What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research Associate position at Upper Albany Main Street?
Overview:
Upper Albany Main Street is seeking a Research Associate that supports data-driven decision making by conducting research, collecting and analyzing data, preparing reports, and assisting with program evaluation and grant-related research activities. This role helps translate findings into actionable insights that inform program, policy, and strategic initiatives.
Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct qualitative and quantitative research to support project, programs, and strategic initiatives.
- Design and administer surveys, interviews, focus groups, and other data collection tools.
- Gather, verify, and maintain accurate datasets from internal and external sources.
- Support literature reviews, environmental scans, and best-practice research.
- Clean, organize, and analyze data using appropriate tools (Excel, SPSS, R, Power BI, Tableau, etc.)
- Interpret findings and identify trends, gaps, and opportunities.
- Develop dashboards, charts, infographics, and data summaries.
- Prepare written reports, briefs, and presentations for leadership, funders, and stakeholders.
- Assist in developing measurable outcomes and evaluation frameworks.
- Support monitoring and tracking of performance indicators.
- Contribute to grant proposals, needs assessments, and funder reporting.
- Document research processes and maintain research files and databases.
Qualifications:
- Bachelors degree requires in public policy, data analytics, business education, social sciences, economics, or other related field.
- Experience in research, evaluation, data analysis, or related work.
- Strong analytical and critical-thinking skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and at least one data or statistical tool (SPSS, Stata, R, Tableau, Power BI, GIS, etc.).
- Excellent writing and communication skills
- Ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and work independently and as part of a team.
What You’ll Gain:
- Real-world experience analyzing economic and business trends in an urban community.
- Mentorship and training in data analysis and strategic thinking.
- Networking opportunities with city leaders, nonprofit professionals, and local entrepreneurs.
- A portfolio of completed research and visualizations that can be showcased to future employers.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $20.00 per hour
Expected hours: 20 per week
Work Location: In person
Salary : $20