Application Guide

How to Apply for Research Manager or Senior Research Manager

at Detention Watch Network

🏢 About Detention Watch Network

Detention Watch Network is a national coalition dedicated to abolishing immigration detention through collective advocacy, grassroots organizing, and strategic communications. Unlike many organizations that focus on reform, DWN takes an abolitionist stance, making it a unique and powerful space for those committed to transformative change. Working here means joining a movement to build power with directly impacted communities.

About This Role

As Research Manager, you will drive DWN's advocacy by producing rigorous research and data analysis on immigration detention policy. You'll provide technical assistance to coalition members and partners, and represent DWN in national coalitions to develop collaborative strategies. This role is central to shaping policy and building collective power to end detention.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might start with monitoring immigration detention policy updates, then drafting a fact sheet for an upcoming campaign. Midday, you could join a coalition call to align advocacy strategies, followed by analyzing a new detention contract. Afternoons often involve writing a report section or providing technical assistance to a member organization.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Detention Watch Network Is Looking For

  • A seasoned policy advocate with 4-6 years of experience in policy, advocacy, or organizing, specifically on immigration or criminal justice reform.
  • An exceptional writer and editor who has authored reports or policy briefs that influenced decision-makers.
  • A data-savvy researcher comfortable analyzing complex legislative and regulatory language and translating it for diverse audiences.
  • A coalition-builder who thrives in collaborative spaces and has experience working with grassroots organizations and directly impacted communities.

📝 Tips for Applying to Detention Watch Network

1

Tailor your resume to highlight specific experience with immigration detention policy, not just general policy work.

2

In your cover letter, explicitly state your alignment with DWN's abolitionist mission and your understanding of the difference between reform and abolition.

3

Provide a writing sample that demonstrates your ability to distill complex policy into accessible language for advocates.

4

Mention any experience working with directly impacted communities or in coalition settings.

5

Research DWN's current campaigns (e.g., anti-detention contract advocacy) and reference them in your application.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your commitment to ending immigration detention and alignment with DWN's abolitionist framework.", 'Specific examples of research and writing that influenced policy or advocacy outcomes.', 'Your experience providing technical assistance or training to coalition members.', "How your coalition-building experience will help strengthen DWN's network."]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review DWN's website, especially their 'Resources' section for reports and fact sheets.
  • → Read DWN's recent publications on detention contracts and alternatives to detention.
  • → Follow DWN's social media to understand current campaigns and messaging.
  • → Research the broader landscape of immigrant justice organizations to understand DWN's unique role.
Visit Detention Watch Network's Website →

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How do you approach research when the data is limited or intentionally obscured?
2 Describe a time you had to translate complex policy for a grassroots audience.
3 How do you balance rigorous research with the urgency of advocacy timelines?
4 What is your understanding of the difference between immigration detention reform and abolition?
5 How would you engage with a coalition member who disagrees with DWN's position?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Avoid framing immigration detention as a necessary evil or focusing on 'reform' without acknowledging abolition.
  • Don't submit a generic cover letter that fails to mention DWN or its mission.
  • Avoid overstating quantitative research skills if your background is primarily qualitative; be honest about your methods.

📅 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 Detention Watch Network!

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