American Institutes for Research is looking for Managing Director, CALDER in Arlington, VA. This local job opportunity with ID 3729162697 is live since 2026-06-26 19:55:29.

Managing Director to lead its Center for Analysis of Longitudinal Data in Education Research (CALDER) within AIR's Learning Supports team. The Managing Director will contribute to our longstanding legacy of rigorous, impartial evidence‑based research and provide resources that inform policy decisions on pressing and perennial education issues. The role will help expand AIR's impact in applying the most rigorous methods to generate evidence that improves K‑12 education policy and practice.

Candidates may work remotely within the United States or from one of our U.S. office locations (excludes U.S. territories).

About AIR and CALDER

Established in 1946, AIR is a nonpartisan, not‑for‑profit organization headquartered in Arlington, Virginia that conducts behavioral and social science research and delivers technical assistance. CALDER amplifies AIR’s impact by working directly with policymakers to generate objective, evidence‑based insights, leveraging statewide longitudinal data systems in over 10 states.

Responsibilities

• Set and oversee the strategic direction of CALDER as a leading voice in using data to drive K‑12 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 through media visibility.
• Design and carry out large research projects, managing large teams to execute 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 CALDER’s portfolio of work to internal and external audiences.
• Collaborate with other AIR and LS leaders to ensure consistency in quality of work, identify cross‑disciplinary opportunities, and expand organizational impact.

Qualifications Education, Knowledge, and Experience

• 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 with a range of methodologies that answer high‑leverage questions for policymakers and educators.
• Strong partnerships with, and extensive networks of, leaders in education research, policy, and practice.
• Track record of winning competitive contracts and 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.

Skills

• Excellent interpersonal skills to ensure effective communication with individuals at all levels and with a broad range of experience and knowledge.
• Ability to produce concise, high‑level summaries and briefings.
• Ability to translate research methods and findings for a non‑technical audience.
• Ability to build portfolio of research and/or policy projects.
• Demonstrated proficiencies in writing, conceptualizing, analyzing, and consulting.

Disclosures

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the U.S. on a full‑time basis. Employment‑based visa sponsorship (including H‑1B sponsorship) is not available for this position. Depending on project work, qualified candidates may need to meet certain residency requirements.

Accessibility Notice

If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process due to a physical or mental disability, please send an email to Taliba Boone at atboone@air.org or call 202‑403‑5000.

American Institutes for Research is an equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination on the basis of any characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local law, including, but not limited to, actual or perceived race, creed, color, religion, alienage or national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, civil union status, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, genetic information, or military or veteran status. AIR adheres to strict child safeguarding principles. All selected candidates will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles and will therefore undergo reference and background checks. AIR maintains a drug‑free work environment.

Compensation

Anticipated annual salary range: $189,000—$230,000 USD (based in the United States).

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