Research Associate

Vocal Media

Qualitative researcher for Vocal Media analyzing narratives and trends across social media platforms. Deriving actionable insights for non-technical audiences from social discourse.

Posted 5/28/2026full-timeRemote • 🇺🇸 United StatesJuniorMid-Level💰 $60,000 - $67,000 per yearWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Conduct open-ended qualitative research across social media platforms, forums, and online communities to identify emerging narratives, trends, and audience attitudes relevant to specific issue areas
Track discourse across platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, X, and niche online spaces, developing a real-time read on how conversations are forming and shifting
Identify and analyze influential voices, content formats, and messaging patterns driving engagement on key topics
Synthesize qualitative findings into clear, compelling deliverables such as memos, briefs, and presentations that translate online discourse into actionable insights for non-technical audiences
Blend qualitative observations with quantitative signals to develop a well-rounded picture of how issues are resonating online

Requirements

What you’ll need

1-2 years of professional experience working in a digital media environment or as a researcher
Deep familiarity with social media platforms and online communities, you spend time in these spaces and understand how content spreads, how subcultures communicate, and how algorithms shape what gets seen
Strong research instincts, the ability to identify the right places to look, ask the right questions, and know when you've found something meaningful
Exceptional written communication skills, with experience translating complex or nuanced findings into clear narratives for non-technical audiences
Comfort working alongside quantitative analysts and interpreting data to complement qualitative observations
Interest in working for progressive causes including experience with political campaign(s) or public interest groups

Benefits

Comp & perks

This position includes full-time employment through November 2026
Health insurance covered at 90% for full time employees; Dental and Vision available
Flexible PTO and sick leave
401(k) plan & company contribution

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

qualitative researchquantitative analysisdata interpretationcontent analysissocial media analysis

Soft Skills

strong research instinctsexceptional written communicationability to synthesize findingscritical thinkingcollaboration