Research Assistant

Research Assistant
Health and Barriers to Employment

MDRC is seeking a Research Assistant to work on projects in our policy area. The research projects gauge the impacts of programs designed to help identify the most effective ways to improve labor market outcomes for individuals facing serious barriers to employment. In recent years, the policy area has developed new bodies of research on programs for individuals with health problems and disabilities and for youth and adults in the criminal and juvenile justice systems.

MDRC is seeking candidates interested in blending research skills, knowledge of programs or research on adults and youth with disabilities or other serious barriers to employment, and strong organizational skills. The Research Assistant will have the unusual opportunity to work as part of a multidisciplinary team on current social policy issues related to health and employment in a dynamic and challenging environment, under the guidance and supervision of leading public policy researchers.

Responsibilities:

The position provides the successful candidate an opportunity to focus on a range of non-technical and organizational tasks, including:

• Active involvement in various stages of producing reports, proposals, and papers coordinating across authors, writing, fact-checking, presentation of data, and documentation
• Assistance in all stages of evaluations summarizing literature searches, drafting project management and progress reports, participating in site visits, and collecting evaluation data
• Helping the policy area director with general project management, including developing and maintaining project files, arranging meetings with external research partners and funders, and handling correspondence

Qualifications:

Candidates should have a BA/BS in public policy, sociology, psychology, or a related field, and a demonstrated interest in social policy issues. Desired knowledge and skills include a basic understanding of quantitative and qualitative research methods, excellent attention to detail and organizational skills, strong interpersonal skills, strong writing skills, and ability to multi-task. Experience with Microsoft Word and Excel are a plus. Candidates should also be comfortable working in a team-oriented and fast-paced environment.

The position is based in MDRC’s New York office. Some on-the-job training is provided. Salary and level will be commensurate with experience. Comprehensive fringe benefits offered.