Principal Researcher - HCI

Freddie Mac; San Francisco (CA); Hybrid; USD 80,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative firm is seeking a seasoned design research leader to shape a growing practice in human-computer interaction. This role offers the chance to engage with world-leading clients while advocating for human-centered innovation. With a hybrid working model, you will have the flexibility to work remotely if you excel in your role. You will mentor team members, manage critical client relationships, and ensure the delivery of high-quality research engagements. If you are passionate about improving everyday experiences through design, this is an exciting opportunity for you to make a significant impact.

Benefits

Mentorship opportunities

Professional development

Hybrid working model

Collaborative team environment

Qualifications

• 6+ years of experience in leading research engagements.
• Advanced project management and research design skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage key client relationships.
• Lead multiple research engagements ensuring high-quality deliverables.
• Facilitate client meetings and workshops.

Skills

Cognitive Psychology

Human-Computer Interaction

Interaction Design

Design Strategy

Project Management

Business Development

Mixed-Methods Research

Education

Master's or PhD in a related field

Job description

Employer Industry: Design Research and Human-Computer Interaction

Why consider this job opportunity:
- Opportunity to shape the development of a growing design research practice
- Engage with world-leading clients to improve everyday experiences
- Hybrid working model with the possibility of fully remote work for exceptional candidates
- Mentorship and professional development opportunities for team members
- Work within a creative and collaborative team environment
- Chance to advocate for human-centered innovation across the organization

What to Expect (Job Responsibilities):
- Develop and manage key client relationships from lead generation to post-delivery feedback
- Lead and manage multiple research engagements simultaneously, ensuring high-quality deliverables
- Create engaging learning experiences for client teams throughout the research process
- Facilitate client meetings and workshops to achieve consensus and clarity
- Mentor team members and contribute to the growth of the research design practice

What is Required (Qualifications):
- Academic qualifications in Cognitive Psychology, Human-Computer Interaction, Interaction Design, Design Strategy, or a related field; a Master's or PhD preferred
- 6+ years of experience leading research engagements in an agency or in-house setting
- Strong business development experience, including account management
- Advanced skills in project management and research design
- Eligibility to work in the US without visa sponsorship

How to Stand Out (Preferred Qualifications):
- Experience leading research in the consumer financial services domain
- Background in fast-moving agency, startup, or innovation lab settings
- Mixed-methods research skills
- Demonstrable experience tackling complex projects involving multiple stakeholders

#DesignResearch #HumanComputerInteraction #CareerOpportunity #Mentorship #HybridWork

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