User Researcher

Job summary We are MHCLG Here at the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG), we work on things that make a real difference to people’s lives. Whether it's through the homes we live in, the work of our local councils, or the communities we’re all part of, our work is at the top of the political agenda. Local AI is a new team within MHCLG, working with councils to unlock the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in local public services.

We support the responsible adoption of AI across local government, focusing on practical tools that save time, reduce costs, and improve services for residents. Local AI’s goal is not simply to introduce new technology. We work with councils and partners to solve real service challenges where AI can make the biggest difference. Our work spans product development, service transformation, capability building and shaping the wider adoption of AI across local government.

Recent examples include Local Transcribe our work supporting councils to responsibly adopt AI , and looking at how AI can play a role in temporary accommodation . Joining Local AI offers a rare opportunity to help shape how one of the most significant changes of our time is applied in public services. You will work alongside experts from local and central government, academia and industry to test new ideas, deliver practical solutions and help improve outcomes for millions of people who rely on local services every day.

As a User Researcher, you will work directly with councils and frontline practitioners to understand complex service challenges and uncover opportunities for AI to improve public services. You will generate actionable insights that shape product strategy, inform delivery decisions, and help multidisciplinary teams discover, develop and scale products such as Local Transcribe. Find out more about our Digital teams and what they are working on through our MHCLG Digital blog .

Please note that MHCLG do not offer visa sponsorship and applicants will need a valid visa for the duration of your employment. Job description As a User Researcher, you’ll: Plan and carry out user research across AI products and discovery work to understand the needs of councils, practitioners and residents. Provide clear, evidence-based insights to shape product design, service improvements, and delivery decisions.

Run a range of research activities, including interviews, usability testing, contextual research, and surveys. Analyse findings and present them through reports, personas, journey maps and practical recommendations. Work closely with product managers, designers, developers, policy colleagues and data specialists and key local government counterparts to keep user needs at the centre of delivery. Identify potential risks, harms and accessibility needs early, particularly when developing AI products.

Identify areas of opportunity and good practice to inform the ongoing development of Responsible AI and data governance Help improve research practices by upholding the Service Standard and contributing to the UCD community of practice at MHCLG, sharing knowledge, supporting colleagues, and contributing to continuous improvement. Person specification As a User Researcher you’ll have: Experience planning and delivering user research for digital products or services.

Confidence using a range of qualitative and quantitative research methods. Strong analytical skills, with the ability to turn research into clear, actionable insights. Good understanding of user-centred design and Agile ways of working. Knowledge of accessibility, inclusive research, and assisted digital needs. Experience creating research outputs such as personas, journey maps, and research reports.

Experience working with academics, local government, external researchers and communities Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively across multidisciplinary teams. Benefits Alongside your salary of £45,773, Min