Research Associate II (Hybrid)

Vital Research • Los Angeles, CA

3d • $77,000 - $85,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

Vital Research is seeking a curious, analytical, and mission-driven Research Associate II to join their collaborative team. This role plays a key part in managing and executing multi-sector research and evaluation projects. The Research Associate II will work with a degree of independence, utilizing qualitative and quantitative research methods to lead project activities, analyze data, develop reports, and present findings. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a collaborative, hybrid work environment, brings consulting experience, enjoys working with diverse communities and stakeholders, and is passionate about translating data into actionable insights that create real-world impact. While all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply, preference will be given to candidates based in or near Los Angeles due to collaboration and business needs.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in a social science field (e.g., education, gerontology, public health, sociology, psychology, or a related discipline).
• 4+ years of post-graduate experience in research and/or evaluation experience.
• Expertise in mixed-methods research, including survey design, qualitative research, and large-scale data analysis
• Proficiency with statistical software such as SPSS, SAS, R, Stata, and survey platforms.
• Strong project management and client-facing consulting experience.
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills, with the ability to communicate complex findings to varied audiences.
• Ability to multitask, prioritize assignments, and independently manage workflows across multiple projects.
• Flexible, adaptable, and committed to equity, community-based research, and impact-driven work.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with Medicaid programs, public health, or Health & Human Services research strongly preferred.
• Bilingual English/Spanish strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead Research and Evaluation Projects: Manage multiple research and evaluation projects from planning through final deliverables. Serve as a primary point of contact for clients and project partners. Coordinate project timelines, budgets, communications, and deliverables. Ensure research activities meet quality standards and project objectives. Support business development efforts, including proposal writing and client relationship management.
• Conduct Mixed-Methods Research: Design and implement surveys, interviews, focus groups, and other data collection activities. Support participant recruitment and stakeholder engagement efforts, including outreach to diverse and hard-to-reach populations. Manage, clean, and organize quantitative and qualitative datasets. Maintain data integrity, confidentiality, and compliance with research protocols.
• Analyze Data and Communicate Findings: Conduct rigorous qualitative and quantitative analyses using appropriate methodologies. Develop charts, dashboards, visualizations, and other tools to support data interpretations. Prepare reports, presentations, literature reviews, and client-facing deliverables. Translate complex findings into clear, actionable recommendations.
• Contribute to Team Success: Mentor junior staff and support team development. Supervise field staff, consultants, and project team members as needed. Contribute to proposal development, business development initiatives, and client relationship management. Participate in professional development, conferences, publications, and knowledge-sharing activities.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, flexible vacation and work hours, 401(k) after one year, EAP, and annual professional development stipend.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level