Principal User Researcher

Sharkmob is an innovative AAA video game company dedicated to creating engaging multiplayer experiences. Our research lab focuses on understanding what drives players and enhances their enjoyment. We collect insights using traditional research methods, whether through usability testing or playtests, to guide our developers in making data-driven decisions. Our Data, User Research, and Design teams work closely to interpret player behaviours and conduct extended research in collaboration with local universities.

As a Principal User Researcher, you will be the craft expert who leads research efforts and mentor teammates. You will also align user research activities across multiple projects, driving player-centric game development.

Key Responsibilities

• Actively share knowledge and maintain key stakeholder relationships.
• Develop, promote, and ensure good user research practices.
• Design studies using experimental design and research methodology.
• Ensure User Researchers have the necessary tools and resources.
• Execute tests, analyses, reports, and presentations.
• Guide game teams in planning user research strategies for the lifecycle of their games.
• Promote collaboration between Data, UX, Design, and Marketing teams.
• Provide consultative support and guidance to senior stakeholders.
• Mentor and upskill User Researchers in all areas of the craft.
• Support development teams in taking a user-centred, evidence-based approach to research.

Your Experience & Requirements

• 8+ years of experience in user research or usability testing.
• Experience in mentoring or leading teams.
• Bachelor's degree or higher in experimental/social/cognitive psychology, human-computer interaction, or equivalent industry experience.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Extensive experience with user interviews, surveys, moderating research sessions, and usability tests.
• Passion for video games is beneficial, and experience in game development or the entertainment industry is desirable.
• Strong analytical skills with a background or coursework in descriptive and inferential statistics.

Bonus points

• Experience with shooter or live service games.
• Experience in quantitative methods.

Who we are

Sharkmob was founded in 2017 and is headquartered in Malmö, Sweden. We are currently working on Exoborne – a Sharkmob original game. We have previously released Bloodhunt – a battle royale shooter set in the Vampire: The Masquerade universe. We develop games for PC and console, using Unreal 5 to power our vision and ambition.

At Sharkmob, we are committed to building an inclusive team that represents diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and skillsets – because we believe that helps us create great games. We welcome all candidates who are aligned with our core values of shared ownership, great games, and, last but not least – having fun! We hope you want to join us on our adventure and become a part of our crew. You can find more great perks of being a crew member. If you want to know more about Sharkmob and our projects, visit our homepage.