Research Associate

Clean Memphis is an environmental nonprofit organization working to make Memphis a cleaner and greener city through education, engagement, and policy.

Clean Memphis is seeking a Research Associate to evaluate existing policies, workflow, funding streams, and accountability of government entities relevant to litter, solid waste, and general maintenance of public rights-of-way and spaces. Taking a systems view, the Research Associate will identify gaps and overlaps in services and opportunities for improved collaboration. This person will also identify best practices from other cities and relevant policies to support improved systems.

The Research Associate will have the opportunity to gain experience in research for action in the civic sector and provide meaningful contribution to change. This position reports directly to the Executive Director and will collaborate with local partners on the design and execution of the research plan. This is a two-year, grant-funded position.

Job Responsibilities

Research

• Manage and execute data collection efforts according to the research plan
• Perform primary and secondary research; use mixed methods, including quantitative and qualitative research, to collect and analyze data, and present findings
• Interpret data, analyze results, and provide reports
• Summarize and synthesize research findings and present in a clear concise manner
• Conduct stakeholder, expert, and user interviews
• Conduct desk research of industry literature, local government legislation, information resources, and best practices

Project Coordination & Project Management

• Apply project management strategies and tools to manage multiple priorities
• Organize and lead workflow and throughput.
• Maintain project notes and communicate clearly with project team members
• Coordinate and communicate progress with project team and stakeholders to move projects forward

Additional Responsibilities:

• Assist Clean Memphis team as needed with the following:
  • Volunteer and project coordination
  • Fundraisers and other special events

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

The ideal candidate possesses a passion for making meaningful, sustainable change in the City of Memphis. Characteristics of successful candidates for this position include:

• Knowledge of project management strategies and tools; and the ability to handle multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; sharp critical thinking skills
• Strong communication skills in both written and verbal formats; an ability to deduce and convey complex technical issues in multiple formats for audiences
• Highly organized and attentive to details
• Flexibility and creativity, ability to work iteratively
• Ability to synthesize and analyze qualitative (interviews, observations, review of primary documents, etc.) and quantitative data and research literature to help inform solutions
• Ability to thoughtfully communicate with and respectfully engage diverse stakeholders around a shared vision for achieving results
• Self-motivation and ability to work with minimal supervision and meet deadlines

Qualifications & Requirements

• 4-year bachelor’s degree required
  • Advanced degree preferred, specifically in public policy, public administration, business management, human-centered design, anthropology, or other relevant field
• Minimum 3 years of experience in academic or applied research
• Experience working with community, government, nonprofit, or private sector leaders
• Demonstrated time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite and related software

Compensation

The salary for this position is $60,000 per year plus stipends for phone and health insurance as well as generous paid time off.

To Apply

Interested candidates should submit both a resume and cover letter to Janet Boscarino (she/her), Executive Director, through our website at www.cleanmemphis.org/careers.

We will be accepting applications through Wednesday, March 22, 2023.