Research Analyst

Permanent, Full-time | Centre for Mission Impact – Research (Sydney or Melbourne)

We are seeking a values-driven, proactive Research Analyst to join The Salvation Army’s Research team within the Centre for Mission Impact on a permanent full-time basis.  The role can be based in Sydney (NSW) or Melbourne (VIC) and offers a hybrid working arrangement, combining time working from home with time in the office. Reporting to the Executive Manager, Research, this role is ideal for someone passionate about using evidence, data and insight to strengthen social, community and faith-based programs across Australia.

About the role

As a Research Analyst, you will design, implement and manage research, evaluation and outcomes measurement projects across The Salvation Army. You will analyse and synthesise qualitative and quantitative data to generate meaningful insights and strategic recommendations, supporting learning, improvement and decision-making across the organisation.

You will work collaboratively with colleagues, frontline services and partners, contributing to best-practice research and evaluation activities and producing high-quality outputs that are accessible and relevant to diverse audiences.

Key responsibilities

You will successfully:

• Design, implement and manage research, evaluation and outcomes measurement projects for social, community and faith‑based programs, often leading project delivery while working collaboratively under senior direction.
• Conduct qualitative and quantitative data analysis, identifying trends and patterns in complex datasets.
• Working collaboratively within a diverse, multidisciplinary research team, engaging in mutual support and knowledge sharing by both offering and seeking guidance in qualitative and quantitative analysis, including the use of relevant analytical software.
• Use statistical software (e.g. Excel, SPSS, R, SAS) to analyse large datasets within agreed timeframes.
• Produce high-quality reports, literature reviews, dashboards, briefing papers and presentations tailored to internal and external stakeholders.
• Review, develop and implement data collection systems, processes and procedures to optimise data quality and statistical efficiency.
• Identify gaps and issues in data collection that hinder effective research and evaluation activities.
• Actively explore and adopt new technologies, tools and methods to improve research efficiency and quality.
• Conduct fieldwork activities such as surveys, interviews, focus groups and workshops in line with best practice.
• Engage and support project stakeholders, including frontline services and partners.
• Provide administrative and logistical support for research projects, including coordination of meetings, resources and travel.
• Handle confidential and sensitive data ethically and with integrity.

What you will bring (selection criteria)

To be successful, you will have:

• At least 2 years’ experience in qualitative and quantitative research, program evaluation, and/or outcomes measurement.
• A Bachelor’s degree or higher in a relevant field such as Statistics, Health or Social Sciences, Public Health, Psychology, Community Services, Social Work, or similar.
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Excellent report writing, data visualisation, and presentation skills, with the ability to communicate complex findings to non-research audiences.
• Intermediate-level statistical capability and experience with statistical packages (e.g. Excel, SPSS, R, SAS).
• High computer literacy, particularly across Microsoft Office, Power BI, and research-related software.
• Strong self-management, motivation and the ability to meet deadlines with minimal supervision.
• A collaborative and improvement-focused mindset aligned with The Salvation Army’s values.
• Willingness to undergo a National Criminal History Check (and Working with Children Check if required).
• Willingness to travel to conduct fieldwork or meet with stakeholders.

What we offer

As a registered not-for-profit organisation, we offer a supportive and purpose-driven work environment, including:

• Generous tax-free salary packaging benefits
• Employee Assistance Program for you and your immediate family
• Corporate private health insurance rates
• An encouraging, values-based organisation committed to learning, collaboration and innovation
• Option for hybrid working environments, combining time working from home and the office.

Our commitment to diversity

The Salvation Army embraces diversity and strongly encourages applications from:

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
• People who identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender or Intersex
• People from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds

We are a child-safe organisation committed to protecting children and young people from harm and to fostering inclusive and respectful workplaces.

Please submit your CV and a response to the selection criteria.

The Salvation Army is an Equal Opportunity Employer who provides an inclusive work environment and embraces the diverse talent of its people. We value people of all cultures, languages, capacities, sexual orientations, gender identities and/or expressions. We are committed to achieving a diverse workforce and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islander people.

The Salvation Army is a child safe organisation and is committed to protecting children and young people from harm. All child facing roles will require the successful completion of a Working with Children Check. Applicants for all roles require a mandatory Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check.

We value Integrity, Compassion, Respect, Diversity, and Collaboration