Game UX Researcher

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Game UX Researcher

Company: Techland S.A.

Location: Warsaw, Mazowieckie, Poland

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Game User Experience Research

Date Posted: February 17, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the end-to-end User Experience (UX) research process for game development projects, ensuring player-centric design iterations.

• Execute comprehensive playtest activities, managing study design, participant moderation, and detailed analysis to drive actionable improvements.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including Game Design, Data Analytics, and Quality Assurance (QA), to integrate research findings seamlessly into development sprints.

• Translate complex player data and feedback into clear, concise, and actionable insights that inform strategic decision-making for game design and feature development.

• Act as a primary advocate for the player, championing their perspective throughout the entire game development lifecycle by leveraging robust evidence and adhering to industry best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is distinctly focused on the application of UX research methodologies within the game development context. The emphasis is on translating player behavior and feedback into tangible improvements for game titles, requiring a strong blend of analytical rigor, methodological expertise, and a deep understanding of the gaming audience. The collaboration aspect highlights its integration into agile development cycles, typical of modern game studios.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design, plan, and execute a variety of UX research studies, including playtests, usability tests, surveys, 1-on-1 interviews, and focus group interviews, tailored to specific game development questions.

• Develop structured research briefs and testable hypotheses in collaboration with stakeholders to clearly define research objectives and expected outcomes.

• Employ a diverse range of research methods, incorporating telemetry data, eye-tracking studies, and qualitative feedback analysis to comprehensively diagnose usability issues and player engagement drivers.

• Synthesize large volumes of complex quantitative and qualitative data into high-impact, "no-fluff" reports and presentations that clearly articulate findings and recommend specific, data-driven iteration choices.

• Foster and maintain strong working relationships with Game Design, Data Analytics, and QA teams, ensuring research insights are effectively communicated and integrated into the development workflow and sprint planning.

• Champion player-centric perspectives across the studio by presenting compelling evidence, defining player personas, and educating development teams on user needs and behaviors.

• Stay current with the latest trends and best practices in game UX research, player psychology, and relevant research methodologies to continuously enhance the research program.

• Contribute to the development and refinement of internal UX research processes, tools, and best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a full lifecycle approach to UX research, from initial planning and stakeholder alignment to detailed execution and insight delivery. The inclusion of diverse methodologies like telemetry and eye-tracking, alongside traditional qualitative methods, suggests a sophisticated research operation. The focus on "no-fluff" reports signifies a need for clear, impactful communication that directly informs design decisions, a critical skill in fast-paced game development.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Psychology, Cognitive Science, Computer Science, Anthropology, Sociology, or a related field. Master's degree or Ph.D. in a relevant discipline is a plus.

Experience: 3+ years of dedicated UX research experience, with a significant portion ideally within the video game industry. Proven ability to manage and execute research projects from inception to completion.

Required Skills:

• UX Research Methodology: Deep understanding and practical application of various qualitative and quantitative UX research methods (e.g., usability testing, user interviews, surveys, heuristic evaluation, card sorting, tree testing).

• Playtesting Expertise: Demonstrated experience in designing, conducting, and analyzing game playtests, understanding player behavior and feedback within interactive environments.

• Data Analysis & Synthesis: Strong analytical skills to extract meaningful patterns and insights from diverse data sources, including player behavior during playtests, telemetry, survey responses, and qualitative feedback.

• Communication & Presentation: Excellent verbal and written English communication skills, with a proven ability to articulate complex findings clearly and persuasively to technical and non-technical stakeholders, including developers and management.

• Player Advocacy: A genuine passion for video games and a strong understanding of player motivations, expectations, and the technical aspects of game design and development.

• Project Management: Highly organized, detail-oriented, and adept at managing multiple research projects simultaneously under tight production deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Tool Proficiency: Experience with common UX research tools, survey platforms (e.g., SurveyMonkey, Qualtrics), and potentially data analysis software.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with telemetry analysis tools and methodologies in a gaming context.

• Familiarity with eye-tracking hardware and software for user behavior analysis.

• Experience in moderating focus groups and in-depth interviews.

• Knowledge of game design principles and development pipelines.

• Experience with A/B testing or experimental design in a game context.

• Familiarity with agile development methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize practical experience and a "gamer's lens," indicating the company values hands-on expertise and intrinsic understanding of the gaming medium. The distinction between required and preferred skills highlights areas where candidates can differentiate themselves, particularly in advanced analytical techniques like telemetry and eye-tracking, which are increasingly crucial in understanding player behavior in complex game environments.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A compelling portfolio showcasing a minimum of 3-5 end-to-end UX research projects, with a strong emphasis on game development or interactive entertainment if possible.

• Each project case study should clearly articulate the research problem, the methodology employed, the research process, key findings, and most importantly, the actionable recommendations and their impact on the product.

• Demonstrations of how research insights led to specific design iterations or improvements, with quantifiable results or qualitative impact statements.

• Evidence of experience with diverse research methods, including qualitative (interviews, usability tests) and quantitative (surveys, telemetry analysis) approaches.

Process Documentation:

• Ability to document research plans, methodologies, and findings in a clear, structured, and reproducible manner.

• Experience in creating research briefs that translate ambiguous development questions into testable hypotheses and research objectives.

• Familiarity with creating user journey maps, personas, and other artifacts that synthesize research findings into actionable design guidance.

• Understanding of how to integrate research findings into existing development workflows, such as sprint reviews and backlog refinement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio requirement is critical for this role, as it directly demonstrates the candidate's ability to execute the responsibilities. The emphasis on actionable recommendations and demonstrated impact is key. Candidates should highlight how their research directly contributed to product improvements, showcasing a results-oriented approach rather than just a descriptive one.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry standards for a Game UX Researcher with 2-5 years of experience in Poland, a competitive annual gross salary range would likely be between PLN 100,000 - PLN 160,000. This range can vary based on the candidate's specific experience, qualifications, and the final negotiation.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive private medical care package.

• Life insurance coverage.

• Pro-health campaigns and initiatives to support employee well-being.

• Gifts and special occasion bonuses.

• Flexible working hours to promote work-life balance.

• A relaxed office environment with no dress code.

• Dedicated HR Business Partner support.

• Generous development budget for professional growth and training.

• Two additional paid days off for training and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities.

• Financial support for English and Polish language classes.

• Access to modern, well-equipped offices with dedicated chillout zones.

• Fully equipped kitchen facilities.

• On-site gym (Wrocław office).

• Limited free car parking spaces available at the Warsaw office.

Working Hours: Standard full-time employment with flexible working hours, typically around 40 hours per week. The exact daily schedule can be adjusted to accommodate team needs and personal preferences, within company guidelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on publicly available data for similar roles in Poland and the provided experience level. Techland S.A. is a major player in the Polish gaming industry, suggesting compensation at the higher end of this spectrum for well-qualified candidates. The benefits package is robust and indicative of a company that invests in employee well-being and professional development, which is common for established game development studios.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Video Game Development. Techland is a prominent player in the global gaming market, known for its open-world action titles and immersive storytelling.

Company Size: Over 500 employees, indicating a medium-to-large sized studio with established processes but still retaining a degree of agility and collaborative spirit.

Founded: Over 30 years ago, providing a rich history and deep expertise within the gaming industry. This longevity suggests stability, a strong understanding of market dynamics, and a proven ability to adapt to evolving gaming trends.

Team Structure:

• The UX Research role is likely embedded within a larger Game Design or Product Development department, working closely with Game Designers, Data Analysts, and QA specialists.

• Reporting structure typically involves a lead UX Researcher, a Design Director, or a Producer, depending on the project and studio organization.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on using empirical data from playtests, telemetry, and player feedback to inform design choices and product strategy.

• Iterative Development: Research is integrated into agile sprint cycles, providing continuous feedback loops for designers to iterate on features and gameplay.

• Player-Centric Design: A core philosophy of understanding and prioritizing player needs, preferences, and experiences throughout the development process.

• Collaborative Environment: Encouraging open communication and knowledge sharing among team members to foster innovation and address challenges collectively.

Company Website: https://www.techland.net/

📝 Enhancement Note: Techland's long history and significant employee count suggest a mature development environment. The company culture appears to value both creative passion (evident in their game franchises) and rigorous, data-informed processes necessary for large-scale game development. The emphasis on player-centricity and iterative development aligns with modern game design practices.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Mid-Level Game UX Researcher. It requires a solid foundation and practical experience in UX research methodologies, with the expectation of independent project execution and the ability to mentor or guide more junior team members on specific research tasks.

Reporting Structure: Typically, a Game UX Researcher reports to a Senior UX Researcher, a Lead UX Designer, the Director of Game Design, or a Game Director. This structure provides guidance and oversight while allowing for significant autonomy on assigned projects.

Operations Impact: The Game UX Researcher has a direct and significant impact on the quality and player reception of Techland's titles. By ensuring games are intuitive, engaging, and enjoyable, they contribute to player satisfaction, retention, and ultimately, commercial success. Their insights help mitigate risks associated with design flaws and ensure the final product resonates with the target audience.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior UX Researcher: Progression to a senior level involves leading more complex, multi-project research initiatives, mentoring junior researchers, and contributing to the strategic direction of UX research within the studio.

• Specialization: Opportunity to specialize in specific areas of game UX research, such as player behavior analytics, VR/AR user experience, accessibility research, or narrative UX.

• Management Track: Potential to move into a management role, such as UX Research Lead or Head of UX Research, overseeing a team and shaping the overall UX research strategy for the company.

• Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Opportunities to deepen understanding of game design, data analytics, and other development disciplines, broadening skill sets and career versatility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Game UX Researcher at a company like Techland is well-defined, moving from execution-focused mid-level roles to strategic leadership or specialized expertise. The company's size and established nature provide a stable environment for career progression, with ample opportunities to influence major game titles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The job description indicates a strong preference for an on-site work environment. Techland offers state-of-the-art offices designed to foster collaboration and creativity.

Office Location(s): The primary listed location is Warsaw, Poland, with a secondary address also in Warsaw. The company also mentions studios in Wrocław. This suggests a large, multi-studio operation, with potential for interaction or collaboration across different sites.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: Offices are equipped with chillout zones and designed to encourage interaction, facilitating spontaneous discussions and idea sharing among team members.

• Resource Availability: Access to modern technology and tools is implied by "state-of-the-art offices," likely including necessary hardware and software for UX research and game development.

• Team Integration: Working on-site ensures close proximity and direct interaction with Game Design, Data Analytics, and QA teams, crucial for timely feedback and seamless integration of research into the development pipeline.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time hours (approximately 40 per week) with flexible working hours. This flexibility allows researchers to manage their schedules effectively while ensuring availability for critical team meetings, playtests, and collaborative sessions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on an on-site role suggests that Techland values the in-person collaboration and dynamic environment that a physical studio provides, which is often crucial for game development where rapid iteration and direct communication are key. The benefits like chillout zones and equipped kitchens point to a company culture that prioritizes employee comfort and a positive work atmosphere.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio by the Talent Acquisition team to assess basic qualifications and experience.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager (likely a Lead UX Researcher or Design Director) to delve deeper into your research experience, methodologies, and understanding of game UX.

• Portfolio Presentation & Technical Interview: A dedicated session where you will present 1-2 key projects from your portfolio, explaining your process, findings, and impact. This will likely be followed by scenario-based questions and technical challenges related to UX research in a game development context.

• Team/Cross-functional Interviews: Meetings with potential peers (e.g., Game Designers, Data Analysts) to assess your collaboration style, communication skills, and cultural fit within the development teams.

• Final Interview: Potentially a conversation with a senior leader to discuss overall fit and strategic alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best showcase your end-to-end research capabilities, problem-solving skills, and impact. Prioritize relevance to game development if possible.

• Tell a Story: For each case study, structure it as a narrative: the problem/question, your approach (methodology and process), your findings, and the resulting actions/impact.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use metrics or concrete examples to demonstrate how your research led to positive changes, improved player experience, or informed key decisions.

• Highlight Your Role: Clearly define your specific contributions, especially if projects were team-based.

• Be Prepared to Discuss: Anticipate questions about your methodology choices, challenges faced, and how you handled difficult stakeholders or unexpected results.

Challenge Preparation:

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Prepare to tackle hypothetical UX research problems related to game design, player engagement, or usability issues. Think about how you would approach defining the problem, selecting methods, and analyzing results.

• Methodology Justification: Be ready to explain why you would choose a particular research method for a given scenario, considering the trade-offs and benefits.

• Communication Practice: Rehearse explaining complex UX concepts and research findings in a clear, concise, and engaging manner, as if presenting to a room of game developers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to thoroughly assess both technical UX research skills and the candidate's ability to integrate into a game development environment. The portfolio presentation is a critical component, so candidates must be adept at storytelling and demonstrating tangible impact. Preparation for scenario-based questions will be key to showcasing problem-solving acumen.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• UX Research Platforms: Proficiency in tools for conducting surveys, usability tests, and interviews (e.g., Qualtrics, SurveyMonkey, UserTesting.com, Maze, Lookback).

• Data Analysis Software: Experience with statistical software or libraries for quantitative analysis (e.g., SPSS, R, Python with libraries like Pandas, NumPy) and qualitative data analysis tools (e.g., NVivo, Dovetail).

• Collaboration Tools: Familiarity with project management and communication platforms like Jira, Confluence, Slack, Microsoft Teams for cross-functional team integration.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Telemetry Analysis Tools: Experience with in-game telemetry systems and data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI, custom dashboards) to analyze player behavior data.

• Reporting Tools: Ability to use presentation software (e.g., PowerPoint, Google Slides, Keynote) to create clear and impactful research reports and presentations.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM-focused role, an understanding of how player data might be managed or segmented within broader company systems could be beneficial. Familiarity with data integration concepts is a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack emphasizes tools for data collection, analysis, and communication. Proficiency in a range of UX research platforms is essential. Experience with telemetry analysis and data visualization tools is highly desirable, given the context of game development and the need to understand player behavior at scale. The ability to integrate findings into development workflows via tools like Jira is also crucial.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Player-Centricity: A deep-seated commitment to understanding and prioritizing the player's experience in all decisions. This translates to advocating for features and improvements that enhance player enjoyment and engagement.

• Data-Driven Insights: A belief in the power of empirical evidence to guide development. Operations professionals are expected to base recommendations on solid research findings rather than assumptions.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: A strong emphasis on working effectively with diverse teams (Design, QA, Analytics) to achieve shared goals. Open communication and mutual respect are key.

• Passion for Gaming: A genuine enthusiasm for video games is fundamental. This shared passion fuels creativity, dedication, and a desire to create exceptional player experiences.

• Continuous Improvement: A mindset focused on learning, iterating, and refining processes and products to achieve the highest quality standards.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated: UX Research is not a siloed function but an integral part of the development process, working hand-in-hand with other disciplines.

• Evidence-Based Communication: Discussions and decision-making are grounded in research data and insights.

• Constructive Feedback: Teams are encouraged to provide and receive feedback openly and constructively to foster growth and improve the product.

• Agile and Responsive: The collaboration style is designed to be flexible and responsive to the dynamic needs of game development sprints and production cycles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core values highlight a blend of player empathy, analytical rigor, and collaborative execution. The emphasis on "passion for gaming" is a strong indicator that Techland seeks individuals who are not just technically proficient but also personally invested in the industry. This shared passion often forms the bedrock of a strong, cohesive team culture in game development.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Player Needs with Development Constraints: Navigating situations where ideal player experience recommendations may conflict with technical limitations, budget, or production timelines. This requires strong negotiation and problem-solving skills.

• Researching Complex Systems: Understanding and effectively researching intricate game mechanics, progression systems, and emergent player behaviors that can be difficult to isolate and analyze.

• Rapid Iteration Cycles: Conducting timely research that can inform rapid design iterations within tight production schedules, requiring efficient methodologies and quick turnaround on analysis and reporting.

• Subjectivity in Game Design: Managing subjective feedback and differing opinions within the development team while maintaining an objective, data-driven approach to UX research.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Methodologies: Opportunities to learn and apply cutting-edge UX research techniques specific to gaming, such as advanced telemetry analysis, AI-driven player behavior modeling, or VR/AR usability testing.

• Industry Conferences & Training: Access to a development budget that can be used for attending major industry conferences (e.g., GDC, UXPA) or specialized training courses to enhance skills.

• Mentorship & Peer Learning: Learning from experienced peers and senior researchers within Techland, as well as sharing expertise through internal workshops and knowledge-sharing sessions.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Gaining deeper insights into game design, narrative development, technical art, and data analytics, which can broaden your understanding of the entire game development pipeline.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for UX research roles in fast-paced, creative industries like gaming. They highlight the need for resilience, adaptability, and strong interpersonal skills alongside technical expertise. The growth opportunities are substantial, offering clear pathways for professional development and specialization within Techland's established structure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to advocate for a player insight that was unpopular with the development team. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your persuasion skills, data presentation, and ability to find compromise.)

• "Imagine we're developing a new combat mechanic. What research methods would you propose to evaluate its intuitiveness and fun factor, and why?" (Demonstrate your understanding of methodology selection based on research goals and game context.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What are your favorite games, and what makes their UX stand out to you?" (Prepare to discuss specific games and articulate UX principles from a player's perspective.)

• "How do you stay updated on the latest trends in game development and UX research?" (Mention sources like GDC talks, industry publications, relevant blogs, and communities.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, follow a clear arc: Problem -> Your Approach (Methods, Process) -> Key Findings -> Recommendations -> Impact/Outcome.

• Visuals are Key: Use screenshots, diagrams, video clips (if appropriate and cleared), and data visualizations to make your presentation engaging and easy to understand.

• Focus on Impact: Clearly articulate how your research led to tangible improvements, whether it was increased player retention, reduced frustration, or better comprehension of game mechanics.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about your methodology choices, data interpretation, and how you handled challenges or limitations. Practice articulating your thought process.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only technical UX research skills but also a deep understanding of the gaming industry and a collaborative mindset. Practicing portfolio presentations is crucial, as it's a direct assessment of your communication and analytical abilities in a game development context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Game UX Researcher position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the SmartRecruiters platform.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight specific UX research experience, emphasizing projects related to gaming or interactive media. Quantify achievements whenever possible and ensure keywords from the job description are naturally integrated.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 of your strongest UX research case studies that best demonstrate your end-to-end process, analytical skills, and ability to drive impact. Ensure each case study clearly outlines the problem, your approach, findings, and outcomes.

• Prepare for Presentation: Practice presenting your portfolio case studies, focusing on clear storytelling, demonstrating your thought process, and articulating the impact of your research.

• Research Techland: Familiarize yourself with Techland's game portfolio, company history, and stated values. Understand their approach to game development and player engagement.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.