Job Posting: Community Researcher

PPG’s community researchers combine strong research skills with clear communication and a desire to work closely with PPG partners. Our community researchers also work with elected officials and other governmental staff to further our advocacy work. For the first two years, this community researcher will focus the majority of their time on research and advocacy on foster care alumni. They will also work on other locally based research and advocacy on topics selected by PPG’s partners. PPG is flexible to suit our partners’ evolving needs. Therefore, the work is likely to change in topic and content over time. As a staff, we value open communication, critical thinking skills, strong relationships, and a commitment to social, economic, and racial equity in our region and beyond.

This is a full-time, salaried position with benefits. The salary range is $58,000 to $65,000 depending on your qualifications and experience.  The benefits package includes employee and dependent health coverage and a 403(b) retirement plan. PPG currently uses a hybrid work schedule. Currently, staff work remotely three days per week as meeting schedules permit.

Specific Responsibilities

·        Carry out original and accurate policy research

·        Verbally communicate research findings clearly and simply to partner groups

·        Distill research findings into accessible written work

·        Help to chair, advise, and offer strategy support to partner working groups

·        Meet with elected officials to discuss policy solutions

·        Write policy briefs and fact sheets for publication

·        Work as part of the team to carry out PPG public events and other initiatives

·        Draft issue-based social media posts

Qualifications

·        A commitment to accuracy and attention to detail

·        Strong writing skills with a focus on clarity and simplicity

·        Strong verbal communication skills and ability to relate with PPG’s partners

·        Excellent critical thinking skills

·        Ability to work independently

·        Ability to work well in groups and with diverse (in all senses) community partners

·        Flexible and demonstrates high emotional intelligence

·        An interest in developing public speaking skills

·        A commitment to promoting equity and justice for all people in our region

·        Background knowledge of Buffalo’s sociopolitical landscape

·        Bachelor’s degree; preferred advanced degree in a relevant field such as law, social work, government and public policy, urban planning.

Application

PPG values diversity and inclusion. People of color, women, LGBTQ individuals, people with disabilities and formerly incarcerated people are encouraged to apply. Applications will be accepted until February 20, 2023. Please submit a cover letter (explaining your interest in this position and your interest in advancing equity in Buffalo), resume, and writing sample (2-10 pages, ideally policy-related if possible) to andrea@ppgbuffalo.org. The subject of the email should read “Community Researcher Application.”

We prefer the tone of your writing sample to be concise and relatable—not overly academic. See examples of PPG’s publications to get a sense of what we’re looking for: Evicted in Buffalo report, Housing Discrimination Complaint Data fact sheet, Cruelty and Cost report.