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 is responsible for administrative functions of the research group and maintains consistency of administration and operations across PPIC’s largest department. Works closely with researchers across policy topics and collaborates with the research operations team to carry out administrative functions, including internal and external activities, budget tracking, impact assessment, and development. Collaborates with Communications, Development, Finance & Administration, Government Affairs, and the President’s Office, and participates in selected institute strategic initiatives. Reports to the Senior Research Operations Manager.

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
• Facilitate 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
• Ability to work independently, collaborate as a team member, prioritize and multitask, and meet deadlines under pressure
• Flexibility, organization, and the ability to work well with others

Technical

• Solid organizational skills and computer skills including the use of Outlook, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
• 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 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

Resourcefulness

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

Pay

The budgeted salary range for this position is $60,000 - $73,000, dependent on experience.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance for employee and dependents
• PPIC contributes the equivalent of 9% of the salary towards the retirement plan
• 14 paid holidays and 28 days of PTO annually (PTO balance increases with tenure)