Research & Development Manager

The C.A.R.E. Wellness Center is a 501(c)3-approved nonprofit organization founded in 2020 and based in Washington state. Christlike Agro-Tourism for Racial Equality (C.A.R.E.) develops safe, holistic spaces for people of color and allies of equality to retreat and combat effects of Post-Traumatic Slave Syndrome (PTSS). The program focuses on self-mastery and the holistic balancing of mind, body, and spirit. C.A.R.E. is non-religious and non-denominational, incorporating universal principles from Christianity, Judaism, Buddhism, Hinduism, Taoism, and A Course In Miracles.

About the Organization

C.A.R.E. Wellness Center is a nonprofit charity with a mission to provide a safe farm stay, holistic retreat, and wellness programs for the BIPOC community and allies. Programs serve vulnerable populations, including justice-involved individuals, foster youth, and those facing mental health challenges. The organization’s vision is connectivity to nature, to God, and to self, aiming to establish a spiritual retreat for healing from PTSS and achieving self-actualization.

About the Role

This is a volunteer, part-time, remote position based in Olympia, Washington. The Research & Development Manager will report to the Chief Executive Officer and work flexible hours within 10 AM–2 PM PST, Monday through Friday. The role involves overseeing research initiatives, managing data analysis, and fostering partnerships with universities, funders, and community stakeholders to advance the organization’s mission.

This unique opportunity includes contributing to the development of an app and systems for intentional communities, integrating wellness tracking, community engagement, and Time Bank functionality.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive research on wellness practices, agrotourism, mental and physical health, holistic and sustainable living, and culture and racial equities.
• Design and implement research projects to develop trauma-informed, culturally competent programs.
• Analyze qualitative and quantitative data to inform strategic decisions and program development.
• Collaborate with Program, Finance, and Marketing teams to integrate research into offerings and campaigns.
• Partner with IT and R&D teams to develop app features and systems for intentional communities (The Circuit app).
• Stay current on trends in wellness, mental health, and community-based interventions.
• Manage R&D budgets and resources efficiently.
• Prepare detailed reports, dashboards, and presentations for leadership and stakeholders.
• Uphold confidentiality and ethical research practices.

Requirements

• Master’s degree or higher in Psychology, Public Health, Environmental Science, Data Science, or a related field.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in research and development, preferably in wellness or nonprofit sectors.
• Proficiency in qualitative and quantitative research methods.
• Strong analytical and communication skills; ability to translate findings for diverse audiences.
• Familiarity with app development concepts and willingness to collaborate on tech-driven solutions.
• Commitment to trauma-informed care, sustainability, and racial equity.
• Commitment to the values of spirituality, sustainability, and equality.

Skills

• 35+ WPM typing speed; excellent oral, written, and digital communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong organizational and project management skills for timelines and deliverables.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Suite, SharePoint, Slack/Yodel, research tools (Qualtrics, SurveyMonkey), data analytics (Excel, Power BI, SPSS/R), and project management (Notion).

Work Conditions & Physical Requirements

Primarily remote with occasional in-person meetings and events; minimal physical exertion; may involve local travel.