At ECOnorthwest, we are dedicated to advancing equitable policy solutions through rigorous research and analysis. Our team is committed to addressing systemic inequalities and fostering inclusive societal change. We have an immediate opening for a full-time Research Analyst (RA) to support our work in social/public policy analysis. The ideal candidate will possess critical thinking skills, a commitment to positive social impact, and a passion for using research to drive meaningful policy change.

For examples of past ECOnorthwest projects, please see the projects section of our website: https://econw.com/projects.

The position will be full-time at our Portland or Bend, Oregon, or Seattle, Washington, office. This is a hybrid position, in-office Tuesday through Thursday and remote Monday and Friday.

Purpose

Research Analysts support more senior teammates in completing projects on a variety of topics. Day-to-day tasks will include general and specific research assignments, data collection, analysis and interpretation, and writing of report components. RAs may bring specialized skills, such as qualitative data analysis or statistical analysis.

Essential Functions

Under the guidance of more senior staff, Research Analysts:

• Conduct mixed methodology (qualitative and quantitative) research on social issues, public policies, and related topics
• Considers how the research process and outcomes address equity, and ensure alignment with ECOnorthwest’s equity framework and statement of research integrity
• Analyze data and assist in compiling comprehensive reports, identifying key trends and insights.
• Assist in the development of policy briefs, research papers, and presentations.
• Collaborate with senior researchers and policy analysts to support ongoing projects and initiatives.
• Stay informed about current developments in social issues, policy, and relevant academic literature.
• Contribute to the preparation of materials for meetings, workshops, and public engagements.
• Ensure that data and information is thoroughly documented with appropriate sources and assumptions
• Complete work within the project timeline and budget as provided by the Associate, Project Manager, or Project Director
• Discuss findings with other staff to evaluate the validity of findings and explore implications; raise any concerns about how a research process addresses issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion, or any other concerns or issues with research alignment with ECONorthwest’s mission and statement of research integrity
• Related duties, as assigned

Required Competencies

• Ability to clearly communicate, both verbally and in writing
• Intellectual curiosity and the desire to seek out new ideas and solutions
• Motivated to produce high-quality, relevant work
• Reliability, timeliness, and efficient management of time and workload
• Skill in handling multiple tasks, problem-solving, and prioritizing
• Ability to produce quality analysis in the form of tables, charts, and narrative
• Ability to work collaboratively and respectfully in a team environment
• Demonstrated ability and willingness to contribute to diverse teams and build an inclusive culture
• Ability to connect research findings to meaningful recommendations and apply concepts across multiple projects
• Self-starting and proactive in soliciting work from internal project managers to maintain an appropriate billable rate

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree. Preference for educational training in fields/disciplines that have a focus on 1) critical social theory (Sociology, Feminist/Gender/Queer Studies, Critical Race Theory, Urban Studies) and 2) social science research methods.
• Demonstrated ability to think critically and analyze complex issues.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English, including presentations.
• Some proficiency in social science research methods.
• Commitment to social impact and deep understanding of intersectional issues.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work for long periods at a computer (8-hour day with one-hour lunch break and two 10-minute breaks. Some flexibility in start/end times and when breaks occur).

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with qualitative analysis tools (e.g., Atlas.ti), survey platforms (e.g. Survey Monkey), statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R), and/or other research tools (e.g. Zotero)
• Familiarity with policy analysis.
• Previous research experience through employment, internships, academic projects, or related activities.

This job description is a general description of the duties and requirements of the position. It is subject to revision by the management of ECOnorthwest, as needed.

REQUIRED APPLICATION MATERIALS

All materials should be submitted in PDF format. Please contact king@econw.com if you have any questions or concerns about these requirements.

• Resume

• Cover Letter (1 page limit). Please address in your cover letter how your personal and professional experiences have prepared you to better understand and communicate about systemic inequities through an intersectional lens.

• (Optional) List of relevant courses taken in college or elsewhere. This may be a list of courses and descriptions AND/OR other relevant non-classroom educational opportunities.

ECOnorthwest is committed to improving its diversity and inclusiveness as a workplace. Our best work draws on teams within and beyond ECOnorthwest who have diverse backgrounds and experiences that reflect the multifaceted communities we work in. Thus, we encourage applicants who would expand the diversity of lived experiences within our team and who share our values and commitments to advancing equity through research and data justice. ECOnorthwest is not a sponsoring organization. ECOnorthwest is an Equal Opportunity Employer.