J-1 Visa Senior Technical Support Specialist Jobs
Senior Technical Support Specialist roles in the United States are accessible to international professionals through J-1 visa sponsorship, most commonly under the Trainee or Specialist program category. Designated sponsor organizations issue your DS-2019, while the U.S. employer serves as your host. No lottery or annual cap applies.
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Job Title: Research Associate
Working Title: Senior Research Associate - Qualitative
Open Date: 05/27/2026
Requisition Number: PRN45110B
Career Progression Track: A00
FLSA Code: Professional
Patient Sensitive Job Code? No
Standard Hours per Week: 40
Full Time or Part Time? Full Time
Shift: Day
Work Schedule Summary: Work schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM. Travel, evenings, and weekends may occasionally be required.
VP Area: Academic Affairs
Department: 00162 - Educational Leadership&Policy
Location: Campus
City: Salt Lake City, UT
Type of Recruitment: External Posting
Pay Rate Range: $90,000-$120,000
Close Date: 07/23/2026
Priority Review Date (Note - Posting may close at any time): 07/01/2026
JOB SUMMARY
Lab Overview
The Prison Education Action Research Lab (PEARL) at the University of Utah advances educational justice for people and communities impacted by incarceration. Funded by an award from Ascendium Education Group, PEARL leverages evidence-based research to change systems and reduce barriers to postsecondary education for people directly impacted by the criminal legal system. PEARL’s anchor project, the Prison Education Research Initiative (PERI), is a first-of-its-kind multi-institutional longitudinal study spanning 21+ partner colleges and universities nationwide.
Position Summary
PEARL is seeking a Senior Research Associate (SRA) with deep expertise in and professional experience with multi-site, multi-methods qualitative research. The SRA will lead data integration, synthesizing qualitative findings with quantitative data in collaboration with the broader research team across PEARL’s research portfolio. This position will work in close partnership with PEARL’s Senior Quantitative Research Associate to design and produce research that is both interpretively rich and analytically robust. Alongside Center leadership, the SRA will mentor emerging researchers and help the Lab translate findings into scholarship, research briefs, technical reports, and presentations. The SRA will work under the supervision of the Lab Director.
We strongly encourage applications from individuals directly impacted by incarceration and punishment systems.
COMPENSATION AND TERMS
This is a grant-funded position within PEARL. The position is full-time and benefitted. Work schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM. Travel, evenings, and weekends may occasionally be required. The Senior Research Associate may work remotely or on-site at the University of Utah with some travel required.
Responsibilities
- Provide intellectual and applied expertise across multi-PI research projects;
- Design and lead qualitative data collection, including interviews, case studies, site visits, and document analysis across multiple institutional sites;
- Develop and refine data collection instruments, protocols, and field guides appropriate to diverse institutional contexts;
- Maintain and manage qualitative data systems, including codebooks, analytical memos, and documentation of analytical decisions;
- Coordinate secure data transfers and compliance across states and data providers;
- Serve as senior liaison with stakeholders, including colleges, universities, state agencies, and community partners;
- Lead regular cross-site meetings to align stakeholders;
- Oversee IRB protocols, data transfer agreements, and compliance monitoring across multiple institutions and jurisdictions;
- Develop and present research results in the form of peer-reviewed manuscripts, technical reports, briefs, and presentations for both academic and practitioner audiences;
- Mentor, train, and supervise research staff and graduate assistants in qualitative methods and writing;
- Other research-related activities as assigned by the Lab Director.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- PhD in education or a related social science field, or comparable professional experience demonstrating equivalent expertise;
- 5+ years of post-graduate experience leading qualitative research, including research design, data collection, data analysis, and reporting;
- Advanced proficiency with qualitative data analysis software (e.g., NVivo, Dedoose, Atlas.ti, MAXQDA, or equivalent); and working knowledge of Excel;
- A strong collaborative publication record, including peer-reviewed first-author work;
- Demonstrated experience leading multi-site and multi-stakeholder research projects, including those with multiple types of data;
- Advanced experience with design and integration of qualitative and quantitative research;
- Commitment to educational equity and justice, particularly for communities impacted by the criminal legal system;
- Excellent project management skills, including coordinating logistics, maintaining timelines, and communicating across diverse teams;
- Proven ability to work collaboratively;
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to write for both academic and public audiences.
PREFERENCES
- Familiarity with institutional, state, and federal postsecondary education data systems;
- Ability to relocate to Salt Lake City, UT.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS SUMMARY
Required Application Materials
- Cover letter (no more than two pages) that specifically addresses: interest in the position, disciplinary and methodological training, years of professional experience (post-terminal degree), at least one example of multi-site research leadership, at least one example of applied qualitative methods, and names of qualitative software with which you have proficiency;
- Curriculum vitae;
- Writing samples: One scholarly paper and one technical report (or equivalent) where you are the lead author or a major contributor;
- Names and contact information for three professional references who can speak to your research leadership, qualitative expertise, and collaboration skills.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems (“URS”). Eligible new hires with prior URS service may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581-7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS’ post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366-7770 or (800) 695-4877 or University Human Resource Management at (801) 581-7447 if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules.
This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.
The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education.
Veterans’ preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.
Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran’s status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.
To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX (OEO). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator’s office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at the: University of Utah Non-Discrimination page.
Online reports may be submitted at https://oeo.utah.edu
This report includes statistics about criminal offenses, hate crimes, arrests and referrals for disciplinary action, and Violence Against Women Act offenses. They also provide information about safety and security-related services offered by the University of Utah. A paper copy can be obtained by request at the Department of Public Safety located at 1658 East 500 South.
As per University of Utah policy 5-108: Transfer of Benefits Eligible Staff Members, a new hire to the University of Utah who is still serving a 12 month probationary period will not be hired into another University of Utah job (a transfer) until the successful completion of the probationary period.
INTRODUCTION
Job Title: Research Associate
Working Title: Senior Research Associate - Qualitative
Open Date: 05/27/2026
Requisition Number: PRN45110B
Career Progression Track: A00
FLSA Code: Professional
Patient Sensitive Job Code? No
Standard Hours per Week: 40
Full Time or Part Time? Full Time
Shift: Day
Work Schedule Summary: Work schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM. Travel, evenings, and weekends may occasionally be required.
VP Area: Academic Affairs
Department: 00162 - Educational Leadership&Policy
Location: Campus
City: Salt Lake City, UT
Type of Recruitment: External Posting
Pay Rate Range: $90,000-$120,000
Close Date: 07/23/2026
Priority Review Date (Note - Posting may close at any time): 07/01/2026
JOB SUMMARY
Lab Overview
The Prison Education Action Research Lab (PEARL) at the University of Utah advances educational justice for people and communities impacted by incarceration. Funded by an award from Ascendium Education Group, PEARL leverages evidence-based research to change systems and reduce barriers to postsecondary education for people directly impacted by the criminal legal system. PEARL’s anchor project, the Prison Education Research Initiative (PERI), is a first-of-its-kind multi-institutional longitudinal study spanning 21+ partner colleges and universities nationwide.
Position Summary
PEARL is seeking a Senior Research Associate (SRA) with deep expertise in and professional experience with multi-site, multi-methods qualitative research. The SRA will lead data integration, synthesizing qualitative findings with quantitative data in collaboration with the broader research team across PEARL’s research portfolio. This position will work in close partnership with PEARL’s Senior Quantitative Research Associate to design and produce research that is both interpretively rich and analytically robust. Alongside Center leadership, the SRA will mentor emerging researchers and help the Lab translate findings into scholarship, research briefs, technical reports, and presentations. The SRA will work under the supervision of the Lab Director.
We strongly encourage applications from individuals directly impacted by incarceration and punishment systems.
COMPENSATION AND TERMS
This is a grant-funded position within PEARL. The position is full-time and benefitted. Work schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM. Travel, evenings, and weekends may occasionally be required. The Senior Research Associate may work remotely or on-site at the University of Utah with some travel required.
Responsibilities
- Provide intellectual and applied expertise across multi-PI research projects;
- Design and lead qualitative data collection, including interviews, case studies, site visits, and document analysis across multiple institutional sites;
- Develop and refine data collection instruments, protocols, and field guides appropriate to diverse institutional contexts;
- Maintain and manage qualitative data systems, including codebooks, analytical memos, and documentation of analytical decisions;
- Coordinate secure data transfers and compliance across states and data providers;
- Serve as senior liaison with stakeholders, including colleges, universities, state agencies, and community partners;
- Lead regular cross-site meetings to align stakeholders;
- Oversee IRB protocols, data transfer agreements, and compliance monitoring across multiple institutions and jurisdictions;
- Develop and present research results in the form of peer-reviewed manuscripts, technical reports, briefs, and presentations for both academic and practitioner audiences;
- Mentor, train, and supervise research staff and graduate assistants in qualitative methods and writing;
- Other research-related activities as assigned by the Lab Director.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- PhD in education or a related social science field, or comparable professional experience demonstrating equivalent expertise;
- 5+ years of post-graduate experience leading qualitative research, including research design, data collection, data analysis, and reporting;
- Advanced proficiency with qualitative data analysis software (e.g., NVivo, Dedoose, Atlas.ti, MAXQDA, or equivalent); and working knowledge of Excel;
- A strong collaborative publication record, including peer-reviewed first-author work;
- Demonstrated experience leading multi-site and multi-stakeholder research projects, including those with multiple types of data;
- Advanced experience with design and integration of qualitative and quantitative research;
- Commitment to educational equity and justice, particularly for communities impacted by the criminal legal system;
- Excellent project management skills, including coordinating logistics, maintaining timelines, and communicating across diverse teams;
- Proven ability to work collaboratively;
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to write for both academic and public audiences.
PREFERENCES
- Familiarity with institutional, state, and federal postsecondary education data systems;
- Ability to relocate to Salt Lake City, UT.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS SUMMARY
Required Application Materials
- Cover letter (no more than two pages) that specifically addresses: interest in the position, disciplinary and methodological training, years of professional experience (post-terminal degree), at least one example of multi-site research leadership, at least one example of applied qualitative methods, and names of qualitative software with which you have proficiency;
- Curriculum vitae;
- Writing samples: One scholarly paper and one technical report (or equivalent) where you are the lead author or a major contributor;
- Names and contact information for three professional references who can speak to your research leadership, qualitative expertise, and collaboration skills.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems (“URS”). Eligible new hires with prior URS service may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581-7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS’ post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366-7770 or (800) 695-4877 or University Human Resource Management at (801) 581-7447 if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules.
This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.
The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education.
Veterans’ preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.
Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran’s status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.
To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX (OEO). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator’s office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at the: University of Utah Non-Discrimination page.
Online reports may be submitted at https://oeo.utah.edu
This report includes statistics about criminal offenses, hate crimes, arrests and referrals for disciplinary action, and Violence Against Women Act offenses. They also provide information about safety and security-related services offered by the University of Utah. A paper copy can be obtained by request at the Department of Public Safety located at 1658 East 500 South.
As per University of Utah policy 5-108: Transfer of Benefits Eligible Staff Members, a new hire to the University of Utah who is still serving a 12 month probationary period will not be hired into another University of Utah job (a transfer) until the successful completion of the probationary period.
See all J-1 Visa Senior Technical Support Specialist Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new J-1 Visa Senior Technical Support Specialist Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding J-1 Visa Sponsorship as a Senior Technical Support Specialist
Document your technical credentials precisely
Your DS-2019 training plan must align your degree and prior work experience with the specific technical systems you'll support in the U.S. Vague credentials, 'IT background' instead of named platforms, certifications, or ticketing systems, give designated sponsors grounds to reject your application.
Target host employers with established J-1 programs
Use Migrate Mate to filter Senior Technical Support Specialist roles by employers already familiar with J-1 visa host requirements. Companies that have hosted J-1 Trainees or Specialists before move faster through the DS-2019 process and rarely need educating on training plan requirements.
Separate the host employer from the designated sponsor
Your hiring manager signs the training plan, but a State Department-designated organization like Cultural Vistas or AIPT issues your DS-2019. Clarify this distinction early in interviews so employers don't assume they must file paperwork themselves, which can stall or kill offers.
Verify the two-year home residency requirement applies
If your home country funds technical training programs or your role falls under a skills-shortage designation, you may be subject to the two-year home residency requirement before adjusting to another visa status. Check your DS-2019 and J-1 category against State Department guidance before accepting an offer.
Align your training plan with O*NET task descriptions
Designated sponsors cross-reference training plans against standard occupation definitions. Pull the O*NET profile for Senior Technical Support Specialist roles and use its listed tasks and knowledge areas as the backbone of your training plan narrative to reduce sponsor review delays.
Confirm host employer wage compliance before signing
Your host employer must pay J-1 Trainees and Specialists at a rate consistent with similarly employed U.S. workers. Run the role's location and title through the OFLC Wage Search to verify the prevailing wage before your offer letter is finalized, not after.
Senior Technical Support Specialist J-1 Visa: Frequently Asked Questions
Which J-1 program category applies to Senior Technical Support Specialist roles?
Most Senior Technical Support Specialist placements fall under the J-1 Trainee or Specialist category. Trainee is the right fit if you've graduated within the past 12 months or have fewer than five years of post-degree experience. Specialist applies if you're an established professional with a strong record in your technical field and are gaining exposure to U.S. practices specifically unavailable in your home country.
Who actually sponsors my J-1 visa for a technical support role?
The visa sponsor is a U.S. Department of State-designated organization, not your employer. Organizations like Cultural Vistas, AIPT, or CIEE issue your DS-2019 form and monitor program compliance. Your employer is the 'host' and signs the training plan, but they don't hold sponsor status and cannot issue the DS-2019 themselves.
How do I find U.S. employers open to hosting a J-1 technical support professional?
Migrate Mate lets you search for Senior Technical Support Specialist roles at U.S. employers who are already familiar with J-1 program hosting requirements. Targeting companies with prior J-1 hosting experience reduces the risk of an offer falling through because the employer is unwilling to engage a designated sponsor organization or complete a training plan.
Does the two-year home residency requirement affect J-1 technical support placements?
It can. If your home country appears on the State Department's exchange visitor skills list, or if your J-1 exchange is financed by your home government or a U.S. government agency, you'll be subject to the two-year home residency requirement. This means you'd need to return home for two years before changing to H-1B visa or green card status, so verify your situation with your designated sponsor before accepting an offer.
What does a J-1 training plan need to include for a technical support role?
Your training plan, filed on Form DS-7002, must detail the specific technical skills, systems, and support methodologies you'll learn in the U.S. that aren't accessible in your home country. For Senior Technical Support Specialists, this typically includes platform-specific troubleshooting workflows, escalation procedures, and diagnostic tools. The plan must show clear phase progression and measurable objectives, not a generic job description.