Research Assistant | Research

Metropolitan Planning Council • Chicago, IL

1d • $18 • Hybrid

About The Position

Research assistants meaningfully contribute to Metropolitan Planning Council’s equity-focused urban planning and public policy initiatives. This entry-level role provides high-quality research, writing, analytical, and project support across policy areas such as zoning and land use, transportation , housing and community development, green infrastructure and water use . Candidates with interest and experience in the areas of housing, urban governance, urban politics, and municipal and regional finance are preferred. This position requires approximately 15-20 hours per week, running from April 15 – October (ending date flexible) based on a mutually agreed upon schedule . Staff work in-office at least twice a week from our Chicago Headquarters, with remote work on other days.

Requirements

• Strong research, analytical, and writing skills
• Ability to clearly communicate complex policy issues to diverse audiences
• Effective project management and multitasking skills
• Able to work independently and collaboratively
• Strong attention to detail
• Interest in urban politics and policy
• Experience with spatial, quantitative , and qualitative research methods and data analytic techniques
• At least two yeas of experience working with large data sets, GIS, and other statistical analysis software
• A bachelor's degree in public policy, public administration, urban planning , o ther relevant field , or depth of equivalent experi ence is preferred

Nice To Haves

• Completion of, or enrollment in, a postgr aduate degree is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Conduct background and comparative policy research
• Analyze and synthesize research articles, policy reports, and planning documents
• Identify best practices and implementation models
• Prepare concise research briefs, memos, and presentation materials
• Support stakeholder engagement, meeting preparation, and coordination
• Contribute to implementation planning and evaluation efforts
• Analyze primary and secondary data (quantitative and qualitative)

Benefits

• Compensation for this independent contractor position is $18 per hour and a monthly $35 transportation subsidy.
• We welcome students with federal work-study and those seeking course credit to apply.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level