FIELD INTERVIEWER
OVERVIEW
Field Interviewers conduct face-to face interviews with selected participants on research projects. The work involves contacting respondents at their homes, businesses, or schools to conduct the interviews. The interviews are conducted using a laptop or paper questionnaire, depending on the requirements of the research project. Once the information is collected, it is transmitted back to the home office. The work can be really interesting. The research projects often obtain information on issues such healthcare, employment, family life, education, etc. This is a good way to earn extra money if you enjoy meeting and interacting with new people from all walks of life and hearing other people’s point of view.
WORK SCHEDULE
You have the freedom to set your own work schedule just as long as the schedule meets the demands of the research project. Interviews are generally conducted in the evening and/or on the weekends or whenever participants are available.
HOW MUCH YOU CAN EXPECT TO EARN
Pay rate varies. The average starting rate is between $11.00 and $13.00 per hour. Most companies pay you for drive time and reimburse for mileage, meals and lodging if you are required to travel for a project.
GETTING PAID
Pay dates and methods vary from company to company, most companies pay twice a month and offer direct deposit.
DRAWBACKS
1. The work can be tiring, and stressful
2. New opportunities can be hard to find
3. You are required to complete the assigned project regardless of weather conditions.
4. Some participants can be difficult and uncooperative.
5. Projects may require you to work in a bad neighborhood.
6. Work flow can be extremely inconsistent
7. There can be big gaps between research projects.
REQUIREMENTS TO GET STARTED
Some companies require prior field interviewing experience and others accept similar work/life experience. Basic requirements include: