Position Summary
Decision Information Resources (DIR), a subcontractor to Mathematica Policy Research, Inc., is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented individuals to lead and manage a team of Field Data Collectors in schools for the 2024-2025 National School Foods Study, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service (FNS). The Field Manager role involves overseeing the work of Field Data Collectors, ensuring the accurate and timely collection of data in schools across a designated region.
The Field Manager will be responsible for supervising up to 10 team members, providing training, performance feedback, and operational guidance throughout the data collection process.This position requires a high degree of flexibility, including extensive travel within the region and the ability to manage changing schedules in school environments. The Field Manager will report to the Field Operations Manager and will play a key role in ensuring data quality and adherence to study protocols. In-person data collection in schools will take place from January through June 2025, the position requires a minimum commitment of 25 hours per week, with the possibility of additional hours as the work increases.
Attendance at a 5-day training session, is required. The training will be held in Princeton, NJ from January 8 - 12, 2025, and all travel expenses will be covered by the company.
Key Responsibilities
Supervision and Team Management:
- Oversee a team of 6-10 Field Data Collectors conducting in-person data collection in schools.
- Monitor team performance, ensuring adherence to data collection protocols and timelines.
- Provide mentorship, problem-solving support, and guidance when issues arise in the field.
- Conduct regular quality control checks to ensure data accuracy.
- Supervise staff timesheets, expense reports, and ensure cost-efficient fieldwork.
- Assist in recruiting field staff when necessary.
- Support Field Data Collectors with challenging interviews or difficult respondents when needed.
- Ensure that all team members comply with study protocols and maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
Training and Development:
- Participate in mandatory 5-day training session (including travel) in Princeton, NJ from January 8 - 12, 2025, with all travel expenses covered by the company.
- Provide ongoing training and support as provided by the project team, including periodic quality control checks.
Travel Coordination:
- Book and track travel accommodations for Field Data Collectors, ensuring all travel logistics (flights, hotels, transportation) are organized efficiently.
- Ensure compliance with company travel policies and budget limitations.
- Coordinate and troubleshoot travel-related issues that may arise during fieldwork.
Communication and Reporting:
- Facilitate regular communication between Field Data Collectors and Project staff.
- Participate in weekly team meetings to discuss project progress, address issues, and provide updates.
- Prepare and submit reports summarizing fieldwork progress, team performance, and data quality.
Qualifications
- Previous experience managing field data collection teams is preferred.
- Experience with interviewing and conducting fieldwork in research or educational settings.
- Strong organizational, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks while ensuring data quality and project deadlines.
- Excellent interpersonal communication skills with a diverse range of individuals.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel) and digital data collection tools.
- High school diploma required; college degree in social sciences or a related field is preferred.
- Valid driver's license and access to reliable transportation.
- Ability to pass a background check and meet I-9 documentation requirements.
Key Competencies
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills; ability to communicate clearly and professionally.
- Proficiency using data entry tools and software, with the ability to learn new systems quickly.
- Ability to work independently and manage time effectively while adhering to strict deadlines.
- Flexibility and adaptability to work in various school environments and manage changing schedules.
- Dependability, with a commitment to completing assigned tasks on time and to a high standard.
Work Environment
- Field Managers must be comfortable working independently while managing remote teams and coordinating logistics.
- Regular use of computers, digital tools, and data entry systems will be required.
- The role may require extended periods of standing or walking, and occasionally, lifting and carrying equipment weighing up to 20 pounds.
23 To 25 (USD) Hourly
