Game Play Moderator

Our Gaming Client is seeking a Research Moderator to join their Live Ops team!Job Title: Research Moderator (Contractor)Location: Hybrid / On-site (as needed - for in-person play test moderation ) This role involves a changing schedule. Work hours may differ from day to day, and weekend work could be required depending on business needs. Variable weekday hours with the possibility of weekend shifts are expected. Flexibility is essential.Employment Type: 12 Month ContractTeam: Research OperationsAbout the RoleWe are seeking a skilled and adaptable Research Moderator to support the execution of in-person and remote user research sessions, including playtests and usability studies. This contractor role is part of the Research Operations team, which focuses on scaling and optimizing research execution across product development.As a Research Moderator, you will facilitate live sessions, capture detailed user feedback, and ensure smooth operations during lab-based and remote studies. This role is designed to support flexible scheduling, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate a diverse range of participants.Your contributions will enable researchers to focus on study design and insights by managing real-time facilitation and logistics. You'll collaborate closely with researchers, operations staff, and vendors to deliver high-quality participant experiences and reliable data collection.ResponsibilitiesFacilitate in-person and remote usability studies, expert reviews, and playtest sessionsObserve sessions, take detailed notes, tag themes, and support topline reportingModerate participant discussions using established protocols, ensuring neutrality and relevanceManage session logistics including tech setup, materials preparation, onboarding, and debriefingPartner with researchers and operations teams to align on study goals and troubleshoot in real timeAssist with test asset setup and review of features or builds prior to session launchCoordinate with scheduling and recruiting teams to ensure smooth execution of research studiesWork flexible hours aligned to research needs, including evenings and weekendsMinimum Qualifications2+ years of experience in user research, playtest moderation, or focus group facilitationExperience with survey tools (e.g., Qualtrics, SurveyMonkey, Decipher, Confirmit)Strong verbal communication and neutral facilitation skillsDetail-oriented and organized, with the ability to manage logistics in fast-paced environmentsAvailability for variable schedules, including evenings and weekendsBachelor's degree in a related fieldPreferred QualificationsExperience in the video game industry or with interactive mediaFamiliarity with research tools and platforms (e.g., OBS, Notion, Parsec)Experience with light analysis tasks (e.g., coding verbatims, tagging themes)Comfort working in live production environments with technical toolsUnderstanding of game design fundamentals and development cyclesExperience running playtests or similar live research projectsSuccess in this RoleSuccess in this role will be driven by your facilitation expertise, coordination skills, and ability to collaborate effectively with research teams. A passion for user empathy, operational excellence, and live testing environments will be key.

Created: 2025-09-26