Description

The UCI Labor Center builds the power of working people in Orange County and beyond by promoting, defending, and expanding workers’ rights through research, education, leadership development, and outreach. As part of the School of Social Ecology at UC Irvine, the Center supports unions, worker organizations, and community groups in building a fair and racially just worker-centered economy. The Center engages in applied research, policy analysis, and labor education to support economic justice and systemic change.

We are accepting applications for a Research Director that will lead the Labor Center’s research and policy work. Reporting to the Labor Center’s Director and Faculty Director, this position is responsible for designing and overseeing research projects, managing research-related grant activities, conducting both quantitative and qualitative research and analysis, and building collaborative relationships. The ideal candidate will have strong research skills, a deep commitment to worker and community justice, and experience in collaborative and applied research.

This position is based in Irvine, CA and is fully onsite or hybrid (remote/on-site). Initial appointment is for 1 year with renewal based on performance and funding availability.

Key Responsibilities:

- Oversee and develop the Labor Center’s quantitative and qualitative research and policy analysis program.
- Conduct original research on issues relevant to labor and community-based organizations in Orange County.
- Conduct in-depth policy analysis that advances the centers mission and priorities of its partners.
- Collect, code, and analyze quantitative and qualitative data.
- Manage research activities related to grand development and implementation.
- Collaborate with Labor Center staff, affiliated faculty, and labor and community partners.
- Develop strategies to generate resources for the research program, including fundraising, donor relations, and the preparation of grant and contract proposals.
- Oversee research-related communication, including publications, briefs, and data visualization.
- Organize events related to design, implementation, and/or dissemination of research or policy analysis.
- Assist in the management and reporting of research related to contracts and grants.
- Supervise and mentor Labor Center staff engaged in research, policy analysis, and research-related fundraising.

Requirements

Basic qualifications (required at time of application):

- A minimum of a doctoral degree from an accredited university, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Demonstrated success and commitment to diversity and equity, and keen sensitivity to the interest of all underrepresented groups.
- Experience developing and managing research projects.
- Experience developing and managing public-private partnerships.