Research Analyst Job Description

What is the job description of a Research Analyst? What are the duties and responsibilities of a Research Analyst? What does a Research Analyst do?

Job description of a Research Analyst

A Research Analyst performs research, collects and analyzes information, and uses the data to solve problems and improve the decision making and efficiency of a business.

This Research Analyst job description example includes the list of most important Research Analyst duties and responsibilities as shown below. It can be modified to fit the specific Research Analyst profile you're trying to fill as a recruiter or job seeker.

Research Analyst Duties and Responsibilities

Research Analyst job description should contain a variety of functions and roles including:

  • Analyzing past operations' results and performing variance analyses.
  • Identifying and analyzing trends and forecasts and recommending improvements to the business processes.
  • Researching market trends, conducting surveys, analyzing data from competitors, and analyzing the business's operations, expenditures, and customer retention to identify patterns of potential issues or improvements.
  • Providing recommendations to improve future business operations.
  • Organizing and storing data for future research projects.
  • Testing processes, policies, and protocols for efficiency and improvements.
  • Using data analysis and interpretations to guide the decision making of the business.
  • Using operations' data to develop pricing models and identify areas for improvement.
  • Using statistical, economic, and data modeling techniques and tools.
  • Organizing and analyzing data, creating charts and graphs, and presenting your findings to the leadership team.

Research Analyst Requirements / Skills / Qualifications

Research Analyst job description should include these common skills and qualifications:

  • A Bachelor's or Associate's degree in Economics, Finance, Statistics, Computer Science, or related field.
  • Experience in applied research or data management may be advantageous.
  • Strong mathematical, analytical, and data modeling skills.
  • The ability to manipulate large, complex data sets into manageable, understandable reports.
  • Excellent problem-solving, communication, and team working skills.
  • Familiarity with data modeling software and Excel software.
  • Attention to detail and organizational skills.

As a hiring manager, recruiting an ideal Research Analyst starts with crafting a good job description. Use this Research Analyst job description template to save yourself time and help you attract the most qualified candidates. Feel free to revise it to meet your specific needs.

Job seekers interviewing for the role of a Research Analyst may also reference it in preparation for the interview.