User Research Moderator
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Job Type: Contract
Company: IDR
Category: All Other
Job Description Apply Now
The User Research Moderator position presents a dynamic opportunity for professionals passionate about enhancing the development of games and digital products through well-executed research practices. In this full-time role, you will play a crucial part in facilitating both in-person and virtual playtests and usability studies, ensuring that all sessions are conducted in a neutral, unbiased manner while capturing actionable feedback from participants. Working closely with multidisciplinary teams, your contributions directly influence the quality and success of game and product releases. The collaborative environment offers the chance to work alongside seasoned researchers and operations staff, fostering growth and learning within a supportive, team-oriented culture.
As a User Research Moderator, you will be responsible for managing the end-to-end process of playtest sessions and usability studies. This includes planning, preparation, execution, and documentation. Your ability to engage participants, maintain focus on study objectives, and synthesize player insights is essential for driving meaningful product iterations. This position is based in Los Angeles, CA and offers a blend of remote and on-site work, providing flexibility and exposure to a variety of research methodologies and participant groups. The organization values adaptability, as the role may require working evenings or weekends to accommodate diverse research schedules.
In this capacity, your primary focus will be on facilitating unbiased discussions with participants during research sessions, accurately capturing detailed notes, tagging themes, and contributing to the development of topline insights that inform product teams. You will be responsible for ensuring that session logistics are meticulously managed. This encompasses preparing study materials, conducting technical checks, onboarding participants, and troubleshooting real-time issues that may arise during sessions. Effective communication, both verbal and written, is vital for this position, as is the capacity to work efficiently in fast-paced, evolving environments.
The ideal candidate for the User Research Moderator role will bring at least two years of relevant experience in user research, playtest moderation, or focus group facilitation. Proficiency with survey tools such as Qualtrics or SurveyMonkey is highly desirable, as these platforms are integral to data collection and analysis. A Bachelor’s degree in a related field is required, ensuring foundational knowledge and skillsets pertinent to the role. The organization seeks individuals who are detail-oriented, organized, and adept at managing multiple priorities simultaneously.
Beyond the technical responsibilities, the User Research Moderator position offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance. The company is recognized for its employee-centric culture and commitment to professional development, as evidenced by its long-standing industry reputation and multiple awards for excellence in staffing and client service. Employees also benefit from programs such as Employee Stock Ownership, further aligning personal and organizational success.
Working in Los Angeles, CA provides access to a thriving technology and entertainment hub, offering unique opportunities for career advancement within the gaming and product development industries. The area is known for its vibrant professional community and ample resources for continued learning and growth.
Take the next step in your career by applying for the User Research Moderator position. Join a team that values your expertise, fosters inclusiveness, and supports your professional journey. Click the application button to submit your credentials and become part of a forward-thinking organization dedicated to innovation in research and product development.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. IDR is subject to certain governmental recordkeeping and reporting requirements for the administration of civil rights laws and regulations. In order to comply with these laws, we invite employees to voluntarily self-identify their race or ethnicity, gender, and veteran status (if applicable). Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide it will not subject you to any adverse treatment. The information obtained will be kept confidential and may only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders, and regulations, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement. You may access this form here.
User Research Moderator - Summary- Facilitates both in-person and remote research sessions for game and product development.
- Works collaboratively within a team-oriented, inclusive environment.
- Operates in a fast-paced setting in Los Angeles, CA.
- Supports the collection and analysis of valuable user feedback to inform product improvements.
- Lead and moderate usability studies and playtests, ensuring discussions remain unbiased and productive.
- Document detailed notes, tag feedback themes, and contribute to research summaries.
- Coordinate session logistics, including materials, technical setup, and participant onboarding.
- Collaborate with research and operations teams to align on objectives and address any issues during sessions.
- Adapt to flexible schedules, including evenings and weekends as needed.
- Competitive compensation package.
- Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
- Employee Stock Ownership Program.
- Access to professional development in a renowned, award-winning organization.
- Minimum of 2 years’ experience in user research, playtest moderation, or focus group facilitation.
- Familiarity with survey software such as Qualtrics or SurveyMonkey.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills with a neutral facilitation approach.
- Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage logistics efficiently.
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field required.
- Proven ability to facilitate clear, unbiased discussions in research settings.
- Effective at multitasking and adapting to fast-changing research priorities.
- Enthusiastic about collaborating with cross-functional teams.
- Comfortable working flexible hours to support research needs.
- Opportunity to contribute to industry-leading projects within a supportive and growth-oriented company.
- Work in Los Angeles, CA, a vibrant center for technology and entertainment innovation.
- Inclusive employer committed to diversity, equity, and professional advancement.
- Apply now by clicking the job application button to join a thriving research team and advance your career!