Researcher at the Wisconsin Policy Forum
The Wisconsin Policy Forum is seeking a Researcher to help the organization advance informed public policy decisions at the state and local levels in Wisconsin. Activities will include serving as a primary or secondary investigator on research projects; collecting, analyzing, and synthesizing data from various sources including state agencies, local governments, and school districts; developing effective ways to use and visualize data in Forum publications; writing research briefs and lengthier reports for publication on the organization’s website and for distribution to elected and civic leaders and the news media; and communicating our findings through briefings, presentations, and media interviews. This position could be based in Milwaukee or Madison.
While this position could deal with a wide range of policy issues, workforce and economic development will be a particular emphasis. The Forum is embarking on a five-year research partnership in support of a statewide workforce development initiative, and the Researcher will play a major role in that effort. Candidates who possess knowledge of, and interest in, workforce and economic development issues are ideal for this position. The Forum values candidates with diverse backgrounds and encourages them to apply.
Responsibilities
Conduct data-driven, high-quality policy research on matters impacting Wisconsin’s workforce and economy as well as state and local governments and school districts in Wisconsin
Assist in the planning and design of research methods, including quantitative data collection instruments and qualitative methods of collecting and analyzing stakeholder input
Conduct data and descriptive statistical analysis; visualize key research findings using Excel or Tableau
Report and publicize research findings by writing briefs and lengthier reports; constructing presentations; and presenting findings orally to interested groups
Keep research partners apprised of progress on research projects and respond to client requests for updates and briefings
Participate in Forum policy committee meetings, communicating progress to committee members and soliciting feedback
Conduct other duties as assigned consistent with a small nonprofit environment in which all staff members work closely together to achieve the organization’s mission
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in a related field required; master’s degree preferred; related fields include public policy, urban planning, economics, public administration, political science, education, finance, and statistics
One to three years of related experience preferred, particularly in a government or policy research setting; strong academic credentials may be substituted
Knowledge of basic research principles and research design required, including quantitative research methods; background in descriptive statistical analysis preferred
Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Excel required; experience with Tableau, R, or other data analysis and visualization tools preferred
Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to produce concise, high-level summaries and briefings
Strong technical and analytical skillset, attention to details, and strong organizational skills
Ability to work with a variety of stakeholders and audiences
Ability to work both independently and as a member of a team; the Forum values a productive, respectful, and collegial staff culture; all positions require a positive, “can-do” demeanor
Commitment to the Forum’s mission as a reliable, independent, nonpartisan research organization
Compensation
Salary starting in the $50,000 to $55,000 range based on the qualifications and experience of the successful applicant. Available benefits include a health/dental/vision insurance package, employer-paid life/disability coverage, employer-paid parking and transit reimbursement, and a generous matching 401(k) program. WPF is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
How to Apply
The priority deadline to apply is April 13, 2025 but the position will remain open until filled. Interested applicants should send a resume and cover letter via email to Joe Peterangelo, research director, at jpeterangelo@wispolicyforum.org.
Link to job posting: https://wispolicyforum.org/employment/researcher/