Director of Equitable Workforce Innovation & Research

David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

The Labor Center is seeking a POWER Project Director to lead the expansion of its workforce development portfolio, advancing equity, job quality, worker power, and climate resilience through research, evaluation, coalition building, and education. You will strengthen connections with statewide workforce development and help determine priorities and fundraising opportunities.

In collaboration with staff and community partners, you will oversee grants, contracts, and administration, guide

Qualifications

• Terminal degree in public policy, labor studies, or a related field (PhD preferred).
• At least five years of experience in workforce development research, policy, program implementation, or evaluation.
• Strong knowledge of workforce development systems, labor market trends, and equity-focused strategies.
• Excellent research, analytical, project management, and writing skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead PI on workforce development research and evaluation projects.
• Design rigorous projects aligned with priorities and ensure ethical compliance (IRB).
• Publish accessible outputs and disseminate findings to diverse audiences.
• Build external relationships with worker organizations, government agencies, policymakers, and funders.
• Oversee budgets, grants, and contracts; supervise staff; participate in leadership meetings.

Skills

Research & evaluation design

Policy analysis

Project management

Grant writing

Communication

Education

PhD in public policy or related field

Job description

The Labor Center is seeking a POWER Project Director to lead the expansion of its workforce development portfolio, advancing equity, job quality, worker power, and climate resilience through research, evaluation, coalition building, and education. You will strengthen connections with statewide workforce development and help determine priorities and fundraising opportunities.

In collaboration with staff and community partners, you will oversee grants, contracts, and administration, guide