Res Assc-Social Science IV

Res Assc-Social Science IV

This senior-level position, within the Government Services and Research Division's Local Government Unit, supports the Institute's diverse portfolio of applied research and technical assistance work addressing local government operations, organizational effectiveness, staffing analyses, and financial studies. This position conducts significant applied research and technical assistance while serving as senior collaborator and managing complex public sector initiatives under the general guidance of faculty and project leadership.

The role drives substantive aspects of project execution, including research design, qualitative and quantitative analysis, data interpretation, and the creation of final deliverables. To ensure seamless project planning and continuity across multiple concurrent initiatives, the position collaborates closely with faculty, research professionals, local government officials, and external stakeholders. This role requires a high degree of professional judgment, independent analytical thinking, and the ability to translate complex research into actionable recommendations for local government clients.

Additional responsibilities include contributing to proposal development, supporting project coordination, facilitating stakeholder engagement, and driving the continued growth and effectiveness of the Local Government Unit's applied research and technical assistance services.

Knowledge of applied research methods, organizational assessment practices, and technical assistance approaches related to local government operations. Ability to conduct qualitative and quantitative research, analyze data, and develop evidence-based findings and recommendations. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to assess complex organizational, operational, and workforce-related issues. Knowledge of data analysis, reporting, and data visualization techniques used to support research and decision-making.

Ability to collaborate with faculty, project teams, local government officials, and stakeholders while managing multiple priorities and exercising independent judgment.

Duties/Responsibilities
- Applied Research & Technical Assistance Lead and oversee significant applied research and technical assistance projects related to local government operations, organizational assessments, staffing analyses, financial and expenditure studies, and other public sector initiatives. Direct research design, methodology development, data collection strategies, and project implementation activities. Exercise primary responsibility for substantive project outcomes while providing guidance to project team members and collaborating with faculty, clients, and stakeholders.

Duties/Responsibilities
- Qualitative & Quantitative Analysis/Research Deliverables Lead the development and interpretation of complex qualitative and quantitative analyses and oversee the preparation of research findings, technical assistance deliverables, reports, presentations, and stakeholder communications. Provide expert recommendations and ensure the quality, accuracy, and methodological integrity of research products and client deliverables.

Duties/Responsibilities
- Client Engagement & Stakeholder Collaboration Serve as a primary point of contact for clients and stakeholders, leading engagement efforts and facilitating project discussions, interviews, presentations, and technical assistance activities. Build and maintain effective relationships with faculty, local government officials, and project partners while providing guidance on project direction and implementation.

Duties/Responsibilities
- Project Coordination & Applied Research Support Direct and oversee project activities, deliverables, budgets, schedules, and work assignments across multiple concurrent projects and interdisciplinary teams. Provide guidance to project contributors, coordinate delegated work activities, and maintain accountability for project progress and successful completion. Lead proposal development and project planning efforts associated with Local Government Unit initiatives.

Duties/Responsibilities
- Professional Development & Research Innovation Provide leadership in advancing innovative research and technical assistance approaches. Monitor emerging trends, methodologies, and best practices and recommend enhancements to services, research methods, and project delivery. Contribute to the strategic development of the Local Government Unit's research and technical assistance portfolio.