User Researcher (Government)

User Researcher (Government)

Initial 3 month contract (chance of extension) - £600 per day (inside IR35) - Remote role, but applicant must be UK based

Our UK Government client has an immediate requirement for an User Researcher with a strong background working within UK Government, to join on an initial 3-month contract (with a chance of extension).

The successful applicant will plan, design and carry out research with users so the team develops a deep understanding of the people who use public services. Findings inform policy, proposition, service, content and interaction design so services work well for users and achieve the policy intent.

Due to client's requirements this role is paid monthly rather than weekly.

Key deliverables and responsibilities for the User Researcher (Government)

• Clear, usable research findings that teams and senior stakeholders act on, not reports left unread.
• Research that is inclusive, ethical and representative of the full range of service users, including those with access needs and vulnerable groups.
• Research Embedded in the delivery rhythm, timed to inform decisions in discovery, alpha, beta and live.
• Reduced delivery risk through early identification of unmet user needs and emerging behaviour.
• Define the scope and purpose of research, plan and conduct research projects, and choose methods appropriate to the service phase.
• Apply sound analysis and synthesis techniques, involve the team in analysis, and present findings colleagues can understand and use.
• Work with colleagues to include many kinds of users in research, and advocate inclusive and accessible practice.
• Design research so findings feed an agile workflow, and work with the different roles in a multidisciplinary team to plan and run it.
• Identify stakeholders, communicate with them clearly and regularly, and build consensus using evidence.
• Advocate for the user by sharing insight on needs and changing behaviour, and improve practice through reflection and feedback.
• Follow agreed standards for research ethics, consent, data protection and safeguarding.

Key skills required for the User Researcher (Government)

• User research methods, analysis and synthesis, inclusive research, agile research practices, stakeholder relationship management, research management and assurance, and user-centred practice and advocacy, each at working level.
• Experience of qualitative and quantitative research, including moderated usability testing and analysis of usage data.
• Knowledge of research ethics, consent and handling of personal data in a public sector context.
• Experience of research for services with challenging user needs or complex journeys.
• Experience of accessible and assisted research methods.
• Familiarity with the Service Standard and assessment evidence requirements.