Human Factors Engineer, Usability

GM • Milford, MI

1d

About The Position

The Human Factors Usability Research Engineer is responsible for evaluating in-vehicle systems to ensure they are effective, efficient, satisfying, and safe for drivers and passengers. Research may span screen‑based interfaces, physical controls, interior features, multimodal interactions, and emerging vehicle experiences. In this role, you will independently plan, execute, analyze, and report on human factors usability studies using a variety of methodologies, including mini‑simulators, on‑road evaluations, proving‑ground track testing, and occasional remote/online platforms. You will collaborate closely with requestors to clarify needs and translate them into unbiased, scientifically valid research projects that support informed decision‑making. Success requires a strong foundation in human factors theory, mixed‑methods research, and statistical analysis, as well as the ability to influence cross‑functional partners in Design/HMI, Product, and Safety while creating clarity in ambiguous or rapidly evolving product space.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Factors, Human‑Computer Interaction, Cognitive/Experimental Psychology, Engineering (with HF/HMI focus), or related field; Master’s preferred.
• 2–5 years of professional experience planning, executing, and analyzing human factors research (simulator, on‑road, track, or analogous applied environments).
• Demonstrated mixed‑methods capability with proven use of statistical data analysis (R, Python, SPSS, or Minitab).
• Clear application of human factors theory to real‑world interface development; ability to translate findings into prioritized, actionable design/product recommendations.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills with Design/HMI, Product, and Safety; proven ability to influence decisions with evidence.
• Excellent organization and time management; ability to manage multiple concurrent studies independently.

Nice To Haves

• Exposure to eye‑tracking, simulator and/or VR tools for data collection.
• Familiarity with usability principles and human‑centered design standards.
• Experience applying driver‑distraction principles and metrics to UI designs.
• Automotive product experience or analogous work.

Responsibilities

• Plan, design, and conduct human factors usability studies across static, simulator, track, and on‑road environments.
• Select appropriate research tools and methods to maximize internal and external validity.
• Apply human factors theory (cognition, perception, ergonomics, human‑system interaction) to evaluate digital / physical designs and provide actionable research guidance.
• Use mixed‑methods approaches—task analysis, structured observations, interviews, surveys, and behavioral measures—paired with statistical techniques such as experimental design, hypothesis testing, ANOVA/regression, and nonparametric analyses.
• Define performance and usability metrics; develop study plans; moderate sessions; analyze data using tools such as R or Minitab; and synthesize findings into clear, decision‑ready reports for technical and non-technical audiences.
• Collaborate with Design/HMI to review and iterate UI flows and prototypes (e.g., Figma); partner with Product on requirements and roadmaps; and work with Safety to ensure evidence aligns with internal criteria.
• Conduct competitive benchmarking and apply heuristic/principle‑based evaluations to identify risks, usability gaps, and opportunities.
• Perform driver‑distraction testing using predetermined methods and criteria.
• Contribute to best practices and support the integration of Human Readiness Levels (HRL) to communicate feature maturity and evidence progression through development phases.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level