Position Description:

Mathematica applies expertise at the intersection of data, methods, policy, and practice to improve well-being around the world. We collaborate closely with public- and private-sector partners to translate big questions into deep insights that improve programs, refine strategies, and enhance understanding using data science and analytics. Our work yields actionable information to guide decisions in wide-ranging policy areas, from health, education, early childhood, and family support to nutrition, employment, disability, and international development. Mathematica offers our employees competitive salaries, and a comprehensive benefits package, as well as the advantages of being 100 percent employee owned. As an employee stock owner, you will experience financial benefits of ESOP holdings that have increased in tandem with the company’s growth and financial strength. You will also be part of an independent, employee-owned firm that is able to define and further our mission, enhance our quality and accountability, and steadily grow our financial strength. Read more about our benefits here:https://www.mathematica.org/career-opportunities/benefits-at-a-glance.

We currently have openings for project associates in the Human Services business unit for our Washington, DC; Princeton, NJ; and Chicago, IL office locations. The Human Services business unit delivers a range of policy research, program evaluation, technical assistance, data collection, and performance management services on topics including disability, education, early childhood, employment, family support, justice, and management services. The program associate position in the Human Services business unit offers unique opportunities for continued advancement and professional growth throughout one's career at Mathematica.

As a project associate, you will manage projects, coordinate project activities, and provide logistical, operational, and analytical support to our multidisciplinary teams throughout the company. While they may engage in research activities, such as conducting interviews and performing literature reviews, the program associate role is not a research, programming, or systems engineering position. Rather, program associates contribute to the efficient and successful operations of projects, both internal and external, and draw on their problem-solving abilities, interpersonal skills, organizational aptitude, and policy content knowledge to plan, manage, and close out complex projects. Program associates work closely with project directors and task leaders to meet project objectives while remaining on schedule and on budget.

The position responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following tasks: 

• Manage projects by developing and tracking components of project operations including schedules, finances, and logistics
• Evaluate operational components of projects and programs and outline risks, options, and solutions for action by senior staff members or client agencies
• Record, monitor, and analyze project expenditures. Related work includes monitoring subcontractor expenses and invoicing, conducting cost analyses, and forecasting project costs
• Serve as a liaison among technical project staff, researchers, internal business departments, external consultants, subcontractors, and client representatives to successfully execute project work
• Ensure project adherence to data privacy and security requirements and other contractual stipulations
• Develop and maintain SharePoint websites, Microsoft Project databases, Excel spreadsheets, and other collaboration tools
• Coordinate and conduct qualitative research tasks, including supporting literature reviews, conducting qualitative interviews, and organizing and taking notes for large panel meetings
• Communicates effectively with key stakeholders such as technical project staff, researchers, internal business departments, external consultants, subcontractors, and client representatives to successfully execute project work

Position Requirements:

• Strong educational background and a BA/BS in relevant field (Public Policy, Business, Management, Operations, Economics, Political Science, or Social Science)
• Interest in project management and/or evaluating government programs for quality, efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and technological innovation
• Experience with (or interest and aptitude in learning) Microsoft Office, SharePoint, and Project 
• 1-3 years’ experience related to business analysis, government program operations, consulting, research, data analysis, or other relevant employment
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to write in a clear and concise manner and work in a multi-disciplinary team setting
• Ability to multitask and manage competing priorities, and work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
• Some experience with MS Project desired

Please submit a cover letter, resume, transcripts (unofficial are okay), a short writing sample, and salary requirements. You will be asked to attach these materials during the online application process. This position offers an anticipated annual base salary range of $45,000-$65,000. This position may be eligible for a discretionary bonus based on company and individual performance.

Available locations: Princeton, NJ; Chicago, IL; Washington, DC