Job Opening: The Annie E. Casey Foundation

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Research Associate
The Annie E. Casey Foundation

The Annie E. Casey Foundation is a private charitable organization dedicated to helping build better futures for disadvantaged children and their families in the United States. The primary mission of the Foundation is to foster public policies, human service reforms, and community supports that more effectively meet the needs of today’s vulnerable children and families. The Foundation distributes approximately $187 million annually in grants to organizations that help states, cities, and neighborhoods improve the life outcomes of these children and families.

Job Summary:
The Research Associate will work in the Foundation’s Measurement, Evaluation, Knowledge Management, and Advocacy unit. This unit is home to the Foundation’s evaluation related investments, our national and state Kids Count data initiative, and our internal and external communication efforts. The duties of the Research Associate are varied, challenging, and integral to the work of the Foundation’s policy and research agenda. The Research Associate will also play a key role in helping the Foundation to promote the strategic use of data by non-researchers, including program operators, advocates, and community-based organizations.

Responsibilities:
The Research Associate will work in partnership with a team of Casey staff, consultants, grantees, and other partners on a variety of tasks, including:

· Collect, analyze and interpret social indicators drawn from administrative records, census, surveys, and other data sources.
· Respond to requests from Foundation staff for data analyses, maps, and other information.
· Assist staff in interpreting data and prepare narrative descriptions of analyses as needed. Process and report on indicators of child, family, and neighborhood well-being.
· Conduct web searches and synthesize quantitative and qualitative research on specific topics of interest to the Foundation.
· Work with Foundation staff to create specialized tables and graphics based on existing data products and customize them to meet the interests and needs of Foundation units and work groups.
· Exhibit sensitivity to and respect for differences in personal, professional, and business relationships on behalf of the Foundation and seek to use Foundation resources in an equitable manner with regard to race, ethnicity, and gender.
· Demonstrate awareness and appreciation of the Foundation’s mission, values, standards, principles, and programs. Draw on Casey’s Knowledge Management System, staff development sessions, and other learning opportunities to establish this competency.
· Perform other duties as assigned.

Unit Specific Requirements:

· Serve as primary resource to connect the KIDS COUNT, Knowledge Management and Policy Research Units to each other and to the Foundation as a whole.
· Contribute to the production and release of the KIDS COUNT Data Book and other KIDS COUNT publications.
· Assist in the management of the KIDS COUNT website to ensure that the website remains a leader in the provision of online data about children and families at the national and state levels.
· Serve as a resource in answering data and research related inquiries for the media, policymakers, and the public.
· Assist the state KIDS COUNT grantees and other Casey grantees in accessing and analyzing data from multiple state and national sources.

Qualifications:
This position requires someone with a combination of training, skills, and experience in social research data analysis. Also desirable are skills and experience in web-based design and development. The ideal candidate will be a highly proficient research analyst experienced in the use of data and research to advocate for improving the circumstances of disadvantaged populations.

· Bachelor’s Degree in a social science field relevant to the Foundation’s work (such as urban planning, social work, public health, or economics).
· Three plus years work experience in research and data analysis.
· Ability to build and use analytical frameworks, models, and statistical tools for use in social policy development.
· Proficiency in using computer software packages including Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Access.
· Experience in data analysis and interpretation and report preparation and presentation.
· Knowledge of federal, state, and local statistical systems.
· Evidence of success in providing technical assistance to non-researchers on the use of research and data.
· Evidence of successfully working with people from diverse backgrounds, including those with and without strong research skills.
· Familiarity and interest in issues facing low-income families and neighborhoods.
· Strong interest in work that improves conditions and outcomes for disadvantaged children, families, and communities.
· Strong oral and written communication skills.
· Demonstrated strong organizational skills.
· Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.

Compensation:
Starting salary is commensurate with experience and earnings history. A strong benefits package is provided as well.

Work Environment:
Work is primarily performed in a general office setting. Minimal domestic travel is required to attend conferences or meet with external stakeholders.

To apply:
Please send a resume with a cover letter by mail or apply on line.

Maxine Norris
The Annie E. Casey Foundation
701 St. Paul Street
Baltimore, MD 21202
Online: www.aecf.org/careers.aspx