About the role

The Research Administrator supports the PPIC research group in their mission to inform and improve public policy in California through independent, objective, nonpartisan research. The position takes responsibility for administrative functions of the research group and maintains the consistency of administration and operations across PPIC’s largest department. This position works closely with PPIC’s researchers across a variety of policy topics and collaborates closely with other members of the research operations team to carry out the administrative functions of the research group. In particular, the Research Administrator provides critical support to internal and external research group activities, budget tracking, impact and assessment processes, and development activities. The Research Administrator also collaborates with key staff across PPIC including Communications, Development, Finance & Administration, Government Affairs, and the President’s Office, and participates in selected institute strategic initiatives. The position reports to the Senior Research Operations Manager.

Key Responsibilities

Schedule weekly and monthly meetings, research brown bags, and outline and impact meetings for the Criminal Justice, K-12 Education, Safety Net, and Understanding California’s Future groups
Manage events, including workshops, research seminar series, research group meetings, and the staff summit
Schedule and coordinate internal and external meetings of research staff
Provide support for external events, including meetings, workshops, convenings, and public events
Assist in research project management, supporting the Research Operations Manager and, as needed, the Associate Director of the Water Policy Center
Assist in facilitating effective management of grants and other development activities
Support institutional processes to identify and evaluate strategic impact
Coordinate program logistics for the PPIC Summer Intern Program
Maintain internal databases and share information, such as Salesforce for tracking researcher’s outreach, Workfront for project management, and internal websites
Act as PPIC’s liaison with the UC Berkeley Intergovernmental Studies Library
Process invoices, staff expenses, and timesheets
Provide administrative assistance to research staff
Other duties, as needed

Qualifications

Education

Bachelor’s degree, or equivalent experience.

Experience

At least one year of administrative experience, with a track record of success, preferably with research organizations.

Abilities

Strong attention to detail and exceptional interpersonal skills are required, as are the ability to work independently, to collaborate as a team member, to prioritize and multitask, and to meet deadlines under pressure.
Flexibility, organization, and the ability to work well with others will be important attributes for success in this position.

Technical

Solid organizational skills and computer skills including the use of Outlook, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint are required, and an interest in learning new computer software is desirable. Experience with CRM and project management tools is a plus.

Communication

Excellent written and verbal communications skills are essential for communicating on behalf of the Research Department.

Collaborative Style

Adept at building relationships with diverse groups of colleagues across the institute, including working with accounting and nonaccounting functions.
Able to effectively manage key internal and external relationships.

Learning Orientation

Able to adapt positively to change with an orientation towards continuous improvement. Pursue new opportunities to grow personally and professionally.

Resourceful

Able to take initiative, maintain focus, and work independently to manage multiple deliverables and timelines. A problem-solver who is proactive, motivated, and well-organized with keen attention to detail.

PPIC values the wide variety of backgrounds and experiences of our staff, and key elements in the consideration of qualified candidates include excellence; diversity of talents, backgrounds, and viewpoints; and a strong fit with the institute’s mission, values, and goals.

Application and Compensation Details

Applications will be considered as they are received, and the position will remain posted until filled. Please tailor your cover letter to highlight how your credentials meet the qualifications listed above.

The budgeted salary range for this position is $60,000 - $73,000, dependent on experience. In determining an offer level for a candidate, PPIC considers a variety of factors including but not limited to the specific role and associated responsibilities; internal equity; and a candidate’s work experience, education, training, skills and other expertise. 

In addition to the salary, the role offers a generous benefit package, excellent work environment, and an exciting mission that will inspire you daily! The comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision insurance for employee and dependents. PPIC contributes the equivalent of 9% of the salary towards the retirement plan. The organization provides 14 paid holidays and 28 days of PTO annually (PTO balance increases with tenure), and more!

Equal Employer Opportunity (EEO) statement:

PPIC celebrates diversity and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to building a team that represents the backgrounds, perspectives, identities, and skills of California. No matter who you are, we invite you to apply for this role.

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. AA/EEO/Veterans/Disabled employer.

Learn more about this Employer on their Career Site