The Partnership for Working Families, a national network of leading local advocacy organizations, is leading a national effort to solve urgent economic and environmental problems. We’re building an economy that works for everyone, by creating good family-supporting jobs for low-income communities and communities of color in the construction and transit sectors. We’re working to curb climate change and increase recycling by reshaping the way major cities manage their trash. And we’re maximizing the public’s investment in development and infrastructure projects by aligning public spending with community values.
As the pioneers of the community benefits movement we combine insightful research, cutting edge policy and broad alliance building to transform industry practices and create a more sustainable and equitable future in our cities.
In-depth research is critical to our strategy. Our researchers identify the best sources and develop compelling arguments that answer tough questions. They publish hard hitting reports framing national campaigns that transform industries that are essential to the economy. They help organize peer networking opportunities for our affiliates supporting the work of the dynamic leaders throughout our network.
The Partnership is seeking a talented researcher with a passion for social, racial and economic justice. The ideal candidate will have solid applied research experience, strong research and writing skills, experience with policy analysis and the ability to translate complex ideas and research findings into concrete recommendations for policy change that will improve the lives of working families.
Although this position will be based in our Denver, Colorado office, we will consider applicants that live in cities where our affiliates are located. For a complete list visit: forworkingfamilies.org/about/affiliates
RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Find and cultivate new sources of information that advance national and local campaigns, including research on companies, industries, laws and policies, government agencies.
• Utilize a range of research strategies to collect quantitative and qualitative information, including internet and database searches, public records requests, interviews, surveys, etc.
• Work with supervisor and campaign leads to manage and execute campaign and organizational research.
• Communicate research results through a variety of mediums (presentations, memos, publications, infographics, etc.) that are persuasive, effective and creative.
• Prepare high quality internal and external materials that support national and local campaigns.
• Work with campaign leads to convene affiliates and provide peer networking opportunities.
• Work with supervisor on the production of publications, including writing, layout and design, production, dissemination and promotion.
• Support the work of the Partnership as a whole in addition to campaign research.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
• Demonstrated commitment to social, racial and economic justice. Community and/or union organizing experience a plus.
• Previous experience utilizing a wide array of research methods, including but not limited to: internet searches, public information requests, government reports, telephone inquiries and key informant interviews.
• Background in planning, policy, land use, development processes and low-wage industries a plus.
• Interest in local (municipal & county) government and policy, economic development and tools for fighting poverty.
• Superb writing and editing skills.
• Master’s degree in public policy, urban planning or related social sciences a plus.
• Quick learner with strong critical thinking skills and ability to analyze complex information.
• Effective verbal and communications skills, transforming complex ideas and concepts into easily accessible and useful information.
• Proven ability to juggle multiple responsibilities, prioritize tasks to achieve goals and work well under deadlines.
• Ability to successfully work in a team and independently.
• Willingness and flexibility to travel for internal and external meetings.
• Excellent computer skills, experience with spreadsheets, databases and presentations.
• Investigative, campaign or strategic research experience preferred.
SALARY AND BENEFITS:
The Partnership offers a highly competitive salary and benefits package, including full family health benefits, generous vacation and personal time, and employer-matched 401k.
To apply, please submit a cover letter outlining relevant experience, resume, three work-related references, and a writing sample (5 pages or less) to: jobs@forworkingfamilies.org and include Strategic Researcher in the subject line. We will begin reviewing applications on in December 1, 2015. The position will remain open until filled.
No phone calls, please.
The Partnership for Working Families is an equal opportunity employer and committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce. We strongly encourage and seek applications from women, people of color, including bilingual and bicultural individuals, as well as members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender communities. We do not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, age, disability, or veteran status.
