Senior Economic Mobility Research Specialist

ICF • Reston, VA

1d • $108,476 - $184,409 • Remote

About The Position

ICF is actively seeking a Senior Economic Mobility Research Specialist for our growing economic mobility practice. In this role, you will contribute to projects that promote positive outcomes for vulnerable families.

Requirements

• Advanced degree (PhD preferred) in political science, public policy, sociology, economics, or a related social science field
• 20+ years of experience leading research, evaluation, and policy initiatives related to economic mobility and family well-being
• Recognized peer-reviewed publication and thought leadership in economic mobility research
• Demonstrated expertise working with federal, state, or local human services programs
• Proven ability to lead and influence in complex, fast-paced, and matrixed environments
• Strong strategic thinking with the ability to balance big-picture vision and detailed execution
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, including demonstrated history of peer-reviewed publications, technical writing and executive-level presentations
• Skilled at generating business growth, building partnerships and navigating federal and state procurement systems
• Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver high-quality work on time
• Comfortable with flexible, on-call work arrangements (0–20 hours/week)

Responsibilities

• Serve as a recognized subject matter expert in economic mobility research, notably in TANF, workforce/job readiness, child support, food security, and related human services programs
• Lead the design, implementation, and oversight of rigorous research and evaluation efforts, while managing and mentoring multidisciplinary research teams
• Provide strategic guidance to research and technical assistance teams to ensure rigor, relevance, and impact across projects
• Shape research agendas, methodologies, and evaluation frameworks that advance evidence-based policy and practice
• Identify and help pursue new opportunities aligned with ICF’s mission to promote economic stability and mobility for families
• Translate complex research findings into actionable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders
• Mentor and support multidisciplinary teams, fostering innovation and high performance
• Contribute to thought leadership through publications, presentations, and engagement with the broader field

Benefits

• Reasonable Accommodations are available, including, but not limited to, for disabled veterans, individuals with disabilities, and individuals with sincerely held religious beliefs, in all phases of the application and employment process.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree