The Rural Institute for Inclusive Communities invites applications for a Research and Evaluation Associate to join their team. The Research Associate will conduct research and evaluation activities related to early childhood care and education and maternal and child health systems. Current projects focus on evaluating grant activities for the Idaho School Readiness Project. The Research and Evaluation Associate will support the creation of data collection tools, conduct interviews and focus groups, analyze quantitative and qualitative data, and support reporting and dissemination activities. This position requires an ability to establish rapport and regularly engage with diverse stakeholders and function as a member of an interdisciplinary team.

• Communicate and establish rapport with key stakeholders and partner programs in evaluation activities
• Collaborate with members of an interdisciplinary team
• Support team efforts to complete projects ahead of deadlines
• Meeting facilitation and note-taking
• Support qualitative and quantitative data collection, analysis, and outcomes reporting
• Develop and implement surveys
• Manage data tracking and ensure regular data reporting by partners
• Enter and clean qualitative and quantitative data into data sheets
• Create effective data visualizations
• Support development of high-quality reports, presentations, and manuscripts describing analyzed data
• Prioritize multiple tasks and projects
• Analyze and creatively solve problems using new technologies and proven practices

The University of Montana is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer and has a strong institutional commitment to the principle of diversity in all areas. In that spirit, we are particularly interested in receiving applications from a broad spectrum of qualified people who would assist the University in demonstrating its five priorities for action: Place student success at the center of all we do; drive excellence and innovation in teaching, learning, and research; embody the principle of “mission first, people always"; partner with place; and proudly tell the UM story.

Job Details

• Position is full-time, 1.0 FTE, Letter of Appointment and includes a comprehensive and competitive benefits package including Insurance package, mandatory retirement plan, partial tuition waiver, and wellness program
• Salary for this position is $45,000-$56,000 per year commensurate with qualifications

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in anthropology, geography, social work, public health, psychology, education, speech and occupational therapy and other related fields
• Understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion, and commitment to fostering a more equitable society through research and evaluation
• Knowledge of social determinants of health and leading health indicators
• Understand social conditions that impact health and well-being of children and families
• Knowledge of Excel, Qualtrics, and other data analysis and software systems
• Creative problem-solver who collaborates well with others
• Ability to work positively and with cultural humility
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely with diverse audiences both written and verbally
• Ability to work with and accommodate different learning styles and professional settings
• Realize long-term goals by developing short-term objectives and activities
• Learn new systems and procedures quickly
• High-level attention to details
• Ability to complete assigned tasks independently and on time
• Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently
• Ability to produce effective data visualizations

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in anthropology, geography, social work, public health, psychology, education, speech and occupational therapy, and other related fields
• Knowledge of early childcare education and K-12 school systems
• Excellent written and public speaking skills for a diverse range of audiences
• Understand how research/data can be used to improve systems of care and outcomes for children, families, and marginalized groups
• Proficient in using a wide range of software systems for data analysis, generating reports, and disseminating findings
• Ability to develop a range of data collection tools through surveys, interviews, and other means; perform qualitative and quantitative data analysis

About the Rural Institute for Inclusive Communities and UM

We engage in research, provide education and interdisciplinary training, and develop model services that improve the skills, abilities, quality of life and satisfaction of people with disabilities in rural communities, their families and those who support and partner with them.

Rural Institute for Inclusive Communities: www.ruralinstitute.org

Nestled in at the base of Mount Sentinel and on the banks of the Clark Fork River, UM campus is described as one of the most beautiful in the US. The region boasts unparalleled year around recreational opportunities and a vibrant arts and culture community. UM offers a unique opportunity for professional growth in a magnificent environment. The University of Montana offers eligible employees a generous benefits package that positively separates UM from other local employers and offers many programs and policies to support work-life balance for its employees.

UM provides a culture that values hard work, intellectual curiosity, diversity, collegiality, innovative thinking, and teamwork, making it a great place to grow and develop professionally. Located in the heart of western Montana’s stunning natural landscape, UM attracts first rate teachers, researchers, and students from around the world. A city within a city – with its own eateries, stores, medical facilities, banking and postal services, and zip code – UM has an increasingly diverse population and rich culture.

To learn more about the University of Montana, Missoula, and the State of Montana, please visit the links below.

• University of Montana
• Video: UM Lifestyles
• University Highlights

Criminal Background Investigation is required prior to the Offer of Employment In accordance with University regulations, finalists for this position will be subject to criminal background investigations. ADA/EOE/AA/Veteran's Preference Reasonable accommodations are provided in the hiring process for persons with disabilities. For example, this material is available in alternative format upon request. As an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer, we encourage applications from minorities, veterans, and women. Qualified candidates may request veterans’ or disabilities preference in accordance with state law. References: References not listed on the application materials may be contacted; notice may be provided to the applicant. Testing: Individual hiring departments at UM may elect to administer pre-employment tests, which are relevant to essential job functions. Employment Eligibility: All New Employees must be eligible and show employment eligibility verification by the first date of employment at UM, as legally required (e.g., Form I-9).

How to Apply

Priority Application Date: Thursday, May 4, 2023 by 11:59 PM (Mountain Time)

Complete applications received by the ‘Priority Application Date’ will be guaranteed consideration. The position will remain OPEN UNTIL FILLED. Candidates are required to submit the following materials online via "New Resume/CV" button below. Please apply directly through the UM jobs website to ensure a complete application is received.

A complete application Includes: