Rica Job Description Researcher
Job Title: Researcher (August 2015)
Purpose of role
 To assist with Rica research to help improve products and services for all, including
older and disabled people.
 To assist with Rica research and the publishing of independent consumer information for
older and disabled people.
 To promote the interests of Rica.
Key Accountabilities
Research
To assist Project Mangers with
 Design and execution of product and service evaluations, using appropriate research
methodologies.
 Desk based research, market research and consultation with stakeholders.
 Surveys, mystery shopping, usability testing, interviews and focus groups.
 Analysis of qualitative and quantitative data.
 Production of client reports and consumer information.
 Verification and data checking.
 Work to the requirements of Rica’s Information Standard accreditation.
Communication
 Liaise with clients, partners, field workers and other stakeholders.
 Assist when responding to public telephone and email enquiries as required.
Qualifications, Training, Professional memberships or Accreditations
Essential

A degree, or equivalent qualification, in research methodologies, or a relevant research based
discipline e.g. ergonomics, human factors, psychology, HCI or similar discipline.
Experience and Track Record
Essential
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Familiarity with qualitative and quantitative research methods such as user tests, surveys and
focus groups
An understanding of practical statistics with an ability to think analytically
The ability to communicate verbally and write precisely in a plain colloquial style
Desirable

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Experience of working in a multi-disciplinary research team
Understanding of accessibility issues affecting older and disabled people as consumers and
as research participants.
Researcher (2015)
Rica Job Description Researcher
Capabilities Profile – technical skills/knowledge
Essential
 Up-to-date knowledge of research methodologies.
 Good numeracy and analytical skills.
 An ability to write precisely in a plain everyday style.
 IT literate with knowledge of a range of software including Microsoft Office Suite.
Capabilities Profile – leadership, management or personal skills/knowledge
Essential
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Responsible, motivated with a good work ethic
Willingness to learn
A team player
Respectful, honest and friendly
Sympathetic to the needs of both disabled and older people.
Researcher (2015)
Rica Job Description Researcher
Organisational information
Reporting line, structure, key working relationships
Reports to:
- Co-Directors
Direct reports:
- none
Key interfaces:
-
All Rica staff
Rica field operatives (mystery shoppers)
External research agencies and service providers
Consumers
Clients
Other third sector organisations
Resources, scale and scope of role, location and any travel factors
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The post holder is required to familiarise and comply with Rica’s policies and
procedures.
Role based in London but will be required to travel to research and testing laboratories
in Milton Keynes and other locations in the UK for meetings and events.
This job description is intended as a guide to the main responsibilities of the post and
not as an exhaustive list of duties and tasks. The post holder may be required to
undertake other duties as appropriate, which are not listed above, at the direction of the
Co-Directors. The job description may be amended from time to time after consultation
with the post holder.
Researcher (2015)