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Qualitative Research Social Work Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Moffitt has been recognized as a Best and Brightest Company to Work For in the Nation and is ... Background in social and behavioral sciences with knowledge in qualitative research methods

Research Coordinator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

Master's degree or higher in social work, public health, psychology, nursing, or other social ... Experience with qualitative research methods * Experience managing a team and/or supervising staff ...

Research Analyst II

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$90.27 - $104.71/hr

NoConduct quantitative and qualitative research and evaluation studies to support educational ... Must possess a Master's degree in Social Sciences, Data Analytics, Education, or a closely related ...

Showing results 21-40

Qualitative Research Social Work information

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$21K

$66.3K

$153K

How much do qualitative research social work jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for qualitative research social work in the United States is $66,334.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,500.00 and $76,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is qualitative research in social work?

Qualitative research in social work is a method of inquiry that seeks to understand people's experiences, perspectives, and social contexts through non-numerical data such as interviews, focus groups, and observations. This approach allows social workers to explore complex social issues, understand client needs, and develop tailored interventions. Qualitative research is especially valuable for gaining in-depth insights into the lived experiences of individuals and communities, which can inform policies and practices in the field of social work.

How do qualitative research social workers typically collaborate with interdisciplinary teams during a project?

Qualitative research social workers often work closely with professionals from fields such as psychology, public health, education, and policy analysis. Collaboration usually involves sharing insights from interviews or focus groups, co-developing research tools, and participating in regular meetings to interpret findings. This team-based approach ensures that diverse perspectives inform the study design and analysis, enhancing the validity and impact of the research. Effective communication and openness to different disciplinary viewpoints are essential skills for success in these collaborative environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a qualitative research social worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Qualitative Research Social Worker, you need a background in social work (often a master's degree), research methods, and strong analytical skills. Familiarity with qualitative data collection tools (such as interviews and focus groups), transcription software, and qualitative analysis programs like NVivo or ATLAS.ti is important. Strong communication, cultural competence, and ethical sensitivity set outstanding professionals apart. These competencies ensure accurate, ethical research that informs effective social interventions and policy decisions.

What is the difference between Qualitative Research Social Work vs Qualitative Research Social Work?

AspectQualitative Research Social WorkQualitative Research
CredentialsTypically requires a Master’s in Social Work (MSW) and research experienceRequires a background in research methods, often with a Master’s or PhD in social sciences or related fields
Work EnvironmentOften in social service agencies, community organizations, or healthcare settingsPrimarily in research institutions, universities, or policy organizations
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by social service agencies, healthcare providers, and community programsUsed by academic institutions, research firms, and policy think tanks

Qualitative Research Social Work focuses on applying qualitative research methods within social work settings to improve client outcomes and services. In contrast, Qualitative Research involves conducting research across various fields to gather in-depth insights, often in academic or policy contexts. Both roles require strong research skills, but their work environments and applications differ significantly.

More about Qualitative Research Social Work jobs
Infographic showing various Qualitative Research Social Work job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $66,334 per year, or $31.9 per hour.

Assistant Professor of Educational Policy Studies & Evaluation--Qualitative Research Design & Method

University of Kentucky

Lexington, KY • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


University Of Kentucky rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 135 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

316th of 629 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Details
Posting Details
Job Title
Assistant Professor of Educational Policy Studies & Evaluation--Qualitative Research Design & Methods, Regular Title Series
Requisition Number
FE04955
Working Title
Department Name
8G060:Educational Policy Studies and Evaluatio
Work Location
Lexington, KY
Type of Position
Faculty
Position Time Status
Full-Time
Tenure Track Status
Tenure Track
Required Education
Earned doctorate in qualitative research design and methods or related area, or an earned doctorate in disciplinary areas such as education policy, public policy, higher education, or a closely related field with extensive preparation in qualitative research design and methods.
Required Related Experience
Required qualifications include:
  • Experience in conducting qualitative research;
  • Demonstrated or evidenced potential to teach qualitative methods and methodologies at the graduate level;
  • Evidence of scholarly productivity;
  • Experience working with student populations; and
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Required License/Registration/Certification
n/a
Job Summary
The Department of Educational Policy Studies and Evaluation (EPE) in the College of Education at the University of Kentucky invites applications and nominations for a tenure-eligible Assistant Professor position, effective August 15, 2027. The individual will be responsible for carrying out research, teaching, and service within the department. We welcome applicants with methodological expertise in qualitative research design and methods that aligns with the topical areas of focus within EPE.
Main duties and responsibilities include the following:
  • Teach courses in EPE
  • Have an active research agenda including the active pursuit of extramural funding
  • Maintain a professional service agenda appropriate for rank and career stage
  • Assist with the recruitment and advising of graduate students and serve on doctoral program committees
  • Support the strategic goals and priorities of the Department, College, and University

Required qualifications include:
  • An earned doctorate in qualitative research design and methods or related area, or an earned doctorate in disciplinary areas such as education policy, public policy, higher education, or a closely related field with extensive preparation in qualitative research design and methods
  • Experience in conducting qualitative research
  • Demonstrated or evidenced potential to teach qualitative methods and methodologies at the graduate level
  • Evidence of scholarly productivity
  • Experience working with student populations
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills

Preferred qualifications include:
  • Successful post-secondary teaching and advising of graduate students
  • Online teaching experience
  • Research and methodological interests in emerging areas such as artificial intelligence and large language models, community engaged inquiry, and participatory research methods

To apply for the position, please upload the following:
  • Curriculum vita
  • Cover letter - Address your qualifications, area(s) of specialization, and desired courses to teach
  • Two representative publications or writing samples
  • Unofficial Academic Transcripts - Official transcripts required upon hire
  • Statement on Teaching, Advising, and Service - (One page, upload under Specific Request 1)
  • Statement on Research and Scholarly Activity - (One page, upload under Specific Request 2)
  • Names and contact information of three people from whom references may be solicited

The review of applications begins September 11, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled. Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Kayla Johnson, Search Committee Chair, at kayla.johnson@uky.edu
Skills / Knowledge / Abilities
Does this position have supervisory responsibilities?
No
Preferred Education/Experience
Preferred qualifications include:
  • Successful post-secondary teaching and advising of graduate students;
  • Online teaching experience
  • Research and methodological interests in emerging areas such as artificial intelligence and large language models, community-engaged inquiry, and participatory research methods.

Deadline to Apply
Open Until Filled
Yes
Our University Community
We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.
The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status or whether the person is a smoker or nonsmoker, as long as the person complies with University regulation concerning smoking.
Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.

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About University of Kentucky

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The University of Kentucky (UK), the state's flagship university, was founded in 1865 and its beautiful, sprawling campus, nestled in downtown Lexington, now covers over 900 acres and is home to more than 30,000 students and approximately 13,500 employees. The trees and beautifully manicured greenspaces are a source of pride for the university and combine to create an impressive oasis amidst the busy cityscape that surrounds it.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Lexington, KY, US

Year founded

1865