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Primary Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

What you'll do As a Compliance Analyst focused on Primary Research Compliance you will maintain and manage the Firm's policies and procedures regarding the use of consultant networks, independent ...

Principal Ad Research and Insights

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$130.70K - $205.20K/yr

Design and execute a wide range of primary research studies(e.g., brand lift, purchase intent, messaging effectiveness, audience insights), either in-houseor through 3P vendors,to assess advertiser ...

While not mandatory, an MBA or a master's degree can be advantageous • Strong knowledge of data and statistical concepts; ability to synthesize multiple data sources (primary research, syndicated ...

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Primary Research information

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$11

$59

$150

How much do primary research jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for primary research in the United States is $59.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.21 and $70.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Primary Researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Primary Researcher, you need strong analytical skills, a background in research methods or a related field, and experience designing and executing studies. Familiarity with statistical analysis software, survey platforms, and data collection tools is typically required. Excellent communication, critical thinking, and attention to detail help researchers effectively gather insights and present findings. These skills are crucial for producing reliable, actionable data that drives informed decision-making.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in primary research roles, and how can they be addressed?

One common challenge in primary research roles is recruiting and engaging suitable participants, particularly for niche or hard-to-reach populations. Researchers often address this by building strong networks, utilizing specialized recruitment platforms, and maintaining transparent communication with participants. Another challenge is ensuring data accuracy and minimizing bias, which can be managed through rigorous survey design and thorough training of field staff. Collaboration with analysts and project managers is also critical to ensure research objectives are met and insights are actionable.

What is primary research?

Primary research is the process of gathering new, original data directly from sources rather than relying on existing information. This type of research typically involves methods such as interviews, surveys, observations, or experiments to collect firsthand information. Primary research is commonly used to address specific questions or problems, providing tailored and up-to-date insights. It is widely used in various fields, including business, academia, and market research.

What is the difference between Primary Research vs Market Research Analyst?

AspectPrimary ResearchMarket Research Analyst
CredentialsOften requires research methods training, sometimes a degree in social sciences or marketingTypically holds a degree in marketing, business, or related fields; may have certifications in data analysis
Work EnvironmentConducts surveys, interviews, and field studies directly with participantsAnalyzes data, prepares reports, and interprets market trends from secondary and primary data
Industry UsageUsed across marketing, social sciences, and product developmentPrimarily in marketing, advertising, and consulting firms

Primary Research involves collecting new data directly from sources, while Market Research Analysts analyze existing data and trends. Both roles are essential in understanding markets but differ in methods and focus.

More about Primary Research jobs
What cities are hiring for Primary Research jobs? Cities with the most Primary Research job openings:
What states have the most Primary Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Primary Research jobs include:
Infographic showing various Primary Research job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,781 per year, or $60 per hour.
Primary Research Specialist (Full Time)

Primary Research Specialist (Full Time)

Graph Strategy

Washington, DC • On-site

$60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Primary Research Specialist
• Location: Mon-Friday, On-site - Washington D.C.
• Hours: 40 hours per week
• Duration: After one year, opportunity for extension or promotion
About Us
• Matters Graph is a specialist buy-side-focused consultancy that provides objective fact-based commercial due diligence and value gen support for private equity and private lender clients
About the Role
• We're looking for sharp, driven college graduates to join our team as Primary Research Specialists. This is your chance to build real professional skills in a role that is critical to Private Equity advisory.
• Your mission: Identify the right experts. Pitch them on participating. Schedule the consultation. Deliver for the client. Repeat - across industries, topics, and seniority levels.
• You'll spend your days researching industries, cold calling and emailing professionals across a variety of fields - from former Fortune 500 executives to niche technical specialists - and coordinating research consultations for our consulting teams. You'll manage multiple projects at once, learn to pitch with confidence, and build skills that translate directly into careers in consulting, finance, sales, and beyond
What You'll Do
• Research and identify qualified experts using LinkedIn, professional databases, industry publications, and creative sourcing strategies
• Cold call, email, and message senior professionals across industries to recruit them for paid research consultations
• Screen and qualify potential participants for relevance, expertise, and availability across multiple simultaneous projects
• Coordinate scheduling between experts and our research team or clients, managing all logistics from first contact to post-call follow-up
• Manage your pipeline - maintain clean, accurate CRM records and report on project progress and outreach metrics
• Improve the playbook - contribute to better outreach scripts, sourcing strategies, and team processes over time
What We're Looking For
Required:
-Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university (all majors welcome)
-Excellent verbal and written communication skills - you're articulate, persuasive, and professional on the phone
-Resilient and persistent - cold outreach means hearing "no" often, and you don't take it personally
-Highly organized - you can manage 1-3 projects simultaneously without letting anything slip
-Self-motivated and resourceful - you figure things out and don't wait to be told what to do
-Able to work in-person at our D.C. office Monday through Friday
Preferred:
-1-2 years of experience in sales, business development, recruiting, fundraising, customer service, or any outreach-driven role
-Familiarity with CRM tools (Salesforce, HubSpot) or research platforms (LinkedIn Sales Navigator, ZoomInfo)
-Background or interest in consulting, finance, and private equity
Why This Program?
• It's a launchpad, not a dead end. Our one-year structure is designed to build your skills progressively and position you for your next career move - whether that's with us or beyond.
-At the end of year 1, research analysts will be eligible for extension or may be considered for full-time associate position in the consulting track
Our first-year structure is designed to build your skills progressively and position you for your next career move - whether that's with us or beyond.
-At the end of year 1 (and possibly earlier), Primary Research Specialists will be eligible (and hopefully equipped) for extension or may be considered for candidacy as an Associate position full-time associate position in our consulting track
• Primary Research Specialists will develop skills ang gain highly relevant experience for a career in:
-Consulting - The research skills and client exposure translate perfectly
-Sales & Business Development - You'll master cold outreach and objection handling
-Finance & Private Equity - You'll gain exposure to how investors make decisions
-Startups & Operations - Hustle, resourcefulness, and communication are the core of this role
What you'll get:
• $60,000 annual salary + bonuses
• In-office Mon-Friday in Washington, D.C.
• Health, dental, vision, 401k
• An exceptional professional network and resume credential
• Exposure to Private Equity and Commercial Strategy Advisory
How to Apply
• Apply on Bamboo, using the link embedded below. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Early applications are encouraged.
Matters Graph is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all team members