Managing Director

American Institutes for Research

Managing Director leading the CALDER at American Institutes for Research. Responsible for K-12 education policy, research projects, and organizational relationships.

Posted 6/1/2026full-timeRemote • California, Illinois, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia • 🇺🇸 United StatesLead💰 $189,000 - $230,000 per yearWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Set and oversee the strategic direction of CALDER as a leading voice in using data to drive K12 education policy decisions
Lead efforts to develop new business, including grant proposals and relationship-building with funders
Build and maintain excellent relationships with clients and potential clients who serve as policymakers at the national and state levels
Build eminence for the work of CALDER and AIR, by maintaining visibility of the work in the media
Design and carry out large research projects, including managing large teams to carry out those projects
Mentor and provide feedback to staff to support growth in their ability to design and lead research projects
Oversee the quality and technical rigor of deliverables and products
Represent portfolio of work to internal and external audiences
Collaborate with other AIR and LS leaders to ensure consistency in quality of work, identify and pursue cross-disciplinary opportunities, and expand organizational impact

Requirements

What you’ll need

PhD in economics, education, sociology, psychology, or a relevant field with a minimum of 15 years managing and conducting research, evaluations, and related work
National reputation for research and evaluation expertise in education policy as evidenced through publications, presentations, and service to the larger community
Frequent consultant and commentator in the media about education policy and evidence
Demonstrated knowledge of K-12 education policy
Experience overseeing research studies that use a range of methodologies including those that answer high leverage questions for policy makers and educators.
Strong partnerships with, and extensive networks of, leaders in education research, policy, and practice
Track record of winning competitive contracts/grants from funders (e.g., federal, state, and local government; foundations)
Strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills at a senior/managerial level
Proven ability to develop staff capacity in research design, methods, and measurement; project management; client and partner relationships, and business development
Commitment to AIR’s mission to generate evidence and apply data-driven solutions that expand opportunities and improve lives for all.

Benefits

Comp & perks

AIR’s Total Rewards Program designed to reward our staff competitively and motivate them to achieve our critical mission.

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

research designdata analysisevaluation methodologiesproject managementgrant writingpolicy analysisquantitative researchqualitative researchstatistical softwareeducation policy

Soft Skills

leadershipinterpersonal skillsorganizational skillsmentoringcommunicationrelationship buildingstrategic thinkingcollaborationteam managementclient engagement

Certifications

PhD in economicsPhD in educationPhD in sociologyPhD in psychology