Job Details

Position Summary

The Research Associate role is an extraordinary opportunity to join the Public Policy Institute of California, a unique organization that believes in the power of good information to build a brighter future. As a Research Associate you will play a crucial role within the PK12 Education research team to help deliver objective, non-partisan work that meets PPIC's high standards for excellence, relevance, and transparency. This team focuses on conducting research to inform long-term and real-time education policy issues in California. As a Research Associate I or II, you will provide foundational analytical support to PPIC research projects, under the close direction and with the guidance of at least one senior research colleague. You will gain exposure and an understanding of your policy area while also learning how to consistently meet PPIC's high standards for excellence in the quality of our research.

Key Responsibilities

Includes but is not limited to the following work activities; time estimates are provided as general guidelines and may vary throughout the research process and across individuals according to strengths.

Project related work (60-70% time)
• Assemble, manipulate, code, and analyze both quantitative and qualitative data with an emphasis on accuracy
• Conduct statistical analysis with guidance from senior research colleagues using statistical software
• Use and expand agility with and understanding of the analytical tools that support PPIC's work, and when appropriate share that expertise with the wider PPIC research community
• Consult the research literature, perform searches, prepare bibliographies, abstract source materials, stay informed on developments in the literature
• Collect policy and budget information and stay informed on developments in the policy environment
• Track progress and prioritize activities to meet key deadlines

Communication Activities (10-20% time)
• Writing: Draft sections of written research publications (typically technical appendices), and draft and/or update short products for a PPIC audience, with guidance from senior research colleagues
• Public Speaking: Deliver research presentations to internal and external audiences, typically short and related to specific research projects

Engagement Activities (10-20% of your time)
• Media: Engagements with the media not expected, but gains exposure with senior research colleagues as appropriate
• Networking and Outreach: Participate in outreach and engagement, with guidance from senior research colleagues
• Funding: Provide support for funding proposals
• Institutional Engagement: Participate in institutional efforts, with guidance from senior colleagues

Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in public policy, economics, sociology, political science, demography, data science, or related field that includes training in quantitative and qualitative analysis, or equivalent experience.

Relevant experience: Experience conducting policy research and working with large data sets, preferably using at least one statistical software package, along with outstanding analytical ability.Demonstrated interest in applied policy research in topics relevant to PPIC's research objectives.

Computer Skills: Knowledge of Stata, SAS, R or another statistical software program (Stata or R is preferred). Familiarity with Microsoft Office 365 and ability to learn other software programs.

Project Management skills: Attention to detail and accuracy; strong organization skills to manage complex tasks and verbal instructions, ability to prioritize work effectively and adjust to multiple demands.

Verbal Communication: Able to develop clear and concise verbal communications with colleagues across the institute.

Written Communication: Able to develop written communications with strong editing abilities and presentation skills.

Collaborative Style: Adept at building relationships and work collaboratively with diverse groups of colleagues across the institute. Able to effectively manage key internal relationships. Committed to delivering high quality output in a timely manner to enhance the success of the team and the institute. Able to act with integrity, responsibility, and dependability.

Resourceful: Able to take initiative, maintain focus, and work independently to manage multiple deliverables and timelines. A problem-solver who is proactive, motivated, and wellorganized with keen attention to detail.

To Apply

Applications will be considered as they are received, and the position will remain posted until filled. Please tailor your cover letter to highlight how your credentials meet the qualifications listed above. The budgeted salary range for this position is $60,000 - $82,000, dependent on experience. In determining an offer level for a candidate, PPIC considers a variety of factors including but not limited to the specific role and associated responsibilities; internal equity; and a candidate's work experience, education, training, skills and other expertise. In addition to the salary, the role offers a generous benefit package, excellent work environment, and an exciting mission that will inspire you daily! The comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision insurance for employee and dependents. PPIC contributes the equivalent of 9% of the salary towards the retirement plan. The organization provides 12 paid holidays and 28 days of PTO annually (PTO balance increases with tenure), and more!

Equal Employer Opportunity (EEO) statement:

PPIC celebrates diversity and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to building a team that represents the backgrounds, perspectives, identities, and skills of California. No matter who you are, we invite you to apply for this role.Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. AA/EEO/Veterans/Disabled employer.