User Researcher

PARLIAMENTARY DIGITAL SERVICE; London; Hybrid; GBP 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job description

The Opportunity

• Plan, design and conduct research and analysis to inform the strategic direction for and operationalisation of digital services in Parliament.
• Conduct research with users of Parliament's digital, data and information services, and in particular operational teams in both Houses, members and members' staff of both Houses, delivery teams and leadership across Parliament.
• Lead on research activities within a team, from initial planning, through research gathering, to analysis and report writing.
• Understand user needs and requirements by working closely with teams across the organisation to gather evidence using a range of user research techniques.
• Communicate research findings and recommendations credibly and effectively to a wide range of stakeholders and colleagues.

What You Need

• You are confident in helping colleagues to understand the value of user research and can support teams to utilise research findings, ensuring outcomes are user focused.
• You are well versed with a range of research methods and user-centred practices and can plan and conduct user research using a variety of research methods, including contextual research, ad-hoc and lab usability testing, and in-depth interviewing.
• You perform inclusive research that is legally and ethically compliant, and advocate for inclusive practices that help teams deliver accessible services that work for all users.
• You are a skilled communicator and can advocate for user research as a discipline and engage less knowledgeable and sceptical colleagues and stakeholders, building productive working relationships with them.
• You have strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills with the ability to see the bigger picture and you can translate business problems and user needs into relevant, actionable research plans and objectives.
• The ability to pass security clearance, backed by the right to work in the UK.

About The Team

This role is embedded in the Insights team within the Digital Value Directorate. The Digital Value Directorate has been created to drive value from Parliament's investment in digital, and to continually improve digital services in line with Parliament's digital and data operating model. The Insights team brings together a range of disciplines to gather and interrogate evidence about Parliament's strategic approach to information, data and digital, and to identify opportunities to embed the adoption of user-centric and design thinking practices across Parliament. The role holder will be working closely with colleagues across the Digital Service and Parliament to undertake activities which contribute to the continued cultural and operational shift towards a user-centred way of working.

About Us

UK Parliament is steeped in history and tradition. It is an important part of UK life and we need to ensure as many people as possible can engage with its work. This is why we are at the start of a huge transformation programme powered by technology. The Parliamentary Digital Service (PDS) works with the House of Commons and the House of Lords with all their IT and digital needs. We are here to realise the digital ambitions of a modern Parliament and welcome you to join us in building a digital democracy.

Our Package

Please refer to our Candidate Information Pack for a full list of our benefits which include:

• Up to 35 days annual leave in addition to bank holidays.
• Generous maternity pay policy up to 6 months full pay.
• Great pension scheme options (contributory and non-contributory).
• On-site subsidised gym, nursery, catering, post office, travel office and GP.
• Flexible options including hybrid working and family friendly policies.

How To Apply

Please make sure you're clear on the requirements of the role. These can be found in the Job Description and Candidate Information Pack. You will need to upload a CV and show how you meet criteria 1, 2 and 3. Our application process is anonymous, so please remove any personal information from your CV.

Apply By:

Interviews: 22nd April 2025.

Format: Presentation + Panel Interview (Remote).

Our Culture

For our people, we provide an amazing opportunity to bring their talents to an institution that sits right at the heart of society in the UK. We are helping to change UK Parliament and strengthen democracy. What matters here is your potential for growth and your commitment to playing your part in our ongoing success.

We are passionate about providing an environment which promotes inclusion, diversity and equality. Regardless of your age, gender, ethnicity, beliefs or any of the other things that make you, you. We welcome applications from people who feel under-represented in the workforce. This includes those who may feel disadvantaged because of their socioeconomic circumstances.