Research Project Manager

Arizona Commerce Authority • Phoenix, AZ

2d • $70,000 - $85,000

About The Position

The Research Project Manager works on the Arizona Competitiveness Team (ACT), part of the Arizona Commerce Authority’s research operation. ACT provides insights and expertise on how Arizona’s tax and business climate compare with those of other states, helping strengthen the state’s ability to attract businesses in targeted industries.

Working under general guidance, the Project Manager evaluates Arizona’s competitive position in areas including tax, policy, and business climate. The role covers short-term research and analysis as well as longer-term projects and strategic initiatives, performed independently and in collaboration with senior team members and other departments. The ideal candidate has a strong analytical background, excellent communication skills, and an interest in economic development and public policy.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Public Policy, Business Administration, or a related field.
• At least two years of experience in economic research, public policy analysis, economic development, or a related field.
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills.
• Ability to present complex information clearly and concisely, both in writing and verbally.
• Advanced Excel skills and proficiency with other Microsoft products, including Word and PowerPoint.
• Extreme attention to detail regarding accuracy, style, and organization, including when working under tight deadlines.
• Positive, independent, self-motivated team player with a desire to do meaningful work that helps others.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree or additional related experience.
• Proficiency with R, Python, or other programming languages.
• Experience with geographic information systems software and/or data visualization tools and techniques.

Responsibilities

• Collect and analyze information on taxes, incentives, regulations, business policies, and overall business climate in Arizona and competing states.
• Prepare in-depth and ad hoc reports, presentations, and other deliverables to communicate findings to ACA leadership, business development, and clients.
• Respond to information requests from companies, site selectors, and other ACA departments, often on short turnaround.
• Develop and maintain systems, databases, and tools to track and record relevant information for ready use.
• Prepare ad hoc models comparing company costs across locations, before and after incentives, to support active attraction projects.
• Stay current with federal and state legislative and policy changes and assess their potential impact on Arizona’s competitiveness.
• Monitor and analyze nationwide market trends and economic indicators to provide actionable insights and recommendations to internal stakeholders.

What This Job Offers

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