About PPA

Public Policy Associates (PPA) provides clients with the evaluation, research, and strategic consultation they need to make smart public policy decisions that improve lives, enrich communities, and strengthen institutions. We believe that policies and programs should be informed by many voices, especially the people most affected. It is our goal to combine academic rigor with authentic community engagement to provide a complete picture.

Our focus areas are early childhood, talent and economic development (including K-12 and postsecondary education), healthy communities (food systems, housing, etc.), and justice. We work in Michigan and nationally.

Across our projects, we do a wide range of activities, such as: talking to community members about their program experiences, examining federal and state datasets, conducting scans of policies across states, and translating research into actionable recommendations for organization leaders.

Work Environment

PPA blends serious work with a friendly, supportive work environment. We work hard because we know this work matters. We also recognize the importance of flexibility, fun, and comradery in bringing our best selves to the job. This includes respecting staff members as individuals and valuing their strengths, thoughts, and experience. If you would like to work with a bunch of smart, interesting, and family-oriented people, PPA might be the place for you!

This position is eligible for 100% remote work within the U.S., although Michigan residence is preferred for this position. Occasional travel to Lansing, Michigan (our office location) is required, and other travel within the U.S. may also be required.

Position Overview

We are seeking to add a full-time Research Associate to our team. This entry-level position will contribute to multiple projects across PPA’s focus areas and support business development activities, such as proposal preparation. The work may include:

  • Primary data collection (e.g., interviews, surveys, focus groups)
  • Data management
  • Data coding and basic statistics
  • Literature reviews
  • Summarizing results and insights in presentations, issue briefs, and reports for different audiences
  • Other tasks as assigned

This position reports to the Chief Operating Officer.

Qualifications

  • Values collaboration, creativity, equity, excellence, and integrity
  • Experienced with diverse populations and using an equity lens
  • Ability to work well in a team and independently
  • Thrives in a fast-paced environment
  • Communicates well verbally and in writing
  • Well-organized and detail-oriented
  • Demonstrates skill in data collection, management, and analysis
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office and able to adapt quickly to other software
  • Adheres to human-subject protections and data security standards
  • Knowledge of PPA policy areas helpful but not required
  • A master’s degree in relevant field and at least one year of relevant work experience, or possesses a bachelor’s degree in relevant field, is actively pursuing a master’s degree, and has at least two years of relevant work experience

Compensation

PPA offers a full compensation package, including competitive wages, paid leave, professional development, health and dental insurance, 401K, and more!

Application

To apply, submit the following materials to admin@publicpolicy.com with the subject line “RA I Application – [your last name]”: (1) cover letter, (2) PPA application form, (3) resume, and (4) writing sample of no more than 10 pages. Incomplete submissions may not be considered.

PPA is an equal opportunity employer. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.