Remote Research Specialist – CARE International
Job Description
Background & Job Description
CARE International is a global confederation working in over 100 countries to save lives, defeat poverty, and achieve social justice. For 2026, CARE’s strategic focus is centered on gender-transformative research—the idea that understanding the specific needs of women and girls is the key to unlocking community-wide resilience.
The Remote Research Specialist joins the Global Research & Learning team, a unit dedicated to ensuring all CARE programs are backed by peer-reviewed-quality evidence. In a world where “misinformation” can hinder aid delivery, your role as a guardian of data integrity is mission-critical. You will work closely with Country Offices and regional hubs to design research frameworks that are culturally sensitive yet statistically robust.
This role is 100% remote, supporting CARE’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and tapping into global talent regardless of zip code. You will report to the Global Director of Research and Innovation, serving as a technical lead on multi-country studies that inform CARE’s advocacy at the United Nations and with major donors like USAID.
Key Responsibilities
The organization is seeking an individual capable of managing the high-speed demands of digital-first research:
- Design of Research Frameworks: Leading the conceptualization of mixed-methods research designs. You will define sample sizes, choose appropriate indicators, and align research questions with CARE’s gender-transformative goals.
- Remote Data Collection Oversight: Training and managing “Digital Enumeration” teams in field locations. You will ensure data integrity through real-time quality audits using tools like KoboToolbox or ODK.
- Advanced Statistical & Qualitative Analysis: Performing rigorous analysis of primary and secondary data using tools like R, Stata, or NVivo. You are expected to look beyond the numbers to find the underlying socio-economic drivers.
- Collaborative Reporting: Producing high-quality research reports, peer-reviewed articles, and internal learning briefs. These must be accessible to both academic peers and field practitioners.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Presenting findings to internal leadership, donor agencies (e.g., the EU or World Bank), and local government partners to ensure evidence is used for program refinement.
- Ethics & Data Protection: Ensuring all research adheres to strict “Do No Harm” protocols and GDPR-equivalent data protection standards, particularly when handling sensitive data from survivors of gender-based violence.
Qualifications
Education & Certification
- Advanced Degree: Master’s or PhD in Social Sciences, Statistics, International Development, Economics, or a related field.
- Specialized Training: Certification in Research Ethics (e.g., CITI Program) is highly preferred.
Experience
- Tenure: At least 5–7 years of professional experience in a research-intensive role, preferably within an international NGO or multilateral organization.
- FCAS Expertise: Proven experience conducting research in Fragile and Conflict-Affected Settings (FCAS) where traditional access is limited.
- Remote Leadership: Demonstrated ability to manage cross-cultural teams effectively in a 100% virtual environment.
- Technical Stack: Proficiency in advanced data visualization (Tableau/Power BI) and statistical software (R/Python/Stata).
Why Apply for This Position
In the competitive 2026 job market, CARE International offers a “triple threat” of benefits:
- Front-Row Seat to Innovation: You will be at the forefront of using AI and satellite imagery in humanitarian research, setting the standard for the industry.
- Radical Remote Flexibility: With a salary reaching up to $7,189.61 per month, you can maintain a high-tier lifestyle while living in your preferred global location.
- Direct Impact on Gender Equality: Your research won’t just be academic; it will directly influence the allocation of millions of dollars in aid to empower women and marginalized groups.
- Intellectual Growth: CARE provides an environment where learning is continuous, offering access to global experts and specialized training in the latest research methodologies.
Application Tips & Insights
- Master the “Gender Lens”: CARE is a gender-focused organization. Your application must demonstrate that you understand how to integrate gender analysis into every stage of the research process.
- Highlight “Digital Agility”: Showcase your experience with mobile data collection and remote team management. Mention specific tools and how you ensured data quality from a distance.+1
- Tailor Your “Impact Narrative”: Don’t just list your tasks; quantify your results. Instead of “wrote reports,” say “authored a research brief that influenced a $5M policy shift in regional food security.”
- Use the “STAR” Method: During the interview, be prepared to describe specific “Situations, Tasks, Actions, and Results” regarding ethical dilemmas you’ve faced in the field.
Additional Information
- Monthly Salary: $5,153.85 – $7,189.61 (Commensurate with experience).
- Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent.
- Work Arrangement: 100% Remote (Global).
- Benefits: Comprehensive international health insurance, 401(k) / retirement matching, generous PTO, and an equipment stipend for your home office.
- Application Deadline: March 31, 2026.
How to Apply
- Official Portal: Visit the CARE International Global Careers page at [care.org/careers/research-2026].
- Required Documents: A 3-page CV, a Cover Letter highlighting your remote research experience, and two writing samples (e.g., a published paper and a policy brief).
- Selection Process: Shortlisted candidates will undergo a technical assessment followed by a competency-based interview via video conference.
Deadline Reminder: Please submit your application by March 31, 2026. Late submissions will not be considered.