ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Qualitative Research Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Fuel Cycle

Research Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

As a Research Manager, you will serve as the primary analyst on a range of quantitative and qualitative research projects, managing the full execution of projects that address the major business ...

Murphy Research

Research Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

We produce groundbreaking qualitative and quantitative research through our focus on creative ... We are actively seeking a Research Manager to join the Murphy Research team. In this role, you will ...

Murphy Research

Research Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

We produce groundbreaking qualitative and quantitative research through our focus on creative ... We are actively seeking a Research Manager to join the Murphy Research team. In this role, you will ...

Murphy Research

Research Manager

Los Angeles, CA

$55K - $75K/yr

We produce groundbreaking qualitative and quantitative research through our focus on creative ... We are actively seeking a Research Manager to join the Murphy Research team. In this role, you will ...

Fuel Cycle

Senior Research Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

As a Senior Market Research Manager, you will lead a diverse range of quantitative and qualitative research projects, serving as the primary point of contact, and managing the complete execution of ...

Murphy Research

Senior Research Manager

Los Angeles, CA

$95K - $120K/yr

We produce groundbreaking qualitative and quantitative research through our focus on creative ... We are actively seeking a Senior Research Manager to join the Murphy Research team. In this role ...

Murphy Research

Senior Research Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

We produce groundbreaking qualitative and quantitative research through our focus on creative ... We are actively seeking a Senior Research Manager to join the Murphy Research team. In this role ...

Murphy Research

Senior Research Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

We produce groundbreaking qualitative and quantitative research through our focus on creative ... We are actively seeking a Senior Research Manager to join the Murphy Research team. In this role ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsQualitative Research Manager JobsQualitative Research Manager Jobs in California

Qualitative Research Manager information

See California salary details

$49.3K

$97.3K

$171.2K

How much do qualitative research manager jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for qualitative research manager in California is $97,279.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,100.00 and $113,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Qualitative Research Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Qualitative Research Manager, you need expertise in qualitative methodologies, project management, and data analysis, typically supported by an advanced degree in social sciences or related fields. Familiarity with qualitative data analysis software like NVivo or ATLAS.ti and experience with survey platforms are often required. Strong communication, leadership, and critical thinking skills help manage teams and translate complex findings into actionable insights. These competencies are essential for ensuring rigorous research, effective collaboration, and impactful outcomes for clients or stakeholders.

How does a Qualitative Research Manager typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a research project?

A Qualitative Research Manager frequently works with cross-functional teams, including product managers, designers, and data analysts, to ensure that research insights are aligned with business goals. This collaboration often involves facilitating workshops, sharing findings in accessible formats, and translating qualitative data into actionable recommendations. Open communication and regular check-ins help integrate the research process into the broader project workflow, making the manager a key liaison between stakeholders and research participants.

What is a Qualitative Research Manager?

A Qualitative Research Manager is a professional responsible for overseeing and conducting qualitative research projects, which focus on gathering in-depth insights through methods such as interviews, focus groups, and observations. They design research methodologies, manage research teams, analyze non-numerical data, and present findings to inform business or academic decisions. Their role often involves ensuring the quality and integrity of data collection, interpreting complex information, and translating insights into actionable recommendations. Qualitative Research Managers typically work in market research firms, academic institutions, or corporate settings.

What is the difference between Qualitative Research Manager vs Qualitative Research Analyst?

AspectQualitative Research ManagerQualitative Research Analyst
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Market Research, Sociology, or related fields; experience in research managementBachelor's or Master's in Social Sciences, Market Research, or related fields; strong analytical skills
Work EnvironmentLeads research teams, manages projects, collaborates with stakeholdersConducts research, analyzes data, prepares reports
Employer & IndustryMarket research firms, corporations, advertising agenciesResearch firms, marketing departments, consulting agencies
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding managerial roles in qualitative researchAnalyzing qualitative data and insights

The main difference is that the Qualitative Research Manager oversees research projects and teams, focusing on management and strategy, while the Qualitative Research Analyst conducts data collection and analysis to generate insights. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in responsibilities and scope within the research process.

What are the most commonly searched types of Qualitative Research jobs in California? The most popular types of Qualitative Research jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Qualitative Research Manager jobs in California? For Qualitative Research Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Qualitative Research Manager jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Qualitative Research Manager jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Qualitative Research Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Qualitative Research Manager job openings:
Qualitative Research Manager jobs near you
Research Manager

Research Manager

Fuel Cycle

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

About Fuel Cycle:
Fuel Cycle empowers leading organizations with agile research solutions that deliver decision-ready insights - fast, flexible, and fully integrated. As a market research disruptor, our AI-powered Insights Platform is built for speed, precision, and scale. With cutting-edge tools and seamless audience connectivity, we help brands ditch the guesswork and make smarter, customer-led decisions at lightning speed.
Why work at Fuel Cycle?
Join a high-growth team where curiosity is valued, ownership is encouraged, and your work drives real-world impact. Whether you're based at our Los Angeles HQ, New York City hub, working remotely across the U.S., or part of our global team in India, you'll help shape the future of decision intelligence for some of the world's most iconic brands.
Overview:
As a Research Manager, you will serve as the primary analyst on a range of quantitative and qualitative research projects, managing the full execution of projects that address the major business questions for our Fortune 500 clients across a variety of industries. While being a key client communicator, you will be working alongside other research team members to ensure research and business objectives are achieved and high quality, insights-driven output is delivered. The ideal candidate will have considerable familiarity with quantitative research methodologies (i.e., brand equity, concept testing, segmentation) and qualitative research (i.e., IDIs, focus groups, discussion boards), and effective client communication skills. The role offers a growth oriented career path along with a learning environment where you will expand and develop your market research and leadership skills.
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Work Arrangement: This is an onsite role requiring five days per week in the office.
Key Responsibilities:
Research Execution and Quality Assurance
  • Perform tasks and responsibilities required with thoroughness to produce high-quality, high-accuracy market research deliverables.
  • Load, test, and proofread all research surveys and content on staging before posting live to production.
  • Assure data accuracy and relevance to objectives at every step in the project process to ensure the data is both internally consistent and demonstrates face validity.
  • Design and program research instruments (utilizing multiple methodologies, both qualitative and quantitative within the community) to answer research and business questions .
  • Learn and become an expert user of the Fuel Cycle Research Engine platform to execute research projects efficiently and effectively.

Project Coordination and Management
  • Efficiently manage time to coordinate and execute project components for multiple projects.
  • Prioritize tasks, communicate effectively, and remain flexible to meet client needs.
  • Ensure all project components are executed within scope contract and/or project proposal, and all timelines for met. Collaborate with cross-functional teams (community management, programming and data processing teams, Customer Experience) to deliver all project components in a high quality, timely manner to ensure client needs are met.
  • Assist with daily moderation of research activities in the communities and extract insights. Oversee data collection and ensure quotas are met and data quality is achieved.
  • While still an independent contributor, you will assist in mentoring and training more junior team members to continue developing their skills.

Deliverable Management & Project Satisfaction
  • Analyze data and develop insightful results or "story" that addresses business objective in a clear and concise, visually appealing format.

Your Success Metrics:
  • Quality and Accuracy: Maintain a data accuracy rate of 95% or higher across all research projects.
  • Project Efficiency: Complete 90% of projects within the agreed timelines and budget.
  • Internal Customer Experience Satisfaction (Receive a rating of 4 or higher on a 5-point scale for 90% or more of your projects)
  • Insights and Impact: Generate actionable insights that lead to measurable business impact for clients.

Who you'll work with:
  • Research Excellence and Customer Experience
  • Community Management
  • Programming and data processing partners

What you'll bring:
  • Bachelor's degree in a related field
  • Minimum 2 years of prior market research experience, preferably with a research vendor company
  • Knowledge of research techniques through coursework, internships, or work experience is highly desired
  • Proficiency in market research tools and statistical software (such as SPSS, SAS, Qualtrics, and/or Alchemer)
  • Proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook is required
  • Effective attention to detail and ability to prioritize task and contribute to multiple projects simultaneously
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.
  • Self-motivated, flexible, and organized
  • Capable of working independently and within teams
  • Excellent interpersonal, problem-solving and project management skills
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Preferred (but not required)
  • Moderating experience of IDIs or focus groups

Benefits & Perks:
Fuel Cycle is committed to supporting the well-being, flexibility, and growth of our team. We offer a competitive and inclusive benefits package that includes:
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
  • 401(k) with Company Match: Plan for your future with our retirement savings program
  • Equity Purchase Option: Participate in Fuel Cycle's long-term success
  • Flexible Work Schedule: Empowering you to balance life and work
  • Generous Time Off:
    • 15 vacation days and 7 sick days per year
    • 12 company holidays
    • 4 floating holidays/recharge days to rest or celebrate what matters to you
  • Paid Parental Leave: Time to bond with your growing family
  • Monthly Internet & Phone Stipend: Support for remote work setup
  • Wellness & Lifestyle Perks: Access to tools like Rightway (healthcare navigation), Headspace (mental wellness), Peloton (fitness), and more
  • Team Connection Perks:
    • Weekly community lunches, refreshments, and snacks at our LA & NY headquarters
    • Pet-friendly office environments

Compensation Overview:
The expected starting salary range for this position is $75,000 - $95,000. This range represents the typical starting compensation offered to candidates hired into this role. Final base salary will be determined based on a variety of factors, including location, work experience, skills, knowledge, education, and certifications.
In addition to base salary, this role is eligible for a discretionary bonus with a target of 5% of base salary. Actual bonus amounts, if any, are determined at the company's sole discretion and may vary based on individual performance, company performance, and market conditions. This role may also be eligible for an equity grant or purchase option. These components make up your total compensation package, which will be reviewed in greater detail during your initial recruiter conversation.
Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Equal Opportunity:
At Fuel Cycle, we embrace the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion and are committed to fostering an inclusive company culture. We believe that everyone, regardless of their background or identity, should have equal access to opportunities for growth and advancement. Our selection processes and career pathways are designed to be fair, transparent, and free from bias. We value the unique perspectives and contributions of each team member, knowing that this diverse range of experiences strengthens our team. Fuel Cycle stands firmly against discrimination based on disability, sex, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, veteran status, or any other protected status under the law.
Fuel Cycle is an equal opportunity employer and fully comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). We will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified applicants and employees with disabilities, as needed, to enable them to perform the essential functions of their job and participate in the application and interview process. If you require accommodations during any part of the application process, please contact us at hr@fuelcycle.com to discuss your needs.

Apply