Application Guide

How to Apply for Research Manager

at PowerSwitch Action

🏢 About PowerSwitch Action

PowerSwitch Action is a national network of 21 grassroots organizations dedicated to forging multiracial feminist democracy and economies from the ground up. They uniquely combine research, organizing, and policy advocacy to shift power from corporations to communities, making it an ideal place for those committed to systemic change.

About This Role

As a Research Manager, you will conduct rigorous research that directly informs campaigns and strategies across the network. Your work will produce both internal and public-facing products, from corporate research to policy analyses, and will be pivotal in shaping the direction of local and national movements.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve analyzing corporate financial documents for a campaign, meeting with campaign teams to align research needs, and drafting a public report. You might also supervise a research intern, present findings to network partners, and stay updated on industry trends to inform future strategies.

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🎯 Who PowerSwitch Action Is Looking For

  • Experienced in strategic corporate research, including supply chain analysis, financial investigations, and power mapping, with a track record of translating complex data into actionable campaign insights.
  • Skilled in mixed-methods research, combining quantitative data analysis with qualitative interviews and document review, and comfortable presenting findings to diverse audiences.
  • A strategic thinker who thrives in cross-departmental teams and can identify emerging research needs to support long-term planning and campaign development.
  • Committed to racial, gender, and economic justice, with experience working in social justice movements, labor unions, or community organizations.

📝 Tips for Applying to PowerSwitch Action

1

Tailor your resume to highlight specific research projects that directly impacted campaigns or policy changes, using metrics where possible.

2

In your cover letter, explicitly connect your research experience to PowerSwitch Action's mission of shifting power from corporations to communities, and mention any familiarity with their affiliate network.

3

Showcase your ability to produce both internal strategy memos and public-facing reports, with writing samples that demonstrate clarity and persuasion.

4

If you have experience supervising interns or contractors, highlight it, as the role may include supervisory duties.

5

Research PowerSwitch Action's recent campaigns (e.g., on corporate accountability, housing, or climate) and mention one that resonates with you in your application.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Emphasize your commitment to social, racial, and economic justice, and how your research has been used to advance these causes.', "Highlight your experience with corporate research and landscape analyses, and how you've used them to support organizing and advocacy.", 'Mention your ability to work collaboratively with cross-departmental teams and to communicate complex findings to non-research audiences.', "Express enthusiasm for PowerSwitch Action's network model and your interest in contributing to long-term strategic planning."]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Explore PowerSwitch Action's website, especially their reports and publications, to understand their research style and key issues.
  • → Read about their affiliate organizations and recent campaigns to see how research is used in practice.
  • → Look into their history as the Partnership for Working Families and the name change to PowerSwitch Action to understand their evolution and values.
  • → Check their social media and news mentions to see their current priorities and any recent victories.
Visit PowerSwitch Action's Website →

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a time you conducted research that directly influenced a campaign or policy outcome. What was your role and what was the impact?
2 How do you approach researching a corporation or industry you're unfamiliar with? Walk us through your process.
3 How do you balance rigor and speed when producing research for time-sensitive campaigns?
4 How have you incorporated racial and gender justice frameworks into your research methodology?
5 How do you handle disagreements with campaign teams about research findings or strategy?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't submit a generic cover letter that doesn't reference PowerSwitch Action's mission or specific work.
  • Don't overemphasize academic research without connecting it to real-world impact or social justice.
  • Don't ignore the remote nature of the role; show that you have experience working in distributed teams and can manage your own time.

📅 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 PowerSwitch Action!

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