RESEARCH ASSISTANT

 Job Title: Research Assistant 
Reports To: Director of Quality and Grants Management
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Position Type: Full-Time
Salary Range: Commensurate with experience
Location: Miami, FL.

 Organization Overview

Empower “U”, Inc. is a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) committed to delivering comprehensive, high-quality healthcare and support services to underserved communities. Our mission is to reduce health disparities, promote health equity, and improve quality outcomes through innovative programs, data-driven performance, and compassionate care.

Position Summary

The Research Associate supports the Director of Quality and Grants Management by collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data to advance Empower “U”, Inc.’s quality improvement, research, and grant initiatives. This position assists in designing and maintaining databases, performing statistical analyses, preparing reports and visualizations, and evaluating the effectiveness of programs and strategies to ensure continuous quality improvement and evidence-based decision-making.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Research & Data Analysis

• Gather and analyze data from multiple databases and sources.
• Use statistical and mathematical software (e.g., SPSS, R, SAS, Excel) to conduct data analysis and develop models.
• Evaluate whether grant programs are achieving their strategic goals and intended impact.
• Identify trends, gaps, and opportunities for program or operational improvement.
• Prepare clear tables, reports, and visual graphics for internal and external audiences.
• Contribute research data for use in grant proposals, performance reports, and executive presentations.
• Develop and maintain datasets and quality documentation in accordance with federal and organizational standards.

Quality Improvement & Collaboration

• Support initiatives that promote compliance with clinical best practices and improve organizational outcomes.
• Collaborate with the Chief Quality Officer and multidisciplinary teams to design, implement, and assess improvement projects.
• Participate in monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs) to ensure alignment with strategic objectives.

Compliance & Confidentiality

• Maintain strict adherence to HIPAA, HRSA, and organizational confidentiality policies.
• Ensure data integrity and compliance with applicable laws, policies, and procedures.
• Demonstrate professionalism, ethics, and integrity in all aspects of the role.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Health, Epidemiology, Social Science, Statistics, or related field required.
• Master’s degree preferred (e.g., MPH, M.S. in Data Analytics, or Epidemiology); relevant experience is desirable.

Experience

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in data analysis, research, or quality improvement.
• Experience in healthcare, FQHC, or public health environment preferred.
• Familiarity with HRSA reporting, grant evaluation, and healthcare quality metrics highly desirable.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint).
• Experience with statistical tools such as SPSS, SAS, or R.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to present data clearly.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across departments.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish or English/Creole) preferred.

Working Conditions / Physical Requirements

• Primarily office-based position requiring extensive computer use.
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods, lift up to 25 lbs., and perform repetitive tasks.
• Regular exposure to office equipment and occasional contact with clinical environments.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made for qualified individuals with disabilities.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Empower “U”, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We maintain a drug-free workplace.