Research Associate I - Job Opportunity at World Resources Institute

Washington, DC, United States
Full-time
Mid-level
Posted: February 11, 2025
Hybrid
USD 84,000-95,000 per year

Benefits

Comprehensive healthcare package with medical, dental and vision coverage positioned above industry average
Flexible hybrid work arrangement with only 8 days/month office requirement showing strong work-life balance focus
Competitive retirement plan with employer contribution demonstrating long-term investment in employees
Progressive leave policy that increases with tenure indicating strong retention focus
Professional development opportunities through global network access

Key Responsibilities

Lead technical research and data analysis initiatives focused on sustainable mobility and urban development
Author and review high-impact knowledge products including technical reports and policy briefs
Manage multi-stakeholder projects and ensure delivery of major grant deliverables
Coordinate with international offices and external partners to advance program objectives
Contribute to research proposals and develop funding partnerships

Requirements

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in transportation planning, urban/city studies, transportation engineering, public policy, urban sociology/geography, or related field

Experience

5 years of full-time professional experience

Required Skills

Technical research and analysis Project management Grant writing Excellent oral communication Detail-oriented writing Multi-project coordination Adaptability to changing priorities
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Sauge AI Market Intelligence

Industry Trends

Increasing focus on sustainable urban mobility solutions reflecting global climate commitments Growing emphasis on equity integration in urban development projects Rising demand for data-driven decision making in urban planning Shift towards comprehensive safety-focused urban transportation design

Salary Evaluation

The offered salary range of $84,000-95,000 is competitive for a mid-level research position in the DC metro area, particularly in the non-profit sector. It reflects the technical expertise required while maintaining alignment with public sector adjacency.

Role Significance

Likely part of a 5-10 person core team with extended matrix reporting relationships across global offices
Mid-level position with significant project ownership and technical leadership responsibilities

Key Projects

Speed management program implementation Urban mobility policy development Sustainable transport system analysis Road safety initiative development

Success Factors

Strong technical research capabilities combined with practical implementation experience Ability to navigate complex stakeholder environments and international partnerships Excellence in both quantitative analysis and qualitative communication Project management skills with focus on donor compliance and reporting

Market Demand

High demand position due to increased focus on sustainable urban development and infrastructure spending initiatives. The role intersects with multiple high-priority areas including climate change, public safety, and urban development.

Important Skills

Critical Skills

Technical research capabilities in urban development and transportation Project management with focus on donor compliance Stakeholder management across international contexts Clear technical writing and communication

Beneficial Skills

Additional language skills for international collaboration Data visualization and presentation skills Grant writing experience Public speaking and presentation abilities

Unique Aspects

Two-year limited term position focused on speed management program indicating clear project focus
Hybrid work model with minimal office requirement showing progressive work arrangements
Strong emphasis on equity integration in technical work
Global team exposure with significant international collaboration opportunities

Career Growth

Typical progression to senior level within 2-3 years based on project impact and leadership demonstration

Potential Next Roles

Senior Research Associate Program Manager Technical Director Policy Advisor

Company Overview

World Resources Institute

WRI is a globally recognized research organization with over 1,800 staff across 60 countries, focusing on critical environmental and development challenges

Leading position in environmental and urban development research with strong donor relationships and government partnerships
Strong US presence with significant international influence through global office network
Mission-driven environment with emphasis on diversity, inclusion, and work-life balance
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