Senior Research Analyst 02.27.2026

Council of State Governments•New York, NY

1d•$86,500 - $106,500•Hybrid

About The Position

We help policymakers use data to design and implement historic reforms that address pressing criminal justice challenges and result in millions being reinvested in reducing recidivism, improving treatment, and more. The senior research analyst will manage and contribute to multiple projects working directly with policymakers to tackle criminal justice system issues across law enforcement, courts, and corrections. In collaboration with policy specialists, elected leaders, agency officials and staff, and a variety of other stakeholders, you'll have the opportunity to use data to assess current policy and practice, design and implement new approaches to policy and practice, and help determine whether those changes resulted in the desired outcomes. The senior research analyst will contribute to complex research projects in all areas of the organization. This position will be responsible for executing both short- and long-term research projects; conducting or assisting with data analysis; and writing research reports directed at national, state, and local elected officials and policymakers. Work will involve analyzing, planning, developing, implementing, and evaluating criminal justice initiatives and conducting policy analyses for state legislatures, program staff, and governmental agencies.

Requirements

Strong interpersonal skills including self-awareness, sensitivity and valuing others
Dedication to public service with an unfailing commitment to act with civility, be nonpartisan in performing CSG Justice Center duties, and be a responsible steward of member and donor funds
A bachelor's degree in a related field such as criminal justice, social science, public policy, or public administration plus five years of research experience; OR a bachelor's degree in a related field and a master's degree in a related field plus three years of research experience; OR a doctorate degree in related field plus one year of research experience
Dedication to public service with an unfailing commitment to act with civility, be nonpartisan in performing CSG Justice Center duties, and be a responsible steward of member and donor funds
Knowledge of scientific research methods, principles, and techniques
Knowledge of statistical concepts, methods, and application to data analysis
Skill in using Stata or R to clean and prepare raw case-level data; perform data manipulation procedures such as matching data files; and ultimately conduct critical complex analyses for related projects
Skill in using Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel
Efficient, organized work style; an ability to prioritize quickly and confidently; and an ability to handle multiple projects at once
Reliable and secure internet/data connection and flexibility in using a personal device for internet connectivity during business travel (a cost offset is provided by CSG)

Responsibilities

Work within a team structure to assist criminal or juvenile justice agencies and other organizations to address programmatic and policy issues.
Negotiate data use agreements with government agencies.
Conduct analytical work using case-level criminal justice data from multiple, interrelated databases using accepted methodologies.
Develop descriptive statistics and impactful data visualizations.
Provide consultative services and technical assistance to state and local government agencies as well as private organizations on data collection and sharing.
Present analytical results in a format that suits the communication style of policymakers at the national, state, and local levels.
Participate in the preparation (i.e., writing, reviewing, and editing) of publications that the CSG Justice Center develops that address issues emanating from research results.
Participate in Research Division committees.