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The Economic Policy Institute (EPI) has an immediate opening for an Economist/Researcher to join the dynamic and growing team of its Program on Race, Ethnicity and the Economy (PREE). Established in 2008, PREE is a leader on data-driven analysis of how race, ethnicity, gender and class intersect to uniquely affect economic outcomes and thoughtful framing of these issues in economic policy discussions.
The Economist/Researcher II will be responsible for assisting the Director of PREE in planning and executing research that documents and explains economic disparities by race, ethnicity, gender and social class; explores the role of structural racism in shaping these differences; and analyzes the racial, ethnic and gender dimensions of major policy choices. Preference will be given to mid-career candidates with a demonstrated history of research that uses empirical data to evaluate policies that impact the economic security and well-being of low-income children and families, but recent Ph.Ds with compelling research experience will be considered. Candidates with a research focus on housing, criminal justice, higher education, or socio-economic outcomes among Hispanic, Native American and/or Asian American populations are also encouraged to apply. This position is an excellent opportunity to engage with a multidisciplinary community of researchers to produce impactful research aimed at influencing national and state policies that advance racial and economic justice and end the cycle of economic vulnerability among low-income communities of color.
About EPI
EPI is an independent, nonprofit, nonpartisan think tank that researches the impact of economic trends and policies on typical families in the United States. We see our mission as ensuring that the economic interests of low and middle-income households are given their proper due by policymakers. EPI is a key institution in the movement for economic justice in the United States and is widely-recognized as a source of authoritative analysis on economic trends, with a particular focus on economic inequality.
EPI believes that having a diverse and inclusive workplace not only strengthens the institute’s work, but is essential for understanding and creating economic policies that support all working people. EPI is an equal opportunity, fair chance, affirmative action employer, committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, creed, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, military status, prior history of arrest or conviction, citizenship status, caregiver status, or other categories protected by law.
This position is based in Washington, DC. EPI is currently operating under a trial hybrid work policy with the majority of our staff primarily working remotely except for 1 week each month when all staff work in the office when it is safe to do so. Individuals may be required to work in the office or attend in-person meetings or events when it is necessary to carry out the duties and responsibilities of their job. We will determine whether to adopt a long-term hybrid work policy at the end of this year.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Conducting original research, analyzing economic and demographic data, and evaluating and developing policy proposals to improve the economic security and well-being of low-income children and families of color
- Preparing written reports, op-eds, blog posts and other documents accessible to multiple audiences
- Engaging networks of academics, researchers, advocates and policymakers on issues and policies affecting low-income children and families of color, and other areas of expertise
- Providing technical assistance for policymakers, advocacy organizations and unions
- Serving as an EPI spokesperson on issues and policies affecting low-income children and families of color, as well as issues related to other areas of expertise
- Contributing to EPI’s data and statistical analysis infrastructure
- Occasional travel to attend meetings and/or present research
Qualifications and Requirements:
- Ph.D. in economics or related field, including sociology, public policy, or political science
- Demonstrated research experience using quantitative methods (experience using qualitative methods a plus)
- Deep understanding of existing data sets that can be used to evaluate policies related to economic security and well-being of children and families, including assessment of racial disparities
- Strong writing and public speaking skills
- Ability to work closely with others as part of a research team, as well as work independently
- Ability to communicate effectively with technical and non-technical audiences, including the research community, the advocacy community, policymakers and the media
- Experience with policy analysis and development of policy proposals
Salary/Benefits:
- EPI is a unionized workplace with the Nonprofit Professional Employees Union (NPEU). This position is in the bargaining unit and reports to the
- The salary for this position, dependent on experience, is $107,015 to $117,716 annually, plus benefits.
- EPI offers an excellent benefits package, including generous paid time off, as well as retirement contributions, medical, vision, dental, short- and long-term disability, and life insurance.
Location
- This position is based in Washington, DC. The EPI staff are currently working remotely due to the coronavirus pandemic. EPI will resume in-person work in Washington, DC when it is safe to do so.
How To Apply
Please send a cover letter articulating your interest in this job, along with a resume’ to PREE-jobs@epi.org.