Principal Research Associate – Mathematics Instruction

Job Description

Westat is a leader in research, data collection and analysis, technical assistance, evaluation, and communications. Our evidence-based findings help clients in government and the private sector accelerate advancements in health, education, transportation, and social and economic policy. Our dedication to improving lives through research and our approach to projects grounded in investigative curiosity, statistical and data rigor, adaptive methods, and advanced technology are why clients find exceptional value in our work.

Westat is seeking a Principal Research Associate to join our Education Studies Practice, supporting our Comprehensive Center teams. This role is designed for a nationally recognized expert in mathematics instruction and instructional leadership who will lead strategic technical assistance (TA) initiatives, shape national discourse, and build the instructional capacity of state and local educators to improve student outcomes in mathematics. The role also leads and substantively supports research/evaluation projects, as well as business development.

We value curiosity, innovation, and system-level thinking to contribute to projects that drive improved outcomes for our clients and ourselves internally.

This role is based out of Bethesda, Maryland and will be eligible for a hybrid work arrangement requiring 1-2 days onsite each week.

This position offers flexibility to work from our Bethesda, Raleigh, or Austin offices.

Job Responsibilities

• Lead strategic, multi-level technical assistance initiatives, applying implementation science in mathematics instruction, setting vision, and aligning efforts with federal and state policy goals.
• Design and implement evidence-based instructional capacity-building efforts, including professional learning, coaching, and curriculum support.
• Oversee needs assessments, advise on system-level diagnostics, and evaluate fidelity and impact of TA delivery across sites and states.
• Ensure quality control of all project deliverables, monitor subcontractor performance, and implement data governance frameworks.
• Serve as a thought leader by shaping national discourse, mentoring staff, and contributing to publications and presentations.
• Cultivate high-trust relationships with SEA/LEA leaders, negotiate multi-year TA agreements, and represent projects in strategic communications.
• Lead and mentor project teams, foster collaboration, and develop staff capacity in technical assistance and instructional leadership.
• Support project management and contribute to business development efforts.
• Oversees and supports staff by providing supervision, performance monitoring, and developmental guidance through mentoring and training, fostering a culture of continuous growth and professional excellence.
  
  

Basic Qualifications

• PhD with 5 years postdoctoral experience, or MA/MS with 8 years, or BA/BS with 15 years of relevant experience.
• Deep expertise in mathematics instruction and instructional leadership.
• Proven success in designing and delivering professional learning and coaching for educators.
• Experience building the capacity of SEA/LEA leaders to improve instructional practices.
• Demonstrated ability to lead strategic TA initiatives and align them with policy priorities.
• Strong track record of thought leadership and dissemination.
• Proven ability to form and maintain trusting professional relationships while driving results.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a school district or state education agency in an instructional leadership role.
• Demonstrated success designing and delivering professional learning for educators.
• Experience conducting research or evaluation.
• Experience managing large-scale TA budgets and ensuring compliance.
  
  

Requirements

Westat offers a well-rounded and comprehensive benefits program focused on wellness and work/life balance. Subject to plan requirements, employees may participate in:

• Employee Stock Ownership Plan
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Paid Parental Leave
• Vacation Leave (20 days per year)
• Sick Leave (9 days per year)
• Holiday Leave (7 government holidays and 2 floating holidays per year)
• Professional Development
• Health Advocate
• Employee Assistance Program
• Travel Accident Insurance
• Medical Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Short Term Disability Insurance
• Long Term Disability Insurance
• Life and AD&D Insurance
• Critical Illness Insurance
• Supplemental Life Insurance
• Flexible Spending Account
• Health Savings Account
  
  

Any offer of employment may be contingent upon receipt of acceptable results from a post-offer background screening, if required for the specific position, which may include, for example, identity verification, employment history, motor vehicle driving record history, and criminal or sexual offender records history. Any background screening results will be evaluated through an individualized assessment based on the individual’s specific record and the duties and requirements of the position.

This opportunity will be posted for a minimum of 5 days and applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis.

Westat is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, citizenship status, genetic information, or any other protected status under applicable law. It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Career Area

Research

Pay Range

The anticipated salary range for this role is $133,00 to $165,000 commensurate with experience.

Bonus Eligibility

yes