Application Guide

How to Apply for Research and Evaluation Associate (Remote, Full- or Part-Time) (MA or NY)

at Mt. Auburn Associates

🏢 About Mt. Auburn Associates

Mt. Auburn Associates is a mission-driven, women-owned consulting firm that focuses on advancing inclusive economic growth and opportunity. They partner with foundations, nonprofits, and public sector clients, making them an ideal workplace for those passionate about social impact and community development.

About This Role

As a Research and Evaluation Associate, you will conduct mixed-methods research across multiple projects related to community investment, affordable housing, and inclusive growth. Your work will directly inform strategic decisions for clients, making this role impactful in shaping equitable policies and programs.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve analyzing secondary data in Excel to identify trends, drafting a section of a report on affordable housing outcomes, and participating in a virtual team meeting to discuss survey design. You'll also coordinate with clients via email and prepare slides for an upcoming presentation, balancing multiple projects with varying deadlines.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Mt. Auburn Associates Is Looking For

  • A candidate with 2-5 years of experience in evaluation, community development, or economic development, who has conducted mixed-methods research including surveys, interviews, and focus groups.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, lookups, data visualization) and PowerPoint, with strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
  • Excellent written communicator who can synthesize findings into clear reports and presentations for diverse audiences.
  • Detail-oriented and organized, able to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a remote environment.

📝 Tips for Applying to Mt. Auburn Associates

1

Highlight specific examples of mixed-methods research projects you've led or contributed to, especially those involving community development or economic inclusion.

2

Demonstrate your Excel proficiency by mentioning advanced functions like pivot tables, VLOOKUPs, and data visualization techniques in your resume or cover letter.

3

Tailor your cover letter to emphasize your alignment with Mt. Auburn's mission to advance inclusive economic growth, and mention any experience with foundations or public sector clients.

4

Include a writing sample that showcases your ability to synthesize complex research findings into clear, audience-appropriate deliverables (e.g., a report or case study).

5

Research the firm's recent projects and clients (e.g., through their website or news articles) and reference them in your application to show genuine interest.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Emphasize your experience with mixed-methods research and how it applies to evaluation in community investment or economic development.', "Express enthusiasm for Mt. Auburn's mission-driven, women-owned business model and your desire to contribute to their social impact.", 'Showcase your ability to work independently and manage multiple projects in a remote setting, as the role is fully remote.', 'Highlight any experience with affordable housing, inclusive growth, or related topics to demonstrate domain knowledge.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review Mt. Auburn Associates' website to understand their project areas, such as inclusive economic development, workforce development, and affordable housing.
  • → Look up recent reports or publications from the firm to see the style and depth of their deliverables.
  • → Research their clients (e.g., foundations, nonprofits, public agencies) to understand the types of organizations you'd be supporting.
  • → Check for any news or blog posts about the firm's impact or team members to get a sense of company culture.
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💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Walk me through a research project where you used both qualitative and quantitative methods. How did you integrate findings?
2 Describe a time you had to synthesize complex data into a clear report or presentation for non-technical stakeholders.
3 How do you prioritize tasks when working on multiple client projects simultaneously?
4 What experience do you have with community-based research, and how do you ensure inclusivity in data collection?
5 Why are you interested in Mt. Auburn Associates specifically, and how does your background align with our mission?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic cover letter that doesn't reference Mt. Auburn's mission or specific projects.
  • Overlooking the requirement for Excel proficiency; failing to demonstrate advanced skills can be a dealbreaker.
  • Not providing a writing sample or providing one that is too lengthy or not relevant to evaluation/community development.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Mt. Auburn Associates!

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