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Contract User Researcher Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Promet Source

UI/UX Lead

Chicago, IL · Remote

You'll also play a key role in research and strategy--leading discovery efforts, documenting insights, and translating user needs into actionable design direction. This is a contract role (up to 20 ...

Genpact

Lead Service Designer (Contract)

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$113K - $148K/yr

Lead end-to-end service design engagements: research, journey mapping, service blueprinting ... Design and validate service concepts, prototypes, and blueprints, iterating based on user feedback

New

rightpoint

Lead Service Designer (Contract)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$113K - $148K/yr

Lead end-to-end service design engagements: research, journey mapping, service blueprinting ... Design and validate service concepts, prototypes, and blueprints, iterating based on user feedback

Posted today

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsContract User Researcher JobsContract User Researcher Jobs in Chicago, IL

Contract User Researcher information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$30.9K

$116.5K

$169.5K

How much do contract user researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract user researcher in Chicago, IL is $116,511.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $158,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract user researcher?

Contract user researchers are professionals hired on a temporary or project basis to conduct research focused on understanding users' needs, behaviors, and experiences with products or services. They use various methods, such as interviews, surveys, usability testing, and field studies, to gather insights that inform design and business decisions. Unlike full-time employees, contract user researchers typically work for a specific duration or on particular projects, offering flexibility for both the employer and the researcher. Their expertise helps organizations create user-centered products and improve customer satisfaction.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract user researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract User Researcher, you need expertise in qualitative and quantitative research methods, user experience principles, and a degree in human-computer interaction, psychology, or a related field. Familiarity with tools like UserTesting, Optimal Workshop, and analytics platforms, along with knowledge of usability testing protocols, is typically required. Outstanding communication, adaptability, and the ability to synthesize complex insights make someone stand out in this client-facing, project-based role. These skills ensure actionable, user-centered recommendations that drive product improvements and meet client objectives within tight timelines.

What are some common challenges faced by contract user researchers when joining new projects, and how can they be addressed?

Contract user researchers often face the challenge of quickly getting up to speed with the product, team dynamics, and existing research processes. Since contracts are usually for a limited duration, there's a need to rapidly build relationships and understand project goals to deliver actionable insights. To address these challenges, it's important to schedule early meetings with key stakeholders, review any existing research documentation, and set clear expectations for deliverables and timelines. Proactively communicating findings and being adaptable to different team workflows can also help establish trust and ensure a successful research engagement.

What is the difference between Contract User Researcher vs Full-Time User Researcher?

AspectContract User ResearcherFull-Time User Researcher
Employment TypeTemporary, project-basedPermanent, ongoing
CredentialsTypically requires relevant experience and research skillsRequires similar credentials, often with additional benefits
Work EnvironmentFreelance or agency settings, remote or onsiteIn-house, team-based, often onsite or hybrid
Industry UsageCommon in tech, consulting, and startupsWidely used across industries with dedicated research teams

The main difference between a Contract User Researcher and a Full-Time User Researcher lies in employment status and work arrangement. Contract roles are temporary and project-focused, offering flexibility but less job security. Full-time roles provide stability and ongoing team integration. Both roles require similar skills and credentials, but the work environment and employment terms differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of User Researcher jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of User Researcher jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Contract User Researcher jobs near you

Contract Manager, User and Market Insights

Trova

Vernon Hills, IL

$35 - $45/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Contract Manager, User and Market Insights
Employment Type: 6 Month Contract Position
Pay Range: $35.00-$45.00 per hour
Work Schedule and Hours: Onsite - 24 Hours a week, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.  
Location: Vernon Hills, IL

Are you passionate about transforming data into strategic business insights? Do you thrive in collaborative environments where research and analysis drive impactful decisions? We are seeking a dynamic Contract Manager to support our User and Market Insights team—playing a crucial role in shaping our understanding of consumers, shoppers, and market landscapes. This part-time, 24-hour/week position offers an exciting opportunity to work closely with cross-functional teams and influence key business strategies across product platforms, brands, channels, and customer segments.

In this role, you will support the execution of high-priority research initiatives, synthesize diverse data sources, and craft clear, actionable insights. By leveraging your expertise in qualitative and quantitative research, you’ll help inform innovation, branding, pricing strategies, and commercialization efforts. Your contributions will directly impact how our company understands market trends and consumer behaviors, positioning you as a vital contributor to our business growth.

Required Skills:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Research, Data Science, Statistics, Behavioral Research, or User Research
  • Over 3 years’ experience supporting or executing qualitative and quantitative research methods, including vendor management
  • Strong storytelling and data synthesis skills, with the ability to translate complex insights into clear recommendations
  • Excellent written, verbal, and presentation communication skills, including creating executive summaries and reports
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and familiarity with ERP systems (SAP, Business Objects, etc.)
  • Ability to independently manage multiple workstreams within a flexible schedule and escalate issues promptly

Nice to Have Skills:

  • Experience moderating focus groups and conducting in-depth interviews
  • Background in Consumer Packaged Goods or Hardware & Home Improvement industries
  • Business analysis skills related to market and competitive landscape evaluation
  • Prior experience supporting vendor management activities and coordinating research projects

Preferred Education and Experience:

  • Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
  • 3+ years of hands-on research support or execution experience, particularly in insights, consulting, or client-side roles

Other Requirements:

  • Availability to work on-site or hybrid as determined by business needs
  • Consistent attendance during core business hours on Tuesday through Thursday
  • Capable of attending key meetings and collaborating closely with cross-functional teams

Join us in shaping a deeper understanding of our markets and consumers while advancing your career in a collaborative, impactful environment. If you are ready to leverage your research expertise to drive strategic decisions, we encourage you to apply today!
About Trova Advisory Group

Trova Advisory Group specializes in delivering a comprehensive array of staffing solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of businesses across multiple sectors. Our expertise spans clerical, administrative, financial, and professional roles, offered through flexible arrangements including temporary, temp-to-hire, and direct hire services.

We pride ourselves on providing top-tier talent solutions that empower organizations to thrive in today’s competitive market.

Trova Advisory Group is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where all individuals are welcomed and supported.

If you require reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact us at recruiters@gotrova.com. Include the nature of your request and your contact information.

Trova Advisory Group offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical and dental options for all eligible employees.

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