The Research Director is a full-time position at Voices for Virginia’s Children (Voices), an organization whose mission is to champion public policies that improve the lives of Virginia’s children. The Research Director is responsible for providing data and research expertise and support for Voices. An important part of Voices’ work is the KIDS COUNT project, which is funded through a partnership with the Annie E. Casey Foundation. This position will serve as a key liaison to the national KIDS COUNT network. The position will report to the Executive Director and work closely with the policy, outreach, and communications staff.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
maintaining and updating Virginia’s KIDS COUNT Data Center online and analyzing trends and changes in child well-being data
working with the Annie E. Casey Foundation and Voices’ Communications Director in the release of national reports in Virginia
participating in the KIDS COUNT national network and maintain grant reporting
reviewing and summarizing statistical information describing child well-being in multiple domains, and making that information available to Voices staff and key partners and stakeholders
working collaboratively with Voices’ policy staff to write and produce data/research briefs and policy analyses
translate data related to policy issues into meaningful visualizations, such as infographics and maps
planning and executing policy research studies utilizing KIDS COUNT data and data from other sources
making presentations to diverse audiences about child well-being data in Virginia
representing Voices and providing expertise on child well-being data issues on statewide committees and workgroups
responding to requests for data on child well-being from partners and the public
providing expertise in assessing data quality
other duties as assigned
Knowledge, Skills, Experience
Bachelors degree required/advanced degree in a social sciences field preferred and at least five years relevant work experience
Experience related to the use of statistical data and software required
Strong quantitative and analytical skills, including statistical analysis methods in the social sciences and familiarity working with large databases and familiarity with disaggregating data
Excellent research and analytical skills
Proficient in the use of Microsoft Excel
Proven ability to take data and research findings and translate it into easily-understood information for non-technical audiences
Strong writing skills
Ability to prepare, monitor, and report on grant proposals
Ability and willingness to work collaboratively and experience working in team environments
Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced environment, meet deadlines, manage competing priorities, and advance multiple projects
Commitment to the mission and work of Voices for Virginia’s Children, as well as commitment to the principles of equity and inclusion
Competitive salary, flexible work environment. This position is eligible for health, dental, and life insurance and participation in a 403(b) plan with an agency matching contribution.
Organizational Values
As an organization that seeks to improve the lives of ALL children, we are committed to the principles of inclusion, diversity, and equity. We work to incorporate these values at several levels:
We strive to have an inclusive and diverse board and staff.
We bring multiple, diverse stakeholders to the table on all issues for which we advocate.
We seek to lift the concerns of those children who are most marginalized or whose voices are rarely heard, including those of diverse racial, ethnic, and socio-economic backgrounds.
We seek to include those for whom we are advocating in our efforts.
Voices for Virginia’s Children is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
How to Apply
Please submit your resume and cover letter including salary requirements to Nikkia Johnson (info@vakids.org) by Wednesday, February 20th. Resumes will not be considered without a cover letter or salary requirements.
No calls. Potential candidates will be contacted for an initial phone interview. Final candidates will be notified for an in-person interview.
