Product User Researcher (CPG, Physical Goods)

Thank you for your interest in this role! Please note, we are not looking for a Digital User Researcher, we are looking for a User Researcher that experience conducting in-person interviews with users using CPG (physical goods). Also, this is an on-site role and is Freelance / Part-time / Project-based with potential for 10 hours+/week with an irregular cadence (weekly work is not guaranteed). Please don't apply if this doesn't align with your experience or availability.

Skill is seeking a specialized Product User Researcher for our leading CPG client. This is not a digital UX role; we are looking for a talent who thrives in the physical world. You will be responsible for conducting rapid-iteration user interviews and observational studies focused on physical packaging innovation (e.g., toothpaste tubes, mouthwash bottles, pump sprays, and caps).

The ideal candidate has a background in Industrial Design or Human Factors and understands the nuance of how a human hand interacts with an object. You should be comfortable moderating sessions where you aren't just listening to what a user says, but observing how they interact with physical prototypes and probing for deeper insights.

• Conduct In-Person User Interviews: Moderate 1-on-1 sessions in person to observe how users interact with 3D-printed prototypes and existing packaging.
• Ergonomic Observation: Identify "pain points" and "gain points" regarding grip, accessibility, force required, and overall tactile experience.
• Rapid Synthesis: Provide quick-turnaround debriefs and insights to the Packaging Innovation team to help inform the next day's design iterations.
• User Journey Mapping (Plus): Assist in developing user journey maps that track the physical steps of product interaction.
• Agile Project Schedule: Requires a flexible freelance cadence (up to 10+ hours during active weeks, while other weeks may have no active requirements) with on-site interviews typically scheduled on a 3-day to 1-week notice based on prototype availability.

• Background in Industrial Design or Ergonomics: You must understand 3D product development and physical ergonomics (specifically hand/small object interaction).
• Moderation Experience: Proven ability to lead user interviews and ethnographies without leading the participant.
• Physical UX Instincts: Ability to translate a user's physical struggle with a package into actionable design feedback.
• Proximity to Piscataway, NJ: Ability to be on-site for interview days.
• Comfort with Ambiguity: You enjoy a "pilot" environment where you are helping to build a new research program.

• Experience with CPG (Consumer Packaged Goods) or personal care categories.
• Familiarity with Physical Journey Mapping (distinct from digital/marketing funnels).
• Ability to work occasional non-standard hours (e.g., late afternoons or a Saturday) to accommodate specific user demographics.