Research - Operations and Project Management (NCRD Intern)

About the Organization

The Salvation Army is an international movement and an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its mission is to meet human needs without discrimination. National Headquarters (NHQ) supports the work of The Salvation Army across the United States and internationally by providing leadership, resources, and strategic support to territorial and local operations.

JOB SUMMARY

The NCRD Research Intern will support the NCRD Secretary by conducting research using a variety of tools and methods on an identified list of individuals and organizations. The Research Intern will also support the OPMD with analyzing research around advisory organizations.

Key Responsibilities

Conduct Background and Contextual Research:

• Utilize a variety of research tools, databases, and public sources to gather information that supports organizational strategy and leadership decision-making.

Develop Written Research Summaries:

• Prepare clear, well-organized profiles, briefs and reports that synthesize key findings from multiple sources.

Analyze Trends and Insights:

• Identify patterns, noteworthy details, and strategic implications from qualitative and quantitative information.

Research Volunteer Engagement Models:

• Examine practices from voluntary organizations and nonprofit peers to identify innovative approaches to volunteer recruitment, engagement, and retention.

Produce Comparative Analyses:

• Compile findings into organized documents that highlight trends, similarities, differences, and potential areas of opportunity for NHQ.

Support Strategic Initiatives:

• Assist staff in developing insights and recommendations based on research results to inform planning related to volunteer engagement or donor/partner outreach efforts.

Maintain Organized Research Records:

• Track sources, citations, notes, and documentation in a clear and accessible manner to ensure accuracy and future usability.

Collaborate with Staff:

• Work with NHQ team members to refine research priorities, share findings, and ensure deliverables meet organizational needs.

Handle Sensitive Information Responsibly:

• Follow confidentiality guidelines and ethical research practices when handling personal or organizational information.

MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT USED:

• Computer
• Printer

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Current undergraduate or graduate student in a relevant field such as Nonprofit Management, Public Administration, Business, Communications, Data Analytics, Political Science, Sociology, or related disciplines.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Strong research abilities, including familiarity with conducting online searches, reviewing public records, and synthesizing information from multiple sources.
• Ability to analyze data, identify patterns, and draw meaningful conclusions from qualitative and quantitative information.
• Experience preparing research summaries, profiles, or reports is preferred.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and comfort working with online databases and research tools.
• Ability to learn new platforms quickly; familiarity with research tools, nonprofit information resources, or CRM/database systems is a plus but not required.
• Excellent written communication skills with the ability to produce clear, concise summaries and well-organized profiles.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in capturing and presenting information.
• Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple research tasks simultaneously.
• Self-motivated, curious, and able to work independently while seeking guidance as needed.
• Ability to handle sensitive or confidential information with discretion and professionalism.
• Commitment to the mission of The Salvation Army.