Research Assistant, Inclusive Economy

Reports to: Director of Economic Analysis
Staff reporting to this position: None
Department: Inclusive Growth 
Position classification: Exempt, full time; Union - Level 2
Compensation range: $54,000­–$62,100 per annum
Work site: On-site (Washington, D.C., office)
 

Summary

American Progress has an immediate opening for a Research Assistant on its Inclusive Economy team within its Inclusive Growth department. The position will support work on policy topics across American Progress, including those related to labor policy, economic mobility, and economic growth in the context of building an economy that works for all.

The successful candidate will be guided by American Progress’ mission to improve the lives of all Americans through bold, progressive ideas, as well as strong leadership and concerted action. The Research Assistant will join a committed group of colleagues with extensive research expertise to strengthen American Progress’ policy and advocacy work in support of the organization’s priorities.

This position calls for a highly organized, detail-oriented, and responsible individual on whom policy staff can rely to support high-quality research—including qualitative and quantitative analysis—and assist in product development from initial scoping to final publication. The ideal candidate will have excellent research and organizational skills and pay careful attention to details, deadlines, and follow-up communications. They will also be intellectually curious with a strong desire to find answers to challenging research questions and have the ability to multitask. Strong verbal and written communication skills and the ability to interact well with high-level policy professionals, both internally and externally, are essential. The Research Assistant will report to the Director of Economic Analysis on the Inclusive Economy team and will frequently work on projects directed by other senior staff in the department.
 

Responsibilities:

• Support research on key policy areas, including strategies to promote economic growth, strengthen households’ economic security, and build power for workers, as well as a willingness to work in support of the broader goals of the Inclusive Growth department.
• Read and summarize existing research, review state and federal legislation and regulations, analyze data sets, and track and monitor policy developments.
• Support the writing and editing of accessible op-eds, columns, issue briefs, reports, rapid-response statements, and memos.
• Assist in coalition and advocacy efforts, including by helping to coordinate and plan public and private meetings and events.
• Support the development, implementation, management, production, and distribution of products.
• Perform other duties as assigned, including administrative tasks.

Requirements and qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field or equivalent experience, plus one to two years of relevant professional experience.
• Ability to conduct quantitative and qualitative research with senior staff oversight.
• Training or experience in one or more commonly used statistical software packages—such as Stata, R, SAS, or Python—is preferred.
• Strong writing and editing skills, with high standards for accuracy.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to balance multiple projects at once.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work well on a team.
• Intellectual curiosity.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Interest in and background knowledge of economic issues, including labor and employment issues.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook is required.
• Commitment to American Progress’ mission and goals.

American Progress offers a full and competitive benefits package. Candidates from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. This position is part of a bargaining unit represented by IFPTE Local 70 and has a salary range of $54,000–$62,100 per annum.