User Researcher (Temporary) - Activision

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: User Researcher (Temporary)
Company: Activision Blizzard, Inc.
Location: Sherman Oaks, Florida, United States
Job Type: FULL_TIME
Category: User Experience Research / GTM Operations
Date Posted: May 18, 2026
Experience Level: 2-5 Years
Remote Status: Hybrid (3 days on-site)

🚀 Role Summary

• Conduct end-to-end user research for high-profile Activision game titles, ensuring player sentiment and usability are central to development.
• Employ a diverse range of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies to gather actionable insights on player experience.
• Translate complex research findings into clear, concise reports and compelling presentations for development teams and stakeholders.
• Collaborate closely with game designers, producers, and other cross-functional teams to integrate user feedback effectively and drive product improvements.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of user research processes and best practices within a dynamic gaming environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role is titled "User Researcher," its focus on player sentiment, usability, and direct communication with development teams positions it within the broader GTM (Go-To-Market) operations spectrum, specifically in the crucial area of product validation and market readiness. The emphasis on "single player games" and "player sentiment" suggests a need to understand user adoption drivers and potential friction points that impact future revenue and market reception.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and execute user research initiatives across various Activision game projects, managing all phases from initial planning and recruitment to data analysis and reporting.
• Design and implement a variety of research methods, including but not limited to: usability testing, appreciation playtesting, balance testing, focus group moderation, in-depth interviews, survey design and deployment, heuristic evaluations, card sorting exercises, exploratory research, and field studies.
• Develop and refine actionable research reports and surveys that clearly articulate findings, implications, and recommendations for product improvement.
• Present summarized research results and key insights directly to development teams, facilitating constructive discussions and ensuring research-informed decision-making.
• Propose design suggestions and strategic recommendations based on observed player behavior, research data, and expert analysis to enhance player experience and game engagement.
• Conduct on-site testing and provide research expertise as needed, potentially involving occasional travel to support specific project requirements.
• Manage stakeholder expectations by effectively communicating research timelines, methodologies, and potential impacts on project development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for strong project management and cross-functional communication skills, crucial for any operations role. The emphasis on translating findings into actionable insights and influencing design decisions underscores the strategic importance of this role in ensuring successful product launches and sustained player engagement, which directly impacts revenue generation.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree is required in Computer Science, Statistics, Psychology, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Human Factors, Information Technology, or a closely related field.
• An advanced degree (Master's or Ph.D.) in a relevant discipline is preferred and will be considered a significant asset.

Experience:

• 2-5 years of professional experience in applied user research and product evaluation, with a strong emphasis on user-centered design principles.
• Proven experience managing stakeholder needs and expectations within a game development or fast-paced product environment.
• A demonstrated passion for and deep familiarity with video games is mandatory; experience with at least one Activision franchise is highly desirable.

Required Skills:

• Professional expertise in qualitative research methods, including usability testing, interviews, and focus groups.
• Strong proficiency in designing and executing user research plans from inception to completion.
• Excellent analytical skills for interpreting complex data sets and identifying actionable insights.
• Superior interpersonal communication skills, both written and verbal, for clear reporting and effective presentation delivery.
• Professional time and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines efficiently.
• Ability to provide design suggestions rooted in research observation and expertise.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with user testing of third-person games on console or PC platforms.
• Familiarity with quantitative research methods and inferential statistical analysis.
• Knowledge of data visualization software for creating impactful presentations.
• Experience with telemetric methods and tools for analyzing player behavior data.
• Interest in emerging areas of user research such as biometrics, telemetry, and modeling.

📝 Enhancement Note: The educational requirements are broad, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of user research. The experience requirement of 2-5 years, coupled with the emphasis on game passion and specific methodologies, indicates a role that requires both foundational research skills and domain-specific knowledge, common for mid-level operations professionals tasked with specialized GTM functions.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 detailed case studies demonstrating the full lifecycle of user research projects, from initial problem definition to impact assessment.
• Clearly outline the research objectives, methodologies employed, participant profiles, and data collection processes for each case study.
• Provide concrete examples of how research findings were translated into actionable recommendations and how these recommendations influenced product design or development decisions.
• Quantify the impact of your research through metrics such as improved usability scores, reduced player friction, increased engagement, or positive sentiment shifts.
• Include examples of various deliverables, such as research reports, personas, user journey maps, and presentation decks, showcasing your communication style and ability to synthesize information.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate experience in documenting research processes, including protocol design, recruitment strategies, and data analysis frameworks.
• Provide examples of how you have standardized or improved research workflows to enhance efficiency and consistency.
• Showcase your ability to create clear, repeatable processes for conducting specific research methods (e.g., usability testing protocols).
• Illustrate how your research processes have been integrated with broader product development or GTM workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a User Researcher role, especially within a large gaming company like Activision, a robust portfolio is critical. It serves as tangible proof of their ability to execute research, analyze data, and drive product improvements. This aligns with operations roles where demonstrating process efficiency and measurable impact is key. The emphasis on quantifiable results and actionable recommendations is paramount for demonstrating GTM operational value.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for User Researchers with 2-5 years of experience in the Sherman Oaks, Florida area, the estimated salary range for this temporary full-time position is $70,000 - $95,000 annually. This estimate accounts for the specialized nature of game user research and the cost of living in the region.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Stock Options: Potential for stock options or grants as part of compensation.
• 401k: Retirement savings plan with company matching contributions.
• Paid Time Off: Accrued vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Employee Discounts: Discounts on Activision Blizzard products and merchandise.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, workshops, and conference attendance.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, typically 40 hours per week.
• The role requires on-site presence for three days per week (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday), with flexibility for occasional overtime as project needs dictate.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on typical compensation for User Researchers in similar roles and locations, considering the provided experience level. Benefits are standard for full-time positions at large tech/entertainment companies, with specific mention of stock options reflecting the industry. The hybrid work arrangement and the need for on-site presence are critical details for candidates.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Video Game Development & Publishing. Activision Blizzard is a global leader in interactive entertainment, known for developing and publishing some of the world's most popular and critically acclaimed video game franchises. The company operates within a highly competitive and rapidly evolving entertainment landscape, requiring innovation, agility, and a deep understanding of player engagement.

Company Size: Activision Blizzard is a large enterprise, employing thousands of individuals globally. This scale means opportunities for collaboration across numerous departments and projects, as well as access to extensive resources and established operational frameworks. For operations professionals, this size offers a structured environment with defined processes, but also requires adaptability within a large corporate structure.

Founded: Activision was founded in 1979, and Blizzard Entertainment in 1991. The merger in 2008 created Activision Blizzard, Inc., a powerhouse in the gaming industry with a rich history of innovation and success. This long-standing presence signifies stability and deep-rooted expertise in game development and player engagement strategies.

Team Structure:

• The User Research team is likely embedded within the product development or GTM strategy departments, acting as a critical bridge between players and game creators.
• Team members typically report to a User Research Manager or Director, with potential for matrixed reporting to project leads.
• Collaboration is essential, with frequent interaction with game designers, producers, engineers, marketing, and other GTM functions to ensure player insights inform all stages of development and launch.

Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making is paramount, with research insights serving as the foundation for product enhancements and strategic GTM initiatives.
• Emphasis on iterative research and development, allowing for continuous feedback loops and agile adjustments to game design and player experience.
• A commitment to understanding diverse player bases and ensuring inclusivity in game design and research practices.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's status as a major player in the gaming industry means that operations roles here are highly strategic and impactful. Understanding the company's history and its position in the market is crucial for candidates to align their skills with the company's goals. The emphasis on data-driven decisions and iterative processes is a hallmark of effective GTM operations.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-level User Researcher, typically requiring 2-5 years of experience. It involves significant autonomy in conducting research projects but operates under the guidance of a manager. It’s a hands-on role that contributes directly to product development and GTM readiness by ensuring player-centricity.

Reporting Structure: The User Researcher will report to a User Research Manager. They will work closely with various development teams, including game designers, producers, and potentially marketing or player support, demonstrating cross-functional collaboration that is common in GTM operations.

Operations Impact: The User Researcher's impact is direct and significant, influencing game design, feature development, and overall player satisfaction. By identifying and addressing usability issues and player sentiment, this role directly contributes to the quality and marketability of Activision's game titles, thereby impacting revenue, player retention, and brand reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific research methodologies (e.g., advanced quantitative analysis, psychophysiology) or game genres.
• Leadership: Progress to a Senior User Researcher or Lead User Researcher role, managing more complex projects and mentoring junior team members.
• Cross-Functional Moves: Transition into related GTM roles such as Product Management, Player Experience Design, or Marketing Research, leveraging a strong understanding of player behavior.
• Management: Advance into a User Research Management position, overseeing a team and setting research strategy for multiple projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for a User Researcher in a company like Activision is well-defined, offering clear progression within the research discipline or opportunities to leverage research skills in broader GTM and product strategy roles. This aligns with the typical career trajectory for specialized operations professionals.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in the Activision User Research Center in Sherman Oaks, Florida, indicating a dedicated on-site facility designed for conducting user research studies. This environment is likely equipped with specialized testing rooms, observation areas, and technology for capturing player interactions.

Office Location(s): Sherman Oaks, Florida. This specific location suggests a physical hub for research activities, requiring on-site presence for three days a week. Candidates should consider accessibility and commute implications.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect a dynamic workspace where close collaboration with development teams is the norm. This includes participating in team meetings, playtesting sessions, and design discussions.
• Tools and Technology: Access to industry-standard user research tools, gaming hardware (consoles, PCs), recording equipment, and potentially specialized software for data analysis and visualization.
• Team Interaction: Frequent opportunities to interact with fellow researchers, designers, producers, and other stakeholders, fostering a knowledge-sharing and feedback-rich culture.

Work Schedule: The position is full-time, with a hybrid arrangement requiring on-site attendance on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. This schedule is designed to balance focused individual research work with collaborative team engagement and in-person testing sessions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model with specific on-site days is a key detail for candidates. The description of a dedicated User Research Center implies a professional and well-equipped environment conducive to rigorous research, which is essential for generating high-quality GTM insights.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter will likely conduct an initial phone screen to assess basic qualifications, experience, and interest in the role and Activision.
• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the User Research Manager to delve deeper into your experience, research methodologies, and understanding of game development.
• Portfolio Review & Presentation: A critical stage where you will present selected case studies from your portfolio, demonstrating your research process, analytical skills, and ability to derive actionable insights. Be prepared to discuss your contributions, challenges, and the impact of your work.
• Technical/Skills Assessment: May involve a practical exercise or a discussion about specific research techniques, data analysis, or problem-solving scenarios relevant to game user research.
• Team/Cross-Functional Interviews: Interviews with other researchers, designers, or producers to assess cultural fit, collaboration style, and ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader to discuss overall fit, career aspirations, and strategic alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 2-3 of your strongest case studies that best showcase your skills in game user research, highlighting projects with quantifiable outcomes and clear influence on product decisions.
• Tell a Story: Structure your presentations to clearly articulate the problem, your approach, the insights gained, and the impact of your recommendations. Use visuals effectively to illustrate your points.
• Focus on Impact: Emphasize how your research led to tangible improvements in player experience, usability, or game engagement, and be ready to discuss metrics and ROI.
• Demonstrate Process: Clearly explain your methodology, why you chose specific techniques, and how you managed the research process from start to finish.
• Tailor to Activision: Research Activision's current games and player base. If possible, draw parallels between your past work and the challenges or opportunities Activision might face.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would approach researching a specific game mechanic or feature.
• Prepare to analyze sample data or interpret player feedback to identify key issues.
• Practice articulating your thought process and recommendations clearly and concisely under pressure.
• Consider how you would communicate potentially negative findings to a development team constructively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes practical application and the ability to demonstrate past successes. A strong portfolio presentation is crucial, as it directly showcases the candidate's operational capability to deliver valuable insights and drive product improvements, which is a core function of GTM operations professionals.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• User Research Platforms: Familiarity with tools like UserTesting.com, Lookback, Maze, or similar platforms for remote and in-person usability testing and feedback collection.
• Survey Tools: Proficiency in creating and deploying surveys using tools such as SurveyMonkey, Google Forms, Qualtrics, or Typeform.
• Interview & Focus Group Software: Experience with video conferencing tools like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or specialized platforms for moderated sessions.
• Data Analysis Software: Competency in tools for qualitative data analysis (e.g., Dovetail, NVivo) and potentially quantitative analysis (e.g., SPSS, R, Python for statistical analysis).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Visualization Tools: Knowledge of tools like Tableau, Power BI, or even advanced Excel for creating charts, graphs, and dashboards to present research findings effectively.
• Spreadsheet Software: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets for data manipulation and basic analysis.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how user research data can feed into customer feedback systems or inform CRM strategies is beneficial. Experience with project management tools like JIRA, Asana, or Trello is also valuable for managing research tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in a range of user research tools is non-negotiable. The ability to leverage data visualization for impactful reporting is critical for operational communication. While direct CRM experience isn't listed, understanding how user insights can inform customer-facing operations is a plus.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Player-Centricity: A deep commitment to understanding and advocating for the player experience, ensuring that player needs and feedback are at the forefront of development decisions.
• Data-Driven Insights: Valuing rigorous research and objective data analysis to inform strategic decisions and product improvements.
• Collaboration & Communication: Fostering an environment of open communication and teamwork, where insights are shared effectively across disciplines to achieve common goals.
• Excellence & Innovation: Striving for high-quality research outcomes and continuously exploring new methods and technologies to enhance the understanding of player behavior.
• Adaptability: Embracing the fast-paced nature of the gaming industry, being flexible and responsive to changing project needs and market trends.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively participating in cross-functional team meetings and discussions, acting as a bridge between player experience and product development.
• Constructive Feedback: Providing and receiving feedback in a professional and constructive manner, aiming to improve both the product and the research process.
• Knowledge Sharing: Proactively sharing research findings, best practices, and learnings with colleagues and development teams to foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on player-centricity, data-driven insights, and collaboration are core tenets of effective GTM operations. These values ensure that the operational output is aligned with market needs and team objectives.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Stakeholder Needs: Managing diverse and sometimes conflicting requests from various development teams and stakeholders while maintaining research integrity.
• Pace of Development: Keeping up with the rapid iteration cycles in game development and delivering timely, actionable insights without compromising research quality.
• Subjectivity in Game Design: Translating subjective player feedback and sentiment into objective, actionable data that can influence creative decisions.
• Evolving Research Landscape: Staying abreast of new research methodologies, technologies (e.g., AI in research, biometrics), and player behaviors in a constantly changing industry.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Methodological Advancement: Opportunities to learn and implement advanced qualitative and quantitative research techniques, including experimental design and statistical modeling.
• Industry Conferences: Support for attending major user research and game development conferences (e.g., CHI, GDC) to gain insights and network.
• Mentorship: Access to experienced researchers and leaders within Activision Blizzard for guidance and career development.
• Skill Expansion: Potential to develop skills in areas like data analytics, UX design principles, or even game design fundamentals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for operations roles that bridge product development and market understanding. The growth opportunities are geared towards both deepening specialized skills and expanding into broader strategic or leadership capacities within the GTM framework.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• How would you approach researching the player sentiment for a new single-player narrative-driven game?
• Describe a time you had to present difficult research findings to a development team. How did you manage the situation and what was the outcome?
• How do you prioritize research requests when multiple teams have urgent needs?
• What are your thoughts on integrating telemetry data with qualitative user research for a more comprehensive player understanding?

Company & Culture Questions:

• What draws you to Activision, and what are your favorite Activision Blizzard titles?
• How do you see your role contributing to the overall success of an Activision game title?
• Describe your ideal team environment and how you collaborate with cross-functional partners.
• How do you stay updated on trends in the gaming industry and user research?

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Begin with a brief overview of Activision's mission and the role's importance. Then, present your chosen case studies, focusing on the "STAR" method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for each.
• Data Visualization: Use clear, impactful visuals to present data. Highlight key metrics and insights prominently.
• Actionable Insights: For each case study, clearly articulate the specific recommendations you made and how they were implemented, detailing the resulting improvements.
• Q&A Readiness: Anticipate questions about your methodology choices, challenges faced, and the quantifiable impact of your work. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with Activision's specific games and player base.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview preparation focuses on assessing strategic thinking, problem-solving, communication skills, and the ability to translate research into actionable business outcomes, all critical for success in operations-focused roles.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday link: https://xboxgaming.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/External/job/Sherman-Oaks/User-Researcher---Activision_R027542
• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 strong case studies that demonstrate your end-to-end user research process, focusing on your impact on game design or player experience. Prioritize examples related to single-player games or narrative-driven experiences if possible.
• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight keywords and responsibilities from the job description, emphasizing your experience with relevant user research methodologies, game industry familiarity, and stakeholder management. Quantify your achievements whenever possible.
• Prepare Your Presentation: Practice delivering your portfolio presentation, focusing on clarity, conciseness, and demonstrating how your research led to actionable improvements and positive outcomes. Time yourself to ensure you stay within any given limits.
• Research Activision: Familiarize yourself with Activision's current game portfolio, their target audiences, and recent company news. Understand how user research contributes to their GTM strategy and product success.

⚠️ 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.