UX Research Intern

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UX Research Intern

Company: CD PROJEKT RED

Location: Warsaw, Masovian Voivodeship, Poland

Job Type: Intern

Category: User Experience Research / Game Development Operations

Date Posted: April 24, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid (Office-first, 4 days/week in office)

🚀 Role Summary

• Gain foundational experience in User Experience (UX) Research within the dynamic gaming industry, focusing on popular RPG titles.

• Actively participate in the planning and execution of user research studies, including playtests and user interviews, under the guidance of experienced researchers.

• Develop essential analytical and qualitative data collection skills by interviewing participants and synthesizing feedback to inform game development decisions.

• Master moderation techniques for playtest sessions, ensuring a structured and effective user feedback environment.

• Contribute to the operational efficiency of the UX Research team by managing logistics and supporting research initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the primary focus is UX Research, this intern role will touch upon operational aspects of research execution, including participant management, session planning, and data organization, which are critical for the smooth functioning of a research team within a large game development studio like CD PROJEKT RED. The emphasis on "behind the scenes" and "real tasks" indicates a hands-on operational component.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Support the planning and execution of playtests and other user research studies, adhering to established research protocols and under mentor supervision.

• Conduct interviews with playtest participants, employing active listening and probing techniques to gather rich qualitative feedback.

• Assist in the preparation of research materials, including survey questionnaires, interview scripts, and participant consent forms.

• Moderate playtest sessions, ensuring adherence to the schedule, facilitating participant comfort, and collecting objective observations.

• Contribute to the analysis and synthesis of research findings, identifying key themes, user pain points, and actionable insights to enhance player experience.

• Organize and document research data, ensuring its integrity and accessibility for the research team and stakeholders.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (e.g., designers, QA) to understand research objectives and integrate findings into the development cycle.

• Assist in maintaining research documentation, including study plans, reports, and participant databases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of direct research tasks and supporting operational activities. Tasks such as "support the planning and execution," "assist in collecting," "contribute to analysis," and "organize and document" point to an operational support function within the research process. This intern will be instrumental in the smooth execution of research projects.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school graduate or current university student.

Experience:

• No prior professional experience is strictly required, as this is an internship role aimed at providing foundational experience.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides) for documentation, analysis, and presentation.

• Strong interest in technology and the gaming industry, demonstrating a passion for interactive entertainment.

• Foundational knowledge or a keen interest in User Experience (UX) principles and user research methodologies.

• Excellent command of English (C1/C2 level) for effective communication in a multicultural environment.

• Strong analytical thinking skills to interpret qualitative data and identify meaningful patterns.

Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) or other recording/streaming tools for capturing playtest sessions.

• Deeper understanding of game development processes and the game development lifecycle.

• Previous experience with playtesting or other forms of user research, even if informal or academic.

• Educational background in sociology, psychology, or related fields that provide a strong theoretical basis for understanding user behavior.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "good command of English" and "English proficiency at C1/C2 level" is a critical requirement, reflecting the international nature of CD PROJEKT RED. The "nice to have" section provides clear pathways for candidates to differentiate themselves, particularly those with academic backgrounds in relevant social sciences or technical experience with relevant software.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for an internship, candidates are encouraged to showcase relevant academic projects, personal game-testing experiences, or any work demonstrating their understanding of user behavior and feedback collection.

• Examples of analytical thinking, such as a personal analysis of a game's user interface or a hypothetical user research plan for a game feature, would be highly beneficial.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of research processes, even at a foundational level.

• This includes an appreciation for structured approaches to data collection, participant recruitment, session moderation, and basic data synthesis.

• Familiarity with the concept of documenting research findings for clear communication to stakeholders is a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an intern role, the "portfolio" is less about polished, professional case studies and more about demonstrating potential, foundational understanding, and a structured approach to thinking about user research and its operational execution within a development context. The focus is on showcasing learning aptitude and a proactive mindset.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Gross hourly rate: 31.40 PLN.

Benefits:

• Flexible working hours: Ability to start the workday between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM, allowing for better personal scheduling and integration with academic commitments.

• Welcome pack: A package of company merchandise and essentials to help new interns feel integrated and valued.

• Dog-friendly office: Employees are welcome to bring their dogs to the office, fostering a relaxed and pet-friendly work atmosphere.

• Social events: Regular studio gatherings, including game nights and other informal activities, promoting team bonding and a strong community spirit.

• Healthy selections: Access to canteens offering a variety of healthy food options.

• Truly international working environment: An opportunity to work and interact with a diverse, global team, fostering cross-cultural understanding and collaboration.

• Sustainability initiatives: The company campus features electric car charging points and green zones, reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility.

• Bicycle-friendly facilities: Designated secure bicycle storage, repair equipment, and shower facilities.

• Onsite gym: A well-equipped gym with a climbing wall, daily gym assistant support, and specialized classes like yoga and boxing.

• No dress code: A casual and comfortable work environment where personal style is encouraged.

Working Hours:

• Full availability required: 40 hours per week for the entire internship duration (July to September).

• Daily flexible start time between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary is clearly stipulated as a gross hourly rate. The benefits package is extensive and highlights CD PROJEKT RED's commitment to employee well-being, work-life balance, and a positive company culture, which are attractive aspects for any professional, including interns.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Video Game Development, specifically focusing on story-driven Role-Playing Games (RPGs). CD PROJEKT RED is renowned for titles like The Witcher series and Cyberpunk 2077.

Company Size: CD PROJEKT RED is a well-established, large-scale game development studio with a significant global presence. While an exact number isn't provided in the raw data, their reputation and project scope suggest several hundred employees.

Founded: CD PROJEKT RED was founded in 2002. This history signifies a mature organization with established development processes and a deep understanding of the gaming market.

Team Structure:

• The UX Research team operates within the broader Game Development department.

• Interns will be part of a supervised team, reporting to a mentor or a lead UX Researcher.

Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making is central, with UX Research providing crucial player feedback to inform design and development choices.

• A focus on iterative design, where user feedback gathered through playtests and research is used to refine game mechanics, user interfaces, and overall player experience.

• Emphasis on understanding player behavior, motivations, and pain points to create engaging and accessible gaming experiences.

Company Website: https://www.cdprojektred.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: CD PROJEKT RED is a globally recognized brand in the gaming industry. Their mission to create "revolutionary, story-driven RPGs" sets a high bar for quality and player engagement. The company culture appears to value creativity, passion for gaming, and a collaborative, international environment, as evidenced by their social media presence and blog.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level internship position designed to introduce individuals to the field of UX Research and its operational execution within game development. It's a stepping stone for those looking to build a career in game development, user experience, or related research fields.

Reporting Structure: Interns will report directly to a designated mentor or a senior member of the UX Research team. This structure ensures guidance, learning, and oversight.

Operations Impact: While an intern's direct impact is limited by scope, their contribution to playtest execution, data collection, and preliminary analysis directly influences the feedback loop for game development. Well-executed research operations can lead to more informed design decisions, ultimately improving player satisfaction and game quality.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Gain practical experience in research methodologies (playtesting, interviews), data analysis (qualitative synthesis), and operational support for research projects.

• Industry Exposure: Learn about the intricacies of game development, the role of UX research in the industry, and the specific challenges and opportunities within AAA game production.

• Networking: Build professional connections with experienced researchers, designers, and developers at a leading game studio.

• Potential Future Opportunities: Successful interns may be considered for future roles or internships within CD PROJEKT RED, depending on performance and business needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth trajectory for this internship is focused on learning and exposure rather than immediate career advancement. The primary value is in acquiring practical skills, understanding industry operations, and making valuable connections that can pave the way for future opportunities in the gaming or UX research sectors.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as "office-first," requiring at least 4 days per week in the Warsaw office. This indicates a collaborative, in-person environment.

Office Location(s): Warsaw, Poland. The company has a significant presence and campus in Warsaw.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office culture encourages interaction, social events, and a dog-friendly atmosphere, suggesting a dynamic and friendly workspace.

• Tools & Technology: Interns will have access to standard office technology, including Google Workspace, and likely specific game development and research tools used by the team.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities to interact with a diverse, international team, including experienced professionals in UX research, game design, and development.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time commitment of 40 hours per week.

• Flexible daily start times between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM.

• The internship runs for a fixed period from July to the end of September.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "office-first" hybrid model with a minimum of 4 days in the office emphasizes the value CD PROJEKT RED places on in-person collaboration, mentorship, and team cohesion, which are crucial for an intern's learning and integration.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application: Submit CV (in English) and any supplementary materials.

• Screening: Review of applications to ensure all basic criteria are met (age, student status, residency, availability,

English proficiency).

• Interviews: Likely involves one or more interviews, potentially including:

  • A conversation with a recruiter to assess general fit and motivation.
  • A discussion with the hiring manager or a lead UX Researcher to evaluate technical understanding, interest in UX/gaming, and problem-solving aptitude.
  • A practical exercise or case study may be assigned to assess analytical skills and approach to research tasks.

• Offer: Extension of an offer to successful candidates.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Relevance: Highlight any projects or experiences that demonstrate your interest in understanding users, collecting feedback, or analyzing behavior, even if not strictly "UX Research."

• Showcase Analytical Skills: If you have academic papers, personal projects, or even blog posts where you've analyzed something (a game, a product, a user behavior), include them.

• Demonstrate Tool Proficiency: Clearly state your comfort with Google Workspace. If you have experience with tools like OBS, mention it.

• Articulate Your "Why": Be ready to explain your passion for gaming and your interest in UX research and how this internship aligns with your career aspirations.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand Core UX Research Concepts: Be familiar with terms like qualitative vs. quantitative research, usability testing, user interviews, and common UX metrics.

• Game Industry Awareness: Have a basic understanding of game development roles and the player experience. Think about what makes a game enjoyable or frustrating from a player's perspective.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you would approach a simple research task, e.g., "How would you find out why players are struggling with a specific level in a game?" Focus on your thought process.

• Cultural Fit: Be prepared to discuss your ability to work in a team, your learning attitude, and your enthusiasm for CD PROJEKT RED's games.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a CV in English and the specific criteria (age, student status, residency) are critical for initial screening. The interview process will likely assess not only foundational knowledge but also passion for gaming and potential for growth within the company's culture.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Google Workspace: Essential for daily operations, including:

  • Google Docs: For creating interview scripts, study plans, and reports.
  • Google Sheets: For organizing participant data, basic analysis, and tracking.
  • Google Slides: For presentations of findings and research proposals.

• OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) / Streaming Tools (Preferred): Used for capturing playtest sessions, screen recordings, and potentially live moderation if conducted remotely.

• Internal/Proprietary Tools: CD PROJEKT RED will have its own internal tools for game development, project management, and potentially specialized research platforms, though specific intern exposure might be limited.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While advanced analytics tools are unlikely to be an intern's primary responsibility, familiarity with basic data organization and interpretation in Google Sheets is key.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this UX Research intern role, as it's not focused on sales or marketing operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Google Workspace as required proficiency points to its central role in the day-to-day operations of this internship. Familiarity with recording software is a strong plus, indicating how research sessions are often documented.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Player-Centricity: A core value in game development, where understanding and catering to player needs and experiences is paramount.

• Collaboration: Working effectively with diverse teams across disciplines (art, design, programming, QA) to achieve a common goal.

• Passion for Gaming: A genuine enthusiasm for video games and the craft of game development is highly valued.

• Continuous Learning: An openness to acquiring new skills, embracing feedback, and adapting to evolving industry trends and technologies.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: A commitment to delivering high-quality products that resonate with players.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: UX Researchers work closely with development teams, acting as a bridge between players and creators.

• Feedback Exchange: An open culture for providing and receiving constructive feedback is essential for iterative development and research refinement.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging team members to share insights, best practices, and learnings to elevate the collective understanding and skill level of the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: CD PROJEKT RED's culture likely mirrors that of many successful game studios: a blend of creative passion, technical excellence, and a strong sense of teamwork driven by a shared love for gaming. The values emphasize the importance of the player and the collaborative effort required to create compelling game experiences.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Complex Projects: Learning to contribute effectively to large-scale, complex game development projects with tight deadlines.

• Interpreting Subjective Feedback: Developing the skill to translate diverse and sometimes conflicting player feedback into actionable insights.

• Balancing Research Needs with Development Reality: Understanding the constraints and priorities of game development and how research findings fit within them.

• Adapting to Industry Pace: Keeping up with the fast-paced and ever-evolving landscape of the gaming industry and UX research methodologies.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Hands-on Research Experience: Direct involvement in planning, conducting, and analyzing user research studies.

• Mentorship: Guidance from experienced UX researchers and game development professionals.

• Industry Insights: Exposure to the AAA game development pipeline and the operational aspects of research within this context.

• Networking: Building professional relationships within a leading gaming company.

📝 Enhancement Note: This internship is designed to introduce challenges that foster growth. The key is to view these challenges not as obstacles but as learning opportunities that build resilience and practical skills essential for a career in game development or UX research.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to gather information or feedback from others. How did you approach it, and what did you learn?" (Assesses basic qualitative data collection skills).

• "Why are you interested in UX Research, and specifically, why at CD PROJEKT RED?" (Tests motivation, passion for gaming, and company alignment).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What are your favorite games, and what do you think makes them successful from a player's perspective?" (Gauges passion for gaming and analytical observation).

• "How do you handle receiving constructive criticism?" (Assesses coachability and attitude towards feedback).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Keep it Concise: For an intern role, focus on 1-2 key projects or experiences that best showcase your relevant skills and interests.

• Explain Your Role and Process: Clearly articulate what you did, why you did it, and what you learned.

• Highlight Analytical Thinking: Even if it's a simple analysis of a game mechanic or a hypothetical research plan, demonstrate your thought process.

• Showcase Enthusiasm: Let your passion for gaming and UX research shine through.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for a combination of foundational knowledge, genuine interest in gaming and UX, and the potential to learn and grow within the team's operational framework. Demonstrating a structured approach to problem-solving and a positive attitude will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this UX Research Intern position:

• Submit your application through the provided link, ensuring your CV is in English.

• Tailor your CV: Highlight any experience, academic projects, or personal interests that demonstrate your understanding of user behavior, technology, gaming, or research methodologies. Explicitly mention your proficiency in Google Workspace.

• Prepare for basic UX/Gaming questions: Familiarize yourself with fundamental UX concepts and be ready to discuss your interest in CD PROJEKT RED's games and the gaming industry.

• Articulate your motivation: Clearly explain why you are pursuing this internship and what you hope to gain and contribute.

• Research CD PROJEKT RED: Understand their mission, games, and company culture to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit.

⚠️ 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.

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