Technician @ Actalent

Job Title: User Study Coordinator / TechnicianJob DescriptionThis role supports user research for consumer electronic devices by managing the end-to-end logistics of user studies. The User Study Coordinator / Technician receives and prepares data collection kits, maintains a functional lab environment, coordinates participants, and ensures that all collected data is accurate, complete, and properly documented. The position requires strong organizational skills, comfort with technology and lab equipment, and the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality research data.

Responsibilities

• Receive and inventory data collection kit materials from internal teams and external vendors to ensure all components are accounted for and in good condition.
• Assemble data collection kits and verify that all hardware and software components are fully functional before use in studies.
• Set up, organize, and maintain the user study lab environment so that it consistently meets study requirements and supports reliable data collection.
• Conduct data collection sessions with participants, following study protocols and procedures precisely to ensure high-quality and consistent results.
• Recruit, screen, and schedule participants for user studies, typically drawing from internal employee populations, and manage their study logistics.
• Coordinate with legal, security, and compliance teams to obtain required approvals and ensure all studies adhere to relevant policies and standards.
• Monitor equipment and troubleshoot issues with devices, lab systems, and data collection tools during setup and study sessions.
• Verify the completeness, accuracy, and integrity of collected data before submission or upload.
• Upload, organize, and document data in designated tools or repositories according to project requirements and timelines.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including research, engineering, legal, and security, to support smooth execution of user studies.
• Manage multiple studies or tasks simultaneously while maintaining clear documentation and consistent study operations.

Essential Skills

• 13 years of experience in user research, usability testing, or lab coordination.
• Bachelors degree in Human Factors, Psychology, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Hands-on experience setting up computer hardware, including WiFi networking and Bluetooth configurations.
• Troubleshooting skills for equipment and devices, including the ability to diagnose and resolve basic hardware and software issues.
• Experience with data collection processes in a lab or research environment.
• Background or experience working in lab environments and operating lab equipment.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and studies simultaneously.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for coordinating with participants and cross-functional teams.
• Competence with basic computer skills, including spreadsheets, word processing, and basic script and shell command execution.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining high standards of accuracy and quality.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience working with consumer electronics or hardware testing environments.
• Experience collaborating with cross-functional teams such as legal and security.
• Knowledge of research ethics and participant privacy standards.
• Proficiency with documentation and data management tools.
• Service-oriented mindset and comfort supporting internal stakeholders and participants.
• Ability to adapt quickly to new devices, tools, and research procedures.

Work EnvironmentThis role is fully onsite in user study labs located in Sunnyvale, CA. You will work hands-on with consumer electronic devices and data collection equipment in a controlled lab environment. The position involves frequent interaction with research and engineering teams, as well as coordination with legal, security, and compliance functions. Work typically centers around setting up and operating lab hardware, configuring WiFi and Bluetooth connections, and managing study sessions in person. The environment is technology-focused, collaborative, and fast-paced, with an emphasis on reliability, precision, and adherence to established study protocols.

Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract position based out of East Palo Alto, CA.

Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $40.00 - $40.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

Medical, dental & vision

Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital

401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available

Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)

Short and long-term disability

Health Spending Account (HSA)

Transportation benefits

Employee Assistance Program

Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Nov 9, 2026.

Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in East Palo Alto,CA.About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email [email protected] for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.