Junior Research Specialist- Africa

Job title: Junior Research Specialist - Africa

The Role: Tesla Government Inc seeks a Junior Research Specialist - Africa who will focus on research and data collection to support efforts in the region of interest.

Location: Falls Church, VA. Remote within the Continental US but strong preference will be given to contractors located in the Washington, DC metropolitan area.

About Us: Tesla Government Inc. (no affiliation with the automotive company) is a rapidly growing small business, located in Falls Church, Virginia. Founded in 2009, Tesla Government’s initiatives are designed to improve how government agencies manage and share information internally while extending to other government agencies and external partners. With decades of federal, military, and NGO experience, our proven agile approach delivers results and impactful solutions within a swift timeframe. Our metrics- driven approach and focus on performance reduces risk and ensures rapid adoption and project success.

Position Summary: The position will provide basic research and data services. These would include gathering data from open source outlets such as local media and international think-tanks to support larger research efforts and cover unfolding events. The researcher will work to uncover unique information and provide meaningful insights to customers.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Research and Data Compilations (70%)

• Research English and foreign language media reporting and social media to compile datasets with high-degree of attention to detail

• Work with research specialists to develop team and user situational awareness of developments in the region
  

Establish and Maintain Data Standards and Collection Techniques (20%)

• Coordinate projects with research specialists to tailor data to user information needs

• Update and maintain data structures so they continuously evolve to address the realities of the environment and meet the information needs of the data consumers
  

Support Automated Data Collection Efforts (10%)

• Identify opportunities for the scripting team to automate data extraction and implementation of AI and ML techniques
  

Required Qualifications:

• Fluency in English

• Attention to detail

• Educational or work experience in international affairs or a related field

• Experience in social science research and data collection

• US citizen

Desired Qualifications:

• Proficiency in French

• Familiarity with international relations in Africa

• Experience with Excel or Google Sheets

• Some familiarity with Python

To apply to this position, please submit:

• A resume

• A cover letter

• An academic or professional writing sample

Job Type: 1099 Independent Contractor. Contractors are responsible for their own taxes, benefits, and insurance. No benefits, no equipment provided, no tax withholding, or unemployment insurance is provided.

Compensation: This is a 1099 contract position with an hourly rate range of $30 - $40 hourly.

Tesla Government Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category under applicable federal, state, and local laws.