User Researcher (Temporary) - Activision

Activision•Los Angeles, CA

7d•Onsite

About The Position

Activision is seeking a passionate and experienced User Researcher for a temporary role to conduct user research on their renowned franchises. The primary focus will be on testing Single Player games to assess player sentiment and usability. This position is based in the Sherman Oaks office and requires an onsite work schedule of three days per week (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday), with potential for adjustments based on business needs. The role involves all stages of research, from planning to execution, and requires presenting findings to development teams and offering design suggestions.

Requirements

Professional experience with applied user research and product evaluation.
Experience managing stakeholder needs and expectations within a development context.
Experience with and passion for video games is a must, and an ideal candidate will be well versed in at least one of Activision’s titles.
Bachelor’s degree required (computer science, statistics, branches of psychology, human computer interaction, human factors, information technology, or related field).
Professional time and project management skills.
2-5 years of experience conducting user research for video games.
A passion for video games, especially single player adventure games.
Strong organizational and analytical skills.
Professional expertise in qualitative research methods.
Excellent interpersonal communication (both written and verbal).

Nice To Haves

Experience with user testing of third-person games on console or PC is a plus.
Experience in inferential statistical analysis methods is a plus.
Knowledge of data visualization software is a plus.
Familiarity with quantitative research methods is a plus.
Familiarity with use of telemetric methods and tools is a plus.
Interest in advancing the state of practice in biometrics, telemetry, modeling, or other emergent areas in user research is a plus.
Advanced degree is preferred.

Responsibilities

Conducts and oversees user research for at least one project under the direction of a manager, including all stages from planning to execution.
Carries out research using a variety of methods, including, but not limited to: usability testing, appreciation playtesting, balance testing, focus group moderation, interviewing, survey creation, heuristic evaluation, card sorting, exploratory research, and field studies.
Crafts and edits actionable reports and surveys.
Presents/communicates summarized research results directly to development teams for discussion and future implementation.
Offers occasional design suggestions based on observation, research, and expertise.
Occasionally travels to run on-site tests or to act as research expert.