Research Analyst [Planning] Research & Evaluation

Position Summary:

ARC seeks a highly organized and collaborative team player to join our Research and Evaluation Division as a Research Analyst [Planning] to assist with the coordination of strategic planning, research, and evaluation assignments in support of ARC’s Strategic Investment Plan. This includes assistance with ARC’s 5-year strategic plan, collecting and analyzing data to monitor annual progress toward strategic plan goals and objectives, managing various planning and research assignments, and assistance with a variety of research, data and evaluation projects. The Research and Evaluation team conducts work, both internally and externally via commissioned contracts, to describe socioeconomic conditions in Appalachia, analyze economic development trends in Appalachia, understand geographic areas of need, and document and evaluate ARC’s programmatic investments. This information is used for ARC policy documents, workshops and events, press releases, research reports, evaluation studies, web site content, and other venues. This position works closely with the director on strategic planning, research, and evaluation projects to support a variety of assignments at various stages of implementation, as directed. This position reports to Director of Research and Evaluation.

Required Qualifications:

• Background and experience with community or strategic planning principles and methods.
• Working knowledge of research methods, quantitative and qualitative analysis, and familiarity with statistics and social sciences (planning, economics, geography, sociology, etc.).
• Excellent writing skills for both technical and broad audiences.
• Strong attention to detail, excellent customer service communications, and ability to use a variety of software such as grants management applications, Excel, Word and PowerPoint.
• Experience in collaborating with teams on research and evaluation projects focused on strategic and community planning projects.
• Proven experience with public speaking and public presentations for wide audiences.
• Adept knowledge of data collection and research analysis. Ability to summarize data into research findings for both technical and broad audiences.
• Solid demonstrated project management experience including the ability to develop and follow project timelines and deliverables.
• Core competencies: accountability, adaptability, collaboration, communication, critical analysis.
• Ability to thrive in a collaborative environment and bring an energetic and innovative approach to his or her work.
• Bachelor’s degree in regional and community planning, economic development, geography, public administration, or related fields.
• Two to four years of relevant experience.
• Successful completion (prior to hire) and maintenance of background security review.
• Ability to travel (~25%). If travel is needed, must maintain and possess a valid driver’s license.