Research Associate – Executive Search

Masthead Partners

Research Associate supporting executive search processes at ZRG Partners. Collaborating with teams to source candidates and report on metrics.

Posted 6/3/2026full-timeRemote • 🇺🇸 United StatesJuniorMid-Level💰 $60,000 - $70,000 per yearWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Collaborate with engagement team to ensure execution of tailored research strategy based on client needs
Sourcing candidates for search engagements using LinkedIn Recruiter, Pitchbook, the internal database, Boolean search, and other online platforms
Form relationships and partner closely with Associates and Principals in other divisions of ZRG to share knowledge gained from engagements
Develop metrics, reporting mechanisms, and continuous improvement strategies to effectively measure, track, and report against goals

Requirements

What you’ll need

0-2 years of relevant experience in a service-oriented business or consulting environment (previous executive search experience preferred)
An undergraduate degree is required
Experience researching and seeking to understand market trends
Self-motivation and intellectual curiosity that leads to effective, unprompted problem solving
Organization and time management skills
Ability to adapt quickly to changes and maintain composure under pressure
Strong client-facing skills with demonstrated ability to build strong relationships and interface effectively with all levels of the organization
Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
Strong project management skills with an ability to drive programs that support Organizational Strategy opportunities, including as it relates to Diversity & Inclusion/Inclusive Design strategies
Results-oriented while maintaining attention to detail and quality as well as working with a sense of urgency
Collaborative and team-oriented
Experience sourcing with LinkedIn Recruiter, Boolean strings, and internal database queries is required, Pitchbook experience preferred
Ability to quickly learn and implement use of ZRG’s CRM systems in daily search delivery (Salesforce experience preferred)

Benefits

Comp & perks

Health insurance
Flexible work arrangements
Professional development

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills & Tools

Boolean searchmarket researchproject managementmetrics developmentreporting mechanismscontinuous improvement strategiescandidate sourcingexecutive search

Soft Skills

self-motivationintellectual curiosityproblem solvingorganizationtime managementadaptabilityclient-facing skillsrelationship buildingcommunicationcollaboration