empathetic
Deeply understands and relates to users' experiences, frustrations, and needs to advocate for them in product development.
Resilient
Can handle ambiguity, unexpected research outcomes, and constructive criticism without becoming discouraged.
Best for
- People who are driven by curiosity and a desire to understand user motivations and pain points.
- Individuals who enjoy both qualitative and quantitative analysis and storytelling with data.
- Those who thrive in cross-functional teams and can advocate effectively for the user.
Watch out for
- Requires a high degree of patience and attention to detail in planning and executing research.
- Can involve managing multiple stakeholders with differing priorities and expectations for research outcomes.
A week in the life
A representative working week for a UX Researcher — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.
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