Senior Research Specialist (Contractor)

YLabs is hiring an African-based Senior Research Specialist (contractor) to lead research initiatives, drive innovation, and deliver actionable insights across sectors such as education, youth entrepreneurship, and financial inclusion.

What it offers

• 12-month consultancy contract with an annual gross pay range of USD 35,460 – USD 55,896, paid monthly based on approved deliverables and invoices.
• Opportunity to lead high-impact research, design innovative methodologies, and influence strategic decisions using frameworks like Human-Centered Design and Participatory Action Research.

Who can apply

• Must be currently based in Africa.
• 5 or more years of experience leading research studies (qualitative and/or mixed-methods), especially interviews, focus groups, and community-based research.
• Experience managing or contributing to donor-funded research projects.
• Strong project management skills and proficiency in research and data analysis tools (e.g., SPSS, Stata, R, NVivo).
• Fluency in English is required; proficiency in other regional languages is highly desirable.
• Desirable: Master’s or PhD in Development Studies, Economics, Entrepreneurship, or related fields; experience with youth economic empowerment, participatory research, or youth-driven design.

What you'll do

• Lead the design, execution, and management of large-scale research projects.
• Conduct qualitative and quantitative research, including interviews, focus groups, and data analysis.
• Develop actionable insights and translate findings into strategic recommendations.
• Engage with stakeholders, build partnerships, and support donor reporting.
• Manage project timelines, deliverables, and knowledge-sharing across teams.
• Travel across Africa for fieldwork, including stays in rural areas for up to 7 days at a time.

How to apply

• Submit an application via the provided link.
• Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for next steps.

Good to know

• This is an independent contractor (consultancy) position, not a full-time role.
• Anticipated start date: August 1, 2026.
• All offers are conditional on satisfactory background checks and criminal record clearances.