Position: POLICY ASSOCIATE I

Experience: Bachelor’s Degree Preferred; 1-2 years’ experience Entry Level
Salary: $47,500 to $55,000, commensurate with education and experience
Date: All applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis
Reports to: Director of Equity & Inclusion

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Who We Are

Opportunity Consulting, a consulting firm dedicated to advancing equity and enhancing public policy, is in search of an Associate. The firm specializes in various fields such as education, workforce development, housing policy, and other aspects of municipal policy. Our mission is to assist public service organizations to build initiatives, conditions, and competencies to improve outcomes and opportunities for those our institutions and systems have historically underserved.As Opportunity Consulting enters its next stage of expansion and influence, we aim to assemble a streamlined team to support our endeavors, with the Associate holding a pivotal position.

We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one who comes from a less traditional background. Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they meet every one of the qualifications as described in a job description. We encourage you to apply, even if you don't believe you meet every one of our qualifications. If you are unsure whether you meet the qualification for this position, please feel free to contact us to discuss your application.

 

Who You Are

You are a dynamic player on our small team. Your role focuses primarily on supporting Opportunity Consulting’s programmatic needs (70%), with a smaller percentage of your time (30%) in support of operational and administrative functions. You are detail-oriented, process literate, and committed to the mission of improving opportunities for all. There is no typical day, so you enjoy wearing multiple hats. You are motivated to speak up, solve problems, follow through, and contribute your talents to the greater goals. You enjoy a highly collaborative team environment and are effective at managing your own time. As you gain experience, you take on increased responsibility.

 

Essential Responsibilities

Successful applicants will contribute to the following activities:

• Conducting Research: Performing research on various topics relevant to the firm's projects. This involves gathering data from a wide range of sources, such as databases, reports, articles, interviews, and surveys.

• Data Analysis: Analyzing and interpreting research findings to extract key insights and identify patterns or trends. This may involve using data visualization tools and spreadsheet software to organize and present data in a clear and concise manner.

• Writing: Summarizing research findings and preparing detailed reports or presentations for clients or internal stakeholders. This includes effectively communicating complex information in a coherent and actionable manner while adhering to the firm's writing style and guidelines.

• Project Support: Assisting project teams with various tasks throughout the project lifecycle. This may involve conducting literature reviews, contributing to project planning and strategy discussions, attending client meetings, developing content for social media, and providing general administrative support as needed.

• Client Engagement: Collaborating with clients to understand their research needs and objectives and maintaining regular communication to provide project updates and address any inquiries. This requires building strong professional relationships and ensuring client satisfaction.

• Continuous Learning: Staying abreast of best practices in the field. Actively seeking opportunities for professional development and participating in training sessions or workshops to enhance research skills and knowledge.

• Team Collaboration: Collaborating with colleagues and cross-functional teams to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and contribute to a positive and supportive work environment. This involves actively participating in team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and knowledge-sharing initiatives.

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Qualifications & Skills Required

• Education: A Bachelor’s degree and 1-2 years of experience in relevant fields such as business, economic, social sciences, public policy, or a related discipline.

 

• Research Skills: Proficiency in using research tools, databases, and data analysis software is highly valued. 

 

• Analytical Abilities: Demonstrated analytical and critical thinking skills are important for synthesizing information, identifying trends, and drawing meaningful insights from data. The ability to think logically, solve problems, and make sound judgments based on research findings is crucial.

 

• Communication Skills: Exhibit excellent customer service, interpersonal, and written and oral communication skills are necessary for effectively conveying research findings, preparing reports, and presenting information. Attention to detail, clarity, and the ability to adapt the communication style to different audiences are highly valued.

 

• Technical Proficiency: Proficiency in using software applications such as Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) is required. Familiarity with data analysis tools (e.g., R) and data visualization software (e.g., Tableau) may also be beneficial.

 

• Time Management: Strong organizational and time management skills are important to handle multiple projects simultaneously, meet deadlines, and prioritize tasks effectively. The ability to work independently and in a team environment, collaborating with others to achieve project goals, is valuable.

 

• Attention to Detail: A meticulous approach to work and a keen eye for detail are essential to ensure accuracy and reliability in research outputs. Thoroughness in data collection, analysis, and reporting is critical for maintaining high-quality standards.

 

• Adaptability and Learning Agility: Associates often work on diverse projects across different policy areas, necessitating the ability to quickly grasp new subject matters and adapt research methodologies accordingly. A willingness to continuously learn and stay updated on best practices is highly valued.

 

• Professionalism and Ethics: Maintaining high ethical standards, confidentiality, and professionalism in handling sensitive information and client interactions is essential.

 

• Willingness to receive and act upon, as well as provide, constructive feedback.

 

• Willingness to engage in a wide range of tasks.

 

Benefits

• Health care, vision, and dental benefits

• 120 hours PTO per year, wellness leave, and federal government holiday closures including some additional local holidays in Washington, D.C. (i.e. Emancipation Day)

• 4% employer contribution on a 401K retirement plan.

• To ensure staff has synchronous opportunities for rest and renewal, the office is closed for a week-long winter break during the last week of the year.

 

To Apply

Please fill out the following application or use this QR Code:

 

EEO and Important Policy Statements:

Opportunity Consulting is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We recruit, employ, train, compensate, and promote qualified persons in all job titles without regard to age, ancestry, color, gender, HIV status, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation (including gender expression, identity, and reproductive status), genetic background, veteran status, family leave status, and any protected group status as defined by applicable law. Our policy reflects and affirms the Company’s commitment to the principles of fair employment and the elimination of all discriminatory practices. 

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