Robert D. Niehaus, Inc. (RDN) is looking for Data Collection Specialists to join our team! This temporary, full-time position will start on 11 March 2026 and end on 12 August 2026. The work may be performed remotely or on site at our office in Santa Barbara, CA. This position offers an opportunity to build research skills and gain professional experience while supporting a U.S. Department of War housing program that impacts over one million service members and their families.
The responsibilities of a Data Collection Specialist include:
Conducting online research to validate and gather new data for our database.
Contacting property managers to collect and validate key information about their rental units
Evaluating rental units to ensure they meet program criteria
Entering eligible data for review by RDN management and program stakeholders
Working with a team of other Data Collection Specialists to complete project goals
Preference will be given to applicants who can work a regular, full-time schedule, i.e., Monday through Friday, 7am Pacific Time start, 8-hour workday (with flexible lunchtime). This position is non-exempt.
Applicants must have California or Wisconsin residency.
Who we are:
Located in sunny Santa Barbara, California, RDN is an economic consulting firm with a track record of excellence spanning more than 40 years. Our multilingual, interdisciplinary staff members have training and expertise in economics, quantitative analysis, applied social research, and public policy. We focus on regional and resource economics, with particular expertise in housing economics and water rate studies. Our approach adheres to three principles: outstanding customer service, accurate and forward-thinking solutions, and continuous improvement. We pride ourselves on fostering a casual office environment with flexible hours and abundant professional development opportunities.
Compensation:
Data Collection Specialists will earn a minimum of $20.00 and a maximum of $21.00 per hour plus a completion bonus of up to $500 if they work on the project through the end of the data collection period (12 August 2026). Opportunities for extended or regular employment may be available at management’s discretion. Data Collection Specialists who work remotely also receive a $20 biweekly ($40 per month) allowance to offset the cost of personal workspace equipment.
What’s required:
Bachelor’s degree (current students okay to apply) or 2+ years of relevant experience
U.S. Citizenship and ability to pass a background check
Excellent internet research, data entry, and verbal communication skills
Excellent phone etiquette
Self-motivated and detail-oriented
California or Wisconsin Residency
Secure, distraction-free workspace with computer, webcam, and reliable high-speed internet
Note: Onsite employees (Santa Barbara, CA) will be provided with all necessary equipment
For more info on RDN, visit us at www.rdniehaus.com. RDN is an equal opportunity employer.