Sr Researcher - Play Lab, Consumer Insights

Company Description

CREATIVITY IS OUR SUPERPOWER. It’s our heritage and it’s also our future. Because we don’t just make toys. We create innovative products and experiences that inspire fans, entertain audiences and develop children through play. Mattel is at its best when every member of our team feels respected, included, and heard—when everyone can show up as themselves and do their best work every day. We value and share an infinite range of ideas and voices that evolve and broaden our perspectives with a reach that extends into all our brands, partners, and suppliers.

Job Description

The Opportunity: 

The Global Consumer Insights department at Mattel, Inc. is looking for a Play Lab Sr. Researcher with qualitative and UX research experience to support the tech innovation team. The ideal candidate is detail oriented with strong interpersonal skills, who thrives in a fast-paced environment.  This individual will work closely with their manager and Mattel’s qualitative research team to execute a variety of types of qualitative research.

What Your Impact Will Be: 

The Consumer Insights Play Lab Researcher is responsible for duties including but not limited to the following:

Qualitative Research Execution:

• Recruit and Screen participants for qualitative research and UX Testing
• Build internal panel of testers and segment into key testing groups for tech-oriented products
• Work with cross functional teams to prepare stimulus for qualitative research including focus groups, IDIs, and UX research
• Consult on methodology, screeners, developmental needs & activities
• Ensure research deadlines are adhered to in order to maintain high quality research
• Moderate qualitative research sessions

Reporting and Advising:

• Craft reports and documents to deliver qualitative research results, particularly related to UX reports
• Understand usability concerns of tech items targeted towards both kids and adults to serve as an advisor to the team
• Provide consultation on new concepts to ensure strong usability of products and services being developed

Additional Responsibilities:

• Attend meetings and collaborate with cross functional partners to ensure smooth execution of qualitative research
• Stay informed on emerging consumer trends and industry shifts that could influence the business.
• Collaborate with Innovation Programs & trends team to stay up to date on latest innovations and trends in the tech space.

Qualifications

What We’re Looking For: 

Qualifications:

• Ability to efficiently manage multiple projects in a fast-paced, dynamic environment while maintaining attention to detail and adaptability to shifting priorities.
• Experience with qualitative methodologies, including focus groups, IDIs and UX research
• Previous moderation experience with both kids and adults
• Strong writing and presentation skills
• Ability to synthesize data into clear, actionable insights and recommendations.
• Proven ability to work both independently and collaboratively with cross-functional teams.
• Confident and articulate presenter who can effectively represent the ‘voice of the consumer’ in meetings.
• Positive, cooperative interpersonal skills with a collaborative and solution-oriented approach.
• Thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with the ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities while maintaining high-quality work.
• Demonstrates curiosity and a forward-thinking mindset, with an interest in agile research methodologies and emerging technologies, including AI, to drive innovative insights.
• Ability to moderate in both virtual and in-person testing settings.
• Confidence working in a variety of digital platforms & Tools (Zoom, Miro, Canva, Adobe, MS Suite, Qualtrics, AI Tools)

Experience and Education Required:

• Undergraduate degree (BS, BA) with about 4-5 years of experience is required. 
• Prior experience with qualitative and UX research methodologies
• Exceptional writing and communication skills, particularly in creating compelling presentations and reports.
• Strong time management skills with the ability to handle multiple priorities and projects simultaneously
• Experience in a tech related field and with UX testing
• Experience recruiting participants for research, including writing screeners, email blasts, segmenting groups, and building testing panels.  

The annual base salary range for this position is between $78,400 and $115,000.
**This range is indicative of projected hiring rang