Justice Information Resource Network
(Remote or Hybrid)
About JIRN
The Justice Information Resource Network (www.jirn.org), formerly the Justice Research and Statistics Association, is a national nonprofit and resource center for researchers, analysts, journalists, and practitioners of justice research. We produce nonpartisan, reputable, and comprehensive research exploring today’s crucial issues across the justice spectrum. We also provide high-quality training and technical assistance (TTA) on a variety of justice-related topics to state and local agencies. In addition, JIRN works closely with a network of state statistical analysis centers (SAC). JIRN has a long history of contributing meaningful policy analysis and research that contributes to justice system reform.
Position Overview
JIRN is seeking a senior-level applied researcher/social scientist with extensive experience in criminal justice research for our Washington, DC office. This exciting position will be responsible for a variety of research and supervisory tasks, such as leading and/or contributing to TTA efforts, applied research and analysis, and program evaluation; recruiting, mentoring, and supervising research staff; and developing, writing, and reviewing grant proposals. The successful candidate will have strong analytical and communication skills, experience in the criminal and juvenile justice arenas, and a passion for translating research into policy and practice through empirical inquiry, teamwork, and effective communication. The successful candidate will join a team of researchers and technical assistance providers who are committed to crafting research and using evidence-based practices to drive public policy.
Duties and Responsibilities
The duties and responsibilities of this position include collaborating with colleagues in: developing grant proposals and budgets; supervising/mentoring junior research staff; developing/implementing research and program evaluation designs; providing TTA on a variety of topics; collecting, analyzing and interpreting data; developing and maintaining research partnerships with outside organizations; writing research and practitioner-facing reports, articles, and technical materials; presenting project findings; and representing JIRN in a variety of contexts.
Experience
Applicants at the Senior Research Associate level should have a Ph.D. in criminal justice or related field and at least 5 years of post-graduation experience conducting TTA and justice research/evaluation studies OR a master’s degree in criminal justice or related field with at least 7 years of post-graduation experience conducting TTA and justice research/evaluation studies.
Applicants at the Senior Research Fellow level should have a Ph.D. in criminal justice or related field and at least 8 years of post-graduation experience conducting TTA and justice research/evaluation studies OR a master’s degree in criminal justice or related field with at least 10 years of post-graduation experience conducting TTA and justice research/evaluation studies.
Required Skills and Abilities
- Extensive experience applying both quantitative and qualitative research designs, statistical analyses, and program evaluation methods
- Demonstrated ability to successfully prepare federal grant proposals and receive grant awards from Office of Justice Programs agencies (i.e., BJS, BJA, NIJ, OVC)
- Experience providing mentorship and coaching to junior research staff
- Experience as the Principal Investigator or Project Director on at least one large federal grant award
- Experience designing and/or delivering training and technical assistance
- Ability to develop and maintain relationships with outside research organizations and potential research partners
- Experience creating grant budgets
- Experience developing, reviewing, and editing academic and practitioner-focused publications
- Excellent public presentation skills, and the ability to communicate with researcher, practitioner, and public audiences
- Subject matter expertise in one or more of the following areas: policing, hate crimes, human trafficking, community violence, crimes involving firearms, or behavioral health
Other Desired Skills and Abilities
- Expertise in working with and analyzing NIBRS data
- Ability to independently learn new methodologies and analytical skills
- Ability to work with JIRN leadership to develop ways to increase membership
Salary
This is a full-time, grant-funded position with benefits. Starting salary ranges from $86,000 to $132,000 and is commensurate with applicant qualifications and experience. Additional benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance; life insurance; paid time off (PTO); 11 paid federal holidays; and a 401k retirement plan with employer match (up to 6%).
Diversity
JIRN embraces diversity and equal opportunity. We are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. Employment opportunities at JIRN are based upon one’s qualifications and capabilities to perform the essential functions of a particular job. All employment opportunities are provided without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, reproductive health decisions, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family responsibilities, political affiliation, credit history, and any other characteristic protected by law.
How to Apply
Submit the following documents to resumes@jirn.org:
- A cover letter that addresses each of the required skills and abilities outlined above
- A resume or CV
- Two writing samples (one academic, one practitioner-facing)
- The names and contact information for three professional references
Closing Date: Open until filled