The Spencer Foundation is dedicated to advancing education through the funding of research that addresses critical questions and opportunities in education. We support research that is rigorous, intellectually ambitious, and which supports equitable education systems in order to cultivate learning and transform lives. 

Job Summary  

The Program Research Associates (PRA) is a temporary, student position that is responsible for assisting with the design, implementation, and maintenance of the Foundation's philanthropic programs, as well as for participating in special projects and initiatives led by executive staff and program officers at the Foundation. In this way, the PRAs are involved in both the operation of the Foundation's formal philanthropic activities and in the execution of various internal research projects. Assignments may involve conducting substantial amounts of research and writing. The position therefore requires that the PRA possesses a versatile analytical skill set, basic knowledge of activities of the Foundation, and a strong disposition for working with a variety of collaborators on diverse projects. 

This temporary position lasts 11 months and will work up to 19.5 hours per week with a hybrid work schedule. One in-office day per week is required. This position is similar to a Graduate Research Assistant.  

Essential Job Functions  

• Working with senior and executive staff to manage existing philanthropic programs and initiatives; 
• Assisting program staff in conducting research and evaluation activities to inform the design and implementation of new philanthropic programs and initiatives; 
• Collaborating with foundation staff; and 
• Preparing reports for internal and external audiences. 

Education and Experience  

• Current enrollment at an accredited university doctoral program, located in the Chicago area, with a primary research focus in education required. 
• At least two years of experience using quantitative  research methods on one or more research projects required. 
• Quantitative research experience should include work with social network analysis, computational methods, data cleaning, data documentation, and descriptive analysis using statistical software packages such as Gephi, STATA and/or R. Experience with Excel and Tableau is a plus.  
• Experience with project management is a plus. 

Competencies 

• Excellent organization, documentation, and communication skills with the ability to work independently and participate as an effective team member in a small office environment. 
• Exceptional attention to detail and strong organizational skills. 
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines to ensure timely delivery of projects. 
• Excel at collaborative work and contribute positively and effectively to team efforts. 
• Excellent customer service skills and ability to maintain civility and professionalism in all interactions. 
• Ability to thrive in a busy, deadline-driven environment. 
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to manage communications professionally with a high attention to detail.   
• Ability to handle confidential information with sound judgment and complete discretion. 
• Aptitude for implementing and maintaining various computer systems in support the work.  

Physical/Sensory and Environmental Requirements  

• Office setting. This position is a hybrid role, with mandatory one (1) day in the office. Additional in-office days may be required. This schedule is subject to change. 
• A significant amount of time is spent doing detailed computer work either sitting or standing.   
• The primary repetitive motion in which the incumbent is engaged is keyboarding.  
• Visual and auditory acuity required. 

Pay and Benefits 

• Pay range:  $38.00/hour 
• Benefits:  
• Hybrid work schedule 
• Chicago Paid Sick Leave 
• Retirement Contributions 

Working at Spencer 

At Spencer, we cultivate a professional, friendly, and collaborative work environment that encourages high-quality work and values the unique contributions of each team member. We believe in the capability, dependability, and value of our colleagues, providing them with the resources they need to excel in their roles. We are committed to being a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage applicants of different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, physical disability, family or parental status, veteran status, socioeconomic status, or length of time spent unemployed. 

How to Apply: 

Interested applicants should submit the application, and attach the following documents: letter of interest, current CV, unofficial copy of graduate transcripts, and two academic references.