Senior Research Analyst

California School Employees Association•San Jose, CA

1d•Onsite

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 data and insights that support field staff, leadership, representational work, and the organization’s strategic goals. The analyst conducts the most complex and sensitive research assignments, using advanced methodologies and policy expertise to produce high-caliber work, including white papers that explain complex issues, present CSEA’s perspective and assess impacts on members and the organization. The position works independently with minimal daily supervision, mentors and collaborates with Research Analysts, and translates findings for staff executives and rank-and-file members. It also makes administrative decisions about non-technical departmental operations within policies established by department managers. Research areas include economic conditions affecting members, membership surveys, education policy, legislation and legal changes, wages and compensation, healthcare, organizing, collective bargaining, arbitration, employer budgets, political campaigns, and other issues-based campaigns. The position is based in San Jose, California. CSEA describes the role as an exempt position and offers a salary and benefits package; no salary amount is specified.

Requirements

At least two years of recent experience leading and managing research projects.
Education equivalent to a master’s degree in public administration, business administration, public policy, library science, or a related major.
Proficiency in MS Office 365, Teams, OneDrive, and SharePoint.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Flexibility, high initiative, and attention to detail.
Knowledge of advanced data collection, research design, and report preparation principles and practices.
Ability to present complex data and synthesize information for different audiences.
Knowledge of advanced report writing, research methodologies including white papers, statistical methods, and proper practices for processing research data.
Knowledge of internet research methods and common office software tools, 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.
Ability to exercise initiative and sound judgment.
Ability to monitor news, social media, and other primary sources to stay current on trends.
Ability to identify research needs or organizational gaps and develop implementation plans and goals.
Ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing, with people at all levels.
Ability to learn the Association’s history, purpose, function, and future goals.
Ability to perform complex statistical and survey operations, track and meet research timelines, and prepare graphic interpretations of statistical data.

Responsibilities

Manage assigned research projects, including anticipating emerging issues and designing research to address them.
Develop innovative research design and analysis approaches in emerging areas such as AI, healthcare reform, and retirement security.
Represent the Association externally at coalitions, hearings, and presentations.
Serve as a subject matter resource for staff and leadership.
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, and edit data; and disseminate statistical information.
Respond to assigned information requests.
Create analytical charts, graphs, and tables.
Develop comprehensive reports with clear, actionable recommendations.
Provide 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 working on complex research projects.
Make administrative decisions concerning non-technical departmental operations within established policies.
Adjust to peak workloads and work occasional irregular hours.