Market Research Analyst Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s data-driven business landscape, the demand for market research analysts is soaring.
As the business world evolves, the need for savvy professionals who can gather, analyze, and interpret market data becomes increasingly critical.
But what does being a market research analyst truly entail?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker looking to unravel the complexities of this role,
- A hiring manager seeking to draft the perfect candidate profile,
- Or simply curious about the intricacies of market research analysis,
You’ve come to the right place.
Today, we present a customizable market research analyst job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right in.
Market Research Analyst Duties and Responsibilities
Market Research Analysts use a range of tools and methodologies to gather and interpret data on market conditions, customer behaviors, and competitor activity.
Their findings assist businesses in making informed decisions about market opportunities, product or service development, and marketing strategy.
Their primary duties and responsibilities include:
- Conducting primary and secondary market research using various methods such as surveys, focus groups, and data analysis
- Monitoring and forecasting market trends and consumer behavior
- Identifying potential markets and testing them extensively
- Collecting data on competitors and analyzing their prices, sales, and marketing methods
- Preparing reports using statistical software and presenting findings to management
- Devising and evaluating methods and procedures for collecting data, such as surveys, opinion polls, or questionnaires
- Working closely with other departments, such as marketing and sales, to understand and address business needs
- Advising businesses on market conditions, consumer behavior, and marketing strategies
Market Research Analyst Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are looking for a methodical Market Research Analyst to survey customer preferences and statistical data in order to support customers during their decision-making process regarding product designs, prices, and promotions.
The successful market researcher will be able to analyze autonomously qualitative data, trends, strategies and competition aiming at increasing competitiveness.
Responsibilities
- Collect data on consumers, competitors and market place and consolidate information into actionable items, reports and presentations
- Understand business objectives and design surveys to discover prospective customers’ preferences
- Compile and analyze statistical data using modern and traditional methods to collect it
- Perform valid and reliable market research SWOT analysis
- Interpret data, formulate reports and make recommendations
- Use online market research and catalogue findings to databases
- Provide competitive analysis on various companies’ market offerings, identify market trends, pricing/business models, sales and methods of operation
- Evaluate program methodology and key data to ensure that data on the releases are accurate and the angle of the release is correct
Qualifications
- Proven market research analysis experience
- Ability to interpret large amounts of data and to multi-task
- Strong communication and presentation skills
- Knowledge of statistical packages (SPSS, SAS or similar), databases and MS Office
- Search engines, web analytics and business research tools acumen
- Familiarity with CRM programs
- Adequate knowledge of data collection methods (polls, focus groups, surveys etc)
- Working knowledge of data warehousing, modelling and mining
- Strong analytical and critical thinking
- BS degree in Statistics, Marketing or related field
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Market Research Analyst
- Work Environment: Office setting with options for remote work. Some travel may be required for market research or client meetings.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Market Research Manager or Marketing Director.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $62,000 minimum to $105,000 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does a Market Research Analyst Do?
Market Research Analysts play a crucial role in helping organizations understand their markets, customers, competitors, and other variables that affect business performance.
They work for corporations, marketing agencies, consulting firms or they may be self-employed.
They collect data and conduct research to understand market trends, consumer attitudes, and competitive practices.
This involves designing surveys, conducting interviews or focus groups, analyzing data using statistical software, and preparing reports.
Their main goal is to help the company understand what products people want, who will buy them, and at what price.
They use this information to help organizations develop marketing strategies, define target audiences, set pricing structures, and identify opportunities for business growth.
Market Research Analysts also track and forecast marketing and sales trends, measure the effectiveness of marketing programs and strategies, and present their findings to the management using graphs and charts.
They work closely with other teams within the organization such as sales, product development, and senior leadership to provide insights that drive strategic decisions.
In addition to this, they are expected to keep up-to-date with the latest research methodologies, data analysis techniques, and marketing trends.
Market Research Analyst Qualifications and Skills
Market Research Analysts require a combination of technical skills, soft skills, and industry-specific knowledge to effectively analyze market conditions and guide business strategies, including:
- Strong analytical skills to interpret complex data and convert it into understandable results.
- Excellent communication skills to present findings and translate complex data into understandable documents and reports.
- Detail-oriented abilities to ensure accurate data collection and interpretation, as well as thorough market analyses.
- Proficiency in statistical software, databases, and design programs for data manipulation and visualization.
- Critical thinking skills to identify trends, patterns, and insights in the data and make strategic recommendations based on findings.
- Interpersonal skills to work effectively with different teams and stakeholders, understanding their informational needs and presenting relevant findings.
- Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines, demonstrating exceptional time management skills.
- Knowledge of the industry and its latest trends, being able to anticipate changes in the market and their possible impacts.
Market Research Analyst Experience Requirements
Entry-level Market Research Analysts typically have 1 to 2 years of experience, gained through internships or part-time roles in market research, data analysis, or a related field.
They often have hands-on experience with data collection methods and statistical software.
Candidates with 2 to 5 years of experience usually have a solid understanding of market research methods, data analysis, and market trends.
They may also have experience with report writing and presenting findings to stakeholders.
Senior Market Research Analysts with over 5 years of experience often have a deep understanding of both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies.
They are likely to have developed leadership skills and may have managed small research projects or teams.
They may also have experience in strategic planning based on the insights gained from market research.
Additional relevant experience for all levels of Market Research Analysts can include a familiarity with Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems, experience in a specific industry, or knowledge of a particular market.
It’s also essential that Market Research Analysts have experience with data visualization tools and are able to translate complex data into understandable and actionable insights.
This can often be gained through practical experience, further education, or certifications in market research or a related field.
Market Research Analyst Education and Training Requirements
To become a Market Research Analyst, a bachelor’s degree in marketing, business administration, statistics, or a related field is generally required.
The degree program should cover areas such as market research, statistics, business administration, and consumer behavior.
These subjects equip a candidate with the necessary knowledge and skills to analyze market trends, interpret data, and make informed business decisions.
Many employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree in market research or a related field, especially for more advanced positions.
These programs dive deeper into the research methodologies, data analysis techniques, and marketing strategies required for the role.
In addition to formal education, market research analysts should have strong analytical skills, be adept at using statistical software, and have a good understanding of consumer behavior.
Certification is not always required but can be beneficial for career advancement.
The Marketing Research Association offers the Professional Researcher Certification (PRC) for those who meet education and experience requirements.
Lastly, continuous learning and staying updated with the latest market trends and research methodologies is critical in this field.
Many analysts attend workshops, seminars, and courses to update their skills and knowledge.
Market Research Analyst Salary Expectations
A Market Research Analyst earns an average salary of $63,790 (USD) per year.
However, the actual income may differ based on factors such as industry, years of experience, level of education, and the location of the job.
Market Research Analyst Job Description FAQs
What skills does a Market Research Analyst need?
A Market Research Analyst should have strong analytical skills to understand large and complex data sets, critical-thinking skills to draw accurate conclusions from their findings, and detail-oriented nature to ensure the accuracy of their data.
They also need to have excellent communication skills to present their findings in a clear, comprehensible way to their team or clients.
Do Market Research Analysts need a degree?
Most Market Research Analyst positions require at least a bachelor’s degree in marketing, business, statistics, or a related field.
Some advanced roles may require a master’s degree.
Practical experience with statistical software, data visualization, and digital marketing tools can be beneficial.
What should you look for in a Market Research Analyst resume?
On a Market Research Analyst’s resume, look for a degree in a relevant field and experience with data analysis, as this is a key part of the role.
Familiarity with specific market research tools and software is also a plus.
Additionally, any demonstration of strong communication skills, whether through presentations, reports, or other means, can be a good indicator of their ability to convey their findings effectively.
What qualities make a good Market Research Analyst?
A good Market Research Analyst is naturally curious and enjoys digging into data to uncover trends and insights.
They’re detail-oriented and meticulous, as accuracy is paramount in their role.
They also possess strong problem-solving skills, using their findings to strategize effective marketing approaches.
Furthermore, good communication skills are essential, as they must present their findings and recommendations in a clear and compelling way.
Is it challenging to hire Market Research Analysts?
Finding a Market Research Analyst with the right blend of analytical prowess, industry knowledge, and communication skills can be challenging.
The field is highly competitive, and the best candidates often have a solid educational background coupled with practical experience.
Employers need to offer competitive salaries and opportunities for advancement to attract top talent.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Today, we’ve demystified what it truly entails to be a market research analyst.
And guess what?
It’s not just about crunching numbers.
It’s about unearthing valuable insights that help shape business strategies, one data point at a time.
With our ready-to-use market research analyst job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to make a difference.
But why stop there?
Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating razor-sharp job listings or polishing your resume to brilliance.
Remember:
Every data point is a part of the larger narrative.
Let’s shape that future. Together.
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