Position: Provincial Research Assistants (9x)

Role Overview

The Wits Business School, Digital Business Discipline, invites local based research assistants to support a research project focusing on the digital divide across various provinces. Responsibilities include qualitative and quantitative data collection, ensuring adherence to research protocols of the project and ethical standards. This role requires strong fieldwork and research experience, interpersonal skills and the ability to work within diverse communities in different geographical locations.

Key Responsibilities

Coordinate, plan, conduct and manage relevant fieldwork activities

Conduct household, community, and stakeholder interviews using various data collection tools.

Recruit and engage study participants in accordance with project requirements and ethical guidelines.

Administer surveys and conduct individual and group interviews 

Capture and clean quantitative data in preparing for analysis 

Transcription and translation of qualitative interviews 

Write and produce field-based report

Ensure compliance with the project study protocols, ethical guidelines, and quality assurance standards.

Core Competencies

Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Ability to engage with individuals from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Excellent attention to detail and commitment to data quality.

Strong time-management skills.

Ability to work independently and as a part of a multidisciplinary team.

Problem-solving and conflict resolution abilities.

Proficient in electronic data collection tools and Microsoft Office applications.

Qualifications and Experience

A minimum of a diploma or degree in Social Sciences, Public Health, Community Development, or a related field is advantageous.

Previous experience in survey administration, qualitative interviews, research studies or community-based projects.

Experience working in different communities is preferred.

Fluency in English and one or more local languages.

Desired Attributes

Professional and ethical conduct of the study.

Cultural sensitivity and respect for community norms important.

Ethical, reliable, integrity, and accountability.

Ability to work under pressure and meet project deadlines.

Purpose of the Role

To contribute to the successful implementation of the digital divide research project by collecting reliable and accurate data across various provinces, thereby supporting informed decision-making, policy development, and program improvement.

Preference will be given to candidates who are currently residing in the provinces where the research activities will be conducted. Local candidates are encouraged to apply, as their knowledge of the local context, language, culture, and communities will be considered an advantage for successful fieldwork and project implementation.

Timeline: 1 July to 30 November 2026

Closing date for applications: 16 June 2026

Remuneration: Market-related project-based compensation.

To apply, please submit a CV and one-page motivation outlining your interest and relevant experience to ayanda.magida@wits.ac.za