Senior Level Research Lead Jobs
Senior level research lead jobs put experienced professionals in charge of defining research direction, owning study outcomes, and leading the cross-functional teams that execute complex investigations. Roles are concentrated across Science & Research, Technology & Software, and Electronics & Hardware, with a mix of on-site, remote, and hybrid settings, and employers like FAR.AI, Thomson Reuters, and UCB hiring at this level now.
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The people who work at Apple don't just build products; they craft the kind of wonder that has revolutionized entire industries. It's the diversity of those people, their backgrounds, and their ideas that inspires the innovation running through everything we do, from amazing technologies to industry-leading services and exceptional customer experiences, strengthening our dedication to leaving the world better than we found it. A job at Apple is unlike any other you've had: you will be challenged, you will be inspired, and you'll be proud. We invite you to be part of this journey.
Description
The Services Consumer Insights team is looking for a Senior Research Lead who will be responsible for managing quantitative and qualitative research studies for Apple Services. You will own studies end-to-end and partner closely with cross-functional teams to answer key strategic questions through rigorous, well-designed research. You will be a strategic thinker, influential communicator, and hands-on operator capable of translating business objectives into clearly defined research plans and delivering clear, actionable insights and recommendations that inform business decisions. An open mind, intellectual curiosity, analytical mindset, and eagerness to problem-solve are essential. Your role will be critical as Apple continues to pursue its ambitious growth objectives for Services. This role reports to the Head of Strategy, Planning and Consumer Insights, and is based in Los Angeles.
Minimum Qualifications
- 7+ years of hands-on primary quantitative and qualitative research experience, with a minimum of 3 years in a related industry (e.g., technology, entertainment, fin-tech).
- Ability to tell a story with both quantitative and qualitative inputs, including data tables, video, and first- and third-party data.
- Strong analytical skills with an understanding of when and how to apply advanced analytics.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong project management skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple projects at various stages in the research process and adhere to timelines.
- Proficient in Apple Suite and Office.
Preferred Qualifications
- BA or advanced degree in market/consumer research, marketing, or business; relevant work experience can substitute for a degree in the special areas listed.
- Client-side and research agency experience.
- Proficiency using SPSS/SAS.
At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $142,600 and $215,000, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.
Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple’s discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple’s Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You’ll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses — including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation. Learn more about Apple Benefits
Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.
Apple is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We seek to promote equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. Learn more about your EEO rights as an applicant
At Apple, we believe accessibility is a fundamental human right. You’ll find that idea reflected in everything here — in our culture, our benefits and our digital tools. By welcoming as many perspectives as possible, we help you build a career where you feel like you belong.
Learn about accessibility in Apple’s workplace
Learn about reasonable accommodations for job applicants
Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.
The people who work at Apple don't just build products; they craft the kind of wonder that has revolutionized entire industries. It's the diversity of those people, their backgrounds, and their ideas that inspires the innovation running through everything we do, from amazing technologies to industry-leading services and exceptional customer experiences, strengthening our dedication to leaving the world better than we found it. A job at Apple is unlike any other you've had: you will be challenged, you will be inspired, and you'll be proud. We invite you to be part of this journey.
Description
The Services Consumer Insights team is looking for a Senior Research Lead who will be responsible for managing quantitative and qualitative research studies for Apple Services. You will own studies end-to-end and partner closely with cross-functional teams to answer key strategic questions through rigorous, well-designed research. You will be a strategic thinker, influential communicator, and hands-on operator capable of translating business objectives into clearly defined research plans and delivering clear, actionable insights and recommendations that inform business decisions. An open mind, intellectual curiosity, analytical mindset, and eagerness to problem-solve are essential. Your role will be critical as Apple continues to pursue its ambitious growth objectives for Services. This role reports to the Head of Strategy, Planning and Consumer Insights, and is based in Los Angeles.
Minimum Qualifications
- 7+ years of hands-on primary quantitative and qualitative research experience, with a minimum of 3 years in a related industry (e.g., technology, entertainment, fin-tech).
- Ability to tell a story with both quantitative and qualitative inputs, including data tables, video, and first- and third-party data.
- Strong analytical skills with an understanding of when and how to apply advanced analytics.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong project management skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple projects at various stages in the research process and adhere to timelines.
- Proficient in Apple Suite and Office.
Preferred Qualifications
- BA or advanced degree in market/consumer research, marketing, or business; relevant work experience can substitute for a degree in the special areas listed.
- Client-side and research agency experience.
- Proficiency using SPSS/SAS.
At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $142,600 and $215,000, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.
Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple’s discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple’s Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You’ll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses — including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation. Learn more about Apple Benefits
Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.
Apple is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We seek to promote equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. Learn more about your EEO rights as an applicant
At Apple, we believe accessibility is a fundamental human right. You’ll find that idea reflected in everything here — in our culture, our benefits and our digital tools. By welcoming as many perspectives as possible, we help you build a career where you feel like you belong.
Learn about accessibility in Apple’s workplace
Learn about reasonable accommodations for job applicants
Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.
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Senior Level Research Lead Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a senior level research lead job?
Employers at this level look for candidates who have independently owned research programs from design through publication or delivery, not just contributed to them. Demonstrating that you've set methodological standards, mentored junior researchers, and influenced organizational decisions with your findings gives you a clear edge. A portfolio of high-impact work and experience presenting to senior stakeholders strengthens your candidacy significantly.
Which companies hire senior level research leads?
Companies hiring senior level research leads right now include FAR.AI, Thomson Reuters, and UCB, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Hiring at this level tends to come from organizations with dedicated research functions, including large technology companies, healthcare systems, consulting firms, and academic medical centers with applied research divisions.
Are there remote senior level research lead jobs?
Yes, though availability varies by industry and employer. About 83% of senior level research lead openings are remote or hybrid as of November 2026, reflecting strong demand for experienced researchers who can lead distributed teams. Roles tied to lab work, clinical settings, or on-site fieldwork are more likely to require an in-person presence.
What makes a research lead role senior level?
Senior level research lead roles carry full ownership of a research agenda rather than execution within someone else's framework. They require setting methodological direction, managing ambiguity at the program level, mentoring early-career researchers, and translating findings into strategic recommendations. The scope extends beyond individual studies to shaping how an organization approaches research as a function.
Which industries hire the most senior level research leads?
Senior Level research lead roles concentrate in Science & Research, Technology & Software, and Electronics & Hardware, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. These sectors invest heavily in original research to drive product development, inform policy, or sustain competitive advantage, creating consistent demand for experienced professionals who can lead complex, multi-stakeholder research programs.