All Things Urban

The nonprofit Urban Institute is dedicated to elevating the debate on social and economic policy. For nearly five decades, Urban scholars have conducted research and offered evidence-based solutions that improve lives and strengthen communities across a rapidly urbanizing world. Their objective research helps expand opportunities for all, reduce hardship among the most vulnerable, and strengthen the effectiveness of the public sector.

The Center on Labor, Human Services, and Population is seeking a talented senior research associate who can join the early childhood research team and work collaboratively with researchers of all levels on a variety of projects focused on early childhood programs and policies. Areas of study include child care quality and access, the child care subsidy system, Head Start, public prekindergarten, home visiting, child and family stability and well-being, and other related topics. The ideal candidate will bring subject matter expertise in one or more of these areas and a solid track record of studying early childhood programs. This position will be expected to support ongoing work, contribute to business development to further build the early childhood research portfolio, and serve as project director, principal investigator, or task lead for future studies.

- Conceptualize, develop, and lead research and evaluation studies related to early childhood programs - Provide intellectual leadership in project development - Lead the development of proposals, responses to solicitations, and other meaningful business cultivation activities. This includes leading proposal efforts and managing proposal teams, as well as possessing the skills and qualifications crucial to the performance of proposed work - Support effective project management, including assigning roles and responsibilities; managing project team performance; monitoring project progress, budget and schedule; and designing and implementing strategies - Mentor and supervise research staff - Author research reports, briefs, and presentations for external audiences - Represent both Urban and the policy center’s work to the public, policymakers, funders, and the press

- Possess a PhD in human development, developmental psychology, family studies, public policy, social work, education, economics, sociology, or related social science field as well as 5-10 years of related professional experience - Possess relevant substantive knowledge, a solid understanding of various research methods and quantitative and qualitative analytic approaches, and the writing skills needed to perform the duties described above - Serve as an expert on early childhood research and exhibit high-level oral and written communication skills - Have demonstrated ability in leading and contributing to research agendas and successful business development efforts - Display strong management skills, including experience supervising staff and managing project teams to achieve desired outcomes

Working in the Nation’s Capital, the epicenter of public policy among a network of policy experts, you can expect to have an impact on policy areas you care about and work with great colleagues who are smart, mission-driven, and collaborative. You will blend academic rigor with on-the-ground collaboration, be encouraged and supported to fulfill your potential through meaningful work that matters, and enjoy a welcoming workplace free from harassment, discrimination, and intolerance. In addition, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes: medical, dental, disability, and life insurance coverage. Competitive paid time off allowance, and eligibility to participate in a generous retirement savings plan and reimbursable commuting expense program.

Unfortunately, it seems like this job is not available for international candidates. Unless you’re eligible for a work visa otherwise, please double-check with the company.