Research Associate (Contractor) 

Research Associate (Contractor) 

Position Title: Research Associate (Contractor) 

Organization: Association for Enterprise Opportunity (AEO) 

Location: Remote 

Contract Duration: 6-12 months, with the possibility of extension 

Number of Opportunities: 2 

Compensation: Varies by project and terms. Please provide the desired compensation in the cover letter.

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About AEO: The Association for Enterprise Opportunity (AEO) is the leading voice of innovation in micro-and-small business in the United States. AEO supports underserved entrepreneurs in starting, stabilizing, and expanding their businesses. Our mission is to create economic opportunity for underserved entrepreneurs by providing them with the resources, knowledge, and connections they need to succeed. 

Position Overview: AEO is seeking a motivated and experienced contracting Senior Research Associate to join our team on a contract basis. The ideal candidate will conduct in-depth research on small business, entrepreneurship, and microenterprise topics. This role will support our mission by providing valuable insights and data to inform our programs, policies, and advocacy efforts. 

Key Responsibilities: 

  • Conduct comprehensive literature reviews and analysis on topics related to small business, entrepreneurship, and microenterprise. 
  • Design and execute research studies, including surveys, interviews, focus groups, and data analysis. 
  • Collect, analyze, and interpret qualitative and quantitative data to identify trends, challenges, and opportunities in the small business sector. 
  • Prepare detailed research reports, policy briefs, and white papers to present findings and recommendations. 
  • Collaborate with internal teams, including program managers, policy analysts, and communications staff, to integrate research findings into AEO’s programs and initiatives. 
  • Stay updated on the latest research, trends, and best practices in the field of small business and entrepreneurship. 
  • Present research findings to AEO staff, stakeholders, and external audiences as needed. 
  • Contribute to the development of grant proposals and funding reports by providing relevant research and data. 
  • Perform other related duties as assigned. 

Qualifications: 

  • Master’s degree in economics, business, public policy, or a related field. A Ph.D. is preferred. 
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in research, with a focus on small business, entrepreneurship, or microenterprise. 
  • Strong analytical skills and experience with qualitative and quantitative research methods. 
  • Proficiency in statistical software (e.g., SPSS, Stata, R) and data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI). 
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and concisely. 
  • Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously. 
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote work environment. 
  • Demonstrated commitment to AEO’s mission and values. 

How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit their resume, a cover letter detailing their relevant experience and qualifications, and a sample of previous research work to [email protected]. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. 

AEO is an equal opportunity employer and encourages candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply.