Greater Austin Mission Society | Director of Research

Harvest•Austin, TX

About The Position

The Director of Research serves as a bridge between data and discipleship, equipping the Greater Austin Mission Society with the research, tools, and strategy needed to discern the Spirit’s movement and support faithful gospel ministry across the Austin metro. This role combines analytical skill with spiritual attentiveness. It supports churches, ministries, and leaders by synthesizing citywide data, maintaining a dynamic database of ministries, and producing briefings that foster prayer, collaboration, and mission clarity. The ideal candidate brings technical depth, a missionary heart, and a desire to see “on earth as it is in heaven” in Austin and beyond.

Requirements

Deep love for Jesus and alignment with the vision, mission, values, and theological convictions of the Greater Austin Mission Society.
Experience with data analysis, research, systems thinking, or leading technical teams.
Cross-cultural awareness and a heart for the lost, the marginalized, and the local church.
Strong communication skills, particularly the ability to make technical insights clear and practical.
Capacity to self-manage, collaborate across diverse teams, and balance flexibility with follow-through.

Responsibilities

Maintain and continually update the Church & Ministry Database for the Austin MSA.
Gather, organize, and synthesize demographic, geographic, and spiritual data (e.g., U.S. Census, Barna, Pew, internal audits).
Collaborate with partner organizations to align and integrate research platforms, reducing duplication of effort.
Produce concise, timely research briefings on neighborhoods, demographics, and ministry opportunity areas.
Support partner churches and ministries with custom reports to inform prayer, outreach, and planting strategies.
Translate complex data into accessible, action-oriented insights for church and nonprofit leaders.
Identify gaps in gospel presence across the region and recommend engagement initiatives.
Contribute research, writing, and visual insights to publications, including the State of the City report.
Track outcomes of strategic projects, supporting a learning posture for citywide engagement.
Serve as a translator between volunteer technical teams (e.g., software developers, analysts) and ministry leaders.
Help shape collaborative projects that integrate data and discernment for kingdom purposes.
Participate in team prayer and discernment rhythms, contributing both strategic and spiritual insights.