Westat is seeking Data Collectors to participate in the National Occupant Protection Use Survey (NOPUS). In this role, you will collect critical seatbelt use data, primarily working outdoors with a partner at various traffic intersections.

What You'll Do

Observe seatbelt use at surface street intersections, interstates, and controlled intersections.
Work with a partner and use an electronic tablet to collect observations.
Travel locally to and from assignment locations in the same vehicle as your partner.

What We're Looking For

Be 18 years of age or older (or an emancipated minor) with the ability to enter binding confidentiality agreements.
Be available to attend mandatory in-person project training May 28-29, 2026, in Maryland.
Be available to complete mandatory web-based home study training prior to the in-person training.
Live in the geographic area defined by the project.
Be available to work the field period from June 1-14, 2026.
Be available to work up to 10–12 hours per day, every day of the week, for up to 2 weeks.
Be able to travel locally to and from assignment locations.
Be able to meet the physical requirements of the position: lift and carry equipment up to 15 pounds; be outdoors in a variety of weather conditions for several hours; stand for up to 120 minutes at a time; walk up to a mile.
Have regular and reliable access to cellular telephone service with a long-distance calling feature.
Have regular and reliable access to a secure high-speed internet connection.
Have consistent access to a fully insured, reliable vehicle meeting Westat’s minimum insurance coverage requirements.
Have a current and valid driver’s license that is not under suspension.
Have experience using a smartphone or tablet, including connecting to Wi-Fi and managing email on a mobile device.

Nice to Have

Previous Westat transportation or other field data collection experience.
Be willing to travel out of state for project work, with the possibility of overnight travel.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Experience working with the general public.

Technical Stack

Electronic tablet

Team & Environment

Work in tandem with a partner for the duration of the field period.

Benefits & Compensation

The hourly pay rate for this assignment is $23.42.
Eligible for overtime pay.
Accrue sick leave based on hours worked.
Eligible to participate in the 401(k) program with employer matching dependent on hours worked.
Eligible for health insurance and an HSA after working 1,560 hours from September through September of the following year.

Work Mode

This role is fully onsite. Work will be performed at the specified locations in San Diego, CA.

Westat is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, citizenship status, genetic information, or any other protected status under applicable law.