Associate (Hybrid/Remote)

JOB SUMMARY

As an Associate, you'll help your team solve tricky client problems by applying a blend of research, analytical, critical thinking, and communication skills. Associates are given ownership of specific tasks, draft work products, and serve as part of an integrated consulting team. Your work may include analyzing data, identifying trends, creating presentations and communication materials, and/or designing solutions to address client challenges. With exposure to a variety of clients and project types, our commitment to experiential learning and development accelerates the Associate’s career path, mastering the foundations of management consulting.

ABOUT US

Hey there, we’re Totem! We’re a small, boutique management consulting firm based in DC. We value authenticity, curiosity, and - well - a really good sense of humor. We work hard to create a diverse and engaging workplace, self-driven by employee ideas and energy. Our people span the U.S. and primarily work remotely with a mix of government, commercial, and nonprofit clients.

As consultants, we consider ourselves professional problem solvers. While we primarily focus on the human capital, change management, and organizational development space, we also offer complementary services like process improvement, strategic communications, and project management.

Our people are our greatest asset, and we’re proud to offer a blend of benefits, balance, and learning opportunities to support our people in both their consulting careers and personal lives. Join us and help build the place where you’re proud to work.

Founded in 2018, Totem is a Small Business Administration (SBA), 8(a) certified, Native American-owned consultancy.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Conduct research and interviews with stakeholders, customers, and subject matter experts.
• Analyze and report data to describe trends and key takeaways.
• Summarize findings in written and/or visual materials.
• Build solutions, such as employee engagement programs, change management plans, and process documentation.
• Brainstorm approaches and solutions with colleagues.
• Contribute to project plans and provide updates on task status.
• Develop presentations.
• Write communications.
• Participate in client meetings, including taking meeting notes and documenting next steps.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Meet deadlines assigned by managers and openly communicate challenges or requests for guidance.
• Adapt to changing priorities and requirements; be flexible to shift between projects and adapt work products based on client needs.
• Analyze qualitative and quantitative data to identify root causes.
• Apply structured thinking to gather and analyze complex data for informed decision‑making.
• Design polished work products and communications that are clear, succinct, and visually appealing.
• Demonstrate professionalism in client meetings.
• Use Microsoft Office 365 tools with fluency.
• Adjust to evolving project needs while maintaining a calm, professional approach grounded in flexibility and humility.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE AND CREDENTIALS

• Bachelor’s degree and one year of professional experience in a related industry or function (internship experience will be considered).
• In lieu of a bachelor’s degree, candidates with a minimum of three years of transferable work experience in a related industry or function will be considered.
• U.S. citizenship required, with the ability to obtain Public Trust security clearance.
• A general curiosity about how organizations work and enthusiasm to solve problems.

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE AND CREDENTIALS

• Advanced credentials or experience in any of the following areas: organizational development, change management, employee and stakeholder engagement, strategic communications, marketing, organizational psychology, process improvement, diversity, learning & development, human capital, and/or project management/analytics.
• Prosci certified and/or certified change management professional (CCMP).

BENEFITS

At Totem, we know that great people make a great organization. We value our people and offer employees a broad range of benefits. During our recruiting process, we’ll share more details about all Totem offers.

TRAVEL EXPECTATIONS

This is a hybrid job with up to 20% non‑local travel. Occasional travel may be required for client workshops or onsite presence, but this is not a traditional on‑the‑road consulting role. Totem defines local travel as travel that is within 50 miles from the client location. Staff may be required to work at a client site based on client need. Local travel will not be reimbursed by Totem. Travel performed for personal convenience or daily travel to and from work at the designated work site will not be reimbursed.

We are an equal‑opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.