Researcher, Literacy

American Institutes for Research•Sacramento, CA

14h•Remote

About The Position

AIR is seeking a Researcher with expertise in literacy (e.g., reading, writing, or oral language) education who brings strong experience in both rigorous research and evidence-based technical assistance. The researcher will contribute to multiple literacy research, evaluation, and technical assistance projects. Work may include research partnerships and field initiatives; iterative research and development of literacy interventions; implementation and improvement studies; impact studies using quasi-experimental and experimental designs; and technical assistance efforts that support states, districts, and schools in applying research evidence to policy, practice, and instructional improvement. We seek a professional who can translate complex research findings into clear, actionable guidance for practitioners and system leaders and who will thrive in a fast-paced environment as part of a growing team with ambitious aspirations and evolving needs. This position has the flexibility to work remotely within the United States (U.S.) or from one of AIR’s U.S. office locations. This does not include U.S. territories. About AIR: Founded in 1946 and headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, the American Institutes for Research (AIR) is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit organization that conducts behavioral and social science research and delivers technical assistance to address some of the most pressing challenges in the United States and globally. We generate evidence and apply data-driven solutions that expand opportunities and improve lives for all.

Requirements

A Ph.D. or Masters and 4+ years of relevant work experience in literacy education research
Expertise in literacy education
Knowledge of federal or state/local policies, programs, and priorities related to literacy education
Proficiency applying educational, social, or behavioral research methods for implementation research, outcome and impact studies, and/or continuous improvement efforts
Experience managing and contributing to research and evaluation projects, reports, and products
Experience working with education stakeholders, such as school districts, educators, or program and professional development providers
Strong organizational and interpersonal skills including strong communication skills, both written and oral, with the ability to produce concise, high-level summaries and briefings
Strong attention to detail and accuracy
Passion for bringing rigorous evidence to bear on education policy, practice, and decision-making
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the U.S. on a full-time basis.
Depending on project work, qualified candidates may need to meet certain residency requirements.

Responsibilities

Serve as project, task, or functional lead and/or subject matter expert for literacy research, evaluation, and technical assistance activities
Manage project activities, including teams, budgets, and coordination with SEAs, LEAs, and district- and school-level partners
Develop conceptual frameworks, research designs, and protocols to generate rigorous evidence and inform literacy-related technical assistance
Apply quantitative, qualitative, and/or mixed-methods approaches to collect, manage, analyze, and report data
Translate research findings into clear, actionable insights and guidance for educators, districts, state agencies, and other partners
Contribute to technical assistance activities related to literacy, including development of evidence-based resources and implementation supports
Prepare client-facing deliverables, including reports, technical memos, briefs, and presentations
Write and contribute to proposals for federal, state, foundation, and other funders, including research and technical assistance components
Communicate clearly and professionally with clients, colleagues, and other internal and external stakeholders
Recruit and manage relationships with research and technical assistance participants and sites
Mentor and supervise research assistants and associates
Maintain strong client and partner relationships, serve as a client contact, and support business development by staying abreast of trends and priorities in the literacy field
Contribute to a collaborative and inclusive work environment aligned with AIR’s mission and values