[Hiring] Project Associate @Mathematica Inc

Role Description

We have openings for entry-level Project Associates with a strong interest in managing federal or foundation-funded human services programs and policies. Project Associates assist in all areas of project operations, including:

• Resource and schedule management
• Cost and budget management
• Risk mitigation
• Coordination

Project Associates contribute to the efficient and successful operations of projects, both internal and external, by drawing on:

• Problem-solving abilities
• Interpersonal skills
• Organizational aptitude
• Policy content knowledge

They work closely with project directors and task leaders to meet project objectives while remaining on schedule and on budget. Occasionally, Project Associates may also engage in research activities, such as:

• Conducting interviews with program respondents
• Performing literature reviews

Project Associates are expected to perform a combination of the following tasks:

• Manage a portfolio of projects by developing and tracking components of project operations, including schedules, finances, and logistics
• Execute all project management activities, including building project schedules, supporting project budget tracking, scheduling meetings, creating meeting agendas and materials, tracking deliverables, and taking notes
• Evaluate operational components of projects and programs and outline risks, options, and solutions for action by senior staff members or client agencies
• Ensure project adherence to data privacy and security requirements and other contractual stipulations
• Communicate effectively with key stakeholders such as technical project staff, researchers, internal business departments, external consultants, subcontractors, and client representatives to successfully execute project work
• Record, monitor, and analyze project expenditures, including monitoring subcontractor expenses and invoicing, conducting cost analyses, and forecasting project costs
• Research and evaluation activities may include assisting with interview scheduling, note-taking, and other qualitative data collection activities such as interviews, site visits, and focus groups; supporting administration and oversight of survey and data collection tasks, including preparing training materials, delivering training, and performing quality control activities; and/or providing logistical and operational support for evaluations, including coordinating trainings, webinars, and expert meetings

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in social sciences, public policy, public health, education, economics, or a related field with an excellent academic record
• 1-3 years’ experience related to business analysis, government program operations, consulting, research, data analysis, or other relevant employment
• Interest in project management and/or evaluating government programs for quality, efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and technological innovation
• Experience with, or interest and aptitude in learning, Microsoft software, including Microsoft Office, SharePoint, and Project
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to write in a clear and concise manner and work in a multi-disciplinary team setting
• Ability to multitask and manage competing priorities, and work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment

Requirements

• Experience with project management or collaboration tools such as Microsoft Project, Confluence, SharePoint, or Jira
• Experience using AI tools and other technology to manage workflows
• Knowledge of research, evaluation, or data collection methods

Benefits

• Competitive salaries
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Financial benefits of ESOP holdings
• Opportunities for coworking spaces where available

Application Instructions

Please submit a cover letter and your resume along with a work product that reflects independent analysis and writing, such as a capstone project or an analytic report.

Additional Information

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state, or local protected class.

Any offer of employment will be contingent upon passing a background check. Various federal agencies with whom we contract require that staff successfully undergo security clearance as a condition of working on the project. If you are assigned to such a project, you will be required to obtain the requisite security clearance. Additionally, if you participate in or complete the application process and are denied, Mathematica may choose to terminate your employment.

We take pride in our employees and in their commitment to excellence. We encourage staff to collaborate in developing creative solutions to difficult problems and to share the responsibility and enjoyment of carrying out complex projects. This collegial spirit has helped us earn our reputation for innovative and high-quality work.