A UX researcher answers the question the team keeps arguing about. They design the study, recruit the right participants, run it without leading the answer, and report findings clearly enough that the roadmap actually changes. The value is in the decisions avoided, which is why the role is hard to justify and easy to regret skipping.
What it costs
US UX researchers bill roughly $55 to $135 per hour, or $95,000 to $155,000 as a full-time base salary.
When this is the wrong hire
If the team will not change the plan regardless of what research shows, do not hire this role yet. Research without decision authority is expensive documentation.
Get matched with vetted ux researchers in 48 hours. $0 until you hire.
Below about 15 engineers, usually not: a strong product designer can run lightweight research. Above that, a dedicated researcher stops five teams doing the same study badly.
A focused usability study runs two to three weeks including recruiting. Generative discovery research typically takes four to six.
Yes, and most US studies now are. Remote testing widens the participant pool considerably, which usually improves the sample rather than harming it.
Other design roles
Vetted design talent for US teams. Matched in 48 hours, no recruitment fees.
🇺🇸 Trusted by companies across the United States