Research Specialist B, The Water Center at Penn

University Overview

The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn's distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning. As an employer Penn has been ranked nationally on many occasions with the most recent award from Forbes who named Penn one of America's Best Large Employers in 2023.

Penn offers a unique working environment within the city of Philadelphia. The University is situated on a beautiful urban campus, with easy access to a range of educational, cultural, and recreational activities. With its historical significance and landmarks, lively cultural offerings, and wide variety of atmospheres, Philadelphia is the perfect place to call home for work and play.

The University offers a competitive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare and tuition benefits for employees and their families, generous retirement benefits, a wide variety of professional development opportunities, supportive work and family benefits, a wealth of health and wellness programs and resources, and much more.

Posted Job Title

Research Specialist B, The Water Center at Penn

Job Profile Title

Research Specialist B

Job Description Summary

The Water Center Research Specialist, reporting to the Director of Applied Research and Policy, will play a central role in leading and executing the Center's applied research and policy initiatives. This position is responsible for designing and advancing research projects, producing high-impact analytical and communications deliverables, and translating complex water infrastructure and policy issues into actionable insights for diverse stakeholders. The Specialist will work closely with Water Center staff and collaborators across Penn to drive interdisciplinary efforts and extend the reach and impact of the Center's work. Graduate-level training or equivalent subject matter expertise in environmental policy, water resources, or environmental studies is required. This is a hybrid position, with an expectation of three days per week in the Water Center offices.

Job Description

The Water Center at Penn is a community focused research center working to find integrated solutions to the challenges facing water systems and watersheds. We strive to be a trusted, reliable partner whose work accelerates water equity.

Job Responsibilities:

• Lead applied research projects from design to delivery, including writing reports, developing surveys and interviews, creating public-facing materials, and presenting to stakeholders.
• Conduct research on water infrastructure technical assistance by collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data and evaluating relevant policies across drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater systems.
• Collaborate with the Communications Manager and Penn partners to translate research into strategic communications and support interdisciplinary initiatives.
• Produce high-quality research and communications outputs, including fact sheets, story maps, web content, and reports, translating complex information for diverse audiences.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science and 1 to 2 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience is required.
• The job strongly prefers a Master's degree or equivalent in environmental policy, water resources, environmental studies, or environmental engineering.
• Experience conducting applied research, including designing surveys or interviews, analyzing qualitative and quantitative data, and synthesizing findings to inform policy or technical assistance.
• Strong written and verbal communications skills, with the ability to translate complex water infrastructure topics into clear, accessible materials for diverse audiences across reports, presentations, and digital content.
• Demonstrated interest in community water infrastructure preferred.

Job Location - City, State

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Department / School

School of Arts and Sciences

Pay Range

$50,000.00 - $60,000.00 Annual Rate Salary offers are made based on the candidate's qualifications, experience, skills, and education as they directly relate to the requirements of the position, and in alignment with salary ranges based on external market data for the job's level. Internal organization and peer data at Penn are also considered.