User Researcher - Public Sector

Sanderson Government & Defence; United Kingdom; Hybrid; GBP 46,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading consultancy in the UK is seeking an experienced User Researcher for public sector projects. The ideal candidate will have proven experience with GDS standards and a passion for inclusive design. You will lead user research efforts, communicate findings to influence design decisions, and work collaboratively in agile teams. This role offers a salary up to £55,000 plus excellent benefits, with hybrid working arrangements that promote wellbeing and inclusion.

Benefits

Flexible hybrid working

Training and certifications

Focus on wellbeing and inclusion

Qualifications

• Proven experience with Government Digital Service (GDS) standards.
• Experience leading user research across multiple phases of product/service lifecycle.
• Public sector experience is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead and conduct qualitative and quantitative research.
• Champion inclusive design and accessibility throughout projects.
• Collaborate with Product Managers, Designers, and Developers.

Skills

Experience with GDS standards

User research

Stakeholder management

Communication skills

Education

Degree in Psychology, Sociology, Anthropology or HCI

Job description

User Researcher - Public Sector Projects

Location: UK (Hybrid working)
Salary: Up to £55,000 + excellent benefits
Clearance: Active SC clearance required or eligibility to obtain

Applicants must have previous experience working to GDS standards with or inside the public sector.

We're working with a leading consultancy that's driving digital transformation across the UK public sector. They're looking for an experienced User Researcher to join their team and help shape user‑centred, accessible services that make a real impact.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who thrives in agile, multidisciplinary environments, has strong experience with GDS standards, and is passionate about inclusive design.

What You'll Be Doing

• Leading and conducting qualitative and quantitative research (interviews, usability studies, surveys).
• Championing inclusive design and accessibility throughout the project lifecycle.
• Collaborating with Product Managers, Designers, Developers, and other researchers.
• Communicating research findings to influence design decisions.
• Embedding user research best practices across teams.

What We're Looking For

• Proven experience with Government Digital Service (GDS) standards and design principles.
• Hands‑on experience leading user research across multiple phases of a product/service lifecycle.
• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Public sector experience is highly desirable.
• Active SC clearance or eligibility to obtain.

Nice to Have

• Familiarity with accessibility guidelines and assistive technologies.
• Degree in Psychology, Sociology, Anthropology, HCI, or related field.
• Accessibility certifications (CPACC, WAS, CPWA) or working towards.

Why You'll Love This Role

• Work on high‑profile public sector transformations.
• Access to training and certifications in digital, cloud, and agile methodologies.
• Flexible hybrid working and a strong focus on wellbeing and inclusion.
• Salary up to £55k plus benefits.

✅ Interested? Apply today or get in touch for a confidential chat.

Reasonable Adjustments:

Respect and equality are core values to us. We are proud of the diverse and inclusive community we have built, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and perspectives. Our success is driven by our people, united by the spirit of partnership to deliver the best resourcing solutions for our clients.

If you need any help or adjustments during the recruitment process for any reason, please let us know when you apply or talk to the recruiters directly so we can support you.