Dynamic Recruiting & Customer Care Associate – Flexible Part‑Time Schedule (Remote/Hybrid) – Consumer Research & Sensory Testing Support at arenaflex

Welcome to arenaflex – Pioneering Sensory Insight for Everyday Brands

At arenaflex, we empower the voices of everyday consumers to shape the next generation of food, beverage, pet, and health‑and‑beauty products. Our global sensory and consumer research consultancy translates real‑world preferences into actionable insights, enabling our clients to develop memorable experiences that delight the senses. From concept validation to product launch, arenaflex is the trusted partner that bridges the gap between innovative ideas and market success.

Why This Role Matters

As a Recruiting & Customer Care Associate, you are the first point of contact for our valued respondents—those everyday people whose honest feedback fuels our clients’ breakthroughs. Your talent for communication, problem‑solving, and meticulous data handling will ensure that every taste test, product concept, and packaging evaluation is powered by reliable, high‑quality participant data. In short, you help turn a simple sip or bite into a data‑driven story that shapes brands worldwide.

Position Overview

This is a part‑time, flexible‑schedule opportunity with a blend of remote work and occasional on‑site meetings in the Twin Cities, Minnesota. You will engage with respondents via phone, live chat, SMS, email, and social‑media messengers, guiding them through study requirements, qualifying them for panels, and delivering first‑call resolutions. Your role also encompasses proactive outbound outreach, database stewardship, and continuous performance improvement through metrics‑driven training.

Key Responsibilities

Customer Care – Phone Interaction

• Research Project Familiarity: Master the active sensory studies—understand screening criteria, quotas, logistics, and where to locate supporting documentation.
• Inbound Management: Field respondent calls and online chats from the main arenaflex line, directing them toward high‑priority tests and ensuring a courteous, welcoming experience.
• First‑Call Resolution: Identify the root cause of each inquiry, articulate clear solutions, expedite any necessary adjustments, and follow up to confirm satisfaction.
• Qualification Verification: Confirm that respondents meet all eligibility requirements before scheduling them for a test, using a keen ear to read tone and behavior.
• Scoring & Panel Matching: Assess respondents on‑the‑fly, assigning scores based on key demographic and behavioral factors needed for specific panels.
• Outbound Outreach: Conduct cold‑calls to existing contacts, internal respondents, and prospective participants to fill study slots.
• Host Support: Assist hosts when a lead is unavailable, ensuring seamless continuity of the recruitment pipeline.

Digital Channel & Database Management

• Digital First Approach: Resolve inquiries through live chat, SMS, email, or social‑messenger; transition to phone when issues exceed digital capabilities.
• Timely Response: Answer incoming questions within established service‑level agreements, keeping respondents informed and engaged.
• Database Hygiene: Meet daily targets for recurring data‑cleaning projects; proactively update respondent records to maintain accuracy.
• Hard‑Copy Communication: Manage physical correspondence supporting database updates and project‑specific outreach.
• Special Projects: Execute ad‑hoc administrative tasks for the recruiting department, such as report generation or process documentation.

Metrics, Training, & Continuous Improvement

• Phone Metrics: Achieve monthly targets for Average Handle Time, Average Talk Time, and Utilization.
• Digital Metrics: Meet goals for average wait time, handle time, and utilization on digital channels.
• Billability: Reach monthly billable hour requirements aligned with departmental budgeting.
• Quarterly Training: Participate in scheduled training sessions; complete quizzes within set timeframes to demonstrate competency.

Essential Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED equivalent (required).
• Comfortable navigating multiple digital communication channels (live chat, SMS, email, social‑media messenger).
• Strong verbal communication skills; confident phone presence.
• Demonstrated problem‑solving ability and proactive mindset.
• Interpersonal aptitude for building rapport with diverse respondents.
• Reliable, punctual, and able to work collaboratively within a remote‑first environment.

Preferred (Nice‑to‑Have) Qualifications

• Exposure to CRM platforms such as Salesforce or similar systems.
• Previous experience with call‑center software or VoIP solutions.
• Background in consumer research, market research, or related fields.
• Familiarity with data‑cleaning best practices and basic Excel functions.

Core Skills & Competencies

• Active Listening: Ability to pick up subtle cues in tone and language to assess fit for panels.
• Organizational Acumen: Manage multiple inbound/outbound streams while maintaining data integrity.
• Technical Agility: Navigate internal databases, digital chat tools, and basic office software with ease.
• Empathy & Customer Focus: Deliver a friendly, respectful experience that makes respondents feel valued.
• Time Management: Balance shifting daily schedules, meet metric targets, and adapt to evolving study needs.

Compensation, Benefits, & Perks

Hourly Rate: $16.00 per hour (commensurate with experience).

Even as a part‑time team member, you will enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Eligibility for arenaflex’s 401(k) Savings Incentive Plan (prorated based on hours worked).
• Accrued Paid Time Off (PTO) and holiday pay.
• Medical insurance eligibility for associates scheduled 30–34 hours per week.
• Opportunities for professional development, including quarterly training modules and industry‑specific webinars.
• Access to a supportive, inclusive community that values diversity, disabled veterans, and all team members.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

The role is primarily remote, allowing you to work from the comfort of your home while residing within commuting distance of the Twin Cities (or specifically Plymouth, MN). Occasional on‑site visits may be required for in‑person meetings, equipment pick‑up, or IT support.

Physical requirements include the ability to sit, stand, and speak for extended periods; occasional lifting of up to 35 lb (up to 50 lb with assistance); and normal visual acuity for computer work.

Career Growth & Learning Opportunities

At arenaflex, your professional journey is a priority. As you master the recruiting and customer care workflow, you’ll have pathways to advance into senior recruiting coordination, data‑analysis roles, or broader client‑service positions within our global research network. We sponsor internal mentorship programs, provide tuition reimbursement for relevant coursework, and encourage cross‑functional project involvement to broaden your skill set.

How to Apply

If you are enthusiastic about connecting people with the products they love, enjoy a fast‑paced, data‑driven environment, and thrive in a flexible, remote‑centric role, we want to hear from you. Click the link below to submit your application and join the innovative team at arenaflex.

Apply Now – Join arenaflex Today!

Closing Statement

Become a vital voice in the conversation between consumers and brands. At arenaflex, every call you field, every respondent you qualify, and every problem you solve contributes directly to the creation of products that delight millions. Bring your passion for people, your analytical mindset, and your flexible work ethic to a role that celebrates both. Apply today and help shape the future of sensory experience!