Market research analysts study data and market conditions to help companies determine their target demographics and how much consumers are willing to pay for a product.

“Market research uses data to create insights that lead society and businesses to make important decisions,” Melanie Courtright, CEO of the Insights Association, a professional organization for the insights and analytics industry, wrote in an email. “A market research analyst is heavily involved in all phases of market research projects designed to deliver those insights.”

Duties may include:
Communicating with stakeholders and participating in meetings.
Analyzing data and creating visualizations.
Ensuring project timelines are met.
Monitoring sales trends. 
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 13.4% employment growth for market research analysts between 2022 and 2032. In that period, an estimated 116,600 jobs should open up.

You typically need a bachelor’s degree to become a market research analyst. However, according to the BLS, some positions, including those focusing on technical research, may require a master’s degree.

“Many in the industry have social science, technical or business degrees, but the industry is open to anyone who is curious and interested in understanding the consumer and research,” Courtright says.

A market research analyst’s job requires understanding data, so having a good grasp of statistics is essential. As the job title implies, those who plan to work in this field should also study marketing and research methods. Courses on consumer behavior and communications can also be helpful in this position.

While not required, certificates from universities and certifications from professional organizations show that market research analysts can do their jobs with expertise and proficiency.