Pew Charitable Trusts
Washington, DC
Associate, Research, Data as a
Strategic Asset
For more
information and to apply - associate research
Overview:
The Pew Charitable
Trusts is driven by the power of knowledge to solve today’s most challenging
problems. Pew applies a rigorous, analytical approach to improve public policy,
inform the public and invigorate civic life.
We are an
independent nonprofit organization – the sole beneficiary of seven individual
trusts established between 1948 and 1979 by two sons and two daughters of Sun
Oil Company founder Joseph N. Pew and his wife, Mary Anderson Pew.
Project Overview:
Pew’s new Data as a
Strategic Asset project is assessing administrative data use across the 50
states, taking an in-depth look at whether and how effectively states are
leveraging data for decision making. Because the field is so new, there is no
comprehensive source of information about what states are trying; whether they
face common challenges; and the effectiveness of different approaches. This
18-month research project will provide policy makers with a better
understanding of how states across the country are using data to inform policy
and budget decisions and make operations more efficient.
Position Overview:
The Associate will
provide policy, analytic, and writing support for the Data as a Strategic Asset
team. Working with senior staff, the Associate will help design and implement a
50-state assessment and provide qualitative research and data support to
achieve the project’s goals and deliverables. After the assessment is complete,
the Associate will help prepare a series of reports. The Associate will also
assist with communications and administrative responsibilities as needed.
The Associate will
be based in Pew's Washington, DC office and will report to the Research
Manager. It is expected that this position is for a term period through March
31, 2017, with the possibility of renewal pending the success of the program,
funding sources and board decisions on continued support.
Responsibilities:
- Support the design and
implementation of a 50-state assessment on states’ use of administrative
data to inform policymaking, budgeting and operational effectiveness.
- Collect, organize, and
analyze legislation, rules, policies, and other documents related to
states’ use of administrative data.
- Arrange, conduct, and
document in-depth interviews with state officials.
- Synthesize research to
identify trends, best practices, opportunities, challenges, and compelling
examples.
- Collaborate with leading
organizations engaged in business intelligence and data analytics.
- Review and fact-check
materials produced by contractors and other staff; help coordinate
internal and external quality control processes.
- Assist with report writing
and editing.
- Help plan and execute
convenings, advisory meetings, and presentations designed to advance
project goals.
- Maintain knowledge of policy
issues relevant to Big Data, including participation at conferences,
seminars, and professional development activities.
Requirements:
- Associate’s degree required;
Bachelor’s degree preferred.
- A minimum of two years of
relevant professional experience required, including demonstrated research
and analytical, and writing skills.
- Excellent applied research
and analytical skills, including an ability to synthesize information and
identify themes.
- Excellent written and oral
communications skills; able to communicate complex concepts in a clear,
effective manner for a general audience.
- Experience with database
software and spreadsheets.
- Attention to detail,
including exacting standards to maintain accuracy in all work products.
- Demonstrated time- and
project-management skills, including an ability to meet multiple deadlines
by maintaining a high level of organization.
- Proven track record of
working as a member of a team and individually to meet goals.
- Experience with qualitative
datasets is preferred.
Compensation:
We offer a
competitive salary and excellent benefits package.