Policy Researcher, Low-Wage Work Team (Assistant/...

Position overview Position title: Policy Researcher Salary range: The UC academic salary scales set the minimum pay determined by rank and step at appointment. The current full-time base salary range for this position is $63,500 - $88,000. “Off-scale” salaries may be offered to meet competitive conditions. Percent time: 100% Anticipated start: Fall 2025 Position duration: One year with the possibility of extension based on funding and performance Position Description The UC Berkeley Labor Center, at the Institute for Research on Labor and Employment (IRLE), has an opening for a policy research specialist to join our organization at the forefront of research and education on economic challenges affecting working families in California and beyond. The Center provides timely, policy-relevant research on labor and employment issues and helps educate a diverse generation of union and worker leaders and students. The Policy Researcher will support a variety of research and policy initiatives related to low-wage work, labor standards, and equity, under the guidance of senior researchers. This position is suited for applicants with strong foundational research skills and an interest in labor and economic justice, and offers an opportunity to work with a nationally-recognized team of researchers, policy analysts, and academics. Responsibilities Contribute to the low-wage work team at the Labor Center, conducting academic and policy-related research relevant to low-wage workers and working families, with a focus on immigrant workers, women and workers of color Under supervision, conduct research and policy analysis using various research methods Provide technical assistance to stakeholders, policy makers, media, and internal staff on issues related to low-wage work, labor standards, and other labor and employment topics Review and summarize relevant academic literature, policy proposals, and legislation Contribute to grant proposals and project documentation Participate in presentations to stakeholder organizations and policymakers Qualifications Basic qualifications (required at time of application) Bachelor’s degree or equivalent international degree Additional qualifications (required at start) Assistant Specialist: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent international degree and at least two (2) years of professional experience OR Master’s degree or equivalent international degree Associate Specialist: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent international degree and at least five (5) years of professional experience OR Master’s degree or equivalent international degree and at least three (3) years of professional experience The Labor Center is unable to offer visa sponsorship for these positions. Preferred Qualifications Master’s or equivalent degree in Economics, Sociology, Industrial Relations, Geography, Public Policy or related field, with at least 2 years of research or policy experience Interest or background in labor markets, inequality, race, gender, or immigration Working knowledge of statistical software, such as STATA or R Interest in working with labor, community, or public sector partners Application Requirements Curriculum Vitae (most recently updated) Cover Letter Policy Writing Sample #1 Policy Writing Sample #2 3 references (contact information only) Application Link and Contact Apply link: Help contact: About UC Berkeley UC Berkeley is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in our public mission of research, teaching, and service. The University is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status. For more information, refer to UC Berkeley’s Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment Policy and Anti-Discrimination Policy. Job location Berkeley, CA; Eligible for 2 days remote work (40%) Note As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining misconduct, per UC policies. Posting context Seniority level: Entry level Employment type: Full-time Job function: Other Industries: Online Audio and Video Media #J-18808-Ljbffr

Created: 2025-09-17