RESEARCH SPECIALIST II

The Institute of Public Policy in the Truman School of Government and Public Affairs in the College of Arts and Science

The Research Specialist II will support a statewide multi-faceted evaluation of a teen pregnancy prevention program. This position is responsible for coordinating evaluation activities, ensuring communication between stakeholders, and conducting data collection and assisting with analysis. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, understands applied research and program evaluation, and comfortable working in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate the day-to-day operations of a complex, statewide program evaluation project
• Serve as a liaison between the institute, Contractors, and the project funder, ensuring timely and effective communication
• Collect, manage, and support analysis of both primary and secondary datasets to facilitate the evaluation process
• Develop charts, tables, graphs, and spreadsheets to present findings for research projects, public service initiatives, and data requests
• Contribute to the design and refinement of interview and evaluation protocols and related research instruments
• Support the development and implementation of evaluation tools, training modules, and technical assistance activities
• Contribute to required evaluation reporting, including site visit documentation, federal and state reports, quarterly updates, and annual summaries
• Assist the evaluation team at federal and state-level meetings, conferences, and other key stakeholder gatherings as needed
• Engage in ongoing professional development and research training to support personal growth and enhance team capacity
• Assist with monitoring and updating the project website

Typically, Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm

Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience and at least 1 year of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.

• Bachelor's degree in public policy, social sciences, public administration, or related field
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
• Familiarity with qualitative and quantitative research methodologies

Salary Range: $18.50 to $25.01 per hour

Grade: GGS - 008

University Title: Research Specialist II

Internal applicants can determine their university title by accessing the Talent Profile in myHR

Visa Sponsorship Information:
Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. The University will not sponsor applicants for this position for employment visas.

Columbia offers small-town friendliness with big city features and a high quality of life for people of all ages and interests. Founded on education and known as an ideal college town, its location also makes it an attractive spot for businesses and travelers. Located on Interstate 70 and U.S. Highway 63, Columbia is right in the middle of the state and the nation. Just a couple hours’ drive from St. Louis and Kansas City, Columbia is Boone County’s largest population center offering activities and resources with a low cost of living. Columbia is home to a variety of restaurants and entertainment venues and hosts more than a dozen festivals each year. If you want to grow your career, continue your education, raise a family, and retire, Columbia is a good place to be!

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.