The Field Interviewer (FI) serves as the direct link between researchers and the target population, playing a foundational role in primary data collection. This work is fundamental to a wide range of analytical efforts, including market research, academic social science studies, and public policy formulation. By gathering data through direct, in-person engagement, FIs ensure the information used for statistical analysis is timely and authentic. The integrity of large-scale studies depends on the accuracy and professionalism of these individuals who collect raw observations and responses.
Defining the Field Interviewer Role
A Field Interviewer is a trained research professional responsible for systematically administering structured surveys and questionnaires outside of a traditional office setting. The designation “field” means their work occurs in the homes, businesses, or public locations of respondents, rather than through remote methods like telephone or online surveys. This direct interaction ensures data is collected from the precise sample defined by the study’s methodology.
The FI’s primary purpose is to generate high-quality, unbiased data. They must navigate the complexities of human interaction and varied environments to secure participation, distinguishing them from desk-based data collection roles. Adherence to strict survey protocols is required to maintain consistency across all interviews, ensuring the resulting data is reliable and valid.
Core Responsibilities and Daily Tasks
The Field Interviewer’s routine involves executing the data collection plan for their assigned project. This begins with locating and contacting assigned respondents, often utilizing specific address lists provided by the research team. Once contact is made, the interviewer must clearly explain the study’s purpose and obtain informed consent from the participant before proceeding with any questions.
Interviewers accurately administer the survey, frequently using specialized electronic devices loaded with Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI) software. This technology ensures strict adherence to the survey’s skip patterns and question wording, maintaining methodological integrity. The FI is responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of all responses and meticulously verifying data integrity before submission. The role requires significant self-management, as FIs must plan travel and schedule appointments to maximize response rates.
Typical Employers and Work Environments
Field Interviewers are employed across several sectors that rely on large-scale, primary data collection. Prominent employers include government agencies, such as national Census Bureaus, and academic institutions conducting extensive social science research projects. Private market research firms and specialized contractors also engage FIs to gather consumer data or conduct political polling.
The work environment requires extensive independent travel within an assigned geographic area. FIs often work non-traditional hours, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate the schedules of potential respondents and maximize completed interviews. This independence requires the Field Interviewer to be comfortable working without direct supervision for long periods.
Essential Skills and Qualifications
Success as a Field Interviewer hinges on possessing strong interpersonal skills and attention to detail. The ability to quickly build rapport and establish trust with diverse populations is necessary for gaining cooperation and securing accurate responses. Persistence is also important, as FIs frequently face refusals or must navigate difficult access challenges to reach their assigned sample units.
Technological proficiency is a standard requirement, as most projects utilize electronic data collection tools and specialized survey software. Attention to detail ensures that all data is recorded accurately and that the specific protocols of the research design are followed. While many entry-level positions require a high school diploma, some specialized projects may prefer candidates with college coursework in social sciences, statistics, or a related field.
Career Outlook and Compensation
Compensation for Field Interviewers is based on an hourly wage or a project-based rate, fluctuating depending on the complexity and funding of specific studies. The average hourly pay in the United States falls between $18.27 and $21.15, varying by location and employer. Annual salaries range between $35,510 and $55,000, with government or large non-profit organizations sometimes offering higher rates and better benefits packages.
The career outlook is closely tied to the funding cycles for large governmental and academic studies, which causes demand to fluctuate. FIs working on complex, long-term studies may receive travel reimbursement, per diem allowances, and mileage compensation in addition to their base pay. Experienced FIs can advance into supervisory roles, managing teams of interviewers, or transition into positions focused on data quality assurance or project management.