Research Executive

Carlton
Permanent

Description

At the heart of some of Australia’s most important public debates is a group of researchers, strategists and communicators who believe evidence should drive change. This integrated research and communications group works across market research and polling, media and community issues management, digital campaigning, content, advertising and stakeholder communications. All united by a single purpose: making socially valuable organisations stronger.

Clients span education providers, NGOs, government departments and membership-based organisations. Research sits at the core of everything ensuring every communication strategy is grounded in evidence and built to cut through an increasingly crowded media environment.

If you believe in work that drives meaningful change, this is an environment where that purpose is felt every day.

The Role
A well-regarded research team within this group is seeking a Research Executive with 1-2 years’ experience to join their Melbourne-based team. This is a predominantly qualitative role working across focus groups, in-depth interviews, community consultation and online moderation, with exposure to quantitative survey design and scripting. You will report into and work closely with both the Qualitative Research Director and Quantitative Research Manager.

The work spans high-impact public interest issues: renewable energy, public health, fiscal policy and the social fabric of Australia. Clients are predominantly progressive organisations, and your research will often be published in the media and in-market within 24 hours. If you are motivated by work that shapes policy and makes Australia fairer, this is a rare opportunity to see your contribution land in real time.

Responsibilities

  • Design and facilitate qualitative research including focus groups, IDIs, community consultation and online moderation, delivering clear and actionable insights for clients
  • Support quantitative research delivery including survey design and scripting, fieldwork coordination and basic data analysis, working alongside senior researchers on fast-turnaround projects
  • Synthesise qualitative and quantitative findings into insight-driven reports and presentations tailored to client needs and objectives
  • Maintain awareness of current affairs, public policy debates and social issues to contextualise findings and deliver timely, relevant insights
  • Liaise with clients and internal stakeholders throughout projects, ensuring clear communication and timely delivery at every stage
  • Adhere to ethical, legislative and professional standards in research delivery, supporting team quality and compliance

About You
You are a curious, detail-oriented mixed method researcher with a genuine interest in public policy and a passion for work that drives social impact. You thrive in fast-paced environments where your contribution to public debate is tangible.

You will bring:

  • Strong qualitative research and moderation skills with demonstrated experience across focus groups, IDIs, community consultation and/or online moderation
  • A tertiary qualification in social science, politics, sociology, psychology, communications or a related discipline
  • Strong statistical skills, with knowledge of Q an advantage
  • 1-2 years’ experience in a research, consulting or related environment
  • A genuine understanding of or interest in Australian public policy, current affairs and the broader political landscape
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate findings into compelling insights for diverse audiences
  • Experience in survey design and scripting is advantageous
  • Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks under tight deadlines in a current affairs-driven environment
  • A genuine desire to learn, grow and contribute to research that helps shape a fairer Australia
  • Comfort working flexible hours when the news cycle demands it
 

Please note that you must have permanent residency/citizenship for Australia to be considered for this role.

We look forward to hearing from you.