Research Assistant, Workforce Development and Citizen Security

Introduction

Making Cents International seeks a Research Assistant to support workforce development (WFD) and citizen security-focused research taking place under the USAID Latin America and Caribbean Learning and Rapid Response (LACLEARN) Activity. This research seeks to improve understanding of and generate evidence on the utility of WFD in preventing youth crime and violence in Latin America and the Caribbean.

The Research Assistant will contribute to preparations for, and implementation of, research activities that will include key informant interviews with USAID staff, implementing partners, and other stakeholders, a literature review, and a public briefing. The Research Assistant will directly support the Team Lead and Research Specialist.

Role and Tasks

The Research Assistant will provide research, logistical, operational, and administrative support for research activities. Tasks will include but are not limited to: 

• Assist Team Lead with identifying background documents prior to the start of research.
• Based on information provided by USAID and the Team Lead, identify and schedule interviews with a broad array of USAID staff, implementing partners, and other stakeholders in Latin America and the Caribbean.
• Contribute to the development of the work plan and schedule for research.
• Review relevant background materials prior to the start of the research.
• Participate in team meetings and briefings, as needed.
• Provide verbal briefings to the team on selected topics.
• Develop and manage the interview schedule in consultation with the Team Lead, including making and confirming appointments.
• Take notes as requested for the Team Lead.
• Manage all interview-related arrangements for the team.
• Ensure all necessary administrative and logistical support is available to the team.
• Complete other appropriate tasks as assigned by Team Lead.

Proposed Level of Effort 

Maximum Level of Effort will be 60 days to begin in May 2023 and end August 2023.

Qualifications

• Proficiency in English and Spanish.
• Master’s degree and at least three years of experience, or a bachelor's degree and at least five years of experience
• Experience supporting research activities, including providing logistical and administrative support for focus groups and interviews.
• Demonstrated research experience in CVP, WFD, or monitoring, evaluation, and learning topics

Making Cents International is a certified B Corporation, founded on the principles of social entrepreneurship. Since 1999, we have supported the well-being of youth and adults globally through high-impact programs that bolster those who serve people living in vulnerable contexts in low- and middle-income countries. As a purpose-driven small business, we have implemented more than 130 projects in over 60 countries and are a trusted partner to public- and private-sector clients who benefit from our expertise and broad industry exposure.

Making Cents International is an equal opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate in its selection and employment practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, age, or other legally protected characteristics.