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Research Methods Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's Degree in a related field. * 8+ years of experience in UX Research or similar roles, with proven expertise in both qualitative and quantitative research methods. Technical Skills (Required ...

Consultant, Primary Research

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$55K - $68K/yr

Apply appropriate quantitative, qualitative, and mystery shopping methodologies based on client objectives * Ensure research quality, accuracy, and methodological rigor Data Analysis & Insight ...

Consultant, Primary Research

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$55K - $68K/yr

Apply appropriate quantitative, qualitative, and mystery shopping methodologies based on client objectives * Ensure research quality, accuracy, and methodological rigor Data Analysis & Insight ...

Showing results 41-60

Research Methods information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$38.1K

$109.2K

$146.8K

How much do research methods jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for research methods in Chicago, IL is $109,208.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,100.00 and $107,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research methods specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Research Methods Specialist, you need a strong background in research design, statistical analysis, and data interpretation, often supported by an advanced degree in a relevant field such as psychology, sociology, or statistics. Familiarity with statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R, or SAS), survey tools, and data management systems is typically required. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for designing robust studies and sharing findings. These competencies ensure that research is rigorous, reliable, and actionable for informing decisions or advancing knowledge.

What are research methods?

Research methods are the systematic strategies and techniques that researchers use to collect, analyze, and interpret data. They can be broadly categorized into qualitative and quantitative methods, depending on whether the focus is on numerical data or non-numerical insights. Choosing the right research method is crucial for ensuring the validity and reliability of the study's outcomes. Examples include surveys, experiments, interviews, observations, and case studies.

What is the difference between Research Methods vs Data Analyst?

AspectResearch MethodsData Analyst
Required CredentialsTypically degrees in social sciences, research methods certificationsDegrees in statistics, data science, or related fields
Work EnvironmentAcademic, research institutions, market research firmsCorporate, finance, marketing departments
Industry UsageDesigning studies, collecting data, analyzing research resultsInterpreting data, creating reports, supporting decision-making

Research Methods focus on designing and conducting research studies, while Data Analysts interpret data to inform business or academic decisions. Both roles require analytical skills but differ in scope and application.

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

Professionals in research methods often encounter challenges such as ensuring data validity, managing large or complex datasets, and staying updated with the latest methodological advancements. Collaboration with subject matter experts and statisticians is key to addressing these issues, as is regular participation in training and workshops. Additionally, clear communication with stakeholders helps ensure that research objectives and methodologies are aligned, reducing misunderstandings and improving outcomes.

What do you do in research methods?

Research methods involve designing and conducting studies to gather data, using techniques such as surveys, experiments, and observations. Professionals in this field analyze data with statistical tools and ensure the research follows ethical standards. Strong analytical skills and knowledge of research software are essential for success.
What job categories do people searching Research Methods jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Research Methods jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Research Methods job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,208 per year, or $52.5 per hour.

Senior Research Manager

Daniel J Edelman Holdings, Inc.

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$72K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired 1 day ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

We are in relentless pursuit of an equitable and inspiring workplace that is respectful of all, reflects and represents the world in which we live, and fosters trust, collaboration and belonging. Consistent with this approach, we hire the best qualified candidates for all positions.

Are you curious by nature? Do you always seek to understand human behaviors in your everyday life? Do you believe strategic communications can help make the world a better place? Do you think the world of research needs to change and adapt to a more complex and ever-evolving world? Do you have an entrepreneurial mindset and want to shape a consulting division? If so, Edelman Intelligence is looking for you to join our team!

We are seeking an inspiring Senior Research Manager who is seasoned with at least 5 years of experience in primary and/or secondary research. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong entrepreneurial and collaborative spirit coupled with a solid strategic mindset.The Senior Research Manager will need to balance an ever-changing and diverse range of research projects, including global and complex research projects involving quantitative/qualitative research, media analysis and digital analytics.

Your potential coming to life:

Joining our team means you will...

  • Work closely with senior leadership to manage large scale and/or global research projects including day-to-day management of clients and Edelman teams, development and execution of research studies from start to finish and presenting results in a compelling and visually appealing way
  • Partner and consult with clients and Edelman account teams to problem solve their challenges, including analyzing data, writing research reports and delivering presentations
  • Contribute to research design, sampling plans, questionnaires, moderator guides and analytical plans
  • Interpret research data and insights and working closely with junior staff to create a compelling story across either primary or secondary research disciplines
  • Recommend communication solutions and research methodologies to clients based on research results in consultation with senior leadership
  • Manage positive client relationships within Edelman and our external clients by meeting deadlines, delivering prompt responses and building conversation/dialogue
  • Champion AI-enabled ways of working across your project teams-using tools like ChatGPT/Copilot/Gemini to speed and strengthen research delivery, and proactively identifying workflows where AI can improve efficiency and insight, while maintaining clear human oversight and quality control.
  • Manage project budgets with attention to spend, timeline and staffing plan in close communication with their team business manager; proactively solves for how to address challenges/issues
  • Assist the senior leadership team with growing client business through insightful and valuable work product, understanding of client business and ability to bring learning opportunities to clients, as needed
  • Assist with developing strategic new business proposals by understanding client's objectives, scoping projects and applying appropriate methodologies to meet objectives
  • Supervise and mentor junior staff to help grow their research, project and client management skills

Basic Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience in related field with at least five years of experience in market research, consumer insights, ideation, strategy development or digital/social research
  • Strong knowledge in advanced research methodologies
  • Expert in either primary or secondary research with at least a basic understanding or strong curiosity for the other side.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Basic familiarity with integrated media measurement
  • Well-versed in generative AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Gemini, Microsoft Copilot) and able to integrate them into day-to-day research workflows to improve speed, rigor, and insight generation
  • Proactive, collaborative approach with the ability to build strong relationships with clients and colleagues
  • Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment
  • Display Edelman Intelligence values and embrace a positive, can-do attitude
  • Detail-oriented with excellent written and verbal communication skills

$72,000 - $100,000 annually

#LI-EB1

An employee's pay position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, geographic location, performance, travel requirements, revenue-based metrics, any contractual agreements, and business or organizational needs. The range listed is just one component of DJEH's total compensation package for employees. Other rewards may include annual bonuses, a Paid Time Off policy, and region-specific benefits.

DJEH offers a wide range of benefits: medical and dental insurance, vision, 401K, life insurance, disability insurance, paid time off, travel assistance and wellness programing.

DJEH is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and believes in diversity, equity, and inclusion. We seek applications from all qualified candidates without regard to race, color, gender, sex, age, religion, physical or mental disability, military and veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local law. If you require a reasonable accommodation in any part of the employment process, please let us know.