Westat · 6 days ago
Principal Research Associate – Mathematics Instruction
Bethesda, MD
Full-time
Hybrid
Senior Level, Lead/Staff
$133K/yr - $165K/yr
5+ years expWestat is a leader in research and data analysis, and they are seeking a Principal Research Associate to support their Education Studies Practice. This role involves leading technical assistance initiatives in mathematics instruction and enhancing the instructional capacity of educators to improve student outcomes.
AssociationConsultingMarket ResearchSocial Media
Responsibilities
Lead strategic, multi-level technical assistance initiatives, applying implementation science in mathematics instruction, setting vision, and aligning efforts with federal and state policy goals
Design and implement evidence-based instructional capacity-building efforts, including professional learning, coaching, and curriculum support
Oversee needs assessments, advise on system-level diagnostics, and evaluate fidelity and impact of TA delivery across sites and states
Ensure quality control of all project deliverables, monitor subcontractor performance, and implement data governance frameworks
Serve as a thought leader by shaping national discourse, mentoring staff, and contributing to publications and presentations
Cultivate high-trust relationships with SEA/LEA leaders, negotiate multi-year TA agreements, and represent projects in strategic communications
Lead and mentor project teams, foster collaboration, and develop staff capacity in technical assistance and instructional leadership
Support project management and contribute to business development efforts
Oversees and supports staff by providing supervision, performance monitoring, and developmental guidance through mentoring and training, fostering a culture of continuous growth and professional excellence
Qualification
Required
PhD with 5+ years postdoctoral experience, or MA/MS with 8+ years, or BA/BS with 15+ years of relevant experience
Deep expertise in mathematics instruction and instructional leadership
Proven success in designing and delivering professional learning and coaching for educators
Experience building the capacity of SEA/LEA leaders to improve instructional practices
Demonstrated ability to lead strategic TA initiatives and align them with policy priorities
Strong track record of thought leadership and dissemination
Proven ability to form and maintain trusting professional relationships while driving results
Preferred
Experience working in a school district or state education agency in an instructional leadership role
Demonstrated success designing and delivering professional learning for educators
Experience conducting research or evaluation
Experience managing large-scale TA budgets and ensuring compliance
Benefits
Employee Stock Ownership Plan
401(k) Retirement Plan
Paid Parental Leave
Vacation Leave (20 days per year)
Sick Leave (9 days per year)
Holiday Leave (7 government holidays and 2 floating holidays per year)
Professional Development
Health Advocate
Employee Assistance Program
Travel Accident Insurance
Medical Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Short Term Disability Insurance
Long Term Disability Insurance
Life and AD&D Insurance
Critical Illness Insurance
Supplemental Life Insurance
Flexible Spending Account
Health Savings Account
Company
Westat
Westat is a professional research firm in the social science and statistical industries.
1001-5000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Scott Royal
President & CEO
Oswaldo Holguin
Chief Financial Officer
Recent News
Washington Technology
2026-01-11
2025-08-13
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