About the position

Join AIR as a Research Assistant within our Workforce Development program area, where we are dedicated to supporting a healthy, productive, and evolving workforce that is vital to the United States' economy and democracy. Our team comprises experts with decades of experience in workforce policy and practice, labor policy, postsecondary transformation, economics, and adult education. We work collaboratively to address structural barriers in the workforce across race, class, and gender, providing rigorous research and evaluation, as well as results-driven technical assistance and training throughout the United States at all levels of the system. Our focus areas include career and technical education, postsecondary education, workforce policy and programs, adult learning, human capital solutions, and support for individuals with disabilities. The Workforce Program Area (WPA) emphasizes the full employment cycle in the U.S., which encompasses workforce readiness, recruitment, selection, performance management, occupational training, postsecondary education, and improving employment and life outcomes for all individuals, particularly those from underserved populations. Our team is passionate about enhancing workforce outcomes to expand economic opportunity. The Research Assistant may have a specific focus area within the program but will also support work across the WPA. This role is an opportunity to leverage your experience, knowledge, and education to help us fulfill our mission of contributing to a better, more equitable world. Candidates hired for this position may work remotely from anywhere within the United States or from one of our U.S. office locations, excluding U.S. territories. Established in 1946 and headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, AIR is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit institution that conducts behavioral and social science research and provides technical assistance to address some of the most pressing challenges in the U.S. and globally. We advance evidence in education, health, workforce, human services, and international development to create a more equitable world. AIR is committed to diversity, which is integrated into our strategy, operations, and work environment. We define diversity broadly, valuing unique life and community experiences, and believe that embracing diverse perspectives drives innovation and employee engagement.

Responsibilities

Conduct literature reviews to support projects and proposals.

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Assist staff in the review, identification, and development of scholarly information describing research findings.

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Participate in the collection, analysis, and review of research and evaluation data.

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Develop spreadsheets and databases to support project activities.

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Analyze quantitative and qualitative research data and contribute to the reporting and interpretation of findings.

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Conduct analysis of workforce or human service agencies' client-centered services, applying principles of behavioral economics, human-centered design, or user-centered research to improve program delivery.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as social sciences, education, or public policy.

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Experience in conducting literature reviews and analyzing research data.

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Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret quantitative and qualitative data.

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Proficiency in developing spreadsheets and databases for project support.

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Knowledge of workforce development issues and policies.

Nice-to-haves

Experience with behavioral economics or human-centered design methodologies.

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Familiarity with workforce or human service agencies' client-centered services.

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Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Benefits

Flexible work arrangements including remote work options.

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Comprehensive health insurance coverage.

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Retirement savings plan with employer matching contributions.

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Professional development opportunities and continued education support.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as social sciences, education, or public policy
Experience in conducting literature reviews and analyzing research data
Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret quantitative and qualitative data
Proficiency in developing spreadsheets and databases for project support
Knowledge of workforce development issues and policies
Experience with behavioral economics or human-centered design methodologies
Familiarity with workforce or human service agencies' client-centered services
Strong written and verbal communication skills

Benefits

Flexible work arrangements including remote work options
Comprehensive health insurance coverage
Retirement savings plan with employer matching contributions
Professional development opportunities and continued education support

Responsibilities

Conduct literature reviews to support projects and proposals
Assist staff in the review, identification, and development of scholarly information describing research findings
Participate in the collection, analysis, and review of research and evaluation data
Develop spreadsheets and databases to support project activities
Analyze quantitative and qualitative research data and contribute to the reporting and interpretation of findings
Conduct analysis of workforce or human service agencies' client-centered services, applying principles of behavioral economics, human-centered design, or user-centered research to improve program delivery

Research Assistant, Workforce Development

Job Type