Research Analyst (SelectUSA)

Ascendant is currently recruiting qualified candidates for a full-time Research Analyst position linked to a contract we hold with SelectUSA, a program housed within the International Trade Administration at the U.S. Department of Commerce. Ascendant supports SelectUSA’s mission to facilitate job-creating business investment into the United States and raise awareness of the critical role that foreign direct investment (FDI) plays in the U.S. economy.

As part of Ascendant’s Research Team, the Analyst will support accurate investment and trade data collection, amplification, and interpretation. Our analysts conduct industry research and analysis related to specific market sectors and geographic locations and prepare customized reports for SelectUSA’s overseas investment clients. Our analysts also conduct research to support unique business and outreach plans for Economic Development Organizations (EDOs) targeting international investors, and economic research on investment and trade data to be used in briefing materials. Our analysts also perform due diligence research and provide support for the annual SelectUSA Investment Summit.

This position is based in Washington, DC and is metro accessible.

Qualifications:

• 1-3 years of professional experience in a similar capacity
• Master’s degree is required. Ideal candidates will have education backgrounds in Economics, International Relations, Public Policy, International Trade, Finance, and other related fields of study. Coursework in economics and statistics and demonstrated academic or professional experience in quantitative and statistical analysis is required
• Knowledge or experience in economic development, international trade, and/or foreign direct investment is desired
• Proficiency with all Microsoft Office Tools including Word, PowerPoint, Outlook. Advanced proficiency with MS Excel is desired, including the ability to generate pivot tables, and create complex graphs
• Proficiency with data management and visualization software, such as Power BI, and experience creating dashboards is desired
• Proficiency in conducting internet research, as well as utilizing databases; prior experience with LexisNexis, D&B Hoovers, Salesforce, and/or fDi Markets is a plus
• Ability to conduct sophisticated research using numerous resources, compile and analyze data, and provide recommendations based upon statistical analysis
• Ability to operate independently to complete tasks and succeed in a fast-paced environment
• Must have a strong attention to detail and have the ability to produce professional-grade documents for public dissemination
• Excellent writing and communication skills
• High degree of organization and time-management skills