Ascendant is recruiting qualified candidates for a full-time Research Analyst position linked to a multi-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 activities in the Africa and Middle East regions.
This position is based in Arlington, VA and is metro accessible (Rosslyn).
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
- Regional knowledge and experience is preferred
- Energy, Critical Minerals, Digital Infrastructure, and/or Transportation industry knowledge and/or experience is a plus
- 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.
Ascendant offers a comprehensive benefits package including paid time off, paid parental leave, medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) contributions, professional development support, and an Employee Assistance Program.
Annual Salary Range: $55,000 - $125,000
Skills Required
- 1-3 years of professional experience in a similar capacity
- Bachelor’s degree
- Education or interest in public administration, public policy, international relations, international development, international trade, economics, or a related field
- Excellent writing and communication skills
- Ability to conduct sophisticated research using numerous resources
- Ability to compile and analyze data and provide recommendations based on statistical analysis
- Ability to analyze programs and processes to determine effectiveness
- Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools, including Word, Excel, SharePoint, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams
- Proficiency in internet research and database use
- Detail-oriented approach and ability to format professional-grade public documents
- Strong writing skills to draft and edit reports, briefing books, letters, and correspondence
- Strong organization and time-management skills
- Ability to demonstrate enthusiasm, initiative, flexibility, and multitasking
- Ability to obtain a Secret security clearance with the U.S. Government
- Completion of a U.S. Government public trust background check before starting work
- Master’s degree
- Regional knowledge and experience in Africa and/or the Middle East
- Energy, critical minerals, digital infrastructure, and/or transportation industry knowledge or experience
- Foreign language skills
What We Do
Ascendant Program Services, LLC provides expert management solutions for the built environment, specializing in facilities, infrastructure, and real estate solutions worldwide. The company uniquely integrates team competencies across the entire development lifecycle—from initial feasibility and planning studies to design, construction and follow-on sustainment operations—serving a diverse range of public and private sector clients to ensure the successful delivery of complex projects.
