Research Project Manager

Overview

Ampact partners closely with active researchers at ServeMN to evaluate and continuously improve impact and implementation of evidence-based AmeriCorps programs: Reading Corps, Math Corps, and Early Learning Corps. The Research Manager works collaboratively with implementation staff at Ampact and researchers at ServeMN to successfully execute complex, multi-state, cross-organizational research projects. This position applies strong organization, collaboration, and project management skills to provide direction to internal teams of staff and ensure project timelines are met. This position requires a strong attention to detail, the ability to plan and manage multiple components of complex research projects, and an ability to manage multiple parties to achieve shared goals.  

Responsibilities

Essential Functions 

Project Management:  

• Plan, manage, operationalize, and monitor the development and execution of multiple research projects related to the evaluation and continuous improvement of Ampact program models.  

• Develop comprehensive project plans that include definitions of objectives and key deliverables.  

• Set project schedules, budgets, and timelines. Create key performance indicators and identify and engage stakeholders and project teams.  

• Collaborate with multiple teams, roles, and organizational functions to achieve project objectives.  

• Continually identify barriers to achieving the project goals and identify innovative solutions to those challenges.  

• Provide tools, timelines, and technical assistance to support project implementation for staff and other stakeholders.  

• Document and organize critical components of all assigned research projects. Ensure timelines are met and approved initiatives are successfully launched.  

Data Analysis:  

• Coordinate collection, processing, and reporting of qualitative and quantitative data related to Ampact program implementation.  

• Coordinate all aspects of data projects, including documenting project objectives, monitoring timelines, project progress and deliverables.  

• Conduct all aspects of data management including tracking, entering, and cleaning data.  

• Develop fluency with necessary data systems to monitor outcomes, program impact, and AmeriCorps member information.  

• Regularly report on outcomes and use data to make decisions. Ensure data systems are responsive to evolving business needs, and work with staff in multiple departments to develop new technology solutions as needed. 

Operations and Infrastructure:  

• Serve as the point of contact for all nationally implemented research projects.  

• This includes, but is not limited to, developing cross-functional communication systems, external stakeholder collaboration systems, reporting to funders, and process improvement infrastructure.  

• Key to success in this function is the ability to attend to research project details as they relate to organizational operations and infrastructure. 

Communication:  

• Facilitate effective project communication standards, including establishing project meeting and communication cadences for immediate project team, adjacent staff and personnel for whom the project has contingencies, and organization leadership; and proactively communicate updates to project team and organizational stakeholders. 

• Consult with leadership in multiple states throughout the organization to troubleshoot issues and identify solutions.  

• Communicate the purpose, goals, objectives, and results of research projects to relevant internal staff and external stakeholders.  

• Regularly evaluate and ensure processes are designed to accomplish research project goals and objectives according to set timelines. 

Administration:  

• Maintain accurate and complete program files and documentation. Ensure compliance with program, organization, grant requirements, and AmeriCorps rules and regulations. 

Qualifications

Minimum Education 

• Bachelor’s degree in psychology, sociology, social work, education, public health, or related field required. 

Minimum Experience 

• 3 years’ experience project management, preferably in a research setting 

• 2 years’ experience in human subjects’ research setting 

• Strong analytical, organizational, and time management skills 

• Demonstrated competence in data analysis 

• Demonstrated experience writing data reports and presenting data to a range of audiences 

• Ability to structure and prioritize tasks, projects and deadlines in a fast-paced evolving environment 

• Proven interpersonal skills including the ability to build relationships, lead teams, solve problems, manage conflict and exercise sound judgement 

• Ability to work effectively in collaboration with diverse groups of people 

• Commitment to develop equity skills and cultural competence 

• Demonstrated strong written communication skills characterized by active listening, respectful two-way communication, and timely, results-oriented communication. 

• Proven initiative, problem solving, and critical thinking skills. Ability to work independently 

Physical Requirements 

Ampact is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and will make reasonable accommodations as possible to enable employees to perform the essential functions of their positions.  

This position requires the ability to: 

• Travel locally and statewide as needed to attend meetings 

• Communicate effectively with people/groups in multiple settings within and outside the organization 

• Effectively utilize existing and emerging technology to achieve required results 

• Transporting of moderately heavy objects up to 25 pounds