Research Assistant - Play-Based method participatory research project

General Objective of the Job:
 The Research Assistant (RA) will support the successful implementation of research activities for the    play-based methods research project in Lebanon, the RA will provide essential support across the research cycle, including data collection, transcription, documentation, and data quality management, in compliance with War Child policies and procedures.

Position in the Organization:
 Research Assistants are essential members of the team. Their core responsibilities include obtaining consent and assent, assisting in the organization of field activities and meetings, conducting observations, collecting qualitative data, and preparing data for analysis.
Research Assistants receive pre-project training on study procedures, research ethics, and safeguarding, as well as ongoing on-the-job mentoring from the Research Coordinator. The Research Assistant is part of the Research and Development Department and reports directly to the Research Coordinator.

Detailed job description/Results Areas:

1. Data Collection, Management, and Transcription

Conduct key informant interviews (KIIs), focus group discussions (FGDs), and audio diaries with teachers, caregivers, social workers and other participants, using approved guides

Audio-record and take detailed field notes (with participant consent) and ensure the safe storage of all recordings

Accurately transcribe and translate recordings, preparing clean transcripts for analysis

Adapt data collection tools and documents for local context and clarity, ensuring they are understandable and culturally appropriate

Report any child protection concerns to the designated Child Protection Focal Point and ensure appropriate actions are taken

  2. Coordination and Logistical Support

Assist the Research Coordinator during field visits to Community-Based Organizations (CBOs), Informal Tent Settlements (ITSs), and public schools, supporting the identification and selection of research study participants

Provide logistical support for fieldwork and general support to the Research Coordinator in additional research-related tasks as requested

Participate in research trainings, Community Advisory Board (CAB) meetings, and other project-related activities as required

Provide regular updates and feedback to the Research Coordinator to support timely and high-quality research implementation

Base: Beirut, Lebanon with regular field visits

Working area: Lebanon

Your profile

Education level: Bachelor’s degree

Education field: Bachelor’s degree in Social sciences, Public Health, Psychology, or related field

Required Qualifications and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in Social sciences, Public Health, Psychology, or related field

Prior experience (1-2 years) in qualitative research is required, including conducting or assisting with FGDs, KIIs, interviews, or similar community-based research activities

Experience with transcription and data documentation

Previous experience working with children, refugees, or vulnerable populations is an advantage

Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, and other relevant research tools

Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and reliability

Willingness to travel to field sites and engage with communities

Skills and Competencies 

Strong interpersonal communication skills

Fluency in Arabic and strong English skills

Flexibility 

Cultural sensitivity

Positive, respectful attitude and collaborative approach to diversity

Ability to work independently as well as cooperatively with team members

Demonstrated understanding of child safeguarding and research ethics; experience working with children

Reliable, meets deadlines, communicates delays early, solution-oriented, and collaborative