The Research Associate will conduct qualitative research on social media platforms, track trends and narratives, analyze content, and synthesize insights into deliverables for non-technical audiences.
Vocal is seeking a qualitative researcher with a nose for narrative. You'll spend your days inside the platforms — TikTok, Instagram, X, Reddit, and beyond — identifying the emerging trends, influential voices, and shifting attitudes that shape how issues resonate with online audiences.
Responsibilities
- 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
Qualifications
- 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
- 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
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