Research Assistant

EdChoice, a national nonprofit organization that promotes state-based educational choice programs, is seeking a qualified individual to support its research team by assisting with the organization’s school choice program data collection and analysis and by working with team members to verify research and data sources. Responsibilities include data collection, database management, and data analysis. The position reports directly to the Vice President of Research and Innovation.

Principal Duties & Responsibilities

Collects data on educational choice programs and policies in states (80%)

• Fulfills short-term data and other information requests by EdChoice staff and external partners
• Regularly monitors, manages, and communicates the process and progress of data collection
• Works with applicable members of the Research and Communications teams to update the ABCs of School Choice annual publication
• Works with applicable members of the Research and Communications teams to routinely produce or update website and online content
• Communicates regularly with relevant state agencies and key partners
• Files Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests

Supports quality control for the Research Team’s research activities (10%)

• Reviews and edits national and state research produced by Research Team members and/or contractors
• Verifies the data sources, citations, and data contained in research papers, briefs, and reports publicly released by EdChoice

Assists with short-term research projects (10%)

• Works with Research Team member(s) to collect, clean, and/or aggregate data and/or produce charts, or other associated materials

Qualifications

Education and Experience

Minimum undergraduate degree in economics, political science, public policy, or other research-oriented social sciences field required. One year of experience in social sciences research preferred. Basic familiarity with school choice concepts or private school research preferred.

Essential Competencies

Ability to work in an office environment and work well with others. Ability to meet aggressive deadlines and handle multiple priorities. Data Analysis, Interpersonal Communications, Integrity/Accountability, Customer Service, Project Management, and Workload/Time Management.

Writing/Communication Skills

Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general professional journals, public policy reports, or governmental laws, codes, and regulations. Ability to write informal professional correspondence. Ability to write blog posts and op-eds. Ability to respond to inquiries or complaints from members of the education community or general public.

Mathematical Skills

Ability to understand and calculate fractions, proportions, percentages, ratios and apply basic methods of statistical analysis. Experience with basic descriptive statistics preferred.

Reasoning Ability

Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Excellent problem analysis and problem-solving skills required.

Other Skills and Abilities

Keen attention to detail required. Computer proficient with Microsoft Office products with a high level of proficiency in Excel and Word. Demonstrated experience with SPSS, STATA, Qualtrics, or Maptitude preferred. Ability to work well with others. Ability to meet aggressive deadlines and handle multiple priorities. Possess strong facilitation skills.

Residence in/Regular travel to the Indianapolis area is required for employment.

Applicants should submit a resume and cover letter detailing interest in and support of educational choice and joining EdChoice to carey@EdChoice.org by May 24, 2023.

ABOUT EDCHOICE

EdChoice is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to advancing full and unencumbered educational choice as the best pathway to successful lives and a stronger society. EdChoice believes that families, not bureaucrats, are best equipped to make K-12 schooling decisions for their children. The organization works at the state level to educate diverse audiences, train advocates and engage policymakers on the benefits of high-quality school choice programs. EdChoice is the intellectual legacy of Milton and Rose D. Friedman, who founded the organization in 1996.

EdChoice, Inc., is an equal opportunity employer and does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, military status, or any status protected by law, in any of its activities or operations. All qualified applicants will receive consideration. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our staff, subcontractors, and partners.