Sr. Research Associate, Health & Human Service

Summary

Vital Research is seeking a Senior Research Associate to act as a lead contributor and technical expert in quantitative research, independently managing complex projects in health and human services. This role designs and implements quantitative studies, develops rigorous data collection tools (e.g., surveys), conducts advanced analyses of large datasets (such as Medicaid claims data), and presents findings using sophisticated data visualizations.

This position follows a remote work structure, combining work from the employee’s home location with periodic onsite field responsibilities (up to 20%). Success in this role requires strong multitasking, adaptability, and collaboration with cross-functional teams and external stakeholders. Success in the role depends on effective communication, project management, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. Key responsibilities include shaping research methodologies, advising clients, leading project execution, mentoring and supervising junior staff, and ensuring high-quality deliverables. Additional opportunities include contributing to publications, presenting at professional conferences, and fostering continuous learning.

Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Management

• Lead and manage research teams, ensuring achievement of project goals while fostering a collaborative, high-performance environment.
• Oversee team performance, providing constructive feedback and ensuring timely project delivery with high-quality outcomes.
• Promote cross-functional collaboration with stakeholders, clients, and senior leadership team to achieve project success.
• Supervise Research Associates and mentor junior research staff, supporting their professional development and promoting continuous improvement.

External Engagement & Business Development

• Serve as the primary client liaison, provide expert consultation, troubleshoot challenges, and ensure client satisfaction.

• Maintain client relationships and provide technical guidance.
• Support business development efforts, including proposal writing and contributing to publications or presentations.
• Create external-facing deliverables (reports, articles, presentations, briefs) and incorporate advanced data visualizations.

Research Design, Implementation & Analysis with a focus on Quantitative Studies

• Lead end-to-end project execution for quantitative projects, including overall design, development of sampling frames, survey instrument development, data collection, quality assurance measures, and dissemination of findings, along with client communication.  
• Develop and implement quantitative data collection plans to achieve specified targets, levels of confidence and margins of error.
• Manage, clean, and analyze large datasets such as Medicare/Medicaid claims data using tools like Excel, Access, or SPSS. 
• Conduct data modeling and advanced statistical methods such as creating and applying sample weights, propensity score matching, and multi-level modeling. 
• Interpret findings to inform actionable recommendations.
• Generate standard and custom reports to support evidence-based decision-making. 
• Contribute to the standardization and continuous improvement of research processes to enhance efficiency, consistency, and quality across projects.
• Provide quality assurance across all aspects of project implementation, ensuring accuracy, adherence to protocols, and alignment with client expectations.
• Identify and resolve complex implementation challenges, including those related to timelines, data collection, and stakeholder coordination.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in health, social science, or related field with 7+ years of postgraduate experience leading complex quantitative projects.
• Proven experience in health and human services research or evaluation; background in public health or human services preferred.
• Consulting experience outside academia with familiarity across diverse settings and deliverables.
• Strong quantitative research and statistical analysis expertise, including univariate/multivariate methods, survey design, sampling, and data visualization; psychometrics a plus.
• Proficient in statistical software (SPSS required; experience with SAS, Stata, or R preferred) with ability to write syntax.
• Skilled in Microsoft Office 365 and online survey tools.
• Proven leadership in managing projects, supervising teams, and mentoring staff.
• Excellent organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills with ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Flexible, collaborative, and proactive, with the ability to work independently or within teams while establishing research best practices.
• Proven experience in writing proposals and developing business development materials.

Why Join Us?

• Meaningful work with a focus on improving lives through evidence-based research
• Flexible work environment with up to 20% travel
• Collaborative, inclusive, and mission-driven team culture
• Opportunities for professional growth, publishing, and conference participation
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, flexible vacation and work hours, 401(k) after one year, EAP, and annual professional development stipend

Apply Today

We don’t just measure impact, we elevate community voices, inform policy, and embed equity in all we do. If you're passionate about research that drives real-world change, we want to hear from you. To apply, submit the following materials:

• Resume/CV
• Brief cover letter outlining your relevant experience and interest in the role.
• Writing sample that meets one of the following criteria:
  • A report related to a large-scale survey project or written for clients.
  • A peer-reviewed article (must be primary author if selected).

Vital Research is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.