Associate, Primary Research
Description & Requirements
WHAT MAKES US A GREAT PLACE TO WORK
We are proud to be consistently recognized as one of the world’s best places to work. We are currently the #1 ranked consulting firm on Glassdoor’s Best Places to Work list and have maintained a spot in the top four on Glassdoor’s list since its founding in 2009. Extraordinary teams are at the heart of our business strategy, but these don’t happen by chance. They require intentional focus on bringing together a broad set of backgrounds, cultures, experiences, perspectives, and skills in a supportive and inclusive work environment. We hire people with exceptional talent and create an environment in which every individual can thrive professionally and personally.
WHO YOU’LL WORK WITH
You’ll join our Primary Research experts within the AI, Insights & Solutions team. This team is part of Bain’s digital capabilities practice, which includes experts in analytics, engineering, product management, and design. In this multidisciplinary environment, you'll leverage deep technical expertise with business acumen to help clients tackle their most transformative challenges. You’ll work on integrated teams alongside our general consultants and clients to develop data-driven strategies and innovative solutions. Together, we create human-centric solutions that harness the power of data and artificial intelligence to drive competitive advantage for our clients. Our collaborative and supportive work environment fosters creativity and continuous learning, enabling us to consistently deliver exceptional results.
WHERE YOU’LL FIT WITHIN THE TEAM
As an Associate, Primary Research, you’ll provide primary market and user research expertise to Bain case teams and clients globally. You will support the entire research-to-insight process—designing the research approach, gathering data, and synthesizing insights to guide strategic recommendations that drive business impact.
WHAT YOU’LL DO
Design and implement qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods research approaches
Gather and synthesize research data to inform strategic business questions, including customer acquisition and retention, product development, pricing, customer experience, brand strategy, messaging, and go-to-market strategy
Partner with teams such as Private Equity Group, Customer and Strategy Practices, and Innovation & Design to develop innovative insights
Train and coach consultants on primary research procedures
Own the full research-to-insights workstream hands-on
Stay current on cutting-edge research methodologies and toolkits
Build relationships with external research vendors as needed at the project level
Codify, document, and share best practices with Bain’s consulting teams
ABOUT YOU
Minimum of 1–2 years of experience in primary market or user research within business, market research, or social science settings
Master’s Degree or PhD in market research, sociology, ethnography, or related field is a plus
Strong quantitative research expertise, with knowledge of qualitative methods
Proficient in statistical analysis techniques such as significance testing, sample reweighting, regression, clustering, segmentation, and conjoint analysis
Strong interpersonal, communication, and storytelling skills
Passion for championing the voice of the customer/user
Self-starter who thrives in fast-paced environments
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
U.S.Compensation Information
Compensation for this role includes base salary, annual discretionary performance bonus,401(k) plan with an annual employer contribution based on years of service and Bain’s best in class benefits package (details listed below).
Some local governments in the United States require a good-faith, reasonable salary range be included in job postings for open roles. The estimated annualized compensation for this role is as follows:
In Washington state the good-faith, reasonable annualized full-time salary range for this role is between $87,500 - $102,000 placement within this range will vary based on several factors including, but not limited to experience, education, licensure/certifications, training and skill level
In Illinois the good-faith, reasonable annualized full-time salary range for this role is between $77,000 - $90,000 placement within this range will vary based on several factors including, but not limited to experience, education, licensure/certifications, training and skill level
For all other locations, the good-faith, reasonable annualized full-time salary range for this role is commensurate with competitive geographic market rates for this role and will vary based on several factors including, but not limited to experience, education, licensure/certifications, training and skill level
* Annual discretionary performance bonus
* This role may also be eligible for other elements of discretionary compensation
* 4.5% 401(k) company contribution, which increases after 3 years of service and is 100% vested upon start date
Bain & Company's comprehensive benefits and wellness program is designed to help employees achieve personal independence, protection and stability in the areas most important to you and your family.
* Bain pays 100% individual employee premiums for medical, dental and vision programs, offering one of the most comprehensive medical plans for employees without impacting your paycheck
* Generous paid time off, including parental leave, sick leave and paid holidays
* Fully vested 401(k) company contribution
* Paid Life and Long-Term Disability insurance
* Annual fitness reimbursement