ReImagine Appalachia is a coalition of diverse stakeholders–union, environment, faith, racial justice, local government and others–working together to find common ground and speak with a more unified voice in order to drive the creation of a 21st century sustainable, equitable Appalachia and shared prosperity in the region.

Position Description

Conduct research to help support the implementation of and advocacy for ReImagine Appalachia’s work plan, with a focus on regional economic conditions, manufacturing sector trends and locations, supply chain development and related workforce training and needs. Note: ReImagine Appalachia uses a participatory action research model. Regional experts and community advocates provide input on key topics that ReImagine Appalachia researches, writes about and then implements in a collective action plan. The coalition to ReImagine Appalachia believes growing clean and efficient manufacturing is key to creating jobs equivalent to those found in the coal industry. The position involves participation with business development partnerships including the Appalachian Sustainable Business Network and the ARC Arise Manufacturing Extension Program partnership.

Primary tasks will be researching, writing and presentation of reports and policy briefs. Topics include but are not limited to:

• Review of literature, interviewing experts, drafting case studies,
• Quantitative analysis of sustainable industries, regional competitiveness, workforce skills, commuting patterns, etc.
• Supply chain configuration and opportunities for expansion in central Appalachia
• Redeveloping shuttered coal plants, including into eco-industrial parks

Qualifications

• Familiarity with Census, NAICS codes and other databases preferred.
• Ability to communicate effectively and accurately, and ask questions
• Ability to be self-motivated and come up with solutions to research and other problems.
• Ability to be flexible and work on multiple projects simultaneously
• Experience with GIS is a plus.
• A masters degree is preferred but not required.
• Commitment to race, class, gender, and other equity issues.

This remote-based contract position ranges from 20 to 35 hours per week, depending on contractor preference. The position may be expanded to more hours and responsibilities, depending on availability of funds and campaign needs. Compensation will be competitive; depending on experience and qualifications.

Interested applicants should submit a resume, cover letter and writing sample to molly.updegrove@reimagineappalachia.org. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis. Start and end dates, as well as the number of hours worked per week, are negotiable.