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Harvard University

Research Manager, The Project on Workforce

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1,326

Company Description

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join the Harvard Kennedy School?

The John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University is one of 12 graduate and professional schools at the university. Harvard Kennedy School's mission is to improve public policy and leadership so people can live in societies that are more safe, free, just, and sustainably prosperous. By combining cutting-edge research, the teaching of outstanding students, and direct interaction with practitioners, we have an impact on solving public problems that no other institution can match. When you work at Harvard Kennedy School, you make a difference.

Job Description

The Research Project Manager will work with the Project on Workforce's Director and team members to support the Project's mission, goals, and agenda. This person will coordinate key aspects of multiple research initiatives, including by managing timelines, project stakeholders, and overseeing Research Assistants. The Manager has significant responsibilities over research, writing, editing, and fact-checking, as well as supporting project administration and communications.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

  • Coordinate multiple research projects, including project timelines and team meetings.
  • Manage and oversee the work of Research Assistants, including interviewing, hiring, training, and directing their work.
  • Plan and implement research strategies to achieve the goals of the Project on Workforce initiatives, including internal research submissions documentation.
  • Design and update key data tools, including the Workforce Almanac and GenAI Adoption Tracker.
  • Draft and edit practitioner-facing white papers and reports.
  • Execute of research, including interviews and surveys.
  • Draft external communications and support dissemination of research through online channels and outreach to relevant stakeholders.
  • Facilitate communications and collaboration with external stakeholders, including project vendors and research partners.
  • Design and support convenings and events with key stakeholders.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

  • Demonstrated interest in workforce development, postsecondary education, labor market policy, future of work, and/or related topics
  • 3+ years of previous work experience, which may include experience in public policy, research, politics, technology, education, journalism, consulting or a related field

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

  • Prior work or research experience in workforce development, postsecondary education, labor market policy, future of work, and/or related topics
  • Ability to distill and analyze complex evidence and data, including intermediary quantitative and coding
  • Demonstrated success managing multiple projects, timelines, and stakeholders
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills, including clear and concise writing for a variety of audiences
  • Commitment to the Project on Workforce mission of building better pathways to economic mobility.

Additional Information

  • Appointment End Date: Benefits eligible one year term appointment from date of hire, with the possibility of renewal.
  • Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
  • Pre-Employment Screening: Identity
  • Other Information: This position is based on our campus in Cambridge, MA, and required to work in person 1-3 days/week.

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University's Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 056. Please visit Harvard's Salary Ranges to view the corresponding salary range and related information.

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to:

  • Generous paid time off including parental leave
  • Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
  • Retirement plans with university contributions
  • Wellbeing and mental health resources
  • Support for families and caregivers
  • Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
  • Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page.

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.

Job details

Title
Research Manager, The Project on Workforce
Employer
Harvard University
Location
Cambridge
Published
Aug 11, 2026
Closes:
Oct 10, 2026
Job type
Full time, Staff / Administration
Field
Laboratory and Research

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Frequently Asked Questions

🎓What qualifications do I need for the Research Manager role?

You need a demonstrated interest in workforce development, postsecondary education, or labor market policy, plus at least 3 years of professional experience in public policy, research, consulting, or a related field. Strong project management, quantitative/data analysis (including basic coding), and excellent writing/communication skills are essential. Prior research experience in these areas is highly valued. Explore more research roles and administration jobs in higher education.

🛂Is visa sponsorship available for this position?

No. Harvard University cannot provide visa sponsorship for this position. Candidates must already have authorization to work in the United states. Check more university jobs that may offer sponsorship.

📊What does the Project on Workforce do?

The Project on Workforce at Harvard Kennedy School researches and develops strategies to improve economic mobility through better pathways from education to employment. It focuses on workforce development, future of work trends, and labor market policies. The Research Manager helps drive these initiatives by coordinating studies, managing data tools, and producing practitioner-focused reports.

📋What are the main responsibilities of the Research Manager?

You will coordinate multiple research projects, oversee Research Assistants, design data tools like the Workforce Almanac, write and edit white papers/reports, manage project timelines and stakeholders, support external communications, and organize convenings. The role combines research execution, team leadership, and administrative oversight. See our higher ed admin jobs for similar opportunities.

📍Where is this position located and what is the work format?

The role is based on the Cambridge, MA campus of Harvard University. It follows a hybrid model: you must work in person 1-3 days per week, with remaining days remote. The hybrid schedule is set by the department. Search remote-friendly higher ed jobs for other flexible roles.

About the employer

Harvard University Jobs

Harvard University

4.0 Star Employer Ranking

Harvard University offers a diverse range of job and work opportunities across various categories, reflecting its status as a leading academic and research institution. These opportunities cater to different skill sets, academic backgrounds, and career stages. Harvard University Academic Positions - click here . Harvard University Staff Jobs - click here . The main types of jobs and work opportunities at Harvard: 1. Faculty and Academic Positions Tenure-Track Faculty : These roles include assistant, associate, and full professors across Harvard’s schools (e.g., Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Harvard Business School). Faculty engage in teaching, research, and service. Qualifications typically include a Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree, a strong research portfolio, and teaching experience. Openings vary by department and school, with competitive hiring processes. Non-Tenure-Track Faculty : Includes lecturers, preceptors, and visiting professors. These roles focus primarily on teaching or short-term research projects and may require a Ph.D. or significant expertise in the field. Research Appointments : Postdoctoral fellowships, research associates, and scientists work on cutting-edge research in fields like medicine, engineering, humanities, and social sciences. These positions often require advanced degrees and are funded through grants or specific research programs. 2. Administrative and Professional Staff Administrative Roles : These include positions in academic administration (e.g., deans’ offices, registrar, admissions), student services, and program management. Examples include academic program coordinators, admissions officers, and financial aid advisors. These roles often require a bachelor’s or master’s degree and relevant experience. Professional Staff : Harvard employs professionals in areas like human resources, finance, communications, development (fundraising), and alumni relations. Examples include HR specialists, financial analysts, and marketing managers. These positions typically require specialized skills or certifications. Executive and Leadership Roles : Senior positions like directors, department heads, or executive administrators oversee operations in specific units or schools. These roles demand extensive experience and leadership skills. 3. Research and Laboratory Staff Research Support Staff : Includes lab managers, research technicians, and data analysts who support faculty and postdoctoral researchers in labs across disciplines like biology, chemistry, physics, and medicine. These roles often require technical skills, such as proficiency in lab equipment or data analysis software. Clinical Research Roles : At Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals, clinical research coordinators and specialists support medical and health-related studies. These positions may require certifications like Good Clinical Practice (GCP) training. 4. Technical and IT Staff Information Technology : Harvard employs IT professionals for roles like systems administrators, software developers, cybersecurity analysts, and data scientists to support its technological infrastructure. These positions require expertise in areas like cloud computing, AI, or network management. Library and Information Services : Harvard’s extensive library system hires librarians, archivists, and digital resource specialists. These roles often require a master’s degree in library science or related fields. 5. Support and Operations Staff Facilities and Operations : Includes roles in maintenance, custodial services, groundskeeping, and security. These positions ensure the smooth operation of Harvard’s campus and may not require advanced degrees but often need specific training or certifications. Dining and Hospitality : Harvard’s dining services employ chefs, food service workers, and catering staff to support campus dining halls and events. Administrative Support : Roles like executive assistants, office managers, and receptionists provide critical support to departments and faculty. 6. Student and Temporary Opportunities Student Employment : Harvard offers on-campus jobs for students, including work-study positions in libraries, dining halls, labs, and administrative offices. These roles are typically part-time and designed to accommodate academic schedules. Temporary and Seasonal Work : Temporary roles, such as event staff or short-term project assistants, are available for non-students as well. These are often listed through Harvard’s temporary staffing services. 7. Medical and Healthcare Roles Clinical and Healthcare Staff : Through Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals (e.g., Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital), opportunities exist for physicians, nurses, medical technicians, and other healthcare professionals. These roles require medical licenses or certifications. Public Health Professionals : The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health employs researchers, policy analysts, and program managers focused on global health initiatives. 8. Creative and Media Roles Arts and Culture : Harvard’s museums (e.g., Harvard Art Museums) and cultural institutions hire curators, educators, and exhibition staff. The American Repertory Theater employs artists, stage managers, and production staff. Communications and Media : Roles in writing, graphic design, social media, and public relations support Harvard’s outreach and branding efforts. Key Characteristics of Harvard Jobs Diversity of Roles : Harvard’s workforce spans academic, administrative, technical, and operational functions, with opportunities for both entry-level and highly specialized professionals. Competitive Benefits : Harvard offers comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, tuition assistance, and professional development. Faculty and staff also gain access to Harvard’s libraries, museums, and cultural events. Global Impact : Many roles, especially in research and public health, contribute to global advancements in knowledge and policy. Location : Most positions are based in Cambridge or Boston, Massachusetts, with some remote or hybrid options, particularly for administrative and IT roles. How to Find Opportunities Harvard Careers Portal : The primary resource for job listings is Harvard’s Human Resources website (hr.harvard.edu/jobs), which lists openings for faculty, staff, and temporary roles. School-Specific Listings : Each Harvard school (e.g., Harvard College, Harvard Law School) may post specialized positions on their websites. Networking and Referrals : Many academic and research roles are filled through professional networks or direct outreach to departments. X Platform : Searching for “Harvard University jobs” on X can reveal real-time discussions, job postings, or employee experiences, though these should be verified through official channels. Additional Notes Qualifications : Requirements vary widely. Faculty roles typically need advanced degrees, while support roles may prioritize experience or specific skills. Work Environment : Harvard emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and collaboration, with opportunities for professional growth and community engagement. Application Process : Most positions require an online application through Harvard’s careers portal, including a resume, cover letter, and sometimes additional materials like teaching statements or research portfolios.

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