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- Tasks: Lead user research for a critical Defence service in a secure environment.
- Company: Join a specialised team working on classified MOD programmes.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, unique project experience, and the chance to shape national capabilities.
- Other info: Limited remote work; thrive in a dynamic, secure environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in Defence while working with senior military and civilian stakeholders.
- Qualifications: Experience in user research within public sector or defence, DV clearance required.
The predicted salary is between 54000 - 75000 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced Senior User Researcher to lead research activities on a highly classified MOD programme delivering an Above Secret (AS) capability for a critical Defence service. This is not a typical user research role. You will operate within a secure, constrained environment where access to users, tools, and collaboration platforms is restricted. Working as part of a small, DV-cleared team, you will engage with senior military and civilian stakeholders to understand user behaviours, workflows, and the impact of transitioning from Secret to Above Secret environments.
Essential Skills & Experience
- Proven experience in user research within UK public sector or defence environments
- Strong understanding of MOD culture, including military and civilian structures
- Expertise in qualitative research methods (interviews, workshops, contextual enquiry)
- Ability to adapt research approaches in restricted or classified settings
- Experience working with small, specialised user groups rather than large-scale panels
- Skilled in translating research into business change and service design outputs
- Strong documentation skills for governance and assurance audiences
- Previous work on classified or Above Secret programmes
- Familiarity with GDS Service Standards and Government Design Principles
- Experience producing business change or service readiness assessments
This role requires enhanced vetting (DV clearance), which may extend onboarding timelines. Due to the nature of the programme, remote working is limited and all classified work must be conducted in approved secure environments. If you have the required clearance and experience working in secure defence environments, this is a unique opportunity to shape a critical national capability.
Senior User Researcher (DV Cleared) in London employer: Synergize Consulting Ltd
Contact Detail:
Synergize Consulting Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior User Researcher (DV Cleared) in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the defence sector or user research community. Attend relevant events or webinars to meet potential employers and get your name out there.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of MOD culture and the specific challenges faced in classified environments. We want you to showcase your expertise and adaptability during those crucial conversations.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Senior User Researcher role. We’ve got all the resources you need to make your application stand out, so don’t miss out!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior User Researcher (DV Cleared) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience in user research, especially within the UK public sector or defence environments. We want to see how your skills align with the specific needs of this role, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant projects!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for this Senior User Researcher role. We love seeing enthusiasm and a clear understanding of MOD culture, so make sure to weave that into your narrative.
Showcase Your Research Skills: Since this role requires expertise in qualitative research methods, be sure to provide examples of how you've successfully conducted interviews, workshops, or contextual inquiries. We want to see your ability to adapt research approaches in restricted settings!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we do at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Synergize Consulting Ltd
✨Know Your Audience
Before the interview, take some time to research the MOD culture and the specific stakeholders you’ll be engaging with. Understanding their roles and how they interact within the military and civilian structures will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate your knowledge of the environment.
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
Prepare to discuss your experience with qualitative research methods in detail. Be ready to share examples of how you've adapted your approaches in restricted settings, as well as how you've translated research findings into actionable business changes or service design outputs.
✨Emphasise Security Awareness
Given the classified nature of the role, it’s crucial to highlight your familiarity with working in secure environments. Discuss any previous experiences you have had with classified programmes and how you navigated the challenges that come with them.
✨Documentation is Key
Strong documentation skills are essential for this role. Be prepared to talk about how you ensure governance and assurance in your work. Bring examples of documentation you've created in past projects, especially those that align with GDS Service Standards and Government Design Principles.