Project-Based Part-Time Contract (Potential for Ongoing Engagement)

We are seeking an experienced Data Scientist or Qualitative Research Analyst to support a specific project analyzing interview data. The selected consultant will develop a defensible qualitative research methodology, establish coding frameworks and coding guidelines, analyze interview findings, and identify key themes, insights, trends, and recommendations.

This engagement may expand into additional projects involving survey research, stakeholder engagement, workforce development, public sector initiatives, transportation, community engagement, and organizational assessments.

Evaluation Criteria

• Relevant qualitative research experience.
• Methodological rigor.
• Ability to develop defensible coding frameworks.
• Quality of reporting and communication.
• Experience with AI-assisted analysis.
• Cost competitiveness.
• Availability and responsiveness.

Note: Any use of artificial intelligence tools must be disclosed in advance. The selected consultant will be required to submit a written description of proposed AI tools, methodology, validation processes, and quality control measures for review and approval prior to implementation.

$65 - $85 hourly

Phase 1: Methodology Development

• Review project objectives, interview guides, and research goals.
• Develop a qualitative analysis methodology.
• Create coding protocols and thematic analysis procedures.
• Design a codebook and coding hierarchy.
• Establish quality assurance procedures for coding consistency.
• Document methodology suitable for client review and reporting.

Phase 2: AI-Assisted Analysis Framework

• Recommend AI tools and analytical approaches to support qualitative analysis.
• Provide written documentation describing:
• Proposed AI platforms and tools
• Intended use cases
• Validation procedures
• Human review processes
• Data privacy and confidentiality considerations
• Obtain written approval before implementing any AI-assisted analysis workflow.

Phase 3: Data Coding & Analysis

• Code interview transcripts and qualitative responses.
• Identify recurring themes, patterns, sentiments, and emerging issues.
• Perform cross-interview comparisons.
• Analyze findings by stakeholder group, topic area, demographic segment, or other relevant variables.
• Validate coding consistency and thematic reliability.

Phase 4: Reporting

• Develop summary findings and executive-level insights.
• Prepare visualizations, matrices, and thematic summaries.
• Produce written reports suitable for client presentation.
• Present findings and recommendations to project leadership as requested.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Data Science, Statistics, Sociology, Anthropology, Psychology, Public Policy, Research Methods, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience conducting qualitative research and thematic analysis.
• Demonstrated experience developing coding frameworks and codebooks.
• Experience analyzing interview, focus group, and stakeholder engagement data.
• Proficiency with qualitative analysis software such as NVivo, MAXQDA, Atlas.ti, Dedoose, Similar platforms
• Experience utilizing AI-assisted research tools while maintaining methodological rigor.
• Strong technical writing and reporting skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree (Master’s or PhD).
• Experience supporting public agencies, transportation organizations, workforce programs, higher education, or community engagement initiatives.
• Experience integrating qualitative and quantitative data sources.
• Familiarity with survey research and mixed-methods studies.

Deliverables

• Qualitative analysis methodology document.
• Coding framework and codebook.
• AI utilization plan and written approval package.
• Coded interview dataset.
• Thematic analysis summary.
• Executive findings report.
• Presentation-ready summary materials.

Engagement Structure

• Mainly remote. Work is based in Los Angeles.
• Project-based with potential for additional assignments.
• Estimated workload to be determined based on interview volume and timeline.

To Apply Requirements

Interested candidates should provide:

• Resume or CV.
• Relevant project examples.
• Description of qualitative research experience.
• Sample methodology or codebook (if available).
• Description of AI tools previously utilized for qualitative analysis.

A company that works with public agencies, nonprofits, and large firms. We design, manage and implement business and community programs.