Project Manager – On-Site Data Collection & User Studies Job San Francisco area,California USA,IT/Tech

We’re seeking a Project Manager with 3+ years of experience leading on-site data collection projects with a focus on user studies. This role owns end-to-end delivery—timelines, budgets, and client-facing communications—while ensuring high-quality execution through strong attention to detail and strong team management. The position is remote, with a preference for candidates based in the San Francisco Bay Area or Los Angeles, CA.

Travel to some of our study locations will be required for new project launches, maintenance, on-site realignment, and key project checkpoints.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead end-to-end delivery of on-site data collection projects supporting user studies (e.g., usability tests, in-context/field research, intercepts, diary studies with in-person components).
Build and manage detailed project plans and schedules (workback plans, run-of-show agendas, staffing schedules, milestones, dependencies) to ensure on-time execution.
Own budget management: forecasting, tracking spend vs. plan, managing vendors and contractors, controlling scope, and documenting change requests.
Create and deliver client-facing presentations: kickoffs, weekly status updates, risk/issue reviews, and final project readouts; translate complex details into clear narratives.
Coordinate on-site logistics: site readiness, staffing, equipment/materials, shipping, access/security requirements, participant flow, and contingency planning.
Manage and support project team members (internal staff, contractors, and vendors): set expectations, assign work, track deliverables, remove blockers, provide feedback, and ensure accountability.
Ensure data quality and compliance with study requirements (consent, privacy/PII handling, documentation standards).
Maintain rigorous project documentation and reporting (status reports, action logs, risk registers, budget trackers, timeline updates).
Identify risks early and drive mitigation (no-shows, site constraints, equipment failures, vendor delays), escalating with clear options and recommendations.

Required Skills:

3+ years of project management experience in on-site data collection, research operations, and/or user study execution.
Strong knowledge of head-mounted devices, such as Apple Vision Pro, Meta Quest, Meta Glasses, and other smart glasses.
Prior involvement in on-site user studies including head-mounted devices required
Demonstrated strengths in: time management, budget management, client-facing presentations, attention to detail, and team member management.
Experience coordinating vendors, contractors, and field teams.
Strong written and verbal communication and stakeholder management skills.
Comfortable operating autonomously in a remote environment.
Education:

Bachelor’s degree (minimum) in a related field such as Business Management, Economics, Computer Science, or equivalent relevant discipline/experience.

Optional

Skills:

Advanced proficiency across Microsoft Office tools (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook, Teams; plus SharePoint/One Drive as applicable).
Working knowledge of Android devices and Apple iOS/macOS devices (setup, basic troubleshooting, OS updates, device management basics) to support on-site study execution.
Scrum Master experience (or Agile project delivery experience).

Location/Travel Requirements:

Remote role. Preferred locations:
Bay Area or Los Angeles, CA
Travel across the USA will be required for new project launches, maintenance, on-site realignment, and key project checkpoints. Travel frequency varies by project pipeline and study schedule.