APPLY NOW: Magic Cabinet Qualitative / Mixed-Methods Researcher Role (Deadline: May 25, 2026)
Philanthropic organizations are increasingly shifting toward research-driven and community-centered decision-making. Instead of relying only on traditional top-down evaluation methods, many foundations now prioritize participatory approaches that include lived experience, equity analysis, and mixed-methods research. One example of this evolving approach is the Qualitative/Mixed-Methods Researcher role at Magic Cabinet, a foundation focused on transforming how philanthropy partners with communities.
This role highlights how modern research careers in philanthropy go beyond data collection, focusing instead on storytelling, systems thinking, and equity-centered evaluation.
What a Qualitative/Mixed-Methods Researcher Does
A Qualitative/Mixed-Methods Researcher studies social impact programs using both qualitative and quantitative research approaches. In philanthropic settings, this role helps organizations understand not only what outcomes are achieved, but also how and why those outcomes occur.
At Magic Cabinet, the researcher contributes directly to participatory grantmaking processes, internal learning systems, and innovation labs designed to improve funding strategies.
Core responsibilities include:
- Conducting qualitative and quantitative research
- Evaluating grantmaking programs and initiatives
- Designing learning and evaluation frameworks
- Translating research findings into actionable insights
- Supporting participatory and equity-centered research approaches
- Collaborating with internal and external stakeholders
Research and Evaluation Responsibilities
A key function of this role is building and implementing research systems that help the organization learn from its programs and funding decisions.
Typical responsibilities include:
- Designing and conducting interviews, surveys, and focus groups
- Analyzing qualitative data using tools such as Atlas.ti or Dovetail
- Running quantitative analysis using tools like R or SPSS
- Supporting program evaluation across multiple initiatives
- Developing flexible research frameworks and methodologies
- Monitoring trends and emerging needs in communities and programs
This work ensures that funding decisions are informed by both data and lived experience.
Turning Research Into Action
Beyond data analysis, the researcher plays a critical role in translating findings into usable knowledge for teams and leadership.
Responsibilities in this area include:
- Writing research reports, briefs, and summaries
- Creating presentations for internal and external audiences
- Synthesizing insights from multiple studies and data sources
- Facilitating workshops and collaborative learning sessions
- Supporting strategic decision-making across teams
Strong communication skills are essential because findings must be accessible to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Equity-Centered and Participatory Research
A defining feature of this role at Magic Cabinet is its focus on equity, power, and community voice.
The researcher is expected to integrate approaches that:
- Center community perspectives in research design
- Address power dynamics in evaluation processes
- Use participatory research methods
- Apply trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices
- Support inclusive decision-making in grantmaking
This reflects a broader shift in philanthropy toward trust-based and community-led funding models.
Skills and Qualifications for the Role
This position requires a strong mix of research expertise, analytical thinking, and communication ability.
Research and Technical Skills
- 5+ years of experience in mixed-methods research or evaluation
- Experience with qualitative methodologies (interviews, ethnography, participatory research)
- Quantitative analysis skills using tools like R or SPSS
- Familiarity with research software such as Atlas.ti or Dovetail
- Experience designing evaluation frameworks and learning systems
Communication and Collaboration Skills
- Strong writing and reporting abilities
- Ability to present complex findings clearly
- Experience facilitating workshops and group discussions
- Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills
- Comfort working in remote and cross-functional environments
Equity and Systems Thinking
- Understanding of social, racial, and economic equity issues
- Experience working with diverse and multicultural communities
- Awareness of power dynamics in research and evaluation
- Interest in participatory and trust-based philanthropy models
Work Environment and Expectations
The role at Magic Cabinet is a full-time remote position, with location requirements in Washington or California.
Additional expectations include:
- Collaboration across distributed teams
- Participation in internal and external meetings
- Occasional travel for events or stakeholder engagement
- Ability to manage multiple research projects simultaneously
- Flexibility in working hours for cross-time-zone collaboration
The organization also emphasizes a culture of learning, reflection, and continuous improvement.
Application Process and Contact Information
Applicants interested in this role are typically required to submit:
- Updated CV or résumé
- Relevant writing samples or research portfolio
- Cover letter outlining experience in mixed-methods research
- Evidence of evaluation or program design work
For application-related inquiries, candidates may contact:
- Careers Email: careers@magiccabinet.org
Final Thoughts
The Qualitative/Mixed-Methods Researcher position at Magic Cabinet represents a growing category of roles in philanthropy that blend research, equity, and systems thinking. Professionals in this field help shape how funding decisions are made by integrating data, lived experience, and community voice into evaluation processes.
As philanthropy continues evolving toward participatory and trust-based models, demand for researchers who can connect analysis with real-world impact is expected to grow significantly.
Join Our WhatsApp Community
Disclaimer: Remote Job Opportunities (RJO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the responsible organization directly. Please do not send your applications to RJO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
