Center on Wealth and Poverty / Fix Homelessness

General Description

The Project Coordinator / Research Fellow conducts original policy research and writes on issues in accordance with the mission of Discovery Institute’s Center on Wealth & Poverty and its Fix Homelessness initiative (www.fixhomelessness.org). Specifically, our approach prioritizes compassionate outcomes focused on treatment and recovery as opposed to the prevailing ‘Housing First’ and ‘Harm Reduction’ models that restrict these services as a condition of housing assistance. Instead of measuring success by the number of housing units delivered, we support measuring outcomes based on lives restored to self-sufficiency.  Our goal is to shape public opinion toward more compassionate and effective policies.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, business administration, political science, finance, or a related field (or other equivalent experience)
• Two to four years of experience in policy research and writing
• Demonstrated professional competence and initiative
• Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and database/CRM programs
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Attention to detail and ability to work independently
• Strong project management and multitasking skills
• Familiarity and alignment with the work of Discovery Institute
• Team player with the ability to interact with a variety of personalities and skill levels

Preferred Qualifications

(In addition to the requirements above)

• Experience writing on issues pertaining to housing and/or homelessness
• Media experience, including television, radio, and podcast interviews (including production)
• Intermediate proficiency in Adobe InDesign or similar graphic design tools
• Intermediate knowledge of online marketing, email campaigns, and event management platforms
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and CRM/database systems (especially Salesforce)

Key Responsibilities

Research and Writing

The primary responsibility of the Research Fellow will be to conduct original research and produce regular written content for the Fix Homelessness initiative. This includes both detailed research papers examining policies governing both housing policy and responses to the homelessness crisis, as well as shorter pieces that educate the public on these issues (newspaper op-eds, blog posts, social media content, etc.).  Required research skills include the ability to conduct surveys, collect and analyze datasets, monitor public meetings, and submit public disclosure requests. Expectations include producing 1-2 long-form research papers annually, weekly content updates for the Fix Homelessness website, and regular social media engagement. Topics may include landlord/tenant law, analysis of homeless housing services (permanent vs. temporary), treatment and recovery programs, and other issues pertinent to the Center on Wealth & Poverty.

Coordination/Collaboration with Fix Homelessness Team

The Research Fellow will work closely with Senior Fellows Robert Marbut, Jonathan Choe, Wesley J. Smith, and other Discovery Institute staff to develop policy approaches, strategize specific projects, and serve as a resource for policymakers and the public. Responsibilities include organizing monthly team meetings (in person or via Zoom), regular communication with fellow scholars and staff, and coordinating on specific projects.  This may also include preparing for and participating in meetings with program donors, policymakers, and opinion leaders.

Media and Public Speaking

Communicating our message to the public is a core aspect of this role. The Research Fellow should be comfortable conveying our message through radio and television interviews, editorial board meetings, legislative testimony, private meetings with donors and policymakers, occasion presentations to the Discovery Institute board of directors. The ability to speak effectively on relevant subject matters at public events (typically 3-4 times per year) is also an essential skill.  While not required, experience producing or hosting podcasts is a valuable asset.

Coordination with Partner Organizations

The Research Fellow will serve as a liaison with outside organizations that share our commitment to compassionate, recovery-focused solutions for those experiencing homelessness or housing instability.  This involves organizing occasional meetings to strategize, share information, and promote common objectives with local, regional, and national groups who share our values.

Email and Donor Communication (Newsletters, Event Invitations) and Social Media

The Research Fellow will work closely with Discovery Institute’s Donor Care Coordinator to craft donor communications that highlight program successes, and with the Communications Coordinator to curate and distribute articles through the Institute’s email subscription lists.

Compensation and Benefits

The salary range for this position is $60,000 to $80,000 commensurate with experience. The position includes vacation, holidays, sick leave, health insurance (medical, dental, vision), and a public transit pass. Position requires a regular presence in our Seattle office.

To apply for position, send resume and cover letter to:

Steven J. Buri
President
Discovery Institute
208 Columbia Street, Seattle, WA  98104
steveb@discovery.org
206-292-0401 x125