UX Moderator (TEMPORARY)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UX Moderator (TEMPORARY)

Company: User Research International

Location: Kirkland, Washington, United States

Job Type: TEMPORARY

Category: User Experience (UX) Research Operations

Date Posted: May 28, 2026

Experience Level: 0-2 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This temporary UX Moderator role focuses on facilitating qualitative user research sessions, directly contributing to the data collection and execution of study protocols.

• The position requires collaboration with UX Researchers and Leads, underscoring the importance of effective teamwork and communication within a research operations framework.

• A key aspect of this role involves meticulous preparation and maintenance of research equipment and study materials, crucial for seamless data capture.

• The role demands direct interaction with study participants, emphasizing the need for strong interpersonal skills and adherence to research ethics and procedures.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "UX Moderator," the responsibilities align with a junior role within User Experience (UX) Research Operations, specifically focused on the execution and facilitation of qualitative studies. The temporary nature and on-site requirement are critical distinguishing factors.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Moderate qualitative 1-on-1 research sessions, ensuring adherence to study protocols and timelines (60-90 minutes per session).

• Prepare, maintain, and ensure the proper use of all equipment and study materials required for research sessions.

• Collect and prepare necessary research materials and information needed for assigned studies, ensuring readiness for data collection.

• Collaborate closely with UX Researchers and Leads to understand study objectives and execute them accurately.

• Directly interact with study participants, creating a comfortable and conducive environment for data gathering.

• Execute study protocols precisely to ensure the integrity and quality of collected qualitative data.

• Document observations and assist in organizing research findings as directed by the research team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on, execution-focused role within UX research. The emphasis on "executing study protocols" and "data collection" points to a need for meticulousness and adherence to structured processes, characteristic of operations roles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: BS/BA preferred, with a strong interest in UX Research, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), and qualitative research methodologies.

Experience: 1-2 years of experience in user research or a related field, demonstrating a foundational understanding of research principles.

Required Skills:

• Qualitative Research Moderation: Proven ability to conduct and moderate 1-on-1 qualitative research sessions effectively.

• Study Protocol Execution: Skill in precisely following and implementing established research study protocols for consistent data collection.

• Data Collection & Preparation: Capability to gather, organize, and prepare research materials and information for studies.

• Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) / User Research Fundamentals: Understanding of research methodologies and techniques from fields like Human Factors, HCI, Anthropology, Psychology, or Sociology.

• Consumer Technology Aptitude: Ability to quickly learn about new consumer technologies and discuss them knowledgeably in a research setting.

• Attention to Detail: Meticulousness in handling equipment, materials, and executing study procedures to ensure data accuracy.

• English Fluency: Professional fluency in English for effective communication with participants and the research team.

• On-site Work Capability: Ability to work regular work hours on-site in Kirkland, WA, to conduct research sessions.

Preferred Skills:

• Research Methodology Exposure: Familiarity with scientific research and methods, or a strong interest in developing this knowledge.

• Equipment & Material Management: Experience in preparing, maintaining, and ensuring the functionality of research equipment.

• Participant Engagement: Skills in building rapport and ensuring participant comfort during research sessions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize foundational knowledge in user research and a practical, execution-oriented skill set. The blend of research methodology interest and practical execution skills is typical for junior operations roles supporting research functions.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Study Protocol Execution Examples: While a formal portfolio might not be required for this temporary role, candidates should be prepared to discuss specific instances where they successfully followed and executed detailed study protocols.

• Data Collection Experience: Be ready to describe your approach to data collection and how you ensure accuracy and completeness during research sessions.

• Equipment & Material Handling: Prepare to speak about your experience managing research materials and equipment, ensuring they are ready for use and properly maintained.

• Participant Interaction Examples: Have examples ready of how you engage with participants to create a positive and productive research environment.

Process Documentation:

• Adherence to Workflow: Demonstrate an understanding of the importance of following set workflows and procedures for research studies.

• Execution of Procedures: Be prepared to explain how you ensure that research procedures are carried out exactly as planned.

• Data Integrity Focus: Highlight your commitment to maintaining the integrity of collected data through careful execution of study tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a temporary, entry-level role focused on execution, a formal portfolio might not be mandatory. However, candidates should be prepared to verbally articulate their experience and understanding of key processes through concrete examples during the interview.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $25 per hour.

Benefits:

• As a temporary position, benefits are typically limited.

• Opportunity to gain hands-on experience in user research operations.

• Exposure to qualitative research methodologies and study execution.

• Potential for networking within the user research field.

Working Hours: This is a temporary role, with an expected availability requirement for the month of June. Working hours will likely align with regular business operations on-site in Kirkland, WA, typically 40 hours per week, but specific schedules may vary based on study needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hourly rate of $25/hour for a temporary UX Moderator in Kirkland, WA, aligns with entry-level research support roles. Benefits are usually minimal for temporary positions, with the primary value being experience and exposure.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Market Research & User Experience (UX) Consulting. User Research International specializes in helping companies understand their users through qualitative and quantitative research.

Company Size: User Research International is likely a boutique or mid-sized firm, given the focus on specialized UX research services. This often translates to a collaborative and close-knit team environment where individuals can have a direct impact.

Founded: Founded in 2014, User Research International has established itself as a provider of in-depth user insights. This tenure suggests a stable organization with established processes and client relationships.

Team Structure:

• The UX Moderator will report to a Research Manager, indicating a clear line of reporting and oversight.

• Collaboration will occur primarily with UX Researchers and UX Leads, suggesting a project-based team structure where specialized roles work together on specific studies.

Methodology:

• Qualitative Research Focus: The company's core expertise lies in qualitative research, meaning the emphasis will be on understanding user behaviors, attitudes, and motivations through methods like interviews and usability testing.

• Data-Driven Insights: While qualitative, the insights derived are intended to drive actionable improvements in product design and user experience, emphasizing a data-driven approach to research outcomes.

• Participant-Centric Approach: The role's direct interaction with participants highlights a commitment to ethical and effective user engagement.

Company Website: https://uriux.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's specialization in UX research suggests a culture that values user advocacy, meticulous data collection, and insightful analysis. The temporary nature of the role implies a need for individuals who can quickly integrate and contribute to ongoing projects.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents an entry-level or foundational position within the user research operations field. It's ideal for individuals looking to gain initial experience in facilitating research and understanding study execution.

Reporting Structure: The UX Moderator reports to a Research Manager, providing direct supervision and guidance. This structure offers learning opportunities through mentorship and feedback.

Operations Impact: While the role is temporary and focused on execution, the UX Moderator's accurate facilitation of studies directly impacts the quality and validity of the data collected. This data then informs critical design and product decisions, highlighting the foundational importance of this role in the overall research process.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to hone skills in qualitative research moderation, participant interaction, and study protocol execution.

• Industry Exposure: Gain practical experience in the user experience research field, understanding the lifecycle of research projects.

• Potential for Future Roles: Successful completion of this temporary role may open doors for future contract or even permanent opportunities within User Research International or similar organizations, depending on performance and business needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for this role is primarily experiential. It serves as a stepping stone to more senior research operations or user research positions by building core competencies in research facilitation and execution.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is on-site in Kirkland, WA, suggesting a professional office environment conducive to focused research sessions. This environment likely includes dedicated spaces for conducting interviews and user testing.

Office Location(s): Kirkland, Washington. This location is part of the greater Seattle metropolitan area, known for its strong technology and research sectors.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: While moderation is often one-on-one, the office environment likely supports collaboration with other researchers and team members for study preparation and debriefs.

• Research Facilities: Expect access to necessary equipment and potentially specialized rooms designed for conducting user research sessions.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities to interact with UX Researchers and Leads, facilitating knowledge sharing and understanding of research methodologies.

Work Schedule: The role requires availability for regular work hours on-site. While specific schedules will depend on the study calendar, a standard 40-hour work week is typical. Flexibility may be needed to accommodate participant availability for research sessions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Kirkland emphasizes a traditional work environment where direct supervision and access to physical resources are key. This setting is beneficial for learning and adhering to structured research processes.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your application and resume to assess relevant experience and qualifications.

• Moderation/Situational Interview: Likely involves behavioral questions and scenarios to gauge your approach to moderating sessions, handling participant interactions, and problem-solving during research.

• Discussion of Experience: You may be asked to elaborate on your previous research experience, methodologies you're familiar with, and your understanding of UX research principles.

• Logistics Confirmation: Confirmation of availability for the required period (month of June) and on-site work in Kirkland.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Prepare to Discuss Experience: Since a formal portfolio might not be required, be ready to verbally walk through your experience.

• Highlight Relevant Projects: Focus on any past projects where you were involved in user research, data collection, or participant interaction.

• Demonstrate Understanding of Process: Explain your understanding of how research studies are structured and the importance of following protocols, even if you haven't formally documented them.

• Showcase Research Interest: Articulate your passion for UX research, HCI, and qualitative methods.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Be prepared for questions asking how you would handle specific situations during a research session (e.g., a participant who is struggling, a technical issue, a participant who is not forthcoming).

• Methodology Knowledge: Brush up on basic qualitative research methodologies and terminology.

• Enthusiasm for Learning: Demonstrate a strong aptitude for learning new technologies and research techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely focus on practical experience, situational judgment, and the candidate's ability to quickly adapt and execute. Emphasis will be placed on practical application rather than theoretical knowledge alone.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Video Conferencing Software: Likely used for remote aspects of moderation or team collaboration (e.g., Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams).

• Screen Sharing Tools: Essential for moderating sessions where participants interact with digital products.

• Collaboration Platforms: For team communication and project management (e.g., Slack, Asana, Trello).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Note-Taking Software: Tools that allow for detailed note-taking during sessions, which may include timestamps and direct quotes.

• Data Organization Tools: Potentially basic spreadsheet software (e.g., Excel, Google Sheets) for organizing participant information or session notes.

CRM & Automation:

• Participant Databases/Scheduling Tools: May be used to manage participant recruitment, scheduling, and communication; specific tools will depend on User Research International's internal systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for this role is likely to be standard office productivity and communication tools, with a focus on facilitating research sessions and organizing basic data. Advanced analytics or CRM expertise is not expected.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• User Focus: A strong commitment to understanding and advocating for the end-user's needs and experiences.

• Integrity & Accuracy: Upholding ethical research practices and ensuring the accuracy and reliability of collected data.

• Collaboration: Working effectively with cross-functional teams to achieve research objectives.

• Efficiency: Streamlining processes to ensure research studies are conducted smoothly and within timelines.

• Continuous Learning: A culture that encourages learning about new technologies and research methodologies.

Collaboration Style:

• Project-Based Teams: Collaboration will likely be organized around specific research projects, involving close work with UX Researchers and Leads.

• Clear Communication: Emphasis on clear and concise communication regarding study protocols, participant feedback, and session outcomes.

• Supportive Environment: As a research operations function, the team likely fosters a supportive environment where members assist each other in executing studies effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values of a UX research firm typically revolve around user-centricity, methodological rigor, and collaborative problem-solving. For a temporary role, demonstrating alignment with these values through enthusiasm and a willingness to contribute is key.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Rapid Onboarding: As a temporary role, you'll need to quickly learn study protocols, tools, and team dynamics.

• Diverse Participant Interactions: Engaging with a wide range of participants, some of whom may be hesitant or unfamiliar with research.

• Technical Issues: Navigating potential technical glitches during live research sessions.

• Adherence to Strict Protocols: Ensuring every session is conducted exactly as planned to maintain data integrity.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Hands-on Moderation Experience: Directly practice and refine moderation skills in real-world research settings.

• Exposure to Research Methodologies: Gain practical insight into how qualitative research is conducted and applied.

• Industry Networking: Connect with professionals in the UX research field, potentially leading to future opportunities.

• Understanding of Research Operations: Learn the operational aspects of running user research studies, from preparation to execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are primarily related to the temporary nature of the role and the hands-on execution required. Growth is experiential, focusing on building practical skills and industry exposure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Moderation Scenarios: "How would you handle a participant who is shy or reluctant to share their thoughts?" or "What would you do if a participant goes off-topic?"

• Protocol Adherence: "Describe a time you had to follow a very specific set of instructions. How did you ensure you followed them accurately?"

• Technology Aptitude: "Tell me about a new consumer technology you've learned recently and how you'd approach discussing it with someone who may not be familiar with it."

• Research Interest: "What interests you most about UX Research and qualitative methods?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about User Research International and our work?"

• "How do you approach working in a temporary role and integrating quickly into a team?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Verbal Walkthrough: Be prepared to verbally describe your experience with user research, data collection, or participant interaction.

• Example-Driven Responses: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to provide concrete examples for behavioral questions.

• Highlight Key Skills: Emphasize your attention to detail, ability to learn quickly, and communication skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating practical skills, a strong work ethic, enthusiasm for the field, and the ability to quickly become a productive member of the team for the duration of the contract.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight any experience in user research, data collection, customer interaction, or roles requiring meticulous execution of procedures. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare for Verbal Discussion: Since a formal portfolio might not be required, be ready to verbally articulate your experience with study protocols, data collection, and participant interaction using specific examples.

• Research the Company: Familiarize yourself with User Research International's website (uriux.com) and their approach to UX research to demonstrate genuine interest.

• Confirm Availability: Ensure you can commit to working on-site in Kirkland, WA, for the entire month of June.

⚠️ 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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