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Human Performance Research Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Google

Senior UX Researcher, Hardware XR

San Jose, CA · On-site

Applied experience conducting research in AR and VR product environments. * Strong understanding of human physiology, human performance, visual processing, attentional demands, ergonomics, etc. About ...

Wisk Aero

Human Factors Specialist

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$215K - $269K/yr

You will plan and lead human factors evaluations from definition of goals and research questions ... Experience in measuring workload and human performance using both subjective scales and ...

Wisk

Human Factors Specialist

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$215K - $269K/yr

You will plan and lead human factors evaluations from definition of goals and research questions ... Experience in measuring workload and human performance using both subjective scales and ...

WinMaxsystemscorp

Usability Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Working under direction with users (analysts) to research for and document user profiles, analysis ... Will also design and analyze objective user experiments that measure human performance on software ...

Silvers HR

Jr. HR Consultant (Silver's HR)

Roseville, CA · On-site

... performance management, researching best practices and making relevant recommendations. * Coach ... Facilitate Silvers HR Training programs surrounding topics as performance management and harassment ...

Toyon Research

Human Resources Representative

Goleta, CA · On-site

$85K - $115K/yr

Toyon Research Corporation, a thriving and innovative defense technology company, is seeking an ... and performance management processes * Monitor state and federal posting requirements and update ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsHuman Performance Research JobsHuman Performance Research Jobs in California

Human Performance Research information

See California salary details

$26.2K

$43.7K

$59.2K

How much do human performance research jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for human performance research in California is $43,665.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,000.00 and $47,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is human performance research?

Human performance research is the scientific study of how people perform tasks, both mentally and physically, in various environments. This field examines factors such as cognitive abilities, physical capabilities, ergonomics, motivation, and the impact of technology or environment on performance. The goal is often to optimize efficiency, safety, and well-being in workplaces, sports, military, or everyday activities. Researchers in this area use experimental methods, data analysis, and sometimes simulations to understand and improve how humans interact with systems and tasks.

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

To excel as a Human Performance Researcher, you need a strong background in physiology, psychology, data analysis, and research methodology, often supported by an advanced degree in a related field. Familiarity with statistical software (such as SPSS or R), laboratory equipment, and research ethics certifications is typically required. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help researchers design effective studies and clearly share findings. These competencies are vital for producing reliable research that advances understanding and practical applications in optimizing human performance.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in human performance research, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Human Performance Research often encounter challenges such as ensuring accurate data collection in dynamic environments, integrating interdisciplinary knowledge, and maintaining ethical standards when working with human subjects. Addressing these challenges typically involves using robust research methodologies, collaborating closely with experts in biomechanics, physiology, and psychology, and adhering strictly to ethical protocols. Staying current with technological advancements and fostering clear communication within research teams also contribute to overcoming these hurdles and producing reliable results.

What is the difference between Human Performance Research vs Human Factors Specialist?

AspectHuman Performance ResearchHuman Factors Specialist
Required CredentialsDegree in psychology, ergonomics, or related field; research experienceDegree in human factors, ergonomics, or psychology; certification may be preferred
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, corporate R&DDesign firms, healthcare, aviation, government agencies
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic, research institutions, industry R&DIndustry application, product design, safety analysis
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles in human performanceApplying human factors principles in practical settings

Human Performance Research focuses on studying and analyzing how humans perform tasks, often within academic or research settings. Human Factors Specialists apply these insights to improve system design, safety, and usability in real-world environments. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, their work environments and objectives differ, with research emphasizing understanding performance and human factors focusing on practical application.

What jobs can I get with a human performance research degree?

A degree in human performance research prepares individuals for roles such as human factors specialist, sports scientist, ergonomist, or exercise physiologist. These jobs often involve analyzing physical and cognitive performance, designing training programs, or improving workplace safety, and may require knowledge of data analysis, biomechanics, and relevant certifications. Employment can be found in sports organizations, healthcare, military, or corporate wellness settings.

What are popular job titles related to Human Performance Research jobs in California?

For Human Performance Research jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Human Performance Research jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Human Performance Research jobs in California are:

Human Performance Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Human Performance Research job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,665 per year, or $21 per hour.

Senior UX Researcher, Hardware XR

Google

San Jose, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Google rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 103 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

47th of 247 rated software companies

Job description

Minimum qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent practical experience.
  • 6 years of experience of experience in an applied research setting (e.g., product or academic), or similar.
  • 1 year of experience conducting research on GenAI, Augmented Reality or Hardware Devices.
  • Experience with research methods (e.g., usability, studies, contextual inquires, 1:1 interviews, unmoderated research studies).

Preferred qualifications:
  • Master's degree or PhD in Human-Computer Interaction, Cognitive Science, Statistics, Psychology, Anthropology, or related field.
  • 5 years of experience conducting UX research on products and working with executive leadership (e.g., Director level and above).
  • 3 years of experience managing projects, and working in a large, matrixed organization.
  • Experience in physical product environments conducting research to drive ergonomics and physical design decisions.
  • Applied experience conducting research in AR and VR product environments.
  • Strong understanding of human physiology, human performance, visual processing, attentional demands, ergonomics, etc.

About the job
At Google, we "Focus on the user and all else will follow." As a User Experience Researcher (UXR), you make this possible. You will join our multi-disciplinary UX team, collaborating with Engineering and Product Management, to gather insights and create industry-leading products.
You'll play a critical role in helping your team understand user needs and will drive impact at all stages of product development, ensuring products are useful, usable, and helpful. You will explore user behaviors and motivations by conducting primary research, including: field studies, interviews, diary studies, ethnography, surveys, usability testing, and logs analysis. You will also grow within a supportive UXR community offering mentorship, regular meetups, and exclusive internal tools.
For decades, the computing revolution has reshaped our world driven by
breakthroughs in compute, connectivity, mobile, and now, AI. Google's XR
team is at the forefront of the next major leap - the convergence of AI and
XR. This is more than just new devices - it's about reimagining how we
interact with the world around us. We're building a future where
lightweight XR devices like smart glasses and headsets pair with helpful AI
to augment human intelligence, offering personalized, conversational, and
contextually aware experiences.
Individual pay is determined by factors including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.
US: $159000 - $230000 (USD) 15% bonus target equity benefits
Learn more about benefits at Google .
Responsibilities
  • Lead and scope research initiatives across multiple XR products.
  • Work with designers, product managers, and engineers in a fluid, iterative environment.
  • Design and implement experiments to evaluate the hardware and human performance of XR devices.
  • Support Human Factors-oriented programs for scaling collection of key user-signals, KPIs, etc.
  • Advocate research findings to stakeholders and leadership through written reports and oral presentations.

Information collected and processed as part of your Google Careers profile, and any job applications you choose to submit is subject to Google's Applicant and Candidate Privacy Policy .
Google is proud to be an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. We are committed to building a workforce that is representative of the users we serve, creating a culture of belonging, and providing an equal employment opportunity regardless of race, creed, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, national origin, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related condition (including breastfeeding), expecting or parents-to-be, criminal histories consistent with legal requirements, or any other basis protected by law. See also Google's EEO Policy , Know your rights: workplace discrimination is illegal , Belonging at Google , and How we hire .
If you have a need that requires accommodation, please let us know by completing our Accommodations for Applicants form .
Google is a global company and, in order to facilitate efficient collaboration and communication globally, English proficiency is a requirement for all roles unless stated otherwise in the job posting.
To all recruitment agencies: Google does not accept agency resumes. Please do not forward resumes to our jobs alias, Google employees, or any other organization location. Google is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.
Equity is granted exclusively and discretionarily by Alphabet Inc. on the basis of an agreement concluded between you and Alphabet Inc. Alphabet Inc. is your sole contractual partner with respect to equity grants. GSU grants are not guaranteed, are discretionary, are subject to approval by the Alphabet Inc. board of directors or its delegate, the terms of the relevant Alphabet Inc. stock plan, and your grant agreement. They have no impact on statutory payments. Current or past grants do not confer an acquired right.

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