2026-01: Research Assistant

Are you interested in joining a mission-driven and multidisciplinary staff, turning research findings into better public policies, and playing a hands-on role in building stronger programs? Consider an opportunity with MDRC, where Research Assistants help produce high-quality research, strengthen programs, and communicate evidence that improves policy and practice.

MDRC is a nonprofit, nonpartisan social and education policy research organization that works to find solutions to some of the nation's most difficult challenges - from reducing poverty and bolstering economic self-sufficiency to improving public education and college graduation rates. We design promising new interventions, evaluate existing programs using the highest research standards, and provide technical assistance to help promising approaches grow and succeed at scale. We are known for a collaborative culture grounded in mission, respect, and intellectual curiosity, and we welcome candidates from a wide range of backgrounds.

MDRC is currently seeking applicants for a Research Assistant position. Candidates with immediate availability are encouraged to apply. Note that this is a non-technical position. Candidates who are interested in a data-focused role should apply for the Quantitative Research Assistant position.

The following Policy Area(s) have immediate openings:

• Post-secondary Education
• Youth Development, Criminal Justice & Employment

Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with teams to support the day-to-day management and successful execution of multiple research and technical assistance projects.
• Coordinate timelines, deliverables, meetings, and follow-up actions across internal teams and external partners.
• Assist with research activities, such as qualitative coding support, literature reviews, environmental scans, and background research on policy and program topics.
• Support planning and logistics for trainings, convenings, webinars, site visits, and learning events.
• Prepare spreadsheets, trackers, charts, tables, and presentation materials for varied audiences using Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and other tools.
• Help translate research findings into clear written and visual products for policymakers, practitioners, funders, and community audiences.
• Support the production and coordination of reports, proposals, and other deliverables, which may include fact-checking and documentation.
• Explore and responsibly use approved digital tools, including AI-enabled applications where appropriate, to support research, writing, synthesis, and project operations while maintaining MDRC standards for rigor, confidentiality, and quality.
• Perform other tasks and duties reasonably related to job responsibilities.

Qualifications:

Strong candidates will have:

• BA/BS in psychology, economics, public policy, sociology, or a related field.
• Demonstrated interest in social policy, economic mobility, education, workforce development, or related issues.
• Excellent professional communication skills (verbal and written) when working with external partners and internal teams.
• Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including organizing data, using formulas, managing spreadsheets, and creating clear tables or charts.
• Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft PowerPoint, including developing polished presentations, formatting slides, and translating information into clear visuals.
• Comfort using approved digital tools, including AI-enabled applications where appropriate, to improve efficiency while maintaining standards for rigor, confidentiality, and quality.
• Strong, detailed organizational skills and ability to manage competing priorities in a deadline-driven environment.
• Basic understanding of quantitative and qualitative research methods.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Experience engaging respectfully and effectively with individuals from various backgrounds, including community members, research participants, and partner organizations. Proficiency in written and oral Spanish is a plus.
• Some travel may be required.
• Previous experience working in a nonprofit or as a research assistant is a plus.

This position is part of a collective bargaining unit under Social Policy Worker United (SPWU) - Local 57 of the American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME).

Timing:Applications should besubmittedby May 13, 2026.Please see "What to expect from MDRC's recruitment process" for more information.

Location: The hybrid position can be based in MDRC's New York City or Washington, DC offices.

Professional Development: Research Assistants gain hands-on experience in applied research, project management, technical assistance, and client-facing work while learning from leaders in the field.

Compensation and benefits:The salary offered is $60,343.20 - $62,781.07 based on professional experience. Comprehensive benefits and relocation assistance offered. Some on-the-job training will be provided. Please see "Competitive Salaries and Excellent Benefits" for more information.

Instructions: When submitting your application, please include:

• Resume
• Cover letter
• Writing sample
• You may also indicate policy area(s) of interest within your cover letter

Only candidates selected for further consideration will be contacted.

MDRC is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. No qualified applicant, employee, intern, volunteer, or apprenticeship trainee will be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, national origin, tribal affiliation, ancestry, creed, religion, age, veteran and/or military status, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, marital status or civil partnership/union status, physical or mental disability, medical condition (including cancer and genetic characteristics), genetic information, protected family and medical leaves, domestic violence victim status, political affiliation, or any other basis prohibited by applicable federal, state or local law. Legal work authorization is required. To request a reasonable accommodation during any stage of MDRC's employment process due to a disability, please contact HRQuestions@mdrc.org.

MDRC believes that recruiting and retaining a workforce composed of people of all backgrounds and perspectives improves the quality and relevance of our research, as well as the daily experiences of our staff. By fostering such a culture, we seek an environment in which all staff feel welcomed, valued, and engaged in their work.