Senior Economic Mobility Research Specialist Job Reston area,Virginia USA,Research/Development

Senior Economic Mobility Research Specialist

ICF is actively seeking a Senior Economic Mobility Research Specialist for our growing economic mobility practice. In this role, you will contribute to projects that promote positive outcomes for vulnerable families.

Key Responsibilities:

Serve as a recognized subject matter expert in economic mobility research, notably in TANF, workforce/job readiness, child support, food security, and related human services programs
Lead the design, implementation, and oversight of rigorous research and evaluation efforts, while managing and mentoring multidisciplinary research teams
Provide strategic guidance to research and technical assistance teams to ensure rigor, relevance, and impact across projects
Shape research agendas, methodologies, and evaluation frameworks that advance evidence-based policy and practice
Identify and help pursue new opportunities aligned with ICF's mission to promote economic stability and mobility for families
Translate complex research findings into actionable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders
Mentor and support multidisciplinary teams, fostering innovation and high performance
Contribute to thought leadership through publications, presentations, and engagement with the broader field

Required Qualifications:

Advanced degree (PhD preferred) in political science, public policy, sociology, economics, or a related social science field
20+ years of experience leading research, evaluation, and policy initiatives related to economic mobility and family well-being
Recognized peer-reviewed publication and thought leadership in economic mobility research
Demonstrated expertise working with federal, state, or local human services programs

Professional Skills You Will Use:

Proven ability to lead and influence in complex, fast-paced, and matrixed environments
Strong strategic thinking with the ability to balance big-picture vision and detailed execution
Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities
Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, including demonstrated history of peer-reviewed publications, technical writing and executive-level presentations
Skilled at generating business growth, building partnerships and navigating federal and state procurement systems
Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver high-quality work on time
Comfortable with flexible, on-call work arrangements (0–20 hours/week)