Description
**Overview**
AIR is currently seeking a **Principal Researcher** to join our Education Systems & Policy program area within AIR's Human Services Division to aid us with improving outcomes inEducation () .
The Principal Researcher will lead a portfolio of projects and business pursuits related to federal and state research and evaluation in one or more area(s) of K-12 and postsecondary education. The ideal candidate will bring thought leadership, content knowledge, and methodological expertise, to curating research to improve equitable educational outcomes for all.
Principal Researchers provide leadership, mentorship, and technical advice in support of AIR research and evaluation projects to ensure research integrity, appropriate design and application of research methodologies and analysis techniques, development of accurate conclusions, clear reporting, applicability to problems of practice, and client satisfaction. Important aspects of the role include the leadership and development of research grant and evaluation proposals, directing research projects, contributing to the strategic direction of AIR's Education Systems and Policy research practice, and mentoring and developing AIR research staff.
Candidates hired for the position may work remotely within the United States (U. S.) or from one of our U. S. office locations . This does not include U. S. territories.
**About AIR:**
Established in 1946, with headquarters in Arlington, Virginia, AIR is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit institution that conducts behavioral and social science research and delivers technical assistance to solve some of the most urgent challenges in the U. S. and around the world. We advance evidence in the areas of education, health, the workforce, human services, and international development to create a better, more equitable world.
AIR's commitment to diversity goes beyond legal compliance to its full integration in our strategy, operations, and work environment. At AIR, we define diversity broadly, considering everyone's unique life and community experiences. We believe that embracing diverse perspectives, abilities/disabilities, racial/ethnic and cultural backgrounds, styles, ages, genders, gender identities and expressions, education backgrounds, and life stories drives innovation and employee engagement. Learn more about AIR's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Strategy and hear from our staff byclicking here () .
**Responsibilities**
The responsibilities for the position include:
Oversee the planning, design, and implementation of research projects, including methods, procedures and reporting.
Serve as Project Director and/or Principal Investigator, directing or helping to direct and manage large, complex research projects or a series of smaller projects.
Lead the review, analyses, and syntheses of data and information using appropriate practices and techniques, and ensure that projects are designed around client needs with sound methodology.
Serve as an expert in the field and disseminate findings through publication of papers, progress and technical reports, and presentation at seminars and research conferences.
Mentor junior colleagues by sharing best practices in conducting research, applying evaluation methods, and leading project tasks; modeling effective approaches for solving concrete problems; and providing feedback on their work
Lead proposal efforts, maintain excellent business development relationships, and serve as the primary client contact for research and evaluation projects.
Partner with leaders in the program area and broader organization to advance strategic positioning, capture planning, policy/program influence, thought leadership, and talent development.
**Qualifications**
**Education, Knowledge, and Experience:**
PhD with a minimum of 7 years of related experience **or** MA with a minimum of 11 years of related experience in economics, sociology, education, psychology, or related field, with a strong background in econometrics, statistics, and research design
Experience should include a minimum of 7 years of project leadership experience, including proposal writing, project management, staff supervision, report writing, and external relationship management
Proven track record of winning competitive contracts/grants from various funding organizations (e. g., Federal, state, and local government; foundations)
Experience effectively leading and mentoring diverse teams working on research-focused projects and/or tasks within large/complex projects, including managing work to ensure excellence, timeliness, and on-budget execution
Commitment to AIR's mission and the application of research findings to contribute to a better, more equitable world
**Skills:**
Demonstrated writing skills to effectively communicate findings and policy implications from technical research for policymakers and practitioners
Demonstrated effective communication skills, including the capacity to collaborate professionally with clients, federal or foundation project officers, implementing partners, consultants, program leadership staff, and other stakeholders
Proven ability to develop staff capacity in research design and methods, project management, client relationships, research publication and business development
Strong communication skills with the ability to work effectively with others in a virtual work environment
**Disclosures:**
This position is open to U. S. citizens only. Upon hire, incumbent will be required to obtain clearance through the Electronic Questionnaires for Investigations Processing (e-QIP) system .
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the U. S. on a full-time basis. Employment-based visa sponsorship (including H-1B sponsorship) is not available for this position. Depending on project work, qualified candidates may need to meet certain residency requirements.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination on the basis of age, race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.
AIR adheres to strict child safeguarding principles. All selected candidates will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles and will therefore undergo reference and background checks.
AIR's Total Rewards Program , is designed to reward our staff competitively and motivate them to achieve our critical mission. This position offers an anticipated annual salary of $160,000 - $180,000. Salary offers are made based on internal equity within the institution and external equity with competi
Compensation Information:
$160000.0 / Yearly - $160000.0 / Yearly
Starting At: 160000.0 Yearly
Up To: 180000.0 Yearly
Apply on company website
Find Connections via Linkedin
