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Research Operations Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL

VIVA USA INC

Operations Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

The Operations Assistant, Residential Properties supports various aspects of property management ... Residential Properties support the client mission of research, learning, teaching and community ...

VIVA USA INC

Operations Assistant - Onsite

Chicago, IL · On-site

Operations Assistant - Onsite Mandatory skills: residential property management, Microsoft Office ... Residential Properties support the client mission of research, learning, teaching and community ...

ASK Consulting

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Operations Assistant - Residential Properties (278860)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$27/hr

The other seasons are less busy with opportunities for planning, reporting, document updates, new initiatives, research, and data management. Responsibilities: The Operations Assistant provides a ...

The University of Chicago

Research Coordinator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$24.04 - $28.85/hr

Job Summary The Research Coordinator will assist with day to day operations of funded projects that involve working with LGBTQ and criminal justice involved (CJI) individuals. They will oversee ...

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All JobsResearch Operations JobsResearch Operations Assistant JobsResearch Operations Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL

Research Operations Assistant information

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How much do research operations assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for research operations assistant in Chicago, IL is $20.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $23.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Research Operations Assistants?

Research Operations Assistants are professionals who provide administrative and logistical support to research teams, helping ensure studies and projects run smoothly. They may handle tasks such as scheduling, maintaining research documentation, coordinating meetings, managing supplies, and assisting with compliance and data entry. Their work allows researchers to focus on conducting experiments and analyzing results by managing the behind-the-scenes operations. Research Operations Assistants often work in academic, clinical, or corporate research environments, collaborating with scientists, project managers, and other staff.

Is it hard to get a job as a research assistant?

Securing a research assistant position typically requires relevant education, such as a bachelor's degree in a related field, and strong organizational and analytical skills. Competition can vary depending on the field and institution, but gaining experience through internships or coursework can improve chances of employment.

How much is a research assistant paid?

Research assistants typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, education level, and the industry or institution. Salaries can vary based on location, with full-time positions often offering annual salaries ranging from $30,000 to $50,000. Many research assistants also gain skills in data analysis and laboratory techniques that can influence pay rates.

What is the difference between Research Operations Assistant vs Research Coordinator?

AspectResearch Operations AssistantResearch Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in a related field; certifications are a plusUsually holds a bachelor's or master's degree; certifications in research management are common
Work EnvironmentSupports research teams in labs or office settings, handling administrative and logistical tasksManages research projects, coordinates activities, and liaises with stakeholders
Employer & Industry UsageFound in academic, healthcare, and corporate research settingsCommon in clinical, academic, and industry research projects

The Research Operations Assistant primarily provides administrative and logistical support within research teams, focusing on day-to-day operations. In contrast, the Research Coordinator manages research projects, oversees compliance, and coordinates between teams and stakeholders. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

Research Operations Assistants typically do not earn $300,000 annually. High-paying roles in the US that reach this level include senior executives, specialized physicians, investment bankers, and certain technology executives, often requiring advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership responsibilities.

What qualifications do I need to be a research assistant?

Research Operations Assistants typically need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as science, social sciences, or humanities. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, proficiency with data management tools, and the ability to follow protocols are also important qualifications for this role.

How does a Research Operations Assistant typically support collaboration between research teams and other departments?

A Research Operations Assistant plays a key role in facilitating smooth communication and coordination between research teams and other departments such as IT, HR, or finance. They often help schedule meetings, manage documentation, and ensure that all logistical needs for research projects are met. By handling administrative tasks and acting as a central point of contact, they enable researchers to focus on their core work and help resolve cross-departmental issues efficiently. This collaborative support is crucial in maintaining project timelines and promoting a productive research environment.

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

To thrive as a Research Operations Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a background in research administration or a related field, often supported by a bachelor’s degree. Familiarity with project management tools, data management systems, and compliance software is commonly required. Excellent communication, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability help you efficiently support research teams and handle shifting priorities. These skills ensure smooth research processes, regulatory compliance, and effective collaboration within research environments.
Research Operations Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Operations Assistant job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,464 per year, or $20.4 per hour.
Quantitative Research Operations Analyst

Quantitative Research Operations Analyst

Mesirow Financial

Chicago, IL • On-site

$90K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

The Opportunity

Mesirow is an independent, employee-owned financial services firm founded in 1937. Headquartered in Chicago, with offices around the world, we serve clients through a personal, custom approach to reaching financial goals and acting as a force for social good. With capabilities spanning Private Capital & Currency, Capital Markets & Investment Banking, and Advisory Services, we invest in what matters: our clients, our communities and our culture. We are proud of our employee-owned culture, built on collaboration and shared success, empowering our professionals to develop meaningful relationships, pursue growth opportunities and make a lasting impact for our clients and communities. Mesirow has been named one of the Best Places to Work in Chicago by Crain’s Chicago Business multiple times and is one of Barron’s Top 100 RIA firms.

The Mesirow Fiduciary Solutions division provides fiduciary partnership, investment management, asset allocation, and guaranteed retirement income product allocation services to institutional clients in the financial services industry, primarily in the defined contribution space.  Recent growth in investment management and retirement income opportunities has created a need for additional research capacity.

The role of the Quantitative Research Operations Analyst is to work with the Chief Investment Officer/Director of Quantitative Research to provide multi-purpose research support for the group’s investment management priorities. The role will initially be operationally focused, with the opportunity to grow into a full quantitative research analyst position responsible for new quantitative financial process development and client engagements. Areas of focus include strategic asset allocation and capital market assumptions; understanding, operating, and improving existing quantitative financial processes; and assisting in the development of new quantitative financial processes. This is a quantitative research operations role that involves substantial programming expertise and requires exceptional attention to detail.

Responsibilities:

  • Learn and further document existing quantitative financial processes, including strategic asset allocation, capital market assumptions, performance attribution, target date glide path development, and a simulation-based optimization framework for portfolio construction with guaranteed retirement income products.
  • Spearhead the operation of these processes to update ongoing internal and client deliverables and further enhance and improve these processes as business needs dictate.
  • Assist in the development of new quantitative financial processes to support strategic asset allocation, capital market assumption, performance attribution, and glide path construction initiatives, using statistical analysis, risk management techniques and simulation methods.
  • Meet with investment professionals within the Mesirow Fiduciary Solutions division to interpret analysis results and recommend changes in investment policy in response to the results.
  • Apply complex financial theory to help provide solutions to real-world problems.

Requirements:

  • An advanced degree in finance, economics, mathematics, statistics, financial engineering, or a related field is preferred, but B.S. holders with the required professional experience will be considered.
  • CFA charter holder or progress toward the CFA preferred.
  • 1-3 years of professional experience in quantitative financial research or a related field (asset allocation, capital market assumptions development, quantitative analysis, financial engineering, investment research) within the financial services industry is required.
  • Compensation is variable and commensurate with professional experience and education level.
  • Demonstrated exceptional attention to detail is paramount.
  • Significant programming experience, preferably in R, and advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel are required. MATLAB experience is a plus.
  • Knowledge and experience in strategic asset allocation, capital market assumption development, optimization methods, statistical/econometric analysis and modeling and Monte Carlo simulation are desirable. Knowledge of annuity products is a plus.
  • Ability to convert academic research concepts into practical solutions for use by other members of the team.
  • Ability to communicate complex financial concepts effectively to internal clients and previous internal client-facing experience desired. 
  • Ability to work independently and interact with all levels within the organization. 
  • Superior skills in organization, time management, prioritization, research and self-motivation.
  • Desire to grow and thrive in a highly entrepreneurial environment.

In accordance with the Illinois Pay Transparency Law, the anticipated hiring base salary for the role will be between $90,000 and $180,000 per year. However, base pay if hired will be determined on an individualized basis and is only part of the total compensation package, which, also provides the opportunity for a bonus and the Mesirow benefit program.

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