Research Data Analyst 3

The California Policy Lab is seeking an experienced Data Analyst with a background or interest in labor economics and policy to contribute to our organization's proven track record bridging the gap between academic researchers and government policymakers. CPL has compiled an unparalleled holding of administrative datasets and the Data Analyst will have the opportunity to apply methodologies from econometrics, statistics, and data science to original research projects that can generate actionable insights to improve California's labor programs and policies. The successful candidate will be passionate about using data to find innovative solutions to the problems facing California policymakers and residents. They will be a highly skilled programmer with experience in manipulating and cleaning large administrative datasets in multiple programming languages including STATA and R. They will have a background or experience in implementing causal inference research designs and a familiarity with machine learning models is preferred. They will also be able to produce graphs, tables, maps, or other visual displays that clearly communicate research results. The Data Analyst will be required to follow coding guidelines established by CPL and to contribute to the organization's efforts to build richly detailed documentation of the data we use. The successful candidate will be able to learn the details of complex programs and help identify opportunities where high quality research could drive positive change in California's labor programs. They will be able to understand new and existing external research and how insights from that research can be applied to our research projects on California's labor programs. This position requires an individual who is able to work both independently and as a part of small research teams to drive projects to completion. We seek a highly organized individual with excellent project and time management skills in order to balance running multiple projects concurrently, including fast-turnaround data analysis. This position will work with researchers at CPL, staff from state and local government agencies, as well as the leadership team at CPL, and will need excellent written and verbal communication skills to interact with these different audiences. The Data Analyst will report to CPL's senior research staff and will work collaboratively with CPL's Faculty Director, other CPL staff, and our partner agencies. We prefer applicants who are willing to work from the Los Angeles area.