Associate Research Scientist

Our School Assessment Psychometric Services department has one or more job openings for Associate Research Scientist positions. Pearson research scientists provide the full range of psychometric support to large scale custom assessment programs, as well as develop innovative techniques and processes. We are looking for candidates with drive and ambition who are seeking to make an impact as a psychometric practitioner, serving State Departments of Education and large school districts.

General Duties and Responsibilities

• Fulfills psychometric analyses including scaling, equating, item and test analyses, test construction (including CAT item pool assembly and configuration).
• Produces technical reports that exceed target audience requirements for clarity and defensibility.
• Facilitates public review meetings such as item data reviews and standard settings.
• Collaborates with other measurement professionals in the delivery of large scale high-stakes assessment programs.
• Advises clients on sound measurement practice – is able to understand the impacts of public policy on assessment, and vice versa.
• Manages schedules and interacts with subject matter experts, technology staff, and program management staff to fulfill psychometric deliverables.
• Travels, as required, to fulfill these responsibilities. Travel is approximately 25%.
• Is self-driven, self-monitoring, and able to work independently following established procedures.

Education and Work Experience

• Doctoral degree in educational measurement or a related field from a nationally recognized institution of higher education.
• Doctoral candidates may be considered if evidence is provided that the candidate will graduate within a semester of hiring.

Familiarity with Psychometric Techniques

• Familiarity with applied psychometric techniques—including classical test theory, item response theory, test equating, scaling, linking, and standard setting.
• Familiarity with modern assessment designs and practices such as computer adaptive testing, Bayesian inference networks, and multidimensional IRT a plus.

Familiarity with Software Packages and Programming Languages

• Familiarity with software packages and programming languages commonly used in psychometric work or measurement research (e.g., SAS, R, WINSTEPS, IRTPRO). Note that Pearson uses a SAS in a server environment as our primary analysis platform.

Knowledge of Educational Trends

• Familiarity with national and state trends in education.

Communication Skills

• Is able to demonstrate communication skills (oral, written, and business) necessary to function effectively with internal project teams and external clients.
• Must be able to effectively write and communicate orally to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Candidates selected for interview will be required to provide writing samples and to give a job talk.

Compensation at Pearson is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, and specific location. As required by the Colorado, California, Washington State, New York State and New York City laws, the pay range for this position is as follows:

The minimum full-time salary range is between $95,000 - $130,000.

This position is eligible to participate in an annual incentive program, and information on benefits offered is here

What to expect from Pearson

Did you know Pearson is one of the 10 most innovative education companies of 2022?

At Pearson, we add life to a lifetime of learning so everyone can realize the life they imagine. We do this by creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are on a journey to be 100 percent digital to meet the changing needs of the global population by developing a new strategy with ambitious targets. To deliver on our strategic vision, we have five business divisions that are the foundation for the long-term growth of the company: Assessment & Qualifications, Virtual Learning, English Language Learning, Workforce Skills and Higher Education. Alongside these, we have our corporate divisions: Digital & Technology, Finance, Global Corporate Marketing & Communications, Human Resources, Legal, Strategy and Direct to Consumer. Learn more at We are Pearson.

We value the power of an inclusive culture and also a strong sense of belonging. We promote a culture where differences are embraced, opportunities are accessible, consideration and respect are the norm and all individuals are supported in reaching their full potential. Through our talent, we believe that diversity, equity and inclusion make us a more innovative and vibrant place to work. People are at the center, and we are committed to building a workplace where talent can learn, grow and thrive.

Pearson is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer and a member of E-Verify. We want a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives and skills. The more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit and business need. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status or any other group protected by law. We strive for a workforce that reflects the diversity of our communities.

To learn more about Pearson’s commitment to a diverse and inclusive workforce, navigate to: Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Pearson.

If you are an individual with a disability and are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our career site as a result of your disability, you may request reasonable accommodations by emailing ppsmhr@pearson.com.

Note that the information you provide will stay confidential and will be stored securely. It will not be seen by those involved in making decisions as part of the recruitment process.

Job: PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Organization: Assessment & Qualifications

Schedule: FULL\_TIME

Req ID: 11293

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