RAND Corporation - Washington, DC

posted 3 months ago

Full-time - Mid Level
Hybrid - Washington, DC
1,001-5,000 employees
Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

RAND's Communications and External Affairs (CEA) department is seeking a talented Research Communications Analyst (RCA) to join its Research Communications Group. This position is pivotal in utilizing graphic design and visual narrative skills to enhance RAND's mission of improving policy and decision-making through rigorous research and analysis, particularly in the realm of national security. The RCA will collaborate closely with researchers and RAND leaders to distill complex policy research into clear, compelling visual and written formats tailored for diverse audiences, from high-level decision-makers to the general public. In this role, the RCA will focus on visual communication strategies that complement textual narratives. The successful candidate will engage with researchers to gain a deep understanding of various national security topics and methodologies, crafting and refining policy research narratives that translate into effective visual materials. This position demands a strong analytical ability to tackle challenging topics under tight deadlines, coupled with creativity and a polished execution of visual communication tactics. The RCA will be responsible for ensuring that visuals not only enhance understanding but also support informed policy and decision-making. The role requires a keen ability to analyze audiences and craft narratives that resonate, supported by high-quality visuals and graphics. Familiarity with national security issues or a strong desire to develop expertise in this area is highly desirable. The RCA will also be expected to contribute throughout the lifecycle of research projects, providing communications analysis, strategy, and asset creation.

Responsibilities

  • Collaborate with researchers and RAND leaders to present complex policy research in clear and compelling formats.
  • Analyze challenging topics and develop visual communication tactics under tight deadlines.
  • Craft and refine policy research narratives and translate them into visual materials.
  • Create and improve briefings and other visual materials such as maps, charts, and graphs.
  • Ensure projects meet deadlines while maintaining high quality through navigating organizational complexities.
  • Exercise editorial judgment and self-direction on multiple projects while working collaboratively with teams.

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in design, fine art, English, communications, public policy, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
  • Minimum of 9 years of related experience in graphic design and communications.
  • Superior graphical skills with the ability to create compelling visual narratives supported by text.
  • Demonstrated understanding of inclusive design best practices, including visual, typographic, and color sensibilities.
  • Expert proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).
  • Ability to break down complex concepts visually and incorporate data analysis into designs.

Nice-to-haves

  • Demonstrated expertise or interest in national security topics and policy research.
  • Advanced writing skills to support visual narratives.
  • Excellent project management skills to oversee multiple projects effectively.

Benefits

  • Health insurance coverage
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Savings plan
  • Paid time off
  • Strong benefits package
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