EdSource is seeking qualified applicants for a Research Associate position. The position requires strong research, policy analysis, writing, and data compilation/analysis skills. The position is located in Mountain View and full-time is preferred.

Background

EdSource is a small, respected not-for profit organization that studies and reports on a broad range of issues at the nexus of K-14 education policy and local practice, with a strong but not exclusive focus on California. Our work includes collaborative research projects, printed reports targeted to a wide audience of education influencers and decision makers, and a content-rich website. Our research staff interacts regularly with others in the field, including some who are sources of information and others who need the information we produce.

Individuals committed to the importance of a good public education system and who have an open, intellectually curious mind about what works, for which students, under what circumstances, will find EdSource’s work of interest. Those who are committed to advocating for a specific reform, or who have a narrow scope of interest, would not be a good fit for this position.

Job Description:

Conduct research, policy analysis, and writing—as well as compiling and analyzing data—across the wide breadth of K-12 and community college topics that EdSource covers.

Tasks will vary depending on the agency’s work, but typical assignments are likely to include:

• Policy research, analysis and written summaries using both state and federal sources.
• Write selected web articles, briefs, and sections of larger reports; including conceptualizing in concert with other staff, independent research and writing, and thoughtful response to edits from a wide variety of reviewers.
• Conduct extensive literature reviews on key education topics.
• Data compilation and analysis including such tasks as locating appropriate secondary data sources, completing basic statistical calculations, and developing written summaries and/or graphs to communicate the information.
• A variety of other research tasks, as assigned, in support of other staff members, specific projects, and the overall goals of the organization.

Aptitude, skills and qualifications

EdSource is a small, collegial, team-oriented organization with exceptionally high standards for productivity, quality, and meeting deadlines. We expect all staff to pitch in when needed to get the job done and to take direction as necessary to assure that the work meets agency standards. Individuals who succeed at EdSource understand and are a good fit with our Standards of Excellence.

Successful candidates will have at least the following skills and qualifications:

• Master's degree in public policy or in public administration with an emphasis in policy or education policy.
• Demonstrated interest and knowledge of public education issues at the K-12 and community college levels.
• Strong oral communication skills, able to discuss issues and findings articulately, comfortable asking clarifying questions, effective in professional meetings and situations.
• High level of writing skill: able to present information clearly, summarize key points from research and data, painstaking attention to detail including correct grammar/etc.
• Facility with diverse computer applications used in research, data compilation, and writing. (MS Office a minimum expectation.)
• Experience working/interning in related K-12 or higher ed education policy or research organizations.

Employees who excel in research positions at EdSource demonstrate the following qualities:

• Critical thinking and problem solving: for example, not only can you analyze and interpret data, you are able to determine its implications within a larger issue.
• Asking the next question: you consistently want to know more and are actively engaged in the process of discovery as you work. You know what you don’t know.
• Industriousness and productivity: you have a high level of personal and intellectual energy, deadlines motivate you, and you get enjoyment out of accomplishment.
• Flexibility and tolerance for ambiguity: you thrive in a fast-paced work environment where plans and direction may change, there are multiple projects and deadlines, and you are working on various teams with different staff and managers.

Competitive salary commensurate with experience. Paid time off, medical, and other benefits are included.

How to Apply:

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. The position is open until filled. We request a letter of interest, a résumé, and two brief writing samples. Please e-mail your materials to edsource@edsource.org or send by fax to 650/917-9482.