Job Description

Job Description

Job Description

ABOUT URBANKIND INSTITUTE  

UrbanKind Institute is a Pittsburgh-based “think-and-do" tank dedicated to eliminating barriers for families in over-burdened and under-resourced communities. We strive to expand equitable and just outcomes by bridging community experiences, academic research, and public policy. Our work encompasses research, education, and community engagement across various sectors, including environmental and climate justice, water equity, housing, health, and workforce development. We emphasize a critical, interdisciplinary approach that centers the voices and priorities of the communities we serve. 

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION  

The Research and Policy Associate will support the research, community engagement, and advocacy efforts of various UrbanKind programs in areas of environmental justice, clean water access and equity, and housing and land use policy, among others. The position will report to the Director of Environmental and Climate Justice Initiatives, with occasional responsibilities assigned by the Deputy Director. 

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES  

General  

• Promote the organization’s mission and values in all program activities 
• Manage logistics and communication for assigned programs, including scheduling meetings, preparing agendas, and documenting minutes 
• Build and maintain relationships with stakeholders and community partners 
• Assist in developing and updating administrative processes and work plans 
• Conduct regular reporting and evaluation of program activities 
• Assist in the development of materials (i.e., print, web-based, and social media) to communicate about UKI programming 
• Perform other duties as assigned 

Specific  

• Support research, data analysis, and advocacy in areas of environmental justice, clean water access and equity, and housing and land use policy, among others 
• Prepare written reports, papers, policy briefs, presentations, or other products tailored to diverse audiences to share research findings and/or policy recommendations
• Identify, assess, and pursue opportunities for policy advocacy related to project areas 
• Organize and lead educational and community engagement activities related to primary project areas, including presentations, workshops, trainings, etc. 
• Support the program evaluation team by assisting with data collection, including surveys, focus groups, and gathering narratives and perspectives from the community 
• Position may include opportunities for domestic travel 3-4 times a year for conferences, workshops, and other in-person convenings. 

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS  

• Master’s degree or 2+ years of equivalent research experience in geography, environmental science, sustainability, urban planning, public policy, or a related field 
• Knowledge of regional environmental and climate justice issues and their intersections with social determinants of health 
• Comfort and experience in engaging with historically marginalized communities
• Familiarity with the Greater Pittsburgh Region
• Experience with qualitative/social science research methods (e.g., interviews, surveys, archival work) and/or policy analysis; experience with quantitative methods and analysis is a plus 
• Familiarity with GIS and remote sensing data and tools (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS); experience with geospatial analysis is a plus 
• Strong science communication skills with demonstrated experience presenting and writing on scientific or technical topics; proven record of publication is preferred 
• Experience in project management, issue-based advocacy, and/or community engagement 
• Proficiency in MS Office suite, G suite, and Zoom 
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and decision-making skills 
• Ability to work independently and self-motivated to complete tasks with minimum supervision 
• Ability to work collaboratively with a team 
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously as well as adapt to shifting priorities 
• Exceptional organization, attention to detail and accuracy, and planning skills 
• Ability to respectfully and effectively engage with staff and external partners of diverse backgrounds, including community leaders and residents 

We will begin reviewing applications on Nov 11, 2024, and continue until the position is filled, with an anticipated start date of Jan 6, 2025.  

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