Usability Researcher

Usability Researcher (Contract)

Please note that this is a contract role providing services to Microsoft through external staffing partners of Allegis Global Solutions. If you are selected for this role, you will be employed by AGS and will not be an employee of Microsoft.

Summary:

We are seeking a talented and motivated Usability Researcher to join a dynamic research and development team focused on enhancing the user experience of productivity software applications. In this role, you will play a critical part in understanding how users interact with cutting-edge AI-powered features embedded within widely used productivity tools. You will design and execute end-to-end research studies using both qualitative and quantitative methods, synthesize findings into clear and actionable insights, and collaborate closely with designers, product managers, engineers, and applied scientists to drive meaningful improvements to the user experience. This is a fast-paced environment where agility, ownership, and the ability to move quickly from research question to delivered insight are essential to success.

Job Responsibilities:

• Design and conduct end-to-end usability research studies, including planning, execution, analysis, and reporting, often within compressed timelines of one to two weeks

• Apply a mixed-methods approach, leveraging qualitative techniques such as interviews and moderated/unmoderated testing alongside quantitative methods including surveys and benchmark studies

• Collaborate with designers, product managers, engineers, applied scientists, and marketing teams to identify research questions and translate findings into actionable product improvements

• Collect, synthesize, and communicate research insights with clarity and actionability tailored to the needs of cross-functional product teams

• Conduct competitive analysis to understand the competitive landscape, user perceptions, and experience benchmarks across comparable products

• Measure the effectiveness of existing and proposed user experiences for product features, with a focus on AI-powered functionality

• Leverage AI tools to support and accelerate research workflows, including prompt crafting and output verification to ensure accuracy and reliability

• Devise and evaluate data collection methods and procedures, including surveys, interviews, and unmoderated testing protocols

• Manage research projects independently, including organizing timelines, coordinating stakeholders, and delivering results on schedule
  

Requirements:

• 1–2 years of experience with UX benchmark research methodologies

• 1–2 years of experience in qualitative research, including interviews, moderated testing, and observational methods

• 1–2 years of experience in project management, research planning, and study coordination

• Demonstrated experience applying quantitative research methods in a UX or product research context

• Experience conducting competitive analysis and synthesizing findings into strategic recommendations

• Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD degree in Human-Computer Interaction, Computer Science, Psychology, or a related field — Master's or PhD preferred

• Equivalent combination of education and practical training will be considered

• Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to present research insights clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences

• Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and own research projects from start to finish

• Proficiency in both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies with a balanced, mixed-methods approach

• Experience with UX benchmark research and the ability to interpret and apply benchmark data to product decisions

• Ability to understand and conduct research on technically complex software products

• Comfort and experience using AI tools for productivity and research purposes, including the ability to craft effective prompts and critically evaluate AI-generated outputs

• Strong project management, organizational, and planning skills with the ability to operate with agility in a fast-moving environment

• Interpersonal and collaboration skills with the ability to work effectively across multidisciplinary teams
  
  

Additional Details:

• Location: Remote

• Duration: 5 months

• Pay Range*: $39 - $44 per hour

• Weekly Schedule: 40 hours

• Job Status: Non-Exempt

• Application Deadline: Apply within 72 hours of the posting date to ensure consideration.

This role is eligible for the following benefits:

• Medical, dental & vision

• Hospital plans

• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available

• Life Insurance (Company paid Basic Life and AD&D as well as voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)

• Company paid short and long-term disability

• Health & Dependent Care Spending Accounts (HSA & DCFSA)

• Employee Assistance Program

• Time Off/Leave(PTO, Allegis Group Paid Family Leave, Parental Leave

Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms.

AGS is an Equal Opportunity Employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you require a reasonable accommodation related to the application or interview process due to a disability, please email accommodation@allegisglobalsolutions.com. This inbox is monitored solely for accommodation requests. For questions about open roles or to apply, please submit your application through the job posting, as this inbox is not monitored by recruiters and applications sent here will not be reviewed.

In accordance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, employment is contingent upon verification of identity and authorization to work in the United States. All persons hired will be required to complete Form I-9 and provide acceptable documentation as required by law.

Please note that we may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to screen, assess, or select applicants for this position. These tools may analyze application materials and assist our team in identifying candidates whose qualifications best match the requirements of the role. If you have questions about our use of AI in the hiring process, or would like more information, please contact us.

*We reserve the right to pay above or below the posted wage based on factors unrelated to protected classifications.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Salary : $39 - $44