Design Researcher

About the Role

Creative Niche is seeking a dedicated Design Researcher for a contract position based primarily in Toronto, Canada. The role requires working four days per week onsite and one day remotely, embedded within a collaborative digital product team at a notable Canadian institution. You will play a crucial role in uncovering user insights and driving design decisions for impactful digital products.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and lead comprehensive research projects, including scoping, fieldwork, analysis, and reporting.
• Anticipate upcoming product decisions and propose well-considered research approaches to support them.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to integrate research throughout the product development process.
• Conduct qualitative research methods such as usability testing, interviews, and workshops to deeply understand user motivations and behavior.
• Translate research outcomes into actionable insights that influence strategy, design choices, and prioritization.
• Promote a culture of research by helping product teams adopt research-oriented thinking.

Applicant Requirements

• Professional experience in user experience research, human-centered design, or related disciplines.
• Proficient knowledge of both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies with sound judgment on their application.
• Experience working in agile, cross-functional teams alongside designers, product managers, and engineers.
• Strong skills in synthesizing research findings and communicating them clearly to audiences with diverse technical backgrounds.
• Curiosity, excellent storytelling capability, and an intuitive ability to connect ideas.

Preferred Qualifications

• Academic background in Psychology, Anthropology, Human-Computer Interaction, Information Studies, Design, or a related subject.
• Experience within large organizations or handling complex digital product environments.
• Comfort facilitating live sessions involving complex or sensitive subject matter.
• Familiarity with design thinking principles and facilitation methodologies.

Why Join Us?

• Contribute to products accessed by millions nationwide.
• Be part of a design-centric team fostering collaboration, inclusivity, and ongoing education.
• Engage in a workplace where research is integral to product creation rather than an afterthought.

Additional Information

Creative Niche Inc. ensures all recruitment decisions are made by professionals. AI-assisted systems may be utilized to assist with candidate screening and matching but will not replace human judgment. No Canadian experience is necessary; equivalent international experience is equally valued. This posting serves to connect with talent for present and upcoming roles.