Summary This is a full-time, entry-level position in a growing public policy research and evaluation firm focused in the areas of public health, health care, workforce development, and human services. The Research Assistant - Data Collection Associate is responsible for performing and supporting data collection, data processing, and recruiting activities for research and evaluation projects. They conduct telephone interviews, recruit research participants, assemble mailings, and receive, track and data enter or scan mail and paper surveys. About MDR MDR is a public policy research firm located in Portland, Maine. We have a staff of about 25 full time research staff and conduct meaningful and important work with clients across the U.S. Our work helps to improve the health of communities and makes them a more equitable place to live. Growth Opportunities Our Research Assistants gain training, exposure and experience with quantitative and qualitative research techniques across a variety of projects and topics. MDR provides opportunities for training and skill development through our internal training program, participation in industry-related trainings, webinars and conferences, and with an annual employee education reimbursement benefit. Hybrid Work Environment The person hired for this position must be able to commit to working at least 2 days per week in our office. We provide computer equipment to allow work from home on other days. Our office space is great! We're in the heart of downtown Portland, on the 8th floor with great views of Casco Bay, Back Cove and all the way to Mount Washington. Parking is free and there are countless options for coffee and lunch within walking distance. Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct interviews using CATI (Computer Assisted Telephone Interviewing) software, following interviewing protocols
• Conduct in-depth executive interviews. Call contacts, gain access to respondent though gate keepers, conduct qualitative and quantitative interviews using supplied survey, manage sample records noting contacts, refusals, scheduled callbacks and completions
• Recruit research participants at the organizational and individual level and coordinate their participation in research projects. Gain organizational approval, identify appropriate contact person, collect data necessary for participation and communicate throughout the research process
• Produce outgoing survey mailings. Assemble materials, stuff, seal and stamp envelopes
• Test telephone and online survey programs to ensure they are functioning as intended
• Receive, open and track returned mail/paper surveys
• Manually data enter or scan mail/paper surveys Other Duties May Include
• Develop, clean, and format lists of survey respondents
• Identify new/replacement contact information for potential respondents
• Clean and code open ended responses. Develop code lists, interpret meaning of verbatim comments and code comments into categories with similar meanings Required Skills and Competencies
• Strong telephone skills. Must be able to quickly develop rapport with potential research participants. Must be able to stick to a script and MDR interviewing protocols
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Capable of following a work plan and schedule while also adjusting how work is done to meet changing circumstances
• Proficiency in MS Excel, Word, and Outlook with demonstrated previous experience using all three in day-to-day work
• The ability to learn new software quickly - we will provide training on industry specific software
• Minimum 45 wpm typing speed
• Excellent oral and written communications skills
• Ability to work independently while coordinating and collaborating effectively with a team
• Responsive to internal, client and respondent requests; focus on meeting customer needs Education and Experience
• A High School diploma or GED required. Candidates with an associate's degree or bachelor's degree are encouraged to apply.
• A minimum of two years of relevant experience
• Experience working in a healthcare or social services organization desirable Compensation $19.00 - $20.00 per hour Benefits
• Flexible schedule with work from home opportunities
• 85% company paid basic health plan including dependent coverage, enhanced plan available with employee contribution.
• 100% company paid dental and vision plan for employee, with affordable dependent coverage available.
• 100% company paid short- and long-term disability and life insurance.
• 401k with company match.
• Earned time off for holidays, vacation, and sick time.
• Ongoing career development and training including an employee education benefit.

Please submit a cover letter with your resume. We appreciate cover letters that demonstrate your writing skills and communicates how your background and interests aligns with the position. Market Decisions Research is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We provide equal opportunity to all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental disability, religion, age, ancestry, or national origin in recruitment, selection, employment, job assignment, compensation, opportunities for advancement, access to benefits and training, discipline, and termination.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$19.00 - $20.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee assistance program Flexible schedule Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Professional development assistance Vision insurance

Experience:

Research:

1 year (Preferred)

Data Collection:

1 year (Required)

Call Center:

1 year (Required) Ability to

Commute:

Portland, ME 04101 (Required) Ability to

Relocate:

Portland, ME 04101: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location:

Hybrid remote in Portland, ME 04101