Senior Qualitative Researcher

SUMMARY

The Qualitative Research Scientist IV leads complex qualitative and mixed-methods research initiatives. Provides strategic direction, methodological leadership, client consultation, and oversight for high-visibility research programs. Demonstrates expertise in qualitative methodology, study design, data collection, analysis, and reporting. 

Chickasaw Nation Industries, Inc.serves as a holding company with multiple subsidiaries engaged in several lines of business (Business Services, Health, Infrastructure and Engineering, Mission Optimization, Technology and Transportation) for the federal government and commercial enterprises. A portion of our profits is used to support Chickasaw citizens. We are proud to support the economic development and long-term viability of the Chickasaw Nation and its people. CNI offers premium benefits eligible on the first day of hire to full time employees; (Medical - Dental – Vision), Company Life Insurance, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance, 401(K) Immediate Vesting, Professional Development Assistance, Legal Aid Assistance Program, Family Planning / Fertility Assistance, Personal Time Off, and Observance of Federal Holidays.

As a federal contractor, CNI is a drug-free workplace and adheres to the Federal Controlled Substance Act.   

ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS

Must be able to obtain and maintain the required customer clearance for access to systems, facilities, equipment and property.

Demonstrated experience developing qualitative instruments and conducting pilot and cognitive testing.

Experience training and certifying interviewers, including trauma-informed and stigma-aware interviewing techniques for hard-to-reach populations

Strong knowledge of qualitative coding and codebook development.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Essential Duties and responsibilities include the following.  Other duties may be assigned.

Assists in the development and design of qualitative data collection instruments (interview guides and focus group protocols) as standardized core instruments with bounded site-specific modules.

Plans and conducts pilot and cognitive testing with nine or fewer participants per instrument to remain outside PRA scope prior to clearance.

Assists in the development and implementation of the Qualitative Interviewer protocols covering research ethics, informed consent, trauma-informed interviewing, guide administration, and secure data handling.

Certifies site interviewers through scored mock interviews and co-facilitates interviewer sessions.

Conducts ongoing fidelity quality assurance through structured review of session audio samples, providing written feedback and triggering refresher training as needed.

Assists in codebook development, including definitions, application and exclusion rules, and coded examples, and supports inter-rater reliability processes.

Delivers biannual all-site trainings, including qualitative methods training for health department staff.

Contributes methodological content and training artifacts to the replication toolkit.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Master’s degree and a minimum of seven or more (7+) years’ of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education/experience. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

EOE including Disability/Vet

The estimated pay range for this role is $130K to $140K, with the final offer contingent on location, skillset, and experience.  

CNI offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Medical

• Dental

• Vision

• 401(k)

• Family Planning/Fertility Assistance

• STD/LTD/Basic Life/AD&D

• Legal-Aid Program

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• Paid Time Off (PTO) – (11) Federal Holidays

• Training and Development Opportunities

Your application submission will be considered for all potential employment opportunities with Chickasaw Nation Industries (CNI).