ICF is actively seeking an On-Call Senior Economic Mobility Research Specialist for our growing economic mobility practice. In this role, you will contribute to projects that promote positive outcomes for vulnerable families.
THIS IS AN ON-CALL, part-time hours position based on project needs.
Key Responsibilities:
- Serve as a recognized subject matter expert in economic mobility research, notably in TANF, workforce/job readiness, child support, food security, and related human services programs
- Lead the design, implementation, and oversight of rigorous research and evaluation efforts, while managing and mentoring multidisciplinary research teams
- Provide strategic guidance to research and technical assistance teams to ensure rigor, relevance, and impact across projects
- Shape research agendas, methodologies, and evaluation frameworks that advance evidence-based policy and practice
- Identify and help pursue new opportunities aligned with ICF’s mission to promote economic stability and mobility for families
- Translate complex research findings into actionable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders
- Mentor and support multidisciplinary teams, fostering innovation and high performance
- Contribute to thought leadership through publications, presentations, and engagement with the broader field
Required Qualifications:
- Advanced degree (PhD preferred) in political science, public policy, sociology, economics, or a related social science field
- 20+ years of experience leading research, evaluation, and policy initiatives related to economic mobility and family well-being
- Recognized peer-reviewed publication and thought leadership in economic mobility research
- Demonstrated expertise working with federal, state, or local human services programs
Professional Skills You Will Use:
- Proven ability to lead and influence in complex, fast-paced, and matrixed environments
- Strong strategic thinking with the ability to balance big-picture vision and detailed execution
- Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities
- Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, including demonstrated history of peer-reviewed publications, technical writing and executive-level presentations
- Skilled at generating business growth, building partnerships and navigating federal and state procurement systems
- Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver high-quality work on time
- Comfortable with flexible, on-call work arrangements (0–20 hours/week)
Bot and Third-Party Applications
Please note that this application must be submitted directly by the applicant for consideration. Failure to do so may result in the application being excluded for consideration. Applicants needing an accommodation for disability or religious purposes in connection with the application process should contact [email protected] for assistance.
Working at ICF
ICF is a global advisory and technology services provider, but we’re not your typical consultants. We combine unmatched expertise with cutting-edge technology to help clients solve their most complex challenges, navigate change, and shape the future.We can only solve the world's toughest challenges by building a workplace that allows everyone to thrive. We are an equal opportunity employer. Together, our employees are empowered to share their expertise and collaborate with others to achieve personal and professional goals. For more information, please read our EEO policy.
We will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Reasonable Accommodations are available, including, but not limited to, for disabled veterans, individuals with disabilities, and individuals with sincerely held religious beliefs, in all phases of the application and employment process. To request an accommodation, please email [email protected] and we will be happy to assist. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extent required to provide needed reasonable accommodations.
Read more about workplace discrimination rights or our benefit offerings which are included in the Transparency in (Benefits) Coverage Act.
At ICF, we are committed to ensuring a fair interview process for all candidates based on their own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to generate or assist with responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is not permitted. This policy is in place to maintain the integrity and authenticity of the interview process.
However, we understand that some candidates may require accommodation that involves the use of AI. If such an accommodation is needed, candidates are instructed to contact us in advance at [email protected]. We are dedicated to providing the necessary support to ensure that all candidates have an equal opportunity to succeed.
Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience, skills, certifications and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location, education and certifications as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.
The pay range for this position based on full-time employment is:
$108,476.00 - $184,409.00Nationwide Remote Office (US99)Skills Required
- Advanced degree in political science, public policy, sociology, economics, or related social science field
- PhD in a related social science field
- 20+ years of experience leading research, evaluation, and policy initiatives related to economic mobility and family well-being
- Recognized peer-reviewed publications and demonstrated thought leadership in economic mobility research
- Demonstrated expertise working with federal, state, or local human services programs (TANF, workforce, child support, food security)
ICF Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about ICF and has not been reviewed or approved by ICF.
-
Healthcare Strength — Multiple medical plan choices (UHC PPO/HDHP and Kaiser in some areas) come with employer HSA/HRA funding and wellness incentives, with dental and vision included. Mental-health access is emphasized via Modern Health, offering up to 10 therapy and 10 coaching sessions annually.
-
Parental & Family Support — Family-building resources include Maven support on UHC plans, $10,000 lifetime fertility/surrogacy reimbursement, and $5,000 for adoption, milk-shipping, and clinician-led programs. Caregiver and 24/7 resources are also available through the EAP.
-
Equity Value & Accessibility — An Employee Stock Purchase Plan with a 5% discount is broadly available and regularly highlighted in postings. This adds a straightforward path for employees to build ownership alongside salary and benefits.
ICF Insights
Similar Jobs
What We Do
ICF is a leading global solutions and technology provider with approximately 9,000 employees in industries across the public and private sectors. We combine unmatched expertise with cutting-edge technology to help clients solve their most complex challenges, navigate change, and shape the future.
Why Work With Us
At ICF, we’ve built a culture rooted in expertise, innovation, and purpose—enabling us to build a more prosperous and resilient world for all. When our employees grow, our solutions thrive—regardless of your role, team, or location, you’ll have opportunities to make connections, build community, and take action to develop your career.
Gallery
