Ascendant is recruiting qualified candidates for a full-time Research Analyst position linked to a five-year contract that we hold with the U.S. Trade & Development Agency (USTDA). The Research Analyst will perform substantive research, analytical, program monitoring and evaluation, and administrative support functions for USTDA's portfolio of Global Procurement Initiative (GPI) activities in the Indo-Pacific region. Launched in 2013, the GPI helps public procurement officials in emerging economies establish practices and policies that utilize life-cycle cost analysis and best-value determinations to understand the total cost of ownership of public sector investments.

This position is based in Arlington, VA and is metro accessible (Rosslyn). Hybrid telework options are available, with a minimum of two (2) days per week in office / up to three (3) days per week telework.

Qualifications

• 1-3 years professional experience in a similar capacity
• Bachelor’s degree is required; a master’s degree is preferred
• Ideal candidates will have education backgrounds and interests in Public Administration, Pubic Policy, International Relations, International Development, International Trade, Economics, and other related fields of study
• Indo-Pacific regional knowledge and/or experience is desired
• Foreign language skills are a plus
• Excellent writing and communication skills
• Ability to conduct sophisticated research using numerous resources
• Ability to compile and analyze data and provide recommendations based upon statistical analysis
• Ability to analyze programs and processes to determine effectiveness
• Ability to operate independently to complete tasks and succeed in a fast-paced environment
• Proficiency with all Microsoft Office Tools including Word, Excel, SharePoint, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams
• Proficiency in conducting internet research, as well as utilizing databases
• Must be detail-oriented and be able to format professional-grade documents for public dissemination
• Must have strong writing skills to draft and edit reports, briefing books, letters, and other forms of correspondence
• High degree of organization and time-management skills
• Applicants should demonstrate enthusiasm, initiative, flexibility and the ability to multitask
• Candidates must be able to obtain a Secret level security clearance with the U.S. Government. A public trust background check with U.S. Government must be completed prior to starting work