Research Assistant

Association of Washington Cities • Olympia, WA

1d • $24 - $35 • Hybrid

About The Position

Association of Washington Cities (AWC) is seeking a part-time, temporary Research Assistant to work with the Government Relations team to carry out research, support survey work, and validate collected data. The position will need to seek internal and external data sources to find city information to support research projects. The position will also assist with the verification, interpretation, and presentation of collected data. As needed, the Research Assistant will call or email cities, state agencies, or other organizations to help with the collection and analysis of data. Founded in 1933, AWC is a private, nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, which provides a wide array of services to Washington’s cities and towns. AWC builds connections between our state’s diverse cities and towns, while providing our members with the support needed to thrive through delivery of data-driven education, nationally recognized pooling programs, and nonpartisan advocacy. AWC is a vibrant, fast-paced organization supported by 70 employees who are passionate about serving our members. We have a diverse team with subject matter expertise in various areas. AWC welcomes applicants from all backgrounds. We value the unique views, backgrounds, experiences, expertise, and potential of all our employees. We are committed to following our core values of collaboration, equity, innovation, integrity, and respect. The pay range for this position is $24 - 35 per hour. The top candidate’s placement within the range will typically fall between the minimum and 25th percentile of the range, depending on education, training, experience, and other conditions consistent with AWC policy. Part-time employees working 20 hours or more per week will accrue prorated hours of medical leave at the rate of a full-time employee of 4 hours medical leave provided that such employees will earn at least one hour of sick leave for every 40 hours worked. This position is eligible to telework on certain days of the week, subject to approval and as determined by AWC. Recruitment closes on April 20, 2026, at 5:00 pm.

Requirements

• 1 year experience in research, data, accounting, or related field preferred (educational classes in these areas may count towards experience).
• Individual working towards an associate’s, bachelor’s, or master’s degree in a related field preferred.
• Strong research and analytical skills.
• Strong communication skills, articulate clearly both with the written and spoken word.
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365 and the ability to learn new systems quickly, such as Qualtrics.
• Ability to meet deadlines and complete assigned tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Basic understanding of the legislative process.
• Proficient in the use of the Internet for research and communication.

Responsibilities

• Gather data and qualitative research on assigned topics related to cities and towns.
• Assist with data and information analysis and summaries.
• Assist with writing and editing reports, fact sheets, and technical information for publications.
• Assist with developing survey tools.
• Verify survey results by evaluating responses and identifying outliers; correct data as needed.
• Follow up with survey respondents by email or phone to verify responses and/or encourage survey completion by the established deadline.
• Assist with other research activities on topics such as city trends or fiscal conditions, as needed.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree