Research Consultant

PolarisProject

PolarisProject

Software Engineering
Remote
Posted on Mar 5, 2026
Description

About Opportunity

We are seeking a detail-oriented and analytical Research Consultant with lived experience in human trafficking or exploitation to support a discrete project, the National Stakeholder Study (NSS 2.0), on a contractual basis. The NSS 2.0 follows the original National Survivor Study (NSS) and seeks to understand what the field needs in order to align, act, and sustain collective impact. While the original NSS asked, “What do survivors need to thrive?,” the NSS 2.0 asks, “What does the field need to succeed?" The Research Consultant will help design and conduct research activities, analyze data, synthesize findings, and produce high-quality written deliverables within agreed-upon timelines. This role is ideal for a self-directed professional who can manage multiple priorities, work independently, and translate complex information into clear, actionable insights.

Responsibilities

  • Conduct literature reviews and background research
  • Support with designing research methodologies (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods) as needed
  • Support development of research tools (surveys, interview guides, etc.)
  • Collect and analyze data (survey, interviews, focus groups, datasets, policy documents, etc.)
  • Synthesize findings into reports, briefs, presentations, or executive summaries
  • Ensure accuracy, quality control, and citation integrity
  • Present findings to internal and external stakeholders as needed
  • Other Responsibilities
  • Other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

This job description provides a summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by

individuals in this position. Incumbents may be asked to perform other tasks not specifically

written in this job.

Requirements

Required Qualifications

  • Lived experience in human trafficking or exploitation
  • Demonstrated experience with qualitative and/or quantitative research methods
  • Strong analytical and writing skills
  • Ability to work independently and manage deadlines
  • Commitment to the mission and values of Polaris

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with statistical or qualitative analysis software (e.g. SPSS, R, Stat, NVivo, Dedoose)
  • Experience with drafting grant reports, white papers, policy briefs, etc.
Salary Description
$15,360 for an average of 8 hrs per wk for 32 wks