Senior Research Analyst
About The Position
The Senior Research Analyst independently leads assigned research projects, prepares and issues reports, analyzes external technical studies and research, and develops strategic plans and campaigns in support of Field Operations. The role reports to the Director and Assistant Director of Field Operations and provides foundational research, data, and insights to support field staff, leadership, representational work, and organizational goals. The analyst conducts complex and sensitive research assignments using advanced methodologies and policy expertise, producing high-caliber work independently with minimal daily supervision. Deliverables may include white papers and guides that explain complex issues, present CSEA’s position and the implications for members and the organization, and support understanding or consequential decisions. The position also mentors and collaborates with Research Analysts, translates findings for executives, staff, and members, and stays current on research practices and emerging approaches to develop actionable recommendations. The role includes administrative decisions on non-technical aspects of departmental operations within established departmental policies.
Requirements
- Equivalent to a master’s degree in public administration, business administration, public policy, library science, or a related major.
- At least two years of recent experience leading and managing research projects.
- Proficiency in MS Office 365, Teams, OneDrive, and SharePoint.
- Knowledge of advanced principles and practices for data collection, research design, and report preparation.
- Knowledge of presenting complex data and synthesizing information for different audiences.
- Knowledge of advanced report writing, research methodologies, white papers, statistical methods, and proper research data processing.
- Knowledge of internet research and navigation methods and common office software, including spreadsheets, graphics, and word processing.
- Knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations related to school finance; school district budget analysis and accounting principles; and database tools for research information collection.
- Ability to independently conduct and coordinate research projects from inception through completion.
- Ability to synthesize research into actionable goals and campaigns.
- Ability to train staff and members on research methods and projects and speak effectively to large and small audiences.
- Ability to independently develop reports on complex subjects and statistical data and perform complex statistical and survey operations.
- Ability to exercise initiative and sound judgment, monitor current trends using news, social media, and other primary sources, and identify research needs or organizational gaps.
- Ability to communicate effectively in writing and verbally with people at all levels.
- Ability to learn the Association’s history, purpose, function, and future goals.
- Ability to conceive and prepare graphic interpretations of statistical data and independently track and meet key research timelines.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, flexibility, high initiative, and attention to detail.
Responsibilities
- Manage assigned organizational research projects, including anticipating emerging issues and designing research approaches.
- Develop innovative research design and analysis for emerging issue areas such as AI, healthcare reform, and retirement security.
- Represent the Association externally through coalitions, hearings, and presentations.
- Serve as a subject matter resource for staff and leadership.
- Conduct research on economic conditions and trends affecting members, membership surveys, education policy, legislation, legal changes, wages and compensation, healthcare, organizing strategies, decertification prevention, collective bargaining, impasse proceedings, arbitration, unfair labor practice cases, employer budgets, political action, electoral campaigns, immigration and citizenship policy, and issues-based campaigns.
- Conduct complex and sensitive research assignments requiring advanced analysis and policy expertise.
- Proactively design and implement research initiatives addressing emerging issues affecting the Association.
- Prepare research instruments and draft correspondence; collect, tabulate, edit, and disseminate data and statistical information.
- Respond to assigned information requests.
- Create analytical charts, graphs, and tables.
- Develop comprehensive reports with clear, actionable recommendations.
- Provide research training to staff and members and attend conferences and workshops.
- Write and edit departmental publications and white papers.
- Assist in developing research tools and software.
- Provide leadership, coordination, and guidance to Research Analysts on complex research projects.
- Make administrative decisions concerning non-technical departmental operations related to the position, within departmental policies.
- Track and meet research timelines, adjust to peak workloads, and work occasional irregular hours.
Benefits
- 19 paid holidays
- Three weeks of vacation to start, increasing to five weeks after seven years
- Medical, dental, and vision benefits for the employee and family
- Pension
- 401(k)
- Life insurance
- Work/life flexibility
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
