Bring your research expertise to a dynamic internal tools and AI-focused product environment, where you’ll help shape solutions that improve how teams work across the organization. This hybrid contract role in Foster City offers the opportunity to lead impactful research, influence product direction, and advocate for user needs in a collaborative, forward-thinking setting.

Responsibilities

• Lead discovery and kickoff sessions with cross-functional partners to clarify goals, align stakeholders, and define the core problem to solve.
• Select and apply the most effective research methods, such as interviews, observations, diary studies, and workflow mapping, to uncover user needs and pain points.
• Partner with product, design, and engineering teams to identify opportunities that improve internal workflows and support operational efficiency.
• Translate research findings into clear, actionable insights that inform immediate improvements, long-term strategy, and roadmap decisions.
• Present recommendations in a compelling way that helps teams make informed decisions and maintain a strong focus on user needs.
• Help create an inclusive, psychologically safe research process that welcomes diverse perspectives and supports thoughtful collaboration.
• Manage expectations across a variety of stakeholders while keeping the research approach human-centered and practical.

Skills

• 5+ years of relevant experience in UX research or a closely related field.
• Experience conducting research for enterprise or internal users.
• Strong ability to choose and apply qualitative research methods based on the problem at hand.
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to synthesize insights and present recommendations clearly.
• Comfort working with technical users, tools, and cross-functional product teams.
• Ability to ask thoughtful questions, challenge assumptions, and advocate for user needs.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in a relevant discipline.

Preferred Skills

• Master’s degree or PhD in a related field.
• Experience designing or researching end-to-end AI-enabled solutions.
• Background working on interconnected product suites or tools that support shared workflows.
• Experience with tools used in field operations or similar operational environments.
• Experience supporting research or design for a wide range of users and abilities.
• Familiarity with autonomous vehicle systems or related technology.

Horizontal is committed to building a welcoming, inclusive environment where different perspectives are valued and every candidate has the opportunity to bring their best ideas forward. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds and experiences to apply, and we are dedicated to supporting equity and belonging throughout the hiring process.