Research Assistant I (Temporary)

Are you detail-oriented, organized, and passionate about research that drives meaningful change?  Vital Research is seeking two Research Assistants for two distinct projects:

• Kansas Quality of Life (QOL): February 24, 2026, to May 22, 2026


• Minnesota Quality of Life (QOL): March 17, 2026, to August 28, 2026

These temporary positions will support research and evaluation initiatives, including large-scale seasonal survey projects aimed at enhancing quality of life in long-term care facilities. Join us in generating insights that make a real impact on communities and care settings.

Under the guidance of the Research Manager, you’ll play a key role in three critical areas: 

1. Scheduling – Communicating with assisted living administrators via phone and email to coordinate face-to-face interviews conducted by our Field Interviewers. 

1. Census Coordination – Managing electronic data collection, organizing data files, and ensuring accuracy, confidentiality, and compliance with data security standards. 

1. Research and Evaluation Support – Collecting, auditing, processing, and coordinating data in support of various research and evaluation projects.

What You’ll Do 

Scheduling & Coordination 

• Serve as a primary point of contact for scheduling interviews between assisted living staff and Field Interviewers. 

• Place outgoing calls and emails to schedule and confirm appointments. 

• Monitor and track project scheduling activities to ensure a seamless process. 

• Send reminder emails/calls for upcoming interviews. 

• Proactively resolve scheduling conflicts and communicate updates to the internal team. 

• Answer questions from facility administrators to ensure they are comfortable with the survey process. 

Data Collection & Management 

• Contact nursing homes and assisted living facilities to collect missing information when necessary. 


• Enter quantitative and qualitative data. 


• Receive and clean census data using Microsoft Access and Excel. 


• Organize, match, and process data files from multiple sources. 


• Track, audit, and correct data errors to ensure data integrity. 


• Upload findings to a secure database while maintaining strict confidentiality. 


• Ensure compliance with HIPAA and data security protocols. 


• Ensure census data deadlines are met. 


• Generate assignment packets for Field Interviewers. 


• Administrative duties as needed, including attending meetings and formatting documents

What You Bring 

Education & Experience 

• Bachelor’s degree in social science or a related field. 

• 1+ years of administrative experience (post-graduate research preferred). 

Technical Skills 

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (Access preferred)

• Comfort using Zoom for calls. 

• Understanding of research, evaluation principles, and healthcare terminology (preferred).

Soft Skills 

• Strong attention to detail, time management, and organization. 

• Ability to work independently and collaborate in a team. 

• Clear communication, problem-solving mindset, and adaptability.

• Capacity to multi-task and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment. 

Availability & Logistics 

• Must be available Monday–Friday, 6:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. PST in-office (40 hours/week, as needed). 


• Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and access to a personal vehicle

Why Join Us? 

At Vital Research, we use rigorous social science methods to help organizations measure their impact and drive meaningful change. This role offers a unique opportunity to support research that enhances quality of life while gaining hands-on experience in survey coordination, data management, and project execution. 

Today!

Enthusiastic about research, data management, and impact? We’d love to hear from you! Submit your resume and cover letter by Tuesday, February 10, 2026,  at 11:59 PM PST.

About Vital Research 

Founded in 1982, Vital Research is a national research consulting firm specializing in delivering quality social science research. Our mission is to create vibrant communities by amplifying diverse voices and experiences through culturally responsive social science research and evaluation. Our team executes research, evaluation, and survey projects for clients across forty states spanning multiple industries. The result – we help clients answer key questions, generate useful findings, and transform communities.

For more information visit www.vitalresearch.com