Researcher

Status : Full-time exempt

Location : Hybrid four days remote one day (Tuesday) in the Oakland office

Organization

California Competes : Higher Education for a Strong Economy is a nonpartisan policy and research organization focused on identifying solutions to the states most critical challenges at the intersection of higher education equity and the economy. Established in 2011 our mission is to help transform the states higher education system into an engine of economic opportunity that empowers all Californians particularly those from underserved communities to achieve their full potential. California Competes benefits from the expertise of our highly respected bipartisan Board of Directors which comprises current and former public officials business executives and community leaders from across the state. Our diverse staff brings decades of experience in higher education and public policy.

We work statewide and travel across the country to research and advocate for a higher education system that provides opportunities for all Californians. For more information please visit .

Position

California Competes seeks a Researcher to conduct rigorous applied policy research and manage a multi-year multi-stakeholder research and advocacy initiative (called Higher Education Research Informing Solutions for Excellence or Higher Ed RISE for short). This is an ideal opportunity for an early-career researcher who combines strong research credentials with exceptional organizational and project management skills thrives in collaborative environments and effectively manages complex projects involving multiple stakeholders.

Reporting to the Senior Researcher the Researcher is an integral part of the research team and supports the wide range of California Competess research projects. The Researcher will serve as the day-to-day lead for the Higher Ed RISE project overseeing all activities including coordinating the proposal review process tracking timelines and deliverables and serving as the primary point of contact for external researchers and advocates. As such the successful candidate must have rigorous research methods training and the ability to juggle multiple work streams meet deadlines excel at building relationships and working collaboratively think analytically communicate effectively and be passionate about advancing equity and student success. The Researcher may oversee key external consultants and student researchers as needed. Specific duties are described below.

Research (55%) :

With oversight and support from senior research colleagues independently and collaboratively conduct research analysis such as :

• Designing and leading qualitative research projects including :

Identifying appropriate research methods to address specific research questions

Conducting fieldwork such as focus groups and interviews

Project Management (45%) :

Skills and Qualifications

The ideal candidate is a detail-oriented intellectually curious researcher who excels at managing complex projects and building collaborative relationships. This person should be comfortable working in a fast-paced high-standards environment that centers equity and occasionally requires rapid response to emergent needs.

Required qualifications

Preferred qualifications

Compensation

Application Process

To apply please fill out the application using BambooHR and include a résumé cover letter and writing sample. Priority review of applications will begin on Monday November 24 2025. Applications will be considered until the position is filled.

BambooHR job link : you have any questions please contact .

California Competes is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce.

Required Experience :

Senior IC

Key Skills

Intelligence Community Experience,Python,Spss,Microsoft Word,R,Regression Analysis,Windows,Stata,Microsoft Powerpoint,Research Experience,Data Modeling,Writing Skills

Employment Type : Full-Time

Experience : years

Vacancy : 1

Monthly Salary Salary : 100000 - 125000