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Associate Research Director Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Research Associate will work closely with the client-facing team to manage important elements ... Market and downside scenario analysis, manager due diligence, and direct/co-investment deal ...

The Research Associate will work closely with the client-facing team to manage important elements ... Market and downside scenario analysis, manager due diligence, and direct/co-investment deal ...

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Associate Research Director information

What is an associate research director?

An Associate Research Director is a senior-level professional who helps oversee the planning, execution, and management of research projects within an organization. They typically support the Research Director by supervising research teams, ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget, and maintaining the quality and integrity of research output. Associate Research Directors also play a key role in developing research strategies, analyzing data, and communicating findings to stakeholders. Their position often serves as a bridge between research staff and upper management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate research director?

To thrive as an Associate Research Director, you need advanced expertise in research methodologies, data analysis, and project management, usually supported by a graduate degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with statistical software (such as SPSS or R), data visualization tools, and experience with research management systems are typically required. Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and communication skills enable you to guide teams and present complex findings to stakeholders effectively. These competencies are essential for delivering high-quality research insights, ensuring project success, and supporting organizational goals.

What are some common challenges faced by associate research directors when managing multiple projects simultaneously?

Associate Research Directors often juggle several projects at once, which requires excellent organizational and time management skills. Balancing priorities, allocating resources efficiently, and ensuring consistent communication across teams can be demanding, especially when deadlines overlap or project scopes change. Additionally, maintaining high-quality standards while mentoring junior researchers and coordinating with senior leadership adds to the complexity. To succeed, it's important to develop strong delegation skills and foster collaborative relationships within the research team.

What is the difference between Associate Research Director vs Research Manager?

AspectAssociate Research DirectorResearch Manager
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in relevant field, often with research experienceBachelor's or Master's, with focus on project management and research oversight
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, overseeing research teams, high-level decision makingManaging research projects, coordinating teams, ensuring project deliverables
Industry UsageUsed in corporate, academic, and government research settingsCommon in corporate and institutional research departments

The Associate Research Director typically holds a higher strategic role, overseeing multiple research projects and teams, while the Research Manager focuses on managing specific research projects and day-to-day operations. Both roles require strong research credentials, but the Associate Research Director is more involved in strategic planning and leadership.

What job categories do people searching Associate Research Director jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Research Director jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Associate Research Director jobs?

Cities in California with the most Associate Research Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Research Director job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Associate, Research

IEQ Capital

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Monitor existing Alternative Investments across asset classes and produce updates for clients and advisors.

  • Support the investment team in conducting due diligence on Public and Alternative Investments, including market analysis and risk assessment.

  • Assist with onboarding new funds by preparing investment and marketing materials such as pitch decks and one-pagers.


Job description

Who Are We?
IEQ Capital is a Registered Investment Advisor seeking to transform traditional wealth management. Our quest is to integrate the Intellectual and Emotional Quotient, generating exceptional investment results driven by a values-oriented culture that fosters connection and collaboration with our clients. We are an independent, predominantly employee-owned company, adhering to the fiduciary standard to put our clients' interests first. We focus our efforts on helping clients meet their investment objectives without the distractions and limitations that can arise within much larger organizations.
The Role
IEQ Capital is looking for a motivated professional to join our team as a Research Associate working across Alternative Investments and Public Markets. The Research Associate will work closely with the client-facing team to manage important elements of the investment process. We are seeking candidates who can be based in our San Francisco office. Duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
  • Lead the ongoing monitoring of existing Alternative Investments across asset classes-including real estate, private credit, private equity, and venture-by producing clear, timely, and informative updates tailored to both clients and advisors.
    • This includes tracking fund performance, market developments, manager updates, and material events.
  • Contribute to market commentary and strategy across private markets, public equity, and fixed income.
  • As you grow into the role, you will also support the investments team in conducting due diligence on Public and Alternative Investments, including:
    • Market and downside scenario analysis, manager due diligence, and direct/co-investment deal assessments with full risk and return analysis.
    • Participation in Investment Committee meetings, supporting due diligence on pipeline opportunities, and preparing related materials such as IC memos, presentation decks, and supporting documentation.
    • Assisting with onboarding new funds to IEQ Capital's Alternative Investments platform by drafting investment and marketing materials, including pitch decks, one-pagers, and pitch sheets for clients and advisors.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree required; 1-2 years of relevant internship or work experience preferred (motivated new graduates will be considered).
  • Strong foundation in financial markets, alternative investments, and macroeconomics.
  • Experience with financial modeling and data analysis (Excel required; Python, R, or Salesforce a plus).
  • Exceptional attention to detail, organization, and written/verbal communication skills.
  • Proactive and accountable self-starter able to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
  • Demonstrated ownership mindset with the ability to work independently and contribute meaningfully to team objectives.
  • Genuine passion for markets and curiosity about alternative investment strategies.
  • An individual looking to continuously learn and be challenged.
Compensation
The salary range for this role, inclusive of base and bonus, is $90,000 - $115,000, depending on skills and experience.
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