Research Technician 2 - Sociology

Accountabilities

Participant Interviews: Conduct in-person research interviews with study participants, administering web-based surveys using laptops and equipment provided by the department.
Participant Engagement: Communicate professionally and respectfully with respondents, arrange visits according to their availability, and accommodate requests to meet at an appropriate alternative location, such as a library or departmental office.
Home Visits and Local Travel: Travel to participants' homes and other designated locations within the I-270 loop in Columbus, Ohio, to complete scheduled interviews and research activities.
Biomarker Collection: Collect hair and blood spot samples at the conclusion of home visits, following approved study procedures and using the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
Sample Collection Procedures: Collect hair samples by cutting approximately 50 strands from the back of the participant's head using new scissors for each individual. Obtain blood spot samples using the designated minimally invasive collection device or retractable lancet.
Safety and Research Protocols: Follow all required training, safety procedures, and sample-handling guidelines to protect participants and maintain the integrity of collected research materials.
Equipment Management: Transport and use department-provided laptops, accessories, and other research materials during field visits, ensuring equipment is handled responsibly.
Sample Return and Coordination: Return collected biomarker samples to the designated research center and follow established procedures for completing and documenting fieldwork.
Scheduling and Reliability: Coordinate visits around participant availability, including daytime, evening, and weekend appointments as required.
Research Quality: Conduct interviews and collection activities accurately, consistently, and professionally, following study requirements and instructions from the research team.
Requirements
Education: High school diploma or GED is required.
Driver's License and Transportation: Valid driver's license and reliable personal transportation are required to travel to participant locations throughout the Columbus, Ohio, area.
Physical Requirements: Ability to carry a laptop bag containing two laptops and accessories, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Biomarker Collection: Willingness and ability to collect hair and blood spot samples using appropriate PPE and established procedures. Full training in collection methods and safety protocols will be provided.
Communication Skills: Ability to communicate clearly, respectfully, and professionally with research participants from different backgrounds.
Attention to Detail: Ability to administer surveys accurately, follow standardized instructions, and handle research materials carefully.
Interpersonal Skills: Comfort interacting with participants in their homes or at alternative meeting locations while maintaining professionalism and appropriate boundaries.
Organization and Time Management: Ability to coordinate appointments, manage travel, follow varying schedules, and complete assigned tasks reliably.
Adaptability: Willingness to work varying shifts, including days, evenings, and weekends, depending on participant availability.
Independence and Accountability: Ability to work independently in the field, follow research protocols, and communicate effectively with the research team.
Background Screening: Successful completion of a background check is required for final candidates. A drug screen or physical examination may also be required after an offer.
Benefits
Hourly Compensation: $20.00 per hour.
Part-Time, Intermittent Work: A flexible, intermittent position with approximately 0.2 scheduled hours, with actual work dependent on research needs and participant availability.
Flexible Scheduling: Potential opportunities to conduct interviews during daytime, evening, and weekend hours.
Equipment Provided: Department-provided laptops and accessories for conducting surveys and interviews.
Training Provided: Training in blood spot and hair sample collection, including appropriate safety procedures and PPE requirements.
Research Experience: Gain practical experience in field research, participant engagement, survey administration, and biomarker data collection.
Academic Research Exposure: Contribute to sociological research that supports the collection of valuable study data.
Potential Institutional Benefits: The source job posting describes medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, holidays, and retirement plans for university employees. Eligibility for these benefits should be confirmed, as this role is listed as intermittent and part-time.