Data Collector

Summary: The Data Collector supports NECIC’s Mobility, Access and Transportation Insecurity (MATI) Phase 2 project with Richland County Transit and RLS & Associates. This role involves recruiting participants, conducting interviews and surveys, and collecting accurate data to measure how expanded transit service affects access to jobs.

Data Collectors will engage with community members, employers, and partners across Mansfield and Richland County at workplaces, events, and bus stops. Training and supervision are provided by NECIC and the University of Minnesota team.

Roles and Responsibilities:

Recruitment & Outreach

• Recruit participants in the community using approved scripts and materials.
• Share project details at local businesses, agencies, and community events.
• Keep accurate records of referrals and eligibility.

Data Collection

• Explain the study, get consent, and review confidentiality and participation details.
• Conduct interviews before and after the study and help participants complete surveys.
• Confirm participant identity and eligibility, schedule interviews, and follow up if someone misses an appointment.
• Audio-record all interviews and generate written transcripts using AI-assisted transcription tools.

Data Quality & Compliance

• Enter data accurately into project systems (like Qualtrics or tracking tools).
• Keep files organized and secure, protecting all personal information.
• Follow all training, consent, and confidentiality guidelines.

Coordination & Communication

• Share brief updates on progress, challenges, and participant feedback.
• Join team meetings and weekly check-ins during data collection periods.
• Help distribute flyers, route brochures, and support RCT with rider information.

Community & Mission Alignment

• Uphold NECIC’s mission of connecting people to opportunity and empowering residents through equitable access.
• Represent NECIC professionally while engaging diverse community members with empathy and respect.
• Contribute to a culture of inclusion, transparency, and accountability within the MATI project team.

The Chief Executive Officer or Chief Operating Officer may assign additional duties as necessary.

Required Experience and Skills:

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; ability to engage respectfully with diverse populations.
•  Strong attention to detail and accuracy in data entry and documentation.
•  Reliable, punctual, and able to work independently under minimal supervision.
•  Flexible schedule — must be available for occasional early-morning and late-evening shifts, with some weekend availability.
• Basic proficiency with smartphones/tablets and online survey tools (training provided).
• Commitment to confidentiality, ethics, and participant safety

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in outreach, community engagement, canvassing, social services, or research/data collection.
• Lived experience with transportation or employment access challenges.
• Familiarity with Mansfield neighborhoods, employers, and community service organizations.
• Bilingual (Spanish/English) preferred.
• Prior experience using Qualtrics or similar survey platforms.
• Valid Ohio driver’s license and reliable transportation for local fieldwork.

Physical Demands for Data Collector:

The Data Collector role involves regular travel within Mansfield and Richland County. You’ll spend time standing or walking during fieldwork, carrying light items like flyers, clipboards, or tablets, and working both indoors and outdoors in different weather conditions. This position requires comfort interacting with the public, along with good vision, mobility, and basic technology skills to record and store information accurately and securely.

Background Check & Compliance:

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and reference verification.
All Data Collectors must complete NECIC’s required training (privacy, ethics, informed consent, and safety) and comply with all IRB and NECIC research policies.

EEO Statement:

NECIC is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and community members.

How to Apply
Please email a resume (or brief work history), 1–2 sentences on why you’re a good fit, and your typical availability to: 
jobs@necic-ohio.org

Questions?
Contact: Tionna Perdue
Chief Operating Officer, NECIC
tionna@necic-ohio.org
419-522-1611 ext. 102