Research Associate I (L,P,S)

Mississippi State University; Starkville (MS); Hybrid; USD 45,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Mississippi State University’s John C. Stennis Institute of Government and Community Development seeks a research analyst to assist with applied research, data analytics, and program evaluation across Mississippi and the Southeast.

Under supervision, you will design and implement projects, collect and analyze data, develop reports, dashboards, and grant deliverables, and collaborate with diverse stakeholders to advance public service initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Political Science, Public Policy, Community Development, Urban and Regional Planning, Sociology, Economics, Geography, Data Analytics, or a related field.
• Rank and salary commensurate with education and/or experience.
• Master's degree preferred in related fields.
• Experience with research methods, data collection, analytical techniques, program evaluation, or related areas.
• Experience with statistical analysis, GIS applications, survey research, data visualization tools, or related analytical software is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the design, coordination, implementation, and evaluation of applied research projects.
• Collect, manage, analyze, and interpret data using established research methodologies.
• Develop technical reports, white papers, briefing materials, presentations, grant reports, dashboards, and other project deliverables.
• Support strategic planning initiatives, community assessments, organizational assessments, and program evaluation activities.
• Assist with implementation and administration of grant-funded projects, including documentation, performance measurement, monitoring activities, and reporting requirements.

Skills

Research methods

Data analysis

Policy analysis

Report writing

Project management

Communication

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Microsoft Office

GIS

Data visualization tools

Job description

Position Function:

Under general supervision, assists with the planning, coordination, implementation, and evaluation of applied research, planning, data analytics, program evaluation, technical assistance, and grant-funded projects. The incumbent conducts research and analysis, develops reports and project deliverables, supports stakeholder engagement efforts, and contributes to the successful implementation of projects that advance the mission of the John C. Stennis Institute of Government and Community Development.

The position reports directly to the Executive Director and works collaboratively with Institute staff, university personnel, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and community partners throughout Mississippi and the Southeast.

Salary Grade

13

Please see Staff Compensation Structure or Skilled Crafts and Service Maintenance Compensation Schedule for salary ranges. For salary grade UC, these positions are "Unclassified" and salary ranges are determined by the hiring department.

Department Profile:

The John C. Stennis Institute of Government and Community Development is a public service, training, technical assistance, and applied research unit of Mississippi State University. The Institute works to strengthen the capacity of local governments, nonprofit organizations, community leaders, and public agencies through research, leadership development, strategic planning, policy analysis, civic engagement, community development, and organizational capacity-building initiatives.

The Institute serves communities throughout Mississippi and collaborates with federal, state, regional, and local partners to address complex public challenges and improve quality of life.

Area of Specialization:

Applied Social Science Research, Public Policy, Community Development, Planning, Data Analytics, Program Evaluation, and Grant-funded Project Support

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Assist in the design, coordination, implementation, and evaluation of applied research projects.
2. Collect, manage, analyze, and interpret quantitative and qualitative data using established research methodologies.
3. Conduct literature reviews, policy analyses, environmental scans, needs assessments, and best-practice research.
4. Develop technical reports, white papers, briefing materials, presentations, grant reports, dashboards, and other project deliverables.
5. Support strategic planning initiatives, community assessments, organizational assessments, and program evaluation activities.
6. Assist with implementation and administration of grant-funded projects, including documentation, performance measurement, monitoring activities, and reporting requirements.
7. Maintain project records, databases, data systems, and supporting documentation.
8. Collaborate with Institute staff, university personnel, governmental entities, nonprofit organizations, consultants, and community stakeholders.
9. Assist with proposal development activities, grant applications, and identification of funding opportunities.
10. Prepare and present research findings and project outcomes to governmental, academic, professional, and community audiences.
11. Maintain current knowledge of research methodologies, public policy issues, community development practices, and analytical tools relevant to assigned projects.
12. Travel as necessary to support project implementation, client engagement, field-based activities, and outreach efforts.
13. Perform related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Political Science, Public Policy, Community Development, Urban and Regional Planning, Sociology, Economics, Geography, Data Analytics, or a related field.

Rank and salary will be commensurate with the education and/or experience of the candidate.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree in Public Administration, Public Policy, Community Development, Planning, Political Science, Sociology, Economics, Geography, Data Analytics, or a related field.
• Experience in one or more of the following areas:
  • Applied research
  • Community development
  • Local government
  • Public policy analysis
  • Strategic planning
  • Program evaluation
  • Disaster recovery
  • Organizational capacity building
  • Grant-funded project administration
• Demonstrated knowledge of research methods, data collection, analytical techniques, program evaluation, or related areas acquired through academic coursework, research experience, internships, assistantships, or professional employment. Experience with statistical analysis, GIS applications, survey research, data visualization tools, or related analytical software is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of social science research methods and analytical approaches.
• Ability to collect, organize, analyze, and interpret data from multiple sources.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to prepare professional reports, presentations, and technical documents.
• Strong organizational, project management, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with stakeholder groups.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, and related software.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

Work is generally performed in an office environment with regular use of computer equipment. Some travel throughout Mississippi and occasional overnight travel may be required. Occasional evening meetings and participation in project-related events, workshops, conferences, and community engagement activities may be necessary.

A valid driver's license and the ability to travel independently may be required.

Restricted Clause

Position is contingent upon continued availability of funding.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, [phone].

What do I do if I need an accommodation?

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If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at [phone] or [e-mail]. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.