Research Assistant

The Research Assistant will support research initiatives aimed at understanding and advancing economic mobility for low-income families. The role involves assisting in data collection, analysis, and the synthesis of findings related to social mobility, public policy, and community empowerment. This position is critical in helping Xiente bridge the gap between research and policy, ensuring that data-driven insights are accessible and actionable for stakeholders.

Requirements

1. Conduct in-depth research on economic mobility, focusing on labor markets, family economic security, and public policies.

2. Identify systemic barriers to economic mobility, such as access to education, social environment, neighborhood choice, housing, and discrimination in labor markets.

3. Collect quantitative and qualitative data from various sources to support research initiatives.

4. Analyze economic and social data sets using tools like Excel, R, Python, and/or Stata.

5. Identify and interpret trends, highlighting barriers to economic mobility.

6. Ensure accuracy and consistency in data collection processes.

7. Draft research briefs, white papers, reports, and visual data presentations.

8. Translate findings into accessible content, with a focus on barriers to economic opportunity.

9. Conduct reviews of existing literature to support projects and identify knowledge gaps, particularly in areas like geographic segregation or social safety net gaps.

10. Assist in preparing materials for policy advocacy and outreach, emphasizing identified barriers and proposing evidence-based solutions.

11. Help organize research meetings, workshops, and events, focusing discussions on barriers to economic opportunity and potential solutions.

12. Proofread and fact-check research documents for accuracy and clarity, ensuring data and findings accurately reflect barriers to economic opportunity.

13. Stay informed on new research methods and trends in economic mobility, engaging with the latest studies on emerging barriers to economic opportunity.

 Qualifications and Experience Requirements: 

· Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Public Policy, Sociology, Statistics, or a related field is required.

· At least two years of experience in research or data analysis, preferably within a non-profit, academic, or policy-oriented organization.

· Strong analytical skills with proficiency in statistical analysis and data interpretation.

· Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, with familiarity in R, Stata, or other statistical software.

· Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and effectively.

· Knowledge of economic issues related to poverty, inequality, and social mobility.

· Experience in conducting literature reviews and synthesizing research findings.

· Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.

· Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

· Commitment to Xiente’s mission and values, particularly in promoting economic mobility and social equity.

· Experience with advanced statistical tools and methodologies (Preferred).

· Previous experience working in a non-profit or research organization focused on economic or social issues (Preferred).

Proficiency in Spanish or another language spoken by Xiente’s client communities (Preferred). 

 Physical Demands: 

· Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.

· Ability to climb steps.

Salary Description
50,000-60,000