RESEARCH FOR BETTER SCHOOLS

 VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT - FULL-TIME POSITION

RESEARCH ASSOCIATE II

 Based in Philadelphia, RBS is a non-profit educational research and development firm serving educators in the mid-Atlantic region and throughout the country.  It is a mission- driven organization devoted to improving learning environments and performance. Projects are funded by federal agencies, state departments of education, universities, and other education entities.  The current portfolio of projects includes work in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics; school improvement through professional development; educational technology; and quantitative studies.

 The workscope of the Research Associate II position includes designing project plans and proposals, managing small projects and project components,  designing and administering surveys and interview protocols, collecting observational and other forms of data, designing and conducting data analysis, and writing reports.  RBS places a priority on providing prompt and clear feedback to clients in a variety of formats, such as written reports, oral presentations, and debriefing sessions with stakeholders.  Since RBS is funded through competitive contracts and grants, all staff members share responsibility for developing proposals for new projects and otherwise marketing the organization.

 The Research Associate II position requires relevant graduate-level academic training and at least three years of experience working in an educational research environment.  The position reports to the RBS Director of Research and Development.

RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Design, develop, and implement project work plans.
2. Schedule site visits and data collection with school staff. 
3. Conduct fieldwork, such as observations, interviews, surveys, and tests.
4. Perform qualitative and quantitative analyses.
5. Create, maintain, and revise databases in EXCEL and SPSS.
6. Assist in the prepararation of proposals for funding.
7. Prepare reports and other products of funded projects.
8. Promote and maintain productive relationships with other RBS staff and clients.

QUALIFICATIONS

1. Master’s degree in educational research, educational psychology, or related social science field.
2. At least three years of experience in an educational research and development work environment.
3. Expertise and experience using EXCEL and SPSS.
4. Excellent written and oral communication skills.
5. Experience in assisting with the preparation of proposals for grants or contracts.
6. Ability to work on a team and independently.

STARTING SALARY RANGE

The anticipated starting salary is approximately $50,000 depending on qualifications and experience.  Excellent benefits are provided, including full employee health coverage, generous earned vacation days, and company pension contributions.

CONTACT

To apply, send letter of interest and resume to:

                        Carol Crociante

                        Research for Better Schools, Inc.

                        112 North Broad Street

                        Philadelphia, PA 19102

                        (215) 568-6150

                        (215) 568-7260 (FAX)

                        crociante@rbs.org

The application is open as of June 1, 2012.  Applications will be reviewed as received and exceptional applicants will be interviewed on a rolling basis until the postion is filled.

RBS IS AN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER