RESEARCH ASSOCIATE – Equitable Economic Growth, Oakland, CA

100% FTE
Compensation – (Competitive salary commensurate with experience)

This position, available immediately, is an exciting opportunity to join the staff at PolicyLink. PolicyLink is a national research and action institute advancing economic and social equity by Lifting Up What Works.® PolicyLink collaborates with a broad range of partners to implement strategies to ensure that everyone—including those from low-income communities of color—can contribute to and benefit from economic growth and prosperity. Please visit our website at www.policylink.org.
Position Description:
We are seeking a Research Associate to support efforts to advance policy changes that promote equitable economic development and growth at the local, regional, state, and federal levels. The successful candidate will be a core member of a team working to launch a new partnership between PolicyLink and the Program on Environmental and Regional Equity (PERE), which is a research institute based at the University of Southern California. In 2011, the team will develop the evidence base to support the proposition that a focus on equity—the economic and social inclusion of low-income communities and communities of color—is essential to secure our future economic prosperity, particularly in the context of our demographic transition to a majority people of color nation by 2050. The partnership will also develop a project focused on regional equity indicators, and provide research to support PolicyLink advocacy campaigns. Work products will include a written report for a fall release and several shorter interim research/policy briefs and analyses for public release.
In addition to this primary assignment, the Research Associate will provide analytical support to other PolicyLink projects focused on economic inclusion.
The Research Associate will report to an Associate Director with direction and support from the Vice President for Research. As a member of the research team, the Research Associate will have opportunities to work with PolicyLink staff in all parts of the organization.
Essential Responsibilities:
Conduct literature reviews and summaries of relevant economic, planning, and policy research Conduct qualitative research on promising practices and policies, including interviewing local leaders, analyzing findings, and writing or updating case studies Find, track, and monitor innovative programs and policies Analyze legislation and other policies Contribute to the development of written reports, proposals, policy briefs, fact sheets, blog posts, and other materials for publication Participate in building this new strategic partnership with PERE
Additional responsibilities may include: Performing local and regional economic development and employment analyses Organizing convenings and meetings Developing training materials and conducting trainings for community-based advocacy organizations
Qualifications/skills:
Master’s degree in urban and regional planning, community development, economics, public policy, or related social science Two years of relevant work experience conducting research to support policy development, advocacy, or organizing Excellent writing skills Strong research and analytical skills (ability to conduct qualitative research is necessary; ability to conduct qualitative and quantitative research is preferred) Ability to work within a fast-paced environment and maintain flexibility and a sense of humor while meeting deadlines Good time management skills and ability to effectively work on multiple projects Commitment to social equity issues and experience working with low-income communities of color Ability to produce maps, charts, and tables for reports is a plus
How to Apply:
Please submit your resume, cover letter, and a list of three professional references to:
PolicyLink – Equitable Economic Growth Search Committee
1438 Webster Street, Suite 303
Oakland, CA 94612 or:
Fax: 510-587-1113 or e-mail (Word Format – please) to jobs@policylink.org (please include in subject line: Your Name –Equitable Growth). - Position is open until filled.
Excellent benefits including 3 weeks paid vacation plus paid week of holiday at end of the year, health insurance including vision and dental care, life insurance, and 401(k) retirement plan.
PolicyLink is committed to maintaining a diverse, multicultural working environment.