Temporary Research Manager

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in California.

📋 Description

• Spearhead various research and evaluation initiatives from inception to completion.

• Create project timelines, set priorities, allocate resources, and track project advancement.

• Supervise data collection, survey administration, data management, analysis, and reporting tasks.

• Ensure project outputs align with quality benchmarks and meet client expectations.

• Enhance workflows, processes, and research methods through innovation and technology.

• Coordinate field operations and assist in training and overseeing field personnel.

• Prepare presentations, reports, and technical documentation for clients and stakeholders.

• Formulate project staffing strategies and delegate responsibilities across project teams.

• Mentor, supervise, and continuously support team members with coaching and performance feedback.

• Cultivate a collaborative, positive, and high-performing team atmosphere.

• Promote professional development and ensure staff have access to necessary resources.

• Act as the main point of contact for clients throughout the project lifecycle.

• Establish trusted relationships with clients and provide insightful consultation.

• Communicate project progress, respond to technical inquiries, and proactively tackle challenges.

• Collaborate with clients to ensure successful project results and identify future partnership opportunities.

• Represent Vital Research in a professional manner during client interactions.

⛳️ Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Social Science, Business, Public Health, or a related discipline.

• At least five years of experience in research, evaluation, or project management, or seven years of equivalent professional experience.

• A minimum of three years of supervisory experience leading teams of two or more employees.

• Proven experience managing multiple concurrent projects, priorities, and deadlines.

• Preferred experience managing social science research or program evaluation projects.

• Preferred experience working with public sector, nonprofit, healthcare, or community-based clients.

• Familiarity with survey research methodologies, including interviews, focus groups, and mixed-methods research is preferred.

• Strong project management and organizational skills with outstanding attention to detail.

• Capability to lead, coach, and develop teams while promoting collaboration and accountability.

• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation communication abilities.

• Strong client relationship management skills and a customer service focus.

• Ability to balance strategic thinking with daily project execution.

• Proven problem-solving, critical thinking, and decision-making skills.

• Ability to work independently while effectively collaborating with cross-functional teams.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel and Word.

🏝️ Benefits

• Temporary position from October 2026 through June 30, 2027.

• Collaborative, mission-driven work environment.

• Opportunities for professional growth.

• Emphasis on innovation and continuous improvement.

• Chance to lead impactful research that influences policy and enhances programs.