Associate Researcher (OPT-In Data Liaison)

Responsibilities Conducts data entry, data cleaning, validation, and quality assurance across multiple data sources. Generates routine and ad hoc data pulls and reports of OPT‑In program data for jurisdiction and TA partners to support implementation improvement, evaluation activities (e.g., engagement rates, referral outcomes, flexible funds distribution), external funding requests, updates to policy makers and state executive leadership. Develops clear, visually engaging data summaries (e.g., slide decks, charts, dashboards) for diverse audiences. Translates quantitative findings into accessible insights for non‑technical stakeholders, including community partners and Advisory members. Collaborates with Site Leads and jurisdictional partners to interpret data trends and inform implementation and decision‑making. Conducts in‑depth case reviews to understand implementation approaches and makes recommendations for quality assurance and fidelity measures to the evaluation team. Manages multiple concurrent data requests and deliverables, prioritizing effectively across internal and external partners. Builds and sustains collaborative relationships with internal teams and external partners (e.g., state agencies, community‑based organizations) to support data sharing, interpretation, and use. Provides in‑person, onsite, hands‑on, data‑related technical assistance to all jurisdictional partners to support capacity building, rigorous evaluation data infrastructure, and long‑term data infrastructure sustainability. Coordinates across the Chapin Hall evaluation team and all jurisdiction and TA partners to ensure data accuracy, completeness, and alignment to support a rigorous, consistent multi‑site evaluation. Performs additional duties as assigned. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree required (e.g., data science, statistics, public policy, sociology, economics, social work, or related field) or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience. Strong preference for candidates located in or with strong familiarity with one of OPT‑In’s demonstration sites (Kentucky, Oregon, South Carolina, Washington,D.C.). Ability to travel up to 50% and work directly with jurisdictional partners in person onsite is required. Ability to manage multiple concurrent tasks and requests, prioritize effectively, and maintain accuracy and attention to detail in a fast‑paced, collaborative environment. Demonstrated ability to work with data, including organizing, cleaning, and analyzing datasets, and using tools (e.g., Excel or similar) to produce summaries, reports, or visualizations for non‑technical audiences. Experience with statistical programming (R, Python, etc.) is preferred but not required. Experience creating data visualizations and presenting data in accessible formats is strongly preferred. Familiarity with data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI, or similar) is preferred. Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.) is required. Experience working with or alongside government agencies, child welfare staff, community‑based organizations, or in similar research/evaluation settings preferred. Demonstrated ability to collaborate with cross‑functional teams and external partners, including communicating clearly, incorporating feedback, and contributing to shared goals. Ability to identify data‑related challenges and contribute to practical, solutions‑oriented approaches in collaboration with internal and external team members and partners. Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to translate complex information (including data) into clear, accessible written and verbal communication for diverse audiences. Ability to work independently while managing priorities and proactively seeking guidance when needed. Demonstrated judgment and discretion in handling sensitive or confidential data. Lived experience related to child welfare, family support systems, or community‑based services is valued and will be considered an asset, particularly in roles involving community engagement or systems navigation. Minimum Physical Requirements Must be able to remain in a stationary position for extended periods of time, with the ability to reposition as needed. Must be able to operate a computer or equivalent assistive technology for four (4) or more hours per day. Must be able to travel locally and out of state up to 50% of the time, which may include overnight and multi‑day trips. Background Check Pre‑employment background checks are required for all Chapin Hall positions. The process complies with Section 2‑103.1 of the Illinois Human Rights Act. A conviction will only be considered disqualifying if it has a substantial relationship to the job, or if hiring the individual would pose an unreasonable risk to workplace safety. Employment Eligibility & EEO Statement Chapin Hall is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer that values and actively seeks diversity in its workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, age, sex, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, citizenship status, pregnancy or maternity, national origin, status as an individual with disability, ancestry, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law. Chapin Hall offers visa sponsorship in limited instances for hard‑to‑fill specialty occupation roles. Salary Range $59,900.00 – $79,797.00 per year. Benefits Chapin Hall provides a strong benefits program that includes comprehensive health plans, paid time off, sick time, parental leave, and retirement options. Employees are able to design their own plan to balance individual needs with affordability and support long‑term financial stability. #J-18808-Ljbffr Chapin Hall