Westat is an employee-owned corporation providing research services to agencies of the U.S. Government, as well as businesses, foundations, and state and local governments. Westat's research, technical, and administrative staff of more than 2,000 is located at our headquarters in Rockville, Maryland, near Washington, DC.

Job Summary:

Westat is seeking a research assistant to work on survey research projects, assisting expert data managers in defining and processing survey data and metadata from collection through delivery to Westat's clients. Data review and documentation writing are both part of the role.


Job Responsibilities:

· Write technical specifications for programming survey instruments and analytic variables.

· Define data dictionaries for complex files, test survey instruments to ensure accurate data capture, and review collected data at the detailed level.

· Create data descriptions and harmonize data from multiple sources; the data are collected in a variety of technologies and formats with a wide breadth of subject areas.

· Learn to use software to create training (distance learning) and write classroom training and procedural documentation for those administering the surveys.


Basic Qualifications:

· A Bachelor's degree, preferably in the social sciences with some quantitative depth.

 

Desired Qualifications:

· A Master's degree and/or two years of relevant experience.

· Basic knowledge of SQL and SAS.

· A demonstrated aptitude for data operations and the use of programming for data manipulation and investigation.

· Strong technical writing skills.

To be successful in this role you must have a strong interest in social science research, a highly organized approach to work, an ability to learn new technology, and an interest in working with large data sets and developing documentation.

Westat offers competitive benefits with ESOP, 401k, Health, Dental, paid vacation, sick and holiday leave, professional development as well as other benefits.

Any offer of employment may be contingent upon receipt of acceptable results from a post-offer background screening, if required for the position, based on the specific position which may include, for example, identity verification, employment history, or criminal records history.

Westat is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, citizenship status, genetic information, gender identity, or any other protected status under applicable law.