Job#: 3018440 Job Description:Usability Researcher 3 - Microsoft Security (Remote)OverviewMicrosoft Security is on a mission to make the world a safer place for every person and organization. In an era defined by escalating digital threats, regulatory complexity, and rapidly evolving AI, our team builds solutions that protect billions of users and devices across the globe. We are seeking a
Usability Researcher 3 to support the Security product suite, with a primary focus on
Security Copilot, Microsoft's integrated AI-powered security platform.
This role offers the opportunity to influence some of Microsoft's most critical and high-impact products, shaping the future of security experiences used by enterprises worldwide.
Typical Day in the RoleAs a Usability Researcher 3, you will:
- Support the Security product organization by conducting UX research across the full Security product suite.
- Work closely with design, content design, technical writers, PMs, and engineering partners.
- Focus heavily on Security Copilot, contributing to coherence across the platform by validating design patterns and ensuring consistent user experiences.
- Collaborate with stakeholders to scope research needs, plan studies, execute research, synthesize insights, and communicate findings.
- Conduct ongoing studies aligned with the Security Copilot workstream and broader product roadmap.
- Join team meetings, business reviews, and align with existing research artifacts to ensure continuity and clarity.
- Help define and evolve the UX research approach for the team.
Responsibilities- Partner with stakeholders to understand research needs and develop research plans for your product area.
- Collaborate closely with design, program management, customer experience, and data science to build a deep understanding of customer needs.
- Apply a wide range of research methods-from generative to evaluative-to inform product and design decisions throughout the development cycle.
- Design, execute, and analyze research studies that deliver actionable insights.
- Communicate findings clearly and persuasively to audiences across all levels, including methodology, insights, and design recommendations.
- Build trusted partnerships with stakeholders to influence product direction and roadmap decisions.
- Contribute to a strong research culture across the team, championing best practices and elevating the role of UX research.
- Conduct user interviews, usability tests, surveys, and mixed-methods studies as needed.
QualificationsRequired- Advanced degree in Psychology, HCI/HFE, HCDE, or a related field.
- 5+ years of UX research and design experience.
- Strong theoretical and practical knowledge of qualitative (e.g., ethnography, interviews) and quantitative (e.g., analytics, surveys, statistics) research methods.
- Demonstrated ability to create research plans, drive progress on key metrics, and influence product decisions.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to persuade and advocate for research insights.
Preferred- Experience in enterprise security, compliance, or AI-driven products.
- PhD (may offset required years of experience).
- Experience working in complex enterprise environments or with technical audiences.
Ideal Candidate Profile- Strong mixed-methods UX research skills.
- Comfortable working autonomously and driving impact with cross-functional partners.
- Experience in enterprise security, IT, or AI is a significant plus.
- Thrives in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment where clarity, rigor, and collaboration are essential.
Why This Role Is UniqueSecurity is one of Microsoft's highest-priority investment areas. Joining this team means:
- Working on products that protect organizations worldwide from evolving digital threats.
- Influencing the future of Security Copilot, a flagship AI platform integrated across Microsoft's security ecosystem.
- Contributing to innovations that impact billions of people.
- Being part of a culture that embraces a growth mindset, inspires excellence, and empowers teams to bring their best every day.
Performance Measurement- Ability to operate with autonomy.
- Quality and clarity of research insights.
- Impact on stakeholder decision-making and product direction.
Work Location & Schedule- Remote
- Flexible work hours to support collaboration across time zones ( 2-3 hours).
Top 3 Must-Have SkillsAdvanced degree in Psychology, HCI/HFE, HCDE, or related field.5+ years of UX research experience with strong qualitative and quantitative expertise.Proven ability to develop research plans and drive progress on key product metrics.EEO Employer
Apex Systems is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate or allow discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, genetic information, registered domestic partner status, marital status, disability, status as a crime victim, protected veteran status, political affiliation, union membership, or any other characteristic protected by law. Apex will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable law. If you have visited our website in search of information on employment opportunities or to apply for a position, and you require an accommodation in using our website for a search or application, please contact our Employee Services Department at or .
Apex Systems is a world-class IT services company that serves thousands of clients across the globe. When you join Apex, you become part of a team that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. We offer quality career resources, training, certifications, development opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in many awards, including ClearlyRated's Best of Staffing in Talent Satisfaction in the United States and Great Place to Work in the United Kingdom and Mexico. Apex uses a virtual recruiter as part of the application process. Click for more details.
Apex Benefits Overview: Apex offers a range of supplemental benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and other insurance plans that offer an optional layer of financial protection. We offer an ESPP (employee stock purchase program) and a 401K program which allows you to contribute typically within 30 days of starting, with a company match after 12 months of tenure. Apex also offers a HSA (Health Savings Account on the HDHP plan), a SupportLinc Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with up to 8 free counseling sessions, a corporate discount savings program and other discounts. In terms of professional development, Apex hosts an on-demand training program, provides access to certification prep and a library of technical and leadership courses/books/seminars once you have 6+ months of tenure, and certification discounts and other perks to associations that include CompTIA and IIBA. Apex has a dedicated customer service team for our Consultants that can address questions around benefits and other resources, as well as a certified Career Coach. You can access a full list of our benefits, programs, support teams and resources within our 'Welcome Packet' as well, which an Apex team member can provide.