Research Associate, Employment and Training

MEF Associates

Do you aspire to conduct research aimed at improving the lives of vulnerable individuals, children, and families?

Do you like working on collaborative teams to drive social change?

The Team

MEF Associates is a well-established social policy research firm specializing in rigorous research that influences and shapes social programs that serve millions of Americans each year.

For the last decade, we have worked at all levels of government and with various non-profits focused on bettering policy related to child and family well-being, workforce development, income security, and early childhood education. We combine diverse work experiences and expertise to deliver meaningful, data-driven solutions.

The Culture

Our staff come to MEF because of our ability to make a difference through research. Each one of us brings a unique perspective, diversity of approach, and uncompromising commitment to research excellence. We believe that what we do impacts the effectiveness and efficiency of public policy and programs. Through this work, we realize our mission to improve the lives of vulnerable individuals, children, and families. We strive to use inclusive research methods that promote collaboration with the programs and communities with whom we work.

We value a diverse workforce and the benefits that come from research being conducted by individuals with varied backgrounds and life experiences. As a relatively small firm, we value close collaboration and a supportive work culture. We are committed to the growth and professional development of our staff.

The Opportunity

In this role, you will help lead and/or collaborate on employment and training research and evaluation projects. The work you do will likely be comprised of a mix of qualitative and quantitative research, project management, evidence reviews, and working with programs to implement procedures consistent with research methodologies. The role represents a unique opportunity to join a growing business and to work on a wide variety of large-scale policy research and evaluation efforts.

While each project can be vastly different, the work you do could encompass the following responsibilities:

• Serving as project manager for research and evaluation work
  
• Managing data analysis projects
  
• Leading field research teams and conducting site visits
  
• Conducting literature reviews
  
• Designing and implementing surveys and focus groups
  
• Identifying new business opportunities and writing proposals
  
• Providing training and technical assistance to federal grantees or employment programs on program evaluation
  
• Authoring reports, proposals, and presentations
  

Qualifications

• A graduate degree in economics, statistics, public policy, or related fields
  
• Prior experience working on relevant research and evaluation projects in the areas of employment and training
  
• Familiarity with experimental and nonexperimental impact study designs
  
• Project management expertise
  
• Demonstrated excellence in writing and verbal communication
  
• Effective project management skills with ability to multi-task and prioritize a varied workload in a fast-paced environment
  
• Proficient in interpersonal skills and collaborating with others in a respectful way
  
• Ability to travel domestically on occasion as public health conditions permit
  

MEF is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages people of color, women, people with disabilities, and veterans to apply. Legal work authorization is required.

This search is being managed by our Executive Search Partner, Insight Executive Search. For more information or to apply for the position, please contact:

Aaron Schmidt, President

aaron.schmidt@insightexecutivesearch.com