Description
Out on the doorsteps, in tune with the nation.
As a Social Research Interviewer, you’ll play a vital role in capturing the voices that help shape public policy and services across the UK. You’ll visit people in their homes, using a tablet to guide conversations that uncover real stories about daily life — from routines and opinions to the challenges people face.
This isn’t a desk job — you’ll be out in the community, knocking on doors in your local area. While the people you visit will have received a letter about the research, they might not always be expecting you — or even want to take part. You’ll get doors closed, refusals, or no answer at all. That’s part of the job — and it can be tough at times. But if you're the kind of person who doesn’t take it personally and can bounce back with the same energy at the next door, this could be the perfect role for you.
What makes this role special is when someone says yes. When they open up and share their thoughts, you’ll know you’ve captured something that could genuinely improve public services and support for communities.
You’ll need resilience, confidence, and excellent people skills. If you're comfortable with rejection, motivated by meaningful conversations, and enjoy working independently, this could be the perfect role for you.
About Us
We’re Britain’s largest independent social research organisation. Every day, we help shape policies that impact millions of people — from transport and education to healthcare and housing.
Our work is trusted by government departments, charities, and universities because it’s powered by the real experiences of people like you. And that’s where you come in.
With a nationwide team of over 700 interviewers and nurses, we go out into communities to ask the questions that matter — the ones that help Britain understand itself better.
Our Recruitment Process
Our recruitment process blends human expertise with technology to ensure every application is thoroughly assessed.
Here’s what to expect:
* Application
* One-Way Video Interview (via Willo)
* Final Interview (including role play)
* Offer
* Background Checks
* Hired
If you require any reasonable adjustments to support you through the process, please let us know at natcenrecruitment@instant-impact.com .
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
We’re looking for someone who’s curious, confident, and driven by the desire to make a real difference. This role isn’t always easy — you’ll face knockbacks, unanswered doors, and the occasional difficult conversation. That’s why resilience matters just as much as people skills. You’ll need to bounce back quickly, stay positive, and keep going with the same level of energy. If you thrive on meaningful conversations, enjoy working independently, and are passionate about contributing to research that shapes public policy and services, we’d love to hear from you.
To be considered for this role, you’ll also need:
* A valid UK driving licence and sole use of a car.
* Class 1 Business insurance.
* The right to work in the UK.
* A willingness to complete a DBS check.
* A reliable broadband internet connection at home.
* A laptop or tablet with a camera.
* Confidence with basic technology.
* The ability to commit to at least 20 hours per week.
* Flexibility to work across weekdays, evenings, and weekends.
Benefits & Pay
This is a freelance role with flexible hours and performance-based pay. Typically £18–£20 per interview, plus additional admin fees and holiday pay (12.1%).
We also offer:
* Travel time (for most projects) at £4.68/hour.
* Mileage at 36p per mile (up to 10,000 miles).
* A £250 bonus after your two-day launch, plus two more £250 bonuses after two and four months of active work.
On average, our interviewers earn around £15.12 per hour (including holiday pay), with many earning more as they gain experience and build confidence.
At The National Centre for Social Research we believe that social research has the power to make life better. By really understanding the complexity of people’s lives and what they think about the issues that affect them, we give the public a powerful and influential role in shaping services that can make a difference to everyone. And as an independent, not-for-profit organisation we’re able to focus our time and energy on meeting our clients’ needs and delivering social research that works for society.