Research Assistant (Hybrid)

To apply, please submit a form at rsgsolutions.com/join-our-team/ along with a cover letter and resume. Applications will remain open for submission on a continuous basis until needs are met.

 

JOB SUMMARY 

RSG, an Equal Opportunity Employer, is in search of a dynamic and proficient individual who is interested in community development, public engagement, and complex local government issues to join our consulting business as a Research Assistant. Our firm specializes in providing housing, economic development, real estate and fiscal health services to over 90 cities, counties, other public agencies, and developers throughout the state. Primary functions include collecting data, performing Excel spreadsheet analysis, and presenting error-free fact-based findings to senior staff and clients. Additionally, the Research Assistant will support public engagement activities including but not limited to surveys, interviews, and workshop support.  

 

QUALIFICATIONS 

• Minimum of 1 year of intern or professional experience in a related field; plus a BA/BS Degree 
• Demonstrated interest in community development, public engagement, and complex issues facing local governments  
• Proficient at research, data collection, and the ability to dig out facts 
• Ability to analyze, synthesize, and form conclusive statements based on data and research 
• An effective problem solver and self-starter capable of seeking out solutions and training to optimize performance 
• Detail-oriented with exceptional organization and time management skills 

 

DESIRED SKILLS 

• Articulate communicator both written and verbal 
• Ability to juggle multiple projects 
• Possess creativity, innovation, and intellectual curiosity 
• Proficiency with GIS  

 

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES 

 

Key Tasks 

• Identify data collection sources and synthesize research related to various topics centered around RSG product lines 
• Assemble, process, and analyze raw data to form conclusive statements by digging out facts 
• Manage, organize, and interpret data for a non-technical audience 
• Create and update Microsoft Excel spreadsheets using advanced formulas (e.g. v-lookups and pivot tables) 
• Create graphical presentations in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint 
• Assist with housing compliance monitoring (requires travel by car to various Southern California counties, approximately two days per month).  
• Organize and attend meetings related to research priorities. 

 

Consulting 

• Proactively seek out project manager/peers to think through and problem solve  
• Actively listen, inquire, and desire to seek constructive feedback  
• Create presentations/reports to communicate research findings  
• Develop relationships and collaborate with all levels of RSG staff  
• Manage workload and assignments by pulling and pushing activities around priorities 

 

OTHER REQUIREMENTS 

• Experience analyzing data and creating data visualizations 
• Willingness to learn new concepts, research methods, software, and work routines 
• Excellent computer skills and proficient knowledge of Microsoft Office 365 for Business (Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) 
• Familiarity with macOS preferred 
• Applicants must have a car (mileage reimbursed at current federal rates), a valid California Driver’s license, and proof of car insurance 
• GIS proficiency is preferred 

 

JOB DETAILS 

• Type: Full time, hybrid position (40 hours/week) 
• Benefits: Health insurance, paid time off, flexible work schedule, employee assistance program 
• Salary: $48,500 – $65,600 (commensurate with experience)  

 

ABOUT RSG 

RSG is a creatively charged consultant to California public agencies. We collaborate with the people responsible for creating vibrant places and propel them toward their goals. The inspired leaders at RSG create stronger communities capable of achieving bolder futures by bringing their more than four decades of native knowledge to each engagement.  

  

As diverse as the agencies we work with, our services span real estate, economic development, fiscal health, and housing initiatives. RSG sets the pace by raising the physical, economic, and social capital of local communities.  

  

At RSG we:  

• Craft sincere relationships  
• Only see opportunities  
• Are driven by determination  
• Value the wisdom of our clients  
• Make investments in ourselves 

 

RSG’s corporate address is in Vista, California. We have three hubs in California (Vista, Los Angeles, and Oakland) where we will be collaborating periodically as a team. We will consider candidates within commutable distance from any of our hubs. Our hybrid work environment typically involves 3-4 days a week working from home, 1 day a week working at the nearest hub location, and 0-1 day a week working in the field at client locations in California. Equipment and stipends to support work-from-home capabilities will be provided by the company upon employment.