J-1 Visa Senior Technical Writer Jobs
Senior Technical Writer roles in the U.S. are accessible to international professionals through J-1 visa sponsorship, typically under the Trainee or Specialist program category. A State Department-designated sponsor organization issues your DS-2019, while the hiring company serves as your host employer. 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 Writer Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new J-1 Visa Senior Technical Writer Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding J-1 Visa Sponsorship as a Senior Technical Writer
Align your portfolio with specialty occupation criteria
J-1 visa Trainee and Specialist categories require demonstrated professional-level expertise. Compile a portfolio showing API documentation, structured authoring in DITA or similar frameworks, and software development lifecycle work to substantiate your technical depth to sponsors.
Identify host employers with structured training programs
J-1 hosts must commit to a formal training plan, not just on-the-job duties. Target technology companies and SaaS firms with documented onboarding or rotational programs, since these organizations already have the internal structure sponsors require for DS-2019 approval.
Search for J-1-friendly roles using Migrate Mate
Filter by employers with J-1 hosting history on Migrate Mate before investing time in applications. Reaching out to companies that have never hosted exchange visitors requires them to build a sponsor relationship from scratch, which significantly slows the process.
Clarify the two-year home residency requirement early
Some J-1 Specialist and Trainee placements in government-funded or skills-shortage fields trigger a two-year home residency requirement under INA 212(e). Ask your designated sponsor whether your specific training plan and funding source implicate this requirement before accepting a host offer.
Prepare your training plan documentation before the offer stage
Sponsors require a detailed Training or Internship Placement Plan outlining learning objectives, supervision structure, and evaluation milestones. Draft this document in collaboration with your prospective host before formally engaging a sponsor, as incomplete plans are the most common cause of DS-2019 delays.
Verify your host employer's E-Verify enrollment status
Designated sponsors increasingly require host employers to participate in E-Verify as a compliance condition for issuing a DS-2019. Confirming enrollment before your host submits paperwork to the sponsor prevents late-stage rejections that can collapse an otherwise approved placement.
Senior Technical Writer J-1 Visa: Frequently Asked Questions
Which J-1 program category fits a Senior Technical Writer role?
Most Senior Technical Writer placements fall under the J-1 Trainee or Specialist category. Trainee applies if you've graduated within the past 12 months or are combining education with practical experience. Specialist applies if you have specialized expertise in technical communication developed over several years of professional practice. Your designated sponsor determines which category fits based on your background and the host's training plan.
Who actually sponsors my J-1 visa as a technical writer, the employer or a separate organization?
The hiring company is your host employer, not your visa sponsor. Your J-1 visa sponsor is a U.S. Department of State-designated organization, such as CIEE, Cultural Vistas, or AIPT, that issues your DS-2019 form, monitors your compliance, and signs your training plan. The host employer must be approved by and work through that designated sponsor to place you legally.
How do I find host employers that have worked with J-1 sponsors before?
Use Migrate Mate to identify U.S. employers with a demonstrated history of hosting international professionals in technical writing and related roles. Employers already familiar with the J-1 host process have existing relationships with designated sponsors and internal contacts who can execute the training plan approval quickly, reducing your placement timeline significantly.
Does a J-1 Trainee or Specialist category for technical writing trigger the two-year home residency rule?
It depends on your nationality, your country of residence at the time of visa issuance, and whether your training is funded by your home government or a U.S. government agency. Technical writing placements at private technology companies with no government funding typically do not trigger the requirement under INA 212(e), but your designated sponsor must confirm this based on your specific DS-2019 circumstances.
Can I switch host employers mid-program if a better technical writing role comes up?
Changing host employers during an active J-1 program requires your designated sponsor's approval and a new or amended training plan. The new host must meet the same eligibility criteria as your original placement, and your sponsor must issue an updated DS-2019 reflecting the change. You cannot simply start at a new company without completing this process, as working outside your approved training plan violates J-1 status terms.