LPC Consulting Associates, Inc. is a local research and evaluation firm that works with non-profit organizations, foundations, and public service agencies in Sacramento and neighboring regions. Our clients are organizations and agencies dedicated to improving and strengthening our community, whether through building school gardens, to implementing bullying/gang prevention programs, helping at risk families increase their parenting skills, providing youth with leadership and community-building opportunities, or preventing drug and alcohol use among kids. We are looking for a stellar Research Associate to join our team who has a passion for working with clients and their communities to help them better understand and improve their programs’ impact through strategic planning, research and evaluation design, data collection and analysis, and technical assistance. The ideal candidate is a highly organized, self-starter with solid communication skills that can work seamlessly with the LPC team and within diverse community settings. He or she will also enjoy working with multiple projects and priorities and in a dynamic and collegial environment, developing innovative and custom solutions for clients, and working independently within changing collaborative settings. This position will support the work of project managers, and will offer ongoing opportunities for increased responsibility and professional development.
Position Duties
Research and Evaluation Studies
Assist in the design of data collection tools across a variety of media (e.g., online, paper, telephone, etc.)
Conduct literature reviews and research within academic and other literature.
Coordinate and manage data collection processes for projects.
Facilitate focus group discussions and conduct interviews.
Assist in analyzing and summarizing the information collected.
Synthesize findings in graphics and written reports.
Client Relations and Communication
Communicate regularly with clients, supporting their needs.
Attend and actively participate in project and client meetings.
Work in a team environment, supporting program managers and other staff.
Essential Skills
Critical thinking and the ability to creatively problem solve; ability to write clearly and concisely.
Strong time-management skills, flexibility, and ability to multi-task, with a consistent attention to quality and detail.
Interview and focus group facilitation, data collection tool design (forms, surveys, interview questions), data collection processes development, and simple data analysis.
Proficiency with computer software such as MS Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook), etc.
Solid professional communication skills and client engagement.
Cultural competency and a passion for serving vulnerable people and underserved communities.
A sense of humor and a commitment to professional excellence and growth.
Desired Skills
Our ideal candidate would have one or more of these additional skills:
Familiarity with data analysis software (e.g., NVivo, ArcGIS, SPSS).
Experience using social media and emerging platforms for research and communication.
Skills in developing infographics and alternative formats of communicating data.
Experience working with databases; basic statistical analysis skills.
Experience working in a multicultural environment; knowledge of non-profits, foundations, and service delivery.
Proficiency in a second language (e.g., Spanish, Chinese, Hmong, etc.).
Qualifications
Bachelor degree required. Graduate-level training in social science research preferred but not required, for example, within the fields of anthropology, criminology, community studies, education, geriatrics, public health, psychology, sociology, etc.
Two years relevant experience; may include volunteer or paid program experience with a non-profit or service agency in such areas in alcohol and drug prevention, mental health/health, early child development, community development, education, or nutrition. Graduate level training may compensate for work experience.
Working Conditions
The LPC office is a casual working environment located in the heart of mid-town Sacramento. Most of LPC’s contracts are within the greater Sacramento area, but some may require sporadic travel. LPC operates within regular business hours but we also work with clients who hold meetings occasionally afterhours or on weekends. Associate I’s work on project tasks independently with oversight from the program managers and are supervised by the Research Director.
How to apply
Please email a cover letter and resume to: support@lpc-associates.com with the heading “Research Associate I” in the heading.