Lead UX Researcher - 12 Month Fixed Term Contract: Complete Job Description Guide
Understanding the Lead UX Researcher Fixed Term Contract Role
A Lead UX Researcher position on a 12-month fixed term contract represents a strategic opportunity for organizations to bring in senior-level user research expertise for specific projects, product launches, or organizational transformations. This role combines the leadership responsibilities of a permanent position with the project-focused nature of contract work, making it an attractive option for both employers and experienced researchers seeking flexibility.
Core Responsibilities
Research Strategy and Leadership
- Develop and execute comprehensive research strategies aligned with business objectives and product roadmaps
- Lead end-to-end research projects from planning through insight delivery and implementation
- Mentor and guide junior researchers, fostering a culture of user-centricity across the organization
- Establish research methodologies and best practices to ensure consistency and quality
- Collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders including product managers, designers, engineers, and executives
Research Execution
- Design and conduct various research studies including usability testing, user interviews, field studies, surveys, and diary studies
- Utilize both qualitative and quantitative research methods to gather comprehensive user insights
- Leverage advanced research tools such as UserTesting, Optimal Workshop, Dovetail, and survey research platforms like Conjointly for conjoint analysis and market research
- Analyze complex data sets and synthesize findings into actionable recommendations
- Create compelling research deliverables including reports, presentations, journey maps, and personas
Stakeholder Management
- Present research findings to senior leadership and influence product strategy decisions
- Build relationships across departments to champion user-centered design principles
- Translate business questions into research objectives and vice versa
- Manage research participants and coordinate with recruitment agencies or internal panels
Required Qualifications
Experience and Education
- 7-10+ years of UX research experience with at least 3 years in a lead or senior capacity
- Bachelor’s degree in Human-Computer Interaction, Psychology, Anthropology, or related field (Master’s or PhD preferred)
- Proven track record of leading research initiatives that directly influenced product decisions
- Experience working in agile environments and fast-paced product development cycles
Technical Skills
- Expertise in both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies
- Proficiency with research tools (UserZoom, Lookback, Maze, Qualtrics, Conjointly, etc.)
- Strong data analysis skills including statistical analysis and data visualization
- Familiarity with design tools (Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD) to collaborate effectively with designers
- Understanding of accessibility standards and inclusive design principles
Soft Skills
- Exceptional communication and presentation abilities
- Strong leadership and mentorship capabilities
- Strategic thinking and business acumen
- Ability to work autonomously and manage multiple projects
- Collaborative mindset with excellent stakeholder management skills
Why Organizations Hire on Fixed Term Contracts
Companies typically offer 12-month fixed term contracts for Lead UX Researcher roles for several strategic reasons:
- Major product launches or redesigns requiring intensive research support
- Digital transformation initiatives that need specialized expertise
- Maternity or parental leave coverage for permanent team members
- Budget flexibility allowing organizations to secure senior talent for defined periods
- Pilot programs to establish or expand research capabilities before committing to permanent headcount
- Project-specific needs such as entering new markets or developing new product lines
Salary Expectations
Salary ranges for Lead UX Researcher positions on fixed term contracts typically align with permanent roles, though some organizations may offer premium rates to attract top talent for contract positions. Here are approximate annual salary ranges by market and seniority:
| Market | Mid-Level Lead | Senior Lead | Principal/Staff Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Singapore (SGD) | 120,000 - 160,000 | 160,000 - 200,000 | 200,000 - 250,000 |
| United States (USD) | 130,000 - 170,000 | 170,000 - 220,000 | 220,000 - 280,000 |
| Canada (CAD) | 110,000 - 145,000 | 145,000 - 185,000 | 185,000 - 230,000 |
| Australia (AUD) | 140,000 - 180,000 | 180,000 - 230,000 | 230,000 - 280,000 |
| Philippines (PHP) | 2,400,000 - 3,200,000 | 3,200,000 - 4,200,000 | 4,200,000 - 5,500,000 |
| Thailand (THB) | 1,800,000 - 2,400,000 | 2,400,000 - 3,200,000 | 3,200,000 - 4,000,000 |
| United Kingdom (GBP) | 65,000 - 85,000 | 85,000 - 110,000 | 110,000 - 140,000 |
| Germany (EUR) | 75,000 - 95,000 | 95,000 - 120,000 | 120,000 - 150,000 |
| France (EUR) | 70,000 - 90,000 | 90,000 - 115,000 | 115,000 - 145,000 |
| Netherlands (EUR) | 72,000 - 92,000 | 92,000 - 118,000 | 118,000 - 148,000 |
Note: Contract positions may command 10-20% higher rates depending on the market and whether benefits are included.
Benefits and Perks
While fixed term contracts may have different benefit structures than permanent positions, competitive packages often include:
- Professional development budget for conferences and training
- Flexible working arrangements including remote or hybrid options
- Access to research tools and software subscriptions
- Health insurance (varies by market and contract structure)
- Performance bonuses tied to project milestones
- Potential for contract extension or conversion to permanent role
Career Advantages of Fixed Term Contracts
For experienced UX researchers, accepting a 12-month fixed term contract can offer several benefits:
- Diverse experience across different industries and company sizes
- Networking opportunities and expanded professional connections
- Higher earning potential through premium contract rates
- Flexibility to explore different work environments before committing long-term
- Skill development through exposure to varied challenges and methodologies
- Portfolio building with significant, high-impact projects
What to Look for in a Fixed Term Contract
Before accepting a Lead UX Researcher contract position, consider:
- Clear project scope and objectives to ensure you can deliver meaningful impact
- Adequate resources and team support to accomplish your goals
- Stakeholder buy-in for research activities and recommendations
- Professional development opportunities even within the limited timeframe
- Possibility of extension or permanent conversion if you’re seeking long-term opportunities
- Competitive compensation that reflects the temporary nature and your expertise level
Preparing Your Application
To stand out for a Lead UX Researcher fixed term contract:
- Highlight relevant project experience that demonstrates your ability to deliver results quickly
- Showcase leadership examples where you’ve mentored teams or influenced strategy
- Demonstrate methodological versatility across various research approaches
- Emphasize your ability to work autonomously and hit the ground running
- Include a portfolio with case studies showing your research process and impact
- Prepare for scenario-based interviews focused on problem-solving and stakeholder management
Conclusion
A Lead UX Researcher position on a 12-month fixed term contract offers a unique opportunity to make significant impact while maintaining career flexibility. These roles require experienced professionals who can quickly assess organizational needs, establish credibility with stakeholders, and deliver actionable insights that drive product decisions. Whether you’re between permanent positions, seeking diverse experiences, or testing the waters with a new organization, fixed term contracts can be an excellent career move for senior UX research professionals.
The key to success in these roles is understanding that you’re expected to deliver senior-level impact from day one while also building the relationships and frameworks that can continue benefiting the organization long after your contract ends.