Vans: Researcher, Human Factors, Footwear

The Human Factors Researcher for Footwear is involved in all parts of the product testing process, from tester recruitment to samples logistics, survey creation and distribution, and report creation and presentation.

Join the Vans Family

Vans® is the original action sports footwear company, rooted in authenticity and creativity. Founded in 1966, we have thrived on a legacy of impacting our greater community through four pillars: action sports, music, art and street culture. We are constantly inspired by the creative voyagers within our company and community.  For them, creativity is about the journey, not just the output.  Our mission is to empower everyone to use creativity to discover themselves. Our vision is to create a world where anyone can be their unique self.

At Vans, our culture sets us apart and influences everything we do. We are driven by our five values: We have HEART – also referred to as the “Van Doren Spirit”.  We are relentlessly CURIOUS about our consumers and the world around us. We are UNAPOLOGETICALLY AUTHENTIC and whole heartedly believe the most “Off the Wall” thing you can do is be yourself.  We are driven by a spirit of INGENUITY.  And we are passionate about local COMMUNITIES.  And most of all, we are a family that has fun together.

At Vans we empower creative exploration and inspire youth culture through a commitment to inclusivity. We welcome anyone and everyone into our global family and proudly celebrate and environment where individuality is embraced, equal opportunities thrive, and everyone is empowered to reach their greatest potential. 

By joining our family, you will be immersed in an environment of incredibly supportive and collaborative people. We work hard across a multitude of initiatives to bring the Van Doren Spirit to life. We live for what we do.

How You Will Make a Difference

What you will do:

We are seeking a versatile Human Factors Researcher to join our Fit and Wear Test Team. This role will involve working closely with Product Testing, Product Innovation, and Product Development teams to ensure our footwear products meet the needs and expectations of our customers in terms of fit, comfort, and performance. The ideal candidate will conduct user research, design and execute testing methodologies, analyze data, and provide actionable insights to inform product development decisions

How you will do it:

• Conduct user research to understand the diverse needs and preferences of customers related to footwear fit and wear.
• Design, execute, and analyze testing methodologies, including fit, wear, dynamic, and lab tests, using Qualtrics software.
• Recruit participants for fit and wear tests, coordinate testing logistics, and collect feedback through surveys and qualitative interviews.
• Participate in organizing off-site test sessions and facilitate iterative testing sessions to evaluate product prototypes.
• Analyze quantitative and qualitative data collected during testing to identify patterns, trends, and areas for improvement.
• Create synthetic reports of all tests using Qualtrics software and assist in test analysis to be shared with development and product creation teams.
• Provide concise and exhaustive test reports to contribute to key decision-making and continuous improvement in all areas of product creation.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams, including sales operations, distribution center, and shipping departments, to ensure seamless integration of research insights into product development.
• Foster collaboration and communication between the Fit and Wear Test team and other departments.
• Stay updated on industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies in footwear design and user experience.

What success looks like:

• Must be willing to go over and beyond to retain a high quality of work, while meeting key milestones.
• You will work closely with your fellow testing teammates, as well as cross functionally on internal projects, while also helping evolve testing techniques and best practices that shape the testing of tomorrow.

Free To Be, Inclusion & Diversity

As a mission-led, performance driven company, we strive to foster a culture of belonging based on respect, connection, openness and authenticity. We are committed to building and maintaining a workplace that celebrates the diversity of our associates, allowing them to bring their authentic selves to work every day.

Skills for Success

Years of Related Professional Experience: 3+ years

Educational Position Requirements:

A formal education and subsequent undergraduate/graduate degrees are nice to have, but we are mo