About This Role

The American Institutes for Research (AIR) is seeking an experienced Education Policy Researcher with deep expertise in PK–12 education finance and funding policy. You will join a growing team of national experts and support applied research focused on state and local education funding systems, including school district finance, accounting, and budgeting practices as they relate to efficient and effective student programming.

In this role, you will apply state-of-the-field education finance research methods to address policy-relevant questions at the state, district, and school levels. Your work will directly impact how education funding is understood, allocated, and optimized across the nation.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and support components of applied research on education funding systems and policy
Conduct rigorous analysis of state and local school finance mechanisms
Examine school district finance, accounting, and budgeting practices
Research the relationship between funding structures and effective student outcomes
Apply advanced research methodologies to policy-relevant education finance questions
Collaborate with national experts on cross-functional research initiatives

Required Expertise

Strong knowledge of PK–12 education finance and funding policy frameworks
Proficiency in education finance research methodologies
Understanding of state and local education funding systems
Experience with school district financial analysis and budgeting
Ability to translate complex financial data into actionable policy insights

Preferred Qualifications

Specialized knowledge in funding models for students with disabilities
Experience with English learner funding and policy
Expertise in career and technical education (CTE) funding
Publication record in education policy research
Grant writing and project management experience

Work Arrangement

This position offers significant flexibility to work remotely throughout the United States or from one of AIR's U.S. office locations (Arlington, VA; Chapel Hill, NC; Chicago, IL; Sacramento, CA; Austin, TX). You must be available to participate in meetings across all continental U.S. time zones. This position does not support work from U.S. territories.

About AIR

Founded in 1946 and headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, the American Institutes for Research (AIR) is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit organization dedicated to conducting behavioral and social science research and delivering technical assistance. AIR addresses some of the most pressing challenges in the United States and globally by generating evidence and applying data-driven solutions that expand opportunities and improve lives for all.

💰 Compensation not publicly listed. Market estimate for similar roles: from $90K, varying by experience and location.

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