The Civic Federation is an independent, non-partisan government research organization that provides analysis and recommendations on government finance issues for the Chicago region and State of Illinois. Founded in 1894, its membership includes business and professional leaders from a wide range of Chicago area corporations, professional services firms and institutions.

Position Title & Description: Research Associate

The Research Associate will write long-term research reports on public policy and finance issues, monitor state and local government meetings, and communicate research findings to media, elected officials, and key stakeholders.

Responsibilities

Analyze state and local government budgetary, public policy, and financial documents, including government revenue trends, appropriations data, personnel data, and pension fund trends;
Partner with other staff in composition of annual government budget analyses, other annual reports and blog posts;
Act as lead researcher for non-recurring long-term research projects on a variety of government finance, operations, and policy issues;
Monitor government legislative meetings as needed, reporting findings back to staff; and
Monitor governments by tracking legislation and current events as they pertain to financial and related policy issues or other ongoing research projects;
Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Graduate degree in public policy, journalism, public administration, political science, business, economics, law, or related field or 2+ years relevant work experience;
Strong interest in government and public policy;
Superior writing skills, including summarizing, formatting and proofreading;
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail;
Excellent critical analysis skills, especially of financial data;
Proficiency with Microsoft Office software;
State or local government experience preferred;
Strong quantitative skills and statistical expertise preferred; and
Takes initiative and is self-motivated.

Salary and Compensation

Starting salary: $62,500

Generous vacation and benefits package. This is a full-time position.

To apply, email a resume, cover letter, one long writing sample (20 to 40 pages), one short (2 to 3 pages) summary of an issue or document (e.g.: executive summary, abstract, memorandum), and three references.

Address application to:

Human Resources

The Civic Federation

10 N. Dearborn Suite 800

Chicago, IL 60602

HR@civicfed.org (no phone calls please)

Research shows that people belonging to structurally marginalized groups often only apply to jobs if they meet 100% of the qualifications. As no one ever meets 100% of the qualifications, we encourage you to apply if you feel that most of the above qualifications reflect your experience and expertise.

The Civic Federation is an equal opportunity employer. We fundamentally support and remain committed to seeking a diverse, equitable and inclusive staff and board of directors to serve the mission of The Civic Federation. All membership and employment decisions are made with this commitment in mind, and we welcome everyone to our team.

The Civic Federation encourages BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ people, veterans, and any individuals with disabilities or any other legally protected status to apply. Please feel free to note your pronouns and/or any reasonable accommodation requests in your application or during the interview process.

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Research Associate