Qualitative Research Operations Intern

About Storyline Strategies

We create research-driven narratives that transform. Harnessing unparalleled creativity and uncompromising precision, we provide storytelling research, insights, and strategy for the most influential and ascendant companies in tech, entertainment, nonprofit, and public policy.

From messaging architectures to brand platforms, from policy to product, our team of strategy, messaging, design, and research experts hones communications insights to craft stories that help our clients confidently tell their own.

At the heart of our organization is our mission to be an indispensable strategic partner with diverse, innovative, and global capabilities.

The Role

The Qualitative Research Operations Intern is a dynamic role designed for an undergraduate or graduate student seeking comprehensive exposure to the market research lifecycle. You will sit at the intersection of operations and strategy, supporting the critical work of finding and engaging the right voices for our research.

In this role, you will go beyond administrative support to see how qualitative insights are built from the ground up. You will partner with our Narrative & Strategy team to ensure the audience perspective is accurately represented in our work, gaining hands-on experience in recruiting, survey development, and fieldwork execution. Additionally, you will partner with our Quantitative Operations and Analytics team to ensure participants and sample align with the rigorous requirements of our quantitative studies.

Program Details

Duration: February through May 2026 (Spring Session)

Commitment: 20-30 hours per week (flexible based on academic schedules)

Location: Fully remote (some team members in NY or DC go into the office 1x per week)

Compensation: Paid internship ($18-$19/hour depending on experience and location)

What You'll Do

Audience Strategy: Partner with our Audience Strategy and client-facing teams to understand client business needs and help translate those into clear audience research needs and recruiting strategies.

Narrative Integration: Collaborate with the Narrative & Strategy team to ensure the audience perspective is well-represented in narratives and client deliverables.

Research Design Support: Assist in drafting and proofing screening questionnaires to identify qualified research participants.

Technical Execution: Format and program screeners using platforms like Forsta, Decipher, Qualtrics, or similar survey tools. Training will be provided as needed.

Fieldwork Operations: Support the end-to-end qualitative recruiting process, including outreach, screening, and coordination.

Live Research Exposure: Participate in and view focus groups and in-depth interviews to understand how data is collected and synthesized.

Logistics & Coordination: Manage participant communications, scheduling, and compliance documentation to ensure smooth project delivery.

Who You Are

Required:

Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program with an interest in market research, psychology, sociology, communications, or political science.

Strong written communication skills with an eye for detail and precision.

Excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple workstreams simultaneously.

Tech-savvy and quick to learn new platforms and software.

Proactive, curious, and eager to understand the "why" behind research operations.

Interest in using AI tools to improve business operations, with a curiosity for experimenting with and developing workflows using AI tools.

Bonus Points:

Experience using LinkedIn Recruiter, Sales Navigator, or conducting targeted professional outreach.

Prior exposure to research methodologies or data collection.

Experience with CRM or database management systems.