Research Assistant – Public Health, Policy, Evaluation

Summary

This is a full-time, entry-level position in a growing survey research and program evaluation company whose work is focused around health care, public health, service delivery and informing public policy. Working as an assistant to Principal Investigators and Project Managers, Research Assistants are involved in all aspects of research and evaluation projects. They conduct literature reviews, format and test surveys, develop and manage sample lists, organize meetings and focus groups, help process data, analyze and code verbatim responses to surveys, assist with analysis and reporting of survey results, and edit and proof reports.

About MDR

MDR is a public policy research firm located in Portland, Maine with assignments focused on public health, health care, and human services. We conduct meaningful and important work that helps improve the health of communities and makes them a more equitable place to live.

Our company has a national reach – we serve clients across the U.S. Most of our work is for state and local government agencies but we also work for health care and service providers, health plans, nonprofit agencies, and some for-profit businesses. Our company is unique in that we conduct all the steps for our research in-house, from survey design to data collection, analytics, and reporting.

MDR offers a unique culture that puts our teammates first. Here is some of what they have to say about what they like about working here. “Company values skills that everyone brings and facilitates opportunities to grow those skills.” “Variety of interesting projects we work on ranging from public health to market research.” “Full benefits (health, vision, dental, and more”. “People recognize your worth and your contribution to the whole on a regular basis. I feel valued as a person for what I do in my job and valued for the knowledge and experience I bring to what I do here.”

Growth Opportunities

Our Research Assistants gain training, exposure and experience with quantitative and qualitative research techniques across a variety of projects and topics. They work with their supervisor to develop plans for growth centered around their strengths and interests. MDR provides opportunities for training and skill development through our internal training program, participation in industry-related trainings, webinars and conferences, and with an annual employee education reimbursement benefit.

Research Assistants at MDR have three potential growth pathways within the company: Research Analyst, Qualitative Researcher, and Project Management. Currently, we anticipate a need to add additional Research Analysts to our team and encourage candidates with demonstrated technical aptitude and an interest in a career in quantitative research to apply.

Hybrid Work Environment

Like many other companies, MDR quickly shifted to remote work at the beginning of Covid. We offer a flexible schedule with the tools and technology in place to support remote work and are now primarily a hybrid company. Most team members are in the office 1-2 days per week, with the remaining days at home. We feel strongly that the person hired for this entry level position will benefit greatly from some time in the office to train, collaborate and integrate into the company and the way we operate, and prefer candidates who are comfortable with committing to being in the office 1-2 days per week. Plus, our office space is great! We’re in the heart of downtown Portland, on the 8th floor with great views of Casco Bay, Back Cove and all the way to Mount Washington. Parking is free and there are countless options for coffee and lunch within walking distance.

Responsibilities

· Coordinate and assist in the completion of research and evaluation projects under the direction of a Principal Investigator and Project Manager

· Assist in the programming and testing of survey instruments and other survey materials for phone, mail, and online surveys

· Develop and format sample lists

· Coordinate and assist with group meetings and focus groups: identifying sites, recruiting, confirming and reminding participants, managing logistics, taking notes during meetings, etc.

· Conduct in-depth interviews in-person, over the telephone or online

· Read and interpret verbatim comments to open-ended survey questions and code them into groups of like topics or issues

· Assist with data analysis and reporting

· Prepare charts and graphs and help write, edit and proof reports

· Conduct secondary online research

· Conduct literature reviews and online searches

Required Skills and Competencies

· Strong organizational skills and attention to detail

· Capable of following a work plan and schedule while also adjusting how work is done to meet changing circumstances

· Proficiency in MS Excel, Word, and PowerPoint

· Experience programming surveys is helpful

· Experience conducting data analysis using software such as SPSS, R, or SAS helpful

· Strong writing, proofing, and editing skills

· Excellent oral and written communications skills

· Ability to work independently and within a team

· Responsive to internal and client requests

· Focused on meeting customer needs

Education and Experience

· A bachelor’s degree in a social science, public policy, data science, or similar is required

· Master’s degree in a relevant field is helpful

· Experience with research methods is preferred

· Previous experience collecting, managing or reporting on data is preferred

Compensation

$40,000 - $46,000 per year

Benefits

· Flexible schedule with work from home opportunities

· 100% company paid basic health plan including dependent coverage, enhanced plan available with employee contribution.

· 100% company paid dental and vision plan for employee, with affordable dependent coverage available.

· 100% company paid short- and long-term disability and life insurance.

· 401k with company match.

· Earned time off for holidays, vacation, and sick time.

· Ongoing career development and training including an employee education benefit.

Please submit a cover letter with your resume. We appreciate cover letters that demonstrate your writing skills and communicates how your background and interests aligns with the position.

Market Decisions Research is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We provide equal opportunity to all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental disability, religion, age, ancestry, or national origin in recruitment, selection, employment, job assignment, compensation, opportunities for advancement, access to benefits and training, discipline, and termination.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $40,000.00 - $46,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Supplemental pay types:

• Bonus opportunities

Experience:

• Research: 1 year (Preferred)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Portland, ME 04101

Salary : $40,000 - $46,000