Home-based: Research Officer

Founded in 2000, Free the Slaves (FTS) is a pioneer and leader in the global effort to eradicate slavery. Our mission is to liberate those in slavery and to change the conditions that allow slavery to persist. Free the Slaves works at the grassroots to empower vulnerable individuals and communities to achieve freedom from slavery and develop resistance to slavery. We work with and through local partners to build national capacity to combat slavery and trafficking.

Headquartered in Washington, D.C., with projects in Africa, Latin America, Asia, the Caribbean and the Middle East, Free the Slaves has a talented and dedicated staff including in its country and regional offices, and a highly engaged and supportive board of directors.

For more information, see:www.freetheslaves.net.

Job Description: 

The Research Officer is responsible for the implementation of FTS’ research program through the development of locally-based innovative approaches and methods. The Research Officer will report to and be supervised by the Head of Programs. The Research Officer will develop effective, collegial relations with country and regional office staff, as well as with the communications, advocacy, development, operations, training, monitoring, learning & evaluation staff, and other team members. This is an exciting position that will support growth in Free the Slaves programs.

Responsibilities: 

• Oversee the development and implementation of quantitative and qualitative research projects, including initiation, design, documentation, dissemination, and evaluation;
• Develop concept notes and comprehensive research proposals;
• Ensure quality control of procedures and data and compliance with ethical policies and procedures, including FTS’ Human Subjects Protection Policy;
• Identify, select and manage research partners in line with FTS internal procedures;
• Work with the FTS Research Advisory Board to design and implement community-based research projects.
• Develop, establish, and manage research procedures and guidelines in coordination with other actors, including the Research Team and Research Advisory Board;
• Conduct secondary research on countries of strategic interest and create materials, including literature reviews;
• Design and implement internal research processes to collect, analyze, and report on lessons learned and best practices to combat modern slavery;
• Establish and manage a research repository to inform program design and development;
• Lead and/or assist in writing grant proposals for research-related funding opportunities;
• Coordinate and lead an internal Research Team that meets on a monthly basis;
• Ensure the revision and implementation of FTS’ research framework;
• Be the point of contact for the FTS program teams on research, to respond to their needs and requests;
• Recruit and/or supervise Research Interns, Field Assistants, and other relevant research personnel;
• Conduct field research internationally;
• Conduct and support the training of field teams on research methods;
• Communicate FTS research to a range of audiences through journal articles, blog posts, conference presentations, and other media;
• Respond to internal research requests as needed;
• Work with the MLE Coordinator to refine research processes, including lessons learned and the evaluation of the research program.

Competencies: 

• Highly developed qualitative and quantitative research skills;
• Strong analytical skills, and ability to analyze and integrate diverse information from varied sources;
• Computer literate; must be able to use the Internet and other research tools e.g. SPSS, Atlas T.I, etc. effectively.
• Ability to work independently and identify priority activities and assignments;
• Teamwork - excellent interpersonal, organizational and management skills and ability to work within multi-disciplinary teams.
• Ability to build strong relationships with partners and respond positively to feedback.
• Ability to manage complex problems proactively and effectively.
• Ability to operate effectively in a changing and complex environment, and to produce results under tight deadlines;
• Consistently approach work with energy and a positive, constructive attitude;
• Demonstrate strong oral and written communication skills;

Required Skills and Experience: 

Education:

• Master’s degree in Human Rights or Social Science related field.

Experience:

• At least 3 to 5 years of relevant work experience in research.
• Prior knowledge and experience in developing and implementing research projects.
• Knowledge of human trafficking, forced labor, modern slavery and child labor.

Language requirements:

• Excellent English writing and oral skills.
• Strong preference for candidates who are also proficient in French, Spanish or Arabic

Location:

• Must be located in one of the regions in which Free the Slaves works: Africa, Asia, MENA, Latin America or the Caribbean.

Travel:

• This job requires travels; candidate must demonstrate the ability to travel internationally as needed.

How to Apply: 

Submit resume and cover letter to careers@freetheslaves.net by March 23, 2023 for consideration.