Onward Search is a specialized staffing and talent solutions company that helps professionals find top jobs with the nation’s leading brands. We are looking for a Research Specialist to join our client’s User Experience Research (UXR) group in a fully remote role based in San Jose, CA. This is a 3–6 month contract opportunity with the possibility of extension.

In this role, you will play a critical part in connecting researchers with the right participants to ensure studies uncover deep insights into customer needs, behaviors, and pain points. You will collaborate closely with UXR team members to design and execute participant recruitment strategies that drive high-quality research outcomes and support the definition and development of Marketplace products.

This is a W2 contract position with a 40-hour work week. Onward Search offers weekly pay and benefits throughout the duration of the contract.

There is no application deadline for this role.

Research Specialist Responsibilities:

• Partner with researchers to develop and execute recruitment plans for primary research studies.

• Build and manage targeted participant lists based on study criteria.

• Distribute survey invitations and communications through Qualtrics and other SaaS survey tools.

• Monitor response rates and ensure data quality and integrity across studies.

• Coordinate translation of survey materials and participant responses across multiple languages.

• Provide guidance to researchers conducting multi-screen research to ensure smooth participant engagement.

• Support panel management efforts, including maintaining relationships with recurring participants (a strong plus).

Research Specialist Qualifications:

• 3+ years’ experience in a similar role.

• Proficiency with Qualtrics and other SaaS-based survey platforms.

• Strong understanding of survey sampling methodology and quantitative sampling techniques.

• Prior experience with qualitative research recruiting (screeners, participant management, logistics).

• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple studies and timelines simultaneously.

• Strong communication skills, including experience coordinating translations across different languages.

• Experience with panel management is highly desirable.

Perks & Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance.

• Life Insurance.

• 401(k) Program.

• Commuter Benefit.

• eLearning & Ongoing Training.

• Education Reimbursement.

*Eligibility requires working over 30 hours per week on an assignment lasting at least 10 weeks.

If you meet the qualifications and are excited about this opportunity, apply today! Our team will connect with you to discuss next steps, support you through the interview process, and advocate for your success.

About Onward Search

Onward Search is a nationwide staffing agency and talent solutions provider specializing in creative, marketing, and technology professionals. We work with our nationwide clients to continuously pipeline and fill specialized roles. As such, not all jobs contain an application deadline.

Equal Opportunity Employment

We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected category. Candidates must be at least 18 years old to be considered for employment.
EOE/M/F/D/V/SO

Inclusive Hiring Practices

We’re committed to making every part of our hiring process accessible and inclusive. If you need any accommodations or adjustments to support you during the application or interview process, please contact us at inclusivehiring@onwardsearch.com.

Employment Eligibility

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired must verify their identity and eligibility to work in the United States. We are unable to support 1099 / Corp-to-Corp / Independent Contractor arrangements. All freelancers will be hired as W2 employees.

Benefits

We offer medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as a 401(k) retirement plan to all eligible full-time temporary employees. Onward Search is a drug-free workplace.

Virtual Interview Process

To help streamline the hiring process and ensure a more flexible and accessible experience for all candidates, we’ve partnered with Apriora, a virtual interviewing platform. For select job openings, you may receive an invitation to interview with Alex, our virtual interviewer, via email at alex@onwardsearch.com.

Alex will guide you through a brief set of questions to help us better understand your background and interests. The virtual interview can be completed on your own time, and your responses will be reviewed by our recruiting team as part of the screening process.

To learn more about the platform, visit Apriora’s website.

Job Seeker Scam Alert

We’ve become aware of fraudulent recruiters impersonating Onward Search representatives to collect personal or financial information from potential job seekers. Please be vigilant and always protect your information. Learn more about potential threats and how to protect yourself by visiting our job seeker scam alert page.