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UX Researcher (Usability Specialist) - Creative Design Strategy Department, Marketing Division

Rakuten
Full-time
On-site
Tokyo, Tōkyō, Japan
🌐 Digital Marketing

πŸ“Œ Core Information

πŸ”Ή Job Title: UX Researcher (Usability Specialist) - Creative Design Strategy Department, Marketing Division

πŸ”Ή Company: Rakuten

πŸ”Ή Location: Tokyo, Japan

πŸ”Ή Job Type: Full-time

πŸ”Ή Category: UX Research

πŸ”Ή Date Posted: April 18, 2025

πŸ”Ή Experience Level: 2-5 years

πŸ”Ή Remote Status: Hybrid (4 days in-office, 1 day remote)

πŸš€ Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

  • Planning and conducting usability tests for various Rakuten Group services
  • Identifying usability issues based on user behavior and comments during testing
  • Creating reports to guide service members in improving user experience
  • Fostering a culture of UX research within the organization
  • Collaborating with designers, engineers, and other members across various departments

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strong understanding of UX research methodologies, particularly usability testing, and the ability to apply them effectively across a wide range of services and products.

πŸ“‹ Key Responsibilities

βœ… Plan and promote effective and valid usability testing methodologies for a wide variety of design targets

βœ… Design and create web surveys to recruit the right users for each project

βœ… Consider scenarios that test the natural experience of the product to be released

βœ… Conduct tests with as little bias as possible

βœ… Identify usability issues based on user behavior and comments during testing

βœ… Create reports that make it easy for the service members to understand the issues and to find ways to improve them

βœ… Present a final report to the service members and guide them in making improvements

βœ… Conduct in-depth interviews, questionnaires, field surveys, etc., depending on the research goal

βœ… Create a culture of UX research within Rakuten and create a framework for efficient operations (ResearchOps)

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a high level of independence and initiative, as the UX Researcher will be expected to drive projects from start to finish with minimal supervision.

🎯 Required Qualifications

Education: A degree in Human-Computer Interaction, Ergonomics, Psychology, Cultural anthropology, or a related field is desired but not required

Experience: Minimum of 3 years of experience with UX research (especially usability testing)

Required Skills:

  • Business level Japanese skills (reading, writing and speaking)
  • Ability to identify with the culture of the Rakuten Group

Preferred Skills:

  • Degree in Human-Computer Interaction, Ergonomics, Psychology, Cultural anthropology, or a related field
  • Ability to work with designers, engineers, and other members of other departments in various positions to promote projects smoothly
  • Ability to thrive in stressful environment and remain steady while achieving your assigned objectives
  • Ability to learn about different services in various areas and to empathize with users
  • Displays flexibility in both methodologies applied and thinking, without being bound by past experiences or established methodologies
  • Experience in organizational management and human resource development
  • Business level English skills (reading, writing and speaking)

ASSUMPTION: While a degree in a related field is preferred, Rakuten values practical experience and is open to considering candidates with equivalent skills and knowledge gained through other means.

πŸ’° Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry standards for UX Researchers in Japan with 2-5 years of experience, the estimated salary range for this role is Β₯5,000,000 - Β₯7,000,000 per year. This is an estimate and the actual salary may vary based on factors such as skills, experience, and performance.

Benefits:

  • Flexible work hours and the ability to work from home one day per week
  • Opportunities for professional growth and development
  • Competitive benefits package, including health insurance and retirement plans

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, with flexible hours and the option to work from home one day per week

ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards and may vary based on the candidate's skills, experience, and performance. Rakuten offers a competitive benefits package to attract and retain top talent.

πŸ“Œ Applicant Insights

πŸ” Company Context

Industry: Rakuten is a global leader in internet services, with a focus on e-commerce, fintech, digital content, and communications. The company operates in 30 countries and regions, serving over 1.9 billion members worldwide.

Company Size: Rakuten has over 10,000 employees globally, providing a large and diverse work environment. This size allows for ample opportunities for growth and collaboration across various departments and services.

Founded: Rakuten was founded in Tokyo, Japan, in 1997, and has since grown into a global technology leader.

Company Description:

  • Rakuten Group, Inc. (TSE: 4755) is a global technology leader in services that empower individuals, communities, businesses, and society.
  • The company offers services in e-commerce, fintech, digital content, and communications to 1.9 billion members around the world.
  • Rakuten has operations in 30 countries and regions, with more than 30,000 employees.

Company Specialties:

  • E-commerce (Rakuten Ichiba, Rakuten Books, etc.)
  • Card & Payments
  • Life & Leisure support services
  • Communications & Energy & Mobile
  • Investment
  • Sports
  • Digital Contents
  • Open EC
  • AD
  • Affiliate
  • Securities
  • Bank
  • Insurance
  • Travel
  • Mobile
  • Mobile Network Operator
  • Telecommunications
  • and Artificial Intelligence

Company Website: https://global.rakuten.com/corp/

ASSUMPTION: Rakuten's large size and global presence provide ample opportunities for career growth and development, as well as exposure to a diverse range of products, services, and cultures.

πŸ“Š Role Analysis

Career Level: This role is suitable for UX Researchers with 2-5 years of experience seeking to advance their careers in a dynamic and global environment.

Reporting Structure: The UX Researcher will report directly to the Creative Design Strategy Department, Marketing Division, and will collaborate with various departments and services across Rakuten.

Work Arrangement: This is a hybrid role, with employees working from the office 4 days a week and remotely 1 day a week.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Exposure to a wide range of products and services, allowing for the development of diverse skills and knowledge
  • Opportunities to work with and learn from experienced professionals across various departments
  • Potential for career progression within the UX Research field or related roles

ASSUMPTION: The hybrid work arrangement offers a balance between collaboration and focus, allowing employees to maximize their productivity and work-life balance.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: Rakuten offers two primary workspaces for this role: Rakuten Crimson House and the UX Research Room in the Futako-Tamagawa Rise office.

Office Location(s): Rakuten Crimson House, 1-14-1 Tamagawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 158-0094, JP

Geographic Context:

  • Tokyo is a bustling metropolis with a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant tech industry
  • The Setagaya-ku district offers easy access to public transportation, shopping, and dining options
  • Rakuten Crimson House is a modern and well-equipped workspace designed to foster collaboration and innovation

Work Schedule: Usability testing is conducted primarily with Rakuten employees during regular weekday hours. Flexible hours and the ability to work from home one day per week are also available.

ASSUMPTION: The modern and well-equipped workspaces provided by Rakuten, along with the flexible work arrangements, contribute to a productive and enjoyable work environment.

πŸ’Ό Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

  • Online application submission
  • Phone or video screen with the hiring manager
  • In-depth interview with the UX Research team
  • Final interview with the department head

Key Assessment Areas:

  • Understanding of UX research methodologies, particularly usability testing
  • Ability to plan and execute effective usability tests
  • Communication skills and ability to present findings to stakeholders
  • Cultural fit with Rakuten's values and work environment

Application Tips:

  • Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role
  • Prepare examples of your past UX research projects and be ready to discuss your approach and findings
  • Demonstrate your understanding of Rakuten's products and services, and how your skills and experience align with the company's mission and values

ATS Keywords: UX Research, Usability Testing, Web Survey Design, User Behavior Analysis, Report Creation, Presentation Skills, In-depth Interviews, Questionnaires, Field Surveys, ResearchOps, Collaboration, Flexibility, Stress Management, Empathy, Organizational Management, Human Resource Development

ASSUMPTION: Rakuten's interview process is designed to assess the candidate's technical skills, cultural fit, and ability to thrive in a dynamic and global environment.

πŸ› οΈ Tools & Technologies

  • Usability testing software (e.g., UserTesting, UsabilityHub)
  • Survey creation tools (e.g., SurveyMonkey, Google Forms)
  • Data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, Google Analytics)
  • Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello)

ASSUMPTION: The specific tools and technologies used may vary depending on the project and the UX Researcher's preferences and expertise.

πŸ‘” Cultural Fit Considerations

Company Values:

  • Empowerment
  • Optimism
  • Gratitude
  • Excellence
  • Speed

Work Style:

  • Collaborative and team-oriented
  • Focused on results and continuous improvement
  • Adaptable and open to change
  • Committed to learning and growth

Self-Assessment Questions:

  • Do you align with Rakuten's core values and work style?
  • Are you comfortable working in a dynamic and global environment?
  • Do you thrive in collaborative and team-oriented settings?

ASSUMPTION: Rakuten values candidates who are a strong cultural fit, as this contributes to a positive work environment and successful collaboration across departments and services.

⚠️ Potential Challenges

  • Managing multiple projects and priorities simultaneously
  • Working with stakeholders across various departments and services
  • Adapting to a dynamic and global work environment
  • Balancing the need for thorough research with the need for timely results

ASSUMPTION: These challenges can be overcome with strong organizational skills, effective communication, and a commitment to continuous learning and improvement.

πŸ“ˆ Similar Roles Comparison

  • Unlike other UX Research roles, this position focuses on usability testing for a wide range of services and products within a single organization
  • This role offers exposure to a diverse range of products and services, allowing for the development of a broad skill set and knowledge base
  • Career progression opportunities may include specialized roles within UX Research or related fields, such as UX Design or Product Management

ASSUMPTION: This role offers unique opportunities for growth and development within the UX Research field and related roles.

πŸ“ Sample Projects

  • Conducting usability testing for the Rakuten Ichiba e-commerce platform to identify and address user experience issues
  • Designing and implementing a web survey to recruit users for a usability testing project for the Rakuten Books service
  • Analyzing user behavior data to inform the design and improvement of Rakuten's mobile banking application

ASSUMPTION: These sample projects illustrate the diverse range of products and services that the UX Researcher may work with at Rakuten.

❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

  • What are the most significant usability challenges currently faced by Rakuten's services, and how can this role contribute to addressing them?
  • How does the UX Research team collaborate with other departments and services to ensure that user experience is a priority in product development and improvement?
  • What opportunities are there for professional growth and development within the UX Research team and across Rakuten?
  • How does Rakuten support work-life balance for its employees, particularly in hybrid work arrangements?
  • What are the key performance indicators (KPIs) for this role, and how will my success be measured?

ASSUMPTION: Asking thoughtful and insightful questions demonstrates your interest in the role and your commitment to understanding the company's priorities and culture.

πŸ“Œ Next Steps for Applicants

To apply for this position:

⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.