Field Research Assistant — Park Visitor Surveys

Utah State University; Moab (UT); On-site; USD 36,000 - 41,000; Part time

Job summary

Utah State University’s SORTL Lab is seeking two Field Research Assistants to support a visitor experience study at Arches National Park in Moab, UT. This paid, short-term position involves on-site data collection, IRB-approved protocols, and direct engagement with park visitors.

You will administer visitor intercept surveys using Qualtrics on tablets at The Windows, Delicate Arch, and Devils Garden, with randomized sampling, and assist with data entry and basic quality checks.

Qualifications

• Valid driver’s license to perform essential job responsibilities.
• Background or coursework in outdoor recreation, natural resources, parks management, tourism, geography, or a related field.
• Prior experience with survey research, field data collection, or visitor studies.
• Familiarity with Qualtrics or similar survey platforms.
• Experience working or recreating in national parks or public lands settings.
• Ability to work independently with minimal day-to-day supervision.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to engage park visitors professionally.
• Reliable, detail-oriented, and committed to data quality.

Responsibilities

• Administer visitor intercept surveys using Qualtrics on a tablet device at designated sites within Arches National Park (The Windows, Delicate Arch, and Devils Garden).
• Apply randomized intercept protocols to select survey participants.
• Accurately record survey responses and maintain daily data quality standards.
• Follow field protocols, including participant consent procedures and IRB-approved data collection guidelines.
• Communicate regularly with the PI regarding daily sampling progress, response rates, and any field issues.
• Assist with post-field data entry, review, and basic quality checking.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Independent work

Detail-oriented

Public engagement

Tools

Qualtrics

Job description

Utah State University’s SORTL Lab is seeking two Field Research Assistants to support a visitor experience study at Arches National Park in Moab, UT. This paid, short-term position involves on-site data collection, IRB-approved protocols, and direct engagement with park visitors.

You will administer visitor intercept surveys using Qualtrics on tablets at The Windows, Delicate Arch, and Devils Garden, with randomized sampling, and assist with data entry and basic quality checks.