Technical Assistance Consultant, Education Systems & Policy (Part-Time)

AIR’s Education Systems and Policy program area is seeking a Part-Time Technical Assistance (TA) Consultant. The TA Consultant will support project teams dedicated to meeting clients’ needs for improving educational outcomes across a range of topics. The TA Consultant will provide technical assistance and capacity-building services to state and local education agencies, focusing on evidence-based solutions in areas such as school improvement, literacy, math, assessment, special education, career pathways, rural education, and more. This role involves developing resources, training, and guidance to strengthen education systems at the school, district, and state levels.  

Engagements are typically project-based, part-time, and may vary in duration and hours depending on project needs.

This position has the flexibility to work remotely within the United States (U.S.) or from one of AIR’s U.S. office locations but requires availability to participate in meetings across all continental U.S. time zones. This does not include U.S. territories.  

About AIR:

Founded in 1946 and headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, the American Institutes for Research (AIR) is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit organization that conducts behavioral and social science research and delivers technical assistance to address some of the most pressing challenges in the United States and globally. We generate evidence and apply data-driven solutions that expand opportunities and improve lives for all.

Responsibilities:

• Develop training materials, implementation measures, and protocols for monitoring and supporting education initiatives across various topics.
• Deliver professional development, coaching, and technical assistance to educators, administrators, and leaders in various education settings. 
• Provide expertise in one or more education-related areas (e.g., school improvement, school finance, rural education, curriculum, assessment, indigenous education, special education, CTE). 
• Support research activities, including data collection, analysis, and reporting. 
• Contribute to reports and presentations that describe and interpret findings for clients, partners, and stakeholders.
• Build capacity in education systems through collaboration with schools, districts, and education organizations. 
• Collaborate on project teams and manage/lead projects or tasks as assigned. 

Qualifications: 

Education, Knowledge, and Experience  

• Master’s degree or bachelor’s degree and 4+ years of experience in education, youth development, out-of-school time or other related fields. 
• Previous professional experience working at or with a state education agency (SEA), with demonstrated understanding of state-level education policy and operations.
• Experience as a school and/or district-level administrator is preferred but not required.
• Demonstrated expertise in one or more education-related topic (e.g., school improvement, school finance, rural education, curriculum, assessment, indigenous education, special education, CTE).
• Knowledge of evidence-based practices for education improvement and educator professional development.
• Experience providing direct training and coaching support to educators, instructional coaches or leaders.
• Experience with data collection, analysis, and reporting