Mathematica Policy Research
Position Description:
Mathematica applies expertise at the intersection of data, methods, policy, and practice to improve well-being around the world.
We collaborate closely with public
– and private-sector partners to translate big questions into deep insights that improve programs, refine strategies, and enhance understanding using data science and analytics.
Our work yields actionable information to guide decisions in wide-ranging policy areas, from health, education, early childhood, and family support to nutrition, employment, disability, and international development.
Mathematica offers our employees competitive salaries, and a comprehensive benefits package, as well as the advantages of being 100 percent employee owned.
As an employee stock owner, you will experience financial benefits of ESOP holdings that have increased in tandem with the company’s growth and financial strength.
You will also be part of an independent, employee-owned firm that is able to define and further our mission, enhance our quality and accountability, and steadily grow our financial strength. Read more about our benefits here: https://www.mathematica.org/career-opportunities/benefits-at-a-glance
One of Mathematica’s core values is a deep commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Our research is more robust because it is informed by a variety of diverse perspectives, and our mission to improve societal well-being is strengthened by a greater understanding of issues and challenges facing the populations we serve.
Mathematica’s ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion is woven into our everyday actions, policies, and practices.
We are dedicated to maintaining a work environment in which everyone is treated with respect and dignity.
We offer Employee Resources Groups on a variety of topics, local diversity and inclusion activities in each office, and a Diversity council.
We are looking for analysts to join our team in the Human Services unit.
Analysts are part of our professional staff that includes researchers from the fields of public policy, economics, and other social sciences, learning and improvement partners, strategy advisers, product innovators, and data scientists.
They work on projects across domestic policy areas, which include family support, education, child development, labor, economic mobility, nutrition, criminal justice, and related topics.
Specifically, we are seeking analysts in the program development, support, and improvement specialization.
Human Services Analyst – Program development, support, and improvement staff collaborate with programs to identify, design, guide, and carry out innovation and quality improvement efforts, deliver program technical assistance and training, and contribute to the development of products such as trainings, written tools, reports, and videos.
Roles and responsibilities include:
Engaging with diverse clients and stakeholders to build trust and rapport, gather input, provide high-quality work, thoughtful recommendations, and responsive communication Translating research knowledge and experience into actionable, relevant information to support decision making and strategy development Developing products, such as (1) memoranda and executive summaries of key findings, recommendations for improvement, and practice-focused lessons learned; (2) practitioner-focused documents, including implementation guidance, training curricula, and strategic planning tools; (3) case study and lessons learned briefs; and (4) evaluation findings or portfolio performance reports.
This may include developing data visualizations to enhance the accessibility of findings.
Contributing to the oversight of projects, including financial monitoring and participating in internal project management and quality assurance procedures
The following projects illustrate our commitment to improving public well-being:
Partner with programs, such as workforce development, state TANF agencies, and community organizations serving couples and youth, to guide and support improvement Boost student achievement and education outcomes by helping states and school districts build capacity to use data and strengthen supports for educators and students Reduce barriers to participation in nutrition assistance programs such as SNAP and WIC, and assess effectiveness on the food security and well-being of families with low incomes Design and support programs, including interventions and tools, to support participants in social service programs
Position Requirements:
Understanding of measurement and evaluation; ability to adapt methods to stakeholders’ capacities and needs Ability to identify and collect data, and perform quantitative and qualitative data analysis Ability to use evidence to inform decision making or make concrete recommendations Ability to identify and integrate equity strategies to in research and evaluation design, co-creation, and reporting Strong interpersonal skills, including ability to deal tactfully with clients and stakeholders, engage with diverse partners, and facilitate joint problem solving Excellent oral and written communication skills, including for non-technical audiences Prior experience working with/in federal, state, or local agencies with marginalized communities is preferred Bachelor’s degree required; master’s degree preferred in a relevant field Willingness to travel domestically, up to 25% time, as needed (travel is not occurring during the public health crisis)
Additional requirements for the program development, support, and improvement specialization include:
Minimum of two years of experience working with or in federal, state, or local agencies and knowledge of at least one relevant policy area: employment or workforce programs; food security; child welfare; child support; and family support programs focused on healthy relationships, responsible fatherhood, or teen pregnancy prevention.
Experience in design thinking or human-centered design is preferred.
Applicants must submit a cover letter, resume, transcripts (unofficial or official), and contact information for three references.
Applicants should also submit a writing sample, such as a tool, resource, or memo, related to a relevant policy/program area.
Please note: After completing your application for this position, you can easily apply for other, related analyst opportunities such as Human Services Analyst
– Research and Human Services Analyst – Strategy.
This position offers an anticipated annual base salary range of $60,000-$100,000.
This position may be eligible for a discretionary bonus based on company and individual performance.
Various federal agencies with whom we contract require that staff successfully undergo a background investigation or security clearance as a condition of working on certain projects.
If you are assigned to such a project, you will be required to obtain the requisite security clearance.
Available locations: Princeton, NJ; Washington, DC; Oakland, CA; Chicago, IL; Ann Arbor, MI; Seattle, WA
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.