Senior Qualitative Researcher

Team: Analyst

Location: US

Commitment: Full-time

Workplace Type: remote

Accountabilities:

The Senior Qualitative Researcher leads the planning, execution, and oversight of advanced qualitative research activities. This role requires strong expertise in qualitative methodologies, research design, interviewer training, and analytical processes to ensure reliable and meaningful outcomes.

• Lead complex qualitative and mixed-methods research initiatives, providing strategic direction and methodological expertise.
• Develop qualitative data collection instruments, including interview guides, focus group protocols, and standardized research materials.
• Plan and conduct pilot testing and cognitive testing to validate research instruments and improve data collection approaches.
• Design and implement interviewer protocols covering research ethics, informed consent, trauma-informed interviewing, and secure data management practices.
• Train, certify, and support interviewers through structured evaluations, mock interviews, and ongoing coaching.
• Conduct quality assurance reviews of research sessions, provide feedback, and support continuous improvement of interviewing practices.
• Develop qualitative coding frameworks, including codebooks, definitions, coding rules, and examples to support consistent analysis.
• Support inter-rater reliability processes and maintain strong standards for qualitative data accuracy.
• Deliver research methodology training and contribute content to research toolkits, documentation, and knowledge-sharing resources.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure research activities align with program objectives and quality standards.

Requirements:

The ideal candidate brings extensive qualitative research experience, strong methodological knowledge, and the ability to lead research initiatives from design through execution. This role requires excellent analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate research concepts clearly.

• Master’s degree with 7+ years of relevant qualitative research experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Demonstrated experience designing qualitative research instruments and conducting pilot and cognitive testing.
• Strong expertise in qualitative research methods, data collection, analysis, and reporting.
• Experience training and certifying interviewers, including trauma-informed and stigma-aware interviewing approaches for hard-to-reach populations.
• Advanced knowledge of qualitative coding, codebook development, and qualitative analysis frameworks.
• Experience supporting research quality assurance processes and maintaining methodological consistency.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to collaborate across multidisciplinary teams.
• Ability to obtain and maintain required customer clearance for access to systems, facilities, equipment, and property.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary range of $130,000 - $140,000 USD, with final compensation based on location, skills, experience, and qualifications.
• Remote work flexibility.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• 401(k) retirement plan with immediate vesting.
• Company-paid life insurance and disability coverage, including short-term and long-term disability.
• Paid time off and 11 federal holidays.
• Family planning and fertility assistance.
• Legal assistance program.
• Employee assistance and wellness support programs.
• Professional development, training opportunities, and career growth support.