Code4lib is hiring: UX Researcher/Designer in Boston

Position Overview

Harvard Library is launching the Reimagining Discovery Project to revolutionize how researchers, students, and the global community access and explore its extensive collections. Centered on user needs, this role supports developing a unified search system by conducting in-depth UX research and design, including creating wireframes and prototypes. Compensation: $76,400 to $130,000.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate research efforts for the unified search system.
• Select and apply appropriate research methodologies (e.g., user interviews, surveys, prototype testing).
• Partner with staff stakeholders to refine research questions, recruit participants, and report findings.
• Analyze and synthesize research findings into high-quality artifacts (personas, journey maps, wireframes).
• Transform research insights into actionable recommendations for product development.
• Present study findings through in-person presentations and written summaries.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, HCI, Computer Science, Library & Information Science, Digital Communications, Web Design or a related field.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in UX, design, human factors, customer experience, libraries, or a related field.
• Excellent written communication and oral presentation skills.
• Proficiency with online collaboration tools (e.g., Miro), prototyping software (e.g., Figma), and survey creation tools (e.g., Qualtrics).
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, belonging, and antiracism.
• Experience conducting research in library environments, museums, and/or higher education.
• Familiarity with project management software such as Jira or Trello.
• Understanding of WCAG principles and best practices for accessible design.
• Familiarity with semantic search or other emerging AI technologies.

Benefits & Perks

• Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks vacation (plus sick days, holidays, and personal days), and up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave.
• Health and Welfare: Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance benefits.
• Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% and full vesting after 3 years.
• Tuition Assistance & Reimbursement: Access to discounted tuition at Harvard Extension School and reimbursement for eligible external courses.
• Professional Development: Access to free or low-cost training programs, classes, and resources including LinkedIn Learning.
• Work/Life and Wellness: Access to childcare, elder care resources, wellness programs, and commuter benefits.
• Harvard Facilities Access, discounts on services, and perks for cultural and leisure activities.

Please include a cover letter and UX portfolio with your application. Note that this highly collaborative position follows a Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Eastern Time) schedule. Position responsibilities may require occasional onsite visits.

To apply, please visit: Application Link or contact Amy Deschenes at amy_deschenes@harvard.edu.

Working Conditions

This is a remote, 2-year term-limited position (with a possibility for extension contingent on funding and University priorities). All remote work must be performed within a state in which Harvard is registered to do business.