Research Assistant

CHEManager International; Alexandria (VA); Hybrid; USD 54,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A social policy research organization in Alexandria, Virginia is looking for a research assistant to support efforts improving lives through data-driven solutions. The role includes conducting literature reviews, assisting with field research, and contributing to reports. Ideal candidates should possess a BA/BS in a relevant field, strong communication skills, and project management abilities. The position starts in Summer 2026 and offers a salary range of $54,000 to $65,000, with comprehensive benefits.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits

Qualifications

• Demonstrated excellence in writing and verbal communication.
• Effective project management skills; ability to multi‑task.
• Commitment to detail and accuracy.

Responsibilities

• Conduct literature reviews.
• Assist with field research including note taking.
• Contribute to reports, proposals, and presentations.

Skills

Writing and verbal communication

Effective project management

Interpersonal skills

Qualitative or quantitative research

Education

BA/BS in social science or related field

Tools

MS Excel

Stata

R

Job description

Opportunity

Do you get excited about diving deep into data, insights, and research?

Do you aspire to conduct research aimed at improving the lives of vulnerable individuals, children, and families?

Do you like working on collaborative teams to drive social change?

MEF Associates is a well‑established social policy research organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals, children, and families through rigorous research and high‑quality technical assistance. For the last decade, we have worked at all levels of government and with various non‑profits focused on bettering policy related to child and family well‑being, child care and early education, workforce development, and income security. Our team combines diverse work experiences and expertise to deliver meaningful, data‑driven solutions.

Culture

Our staff come to MEF because of our ability to make a difference through research. Each one of us brings a unique perspective, diversity of approach, and uncompromising commitment to research excellence. We believe that what we do impacts the effectiveness and efficiency of public policy and programs. Through this work, we realize our mission to improve the lives of individuals, children, and families served by these policies and programs. We strive to use inclusive research methods that promote collaboration with the programs and communities with whom we work.

We value a diverse workforce and the benefits that come from research being conducted by individuals with varied backgrounds and life experiences.

As a relatively small firm, we value close collaboration and a supportive work culture. We are committed to the growth and professional development of our staff.

Position Details

• Location: Alexandria, Virginia (hybrid; occasional in‑office attendance)
• Start: Summer 2026 (for students graduating Spring 2026)
• Reports to: Associate or Senior Associate

Responsibilities

• Conduct literature reviews
• Assist with field research including protocol development, meeting coordination, site visits, note taking, and preparing transcripts/summaries
• Contribute to reports, proposals, and presentations
• Manipulate data and assist with data analysis using MS Excel, Stata, or R
• Assist with design and implementation of surveys and focus groups
• Contribute to company website, marketing, and proposal development
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• BA/BS in a social science or related field with exemplary academic record
• Demonstrated excellence in writing and verbal communication
• Effective project management skills; ability to multi‑task and manage competing priorities in a deadline‑focused, team‑oriented environment
• Commitment to detail and accuracy
• Relationship‑driven, effective communicator with strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate with others respectfully
• Experience in qualitative or quantitative research and documentation, preference for public or social policy research

Preferred Skills

• Fluency in Spanish (written and verbal); preference for bilingual/multilingual experiences
• Experience supporting research in an academic field (e.g., professor or senior researcher)
• Working knowledge of statistical or qualitative software packages (Stata, R, SAS, NVivo, Dedoose)

Work Requirements

This role includes work performed primarily in an office environment with prolonged sitting, frequent phone/audio/videoconferencing, and extensive computer use. It requires domestic travel by airplane on occasion. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary range: $54,000 to $65,000, depending on experience. MEF offers comprehensive benefits.

Application Notes

Please apply through the provided link, including a resume, cover letter, academic transcript, and writing sample.

MEF is an equal‑opportunity employer. Applicants must be authorized to work for any U.S. employer; we cannot sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa.