AIR is currently seeking a Principal Researcher for our Workforce Development program area within AIR’s Human Services Division to lead mixed-methods research projects and to serve as the Director for AIR’s Center on Promoting Resilience, Opportunity, and Mobility in Support of Equity (PROMISE ). The ideal candidate will bring thought leadership, content knowledge, and methodological expertise, to curating research to improve equitable economic outcomes for all.
We seek dynamic leaders who will thrive in a fast-paced yet collegial environment, working as part of a growing team with ambitious aspirations and evolving needs. Join us in our mission to improve equitable opportunity and economic outcomes for disadvantaged populations and communities.
Candidates hired for the position may work remotely within the United States (U.S.) or from one of our U.S. office locations.
About AIR:
Established in 1946, with headquarters in Arlington, Virginia, AIR is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit institution that conducts behavioral and social science research and delivers technical assistance to solve some of the most urgent challenges in the U.S. and around the world. We advance evidence in the areas of education, health, the workforce, human services, and international development to create a better, more equitable world.
AIR’s commitment to diversity goes beyond legal compliance to its full integration in our strategy, operations, and work environment. At AIR, we define diversity broadly, considering everyone’s unique life and community experiences. We believe that embracing diverse perspectives, abilities/disabilities, racial/ethnic and cultural backgrounds, styles, ages, genders, gender identities and expressions, education backgrounds, and life stories drives innovation and employee engagement. Learn more about AIR's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Strategy and hear from our staff by clicking here .
Principal Researchers provide leadership, mentorship, and technical advice in support of AIR research and evaluation projects to ensure research integrity, appropriate design and application of research methodologies and analysis techniques, development of accurate conclusions, clear reporting, applicability to problems of practice, and client satisfaction. Important aspects of the role include the leadership and development of research grant and evaluation proposals, directing research projects, contributing to the strategic direction of AIR’s workforce research practice, and mentoring and developing AIR research staff. In addition, in the role as Director of AIR’s PROMISE Center, the individual oversees a portfolio of initiatives funded through AIR’s semi-endowment, the AIR Equity Initiative , to scale evidence-based or promising interventions to reach communities and populations historically underserved by opportunity. Those efforts include collaboration opportunities with external thought partners, to advance the vision for equitable access to opportunity for workers now and in the future.
- Develop conceptual frameworks that address research and evaluation topics.
- Oversee the planning, design, and implementation of research projects, including methods, procedures and reporting.
- Serve as Project Director and/or Principal Investigator, directing or helping to direct and manage large, complex research projects or a series of smaller projects.
- Lead the review, analyses, and syntheses of data and information using appropriate practices and techniques, and ensure that projects are designed around client needs with sound methodology.
- Serve as an expert in the field and disseminate findings through publication of papers, progress and technical reports, and presentation at seminars and research conferences.
- Lead proposal efforts, maintain excellent business development relationships, and serve as the primary client contact for research and evaluation projects.
- Oversee the portfolio of PROMISE Center funded initiatives and identify ongoing opportunities to thread connective insights to internal and external audiences.
- Curate external relationships and visibility by engaging thought leaders, innovators, and implementation partners across workforce and post-secondary education institutions as we reimagine the possibilities for improving economic prosperity for all.
- Develop strategic plans and funding opportunities for future growth of the PROMISE Center.
The ideal candidate will bring entrepreneurial talent to identify and pursue a portfolio-driven research agenda with mixed methods approaches that includes assessing the feasibility of rigorous evaluation alternatives and designing research appropriate and relevant to the client’s needs. Experience and expertise in issues related to workforce policy and development, such as unemployment insurance and reemployment programs, dislocated worker supports, apprenticeship, youth workforce development, and/or sector strategies, is required, as well as a demonstrated ability to apply this knowledge to real-world policy and programmatic decision-making.
Education, Knowledge and Experience:
- PhD with a minimum of 7 years of related experience or MA with a minimum of 11 years of related experience in economics, sociology, education, psychology, or related field, with a strong background in econometrics, statistics, and research design
- Thought leader with sophisticated understanding of the policy landscape and evidence gaps in workforce development, as demonstrated through publications/presentations, award of contracts and grants, and overall body of work
- Proven track record of winning competitive contracts/grants from various funding organizations (e.g., Federal, state, and local government; foundations)
- Demonstrated success in leading field-based research projects
- Demonstrated experience in leading projects utilizing behavioral economics, rapid-cycle evaluations, or other cutting-edge methodologies desired but not required
- 10 years project leadership and development experience, including proposal writing, project management, staff supervision and report writing desired but not required
Skills:
- Collaborative leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills with individuals at all levels (especially senior level) and from diverse backgrounds
- Proven ability to develop research staff capacity in research design and methods, project management, client relationships, research publication and business development
- Commitment to AIR’s Mission and the application of research findings for the benefit of stakeholders
Disclosures:
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination on the basis of age, race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.
AIR adheres to strict child safeguarding principles. All selected candidates will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles and will therefore undergo reference and background checks.
AIR’s Total Rewards Program , is designed to reward our staff competitively and motivate them to achieve our critical mission. This position offers an anticipated annual salary of $155,000 - $180,000. Salary offers are made based on internal equity within the institution and external equity with competitive markets. Please note this is the annual salary range for candidates that are based in the United States.
AIR maintains a drug-free work environment .
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