Design Researcher (Contract, Palo Alto)

Posted 8/10/2026 · last confirmed live 8/26/2026

Moon is hiring a Design Researcher (Contractor) who is passionate, self-driven, and open to deepening their skills within Design/UX Research as well as expanding their skills in different areas within Design (e.g. Strategic Design, UX/UI, Product Design, etc.). The ideal candidate is infinitely curious, analytical, creative and experienced enough to adapt research methods to a new industry context quickly. As a contractor, you will work with the Project Manager to define/refine and execute the scope of research across different stages of new initiative development for the project(s) at Moon. This is a part-time contract role based in Palo Alto for an initial term of 3 months, requiring 20-28 hours per week.  This role may require travel as and when necessary to perform project tasks.  There is a possibility of contract extension based on the business needs and performance. Rate is $90 - 115 an hour. What You’ll Do at Moon  Work closely with the Project Manager to define and execute research scope across new initiatives stages, for heavy industry-focused partnerships and collaborations. Assist with/execute various aspects of research planning to address project goals, and business/product decisions. Plan and execute desktop and market research, including but not limited to: trend analysis, competitive landscape, steeple/pestle  analysis, etc. Plan and run qualitative research with key stakeholders, and subject matter experts to surface real operational, safety and commercial unmet needs. Synthesize research and findings, identify key insights, and collaborate with the team to define implications for key project decisions. Plan and run concept testing with key stakeholders, including validating emerging concepts against user/stakeholder needs and identifying industry constraints. Join brainstorming sessions as needed, and be a thought partner to the team - expanding your thinking into different areas but bringing your unique POV/experience to the table (as both a researcher and beyond). Assist in defining innovation opportunities based on the research for potential projects and working with the team to prioritize what can/should be done. The Must-Haves  7+ years of experience with Design Research or UX Research background, with demonstrated qualitative methods. A degree with course work relevant to Design, the Scientific Process/Methodology, the Human Condition (e.g. Product/Service Design, Psychology, Sociology, etc) OR relevant experience in Design Research, Strategic Design, or UX Research. Ability to synthesize complex findings into clear, decision ready outputs. Proactive, self-driven, comfortable working closely with a Project Manager in a fast-paced, ambiguous environment. B2B research experiences Proficiency in Google tools, Slack, Notion, Figma. Business level English The Nice-to-Haves  Experiences in heavy industries (mining, energy, manufacturing, supply chain or similar) - domain knowledge is a plus but not a requirement. Previous experience with Exploratory Research in early stage product development/new business creation. Experience in proof of concept prototyping and iteration. Experience with Quantitative Research Methodologies / Synthesis. Experience experimenting AI tools effectively to conduct research. Experience working in deep-tech / AI. Experience working with a cross-cultural/international organization. Experience in/understanding of other design areas (e.g. Solution/Product Design, Service Design, Brand Design, etc.). Business level Brazilian Portuguese and/or Spanish. Sounds Fun, Right? If you identify with Moon's values and would like to contribute to our work, please submit your resume and optionally, a cover letter. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER Moon Creative Lab is an equal opportunity employer; applicants are considered for all roles without regard to race, color, religious creed, sex, national origin, citizenship status, age, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, marital, parental, veteran or military status, unfavorable military discharge, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state or local law.

This role is published by Moon Creative Lab on greenhouse. SwiftFit is not the employer and does not accept applications.