Disability Researcher

American Institutes for Research

1d • $87,000 - $110,000 • Remote

About The Position

The Researcher works on disability research projects within the Employment and Economic Opportunity program, leading research tasks under the direction of a principal investigator using quantitative and qualitative methods. The disability work focuses on building and improving evidence that helps adults and transition-aged youth with disabilities achieve full integration into all aspects of life, including employment, independent living, and social engagement. The role contributes to disability-oriented business development, research and evaluation projects, and the production and dissemination of knowledge on topics including vocational rehabilitation and other career development efforts.

The Researcher may work remotely within the United States, excluding U.S. territories, or from one of AIR’s U.S. office locations. The position is part of a growing, collaborative team in a fast-paced environment and offers an anticipated annual salary range of $87,000–$110,000 USD. AIR is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit organization conducting behavioral and social science research and delivering technical assistance.

Requirements

• PhD in a related subject area (such as Rehabilitation Science, Disability Studies, Communications, Psychology, or Sociology), or a master’s degree with at least 4 years of relevant applied research experience.
• Experience working on research or evaluation projects for federal, state, or local agencies or other public or nonprofit entities.
• Experience co-authoring systematic reviews, scoping reviews, or other rigorous evidence syntheses using written protocols.
• Familiarity with knowledge translation theory and practice.
• Familiarity with producing 508-compliant documents.
• Demonstrated experience with research design, data analysis, and reporting.
• Experience conducting field data collection using methods such as interviews, focus groups, observations, and/or survey research.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with proficiency in at least one statistical or qualitative analysis tool such as R, Stata, Python, NVivo, or Dedoose.
• Effective communication skills, including the ability to convey complex information and collaborate efficiently in a virtual work environment.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines independently while contributing to a collaborative team environment.
• Proven ability to coach junior staff and foster inclusive team dynamics.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, attention to detail, and commitment to accuracy in data analysis and report writing.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and virtual collaboration tools such as Teams and SharePoint.
• Familiarity with responsible use of artificial intelligence in research activities.
• Must be currently authorized to work in the U.S. on a full-time basis; employment-based visa sponsorship is not available.
• Depending on project work, qualified candidates may need to meet certain residency requirements.

Responsibilities

• Lead or contribute to the design and execution of rigorous research and evaluation projects.
• Apply appropriate qualitative and/or quantitative methods to collect, manage, analyze, and interpret data.
• Translate complex findings into clear, actionable insights and recommendations for client reports, technical memos, and presentations.
• Support proposal development by writing technical sections, developing budgets, and contributing to proposal strategy.
• Manage small to mid-sized tasks or project components, including planning timelines, tracking deliverables, and liaising with clients while maintaining positive, collaborative relationships.
• Mentor and guide junior staff through regular feedback, training, and modeling research best practices.
• Engage with stakeholders and partners through meetings, briefings, and dissemination activities.
• Contribute to a collaborative, inclusive work environment that values diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level