The Center for Applied Research Solutions (CARS) is a small California 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to building capacity for effective practices in mental and behavioral health systems, including promotion of evidence-based practice. Incorporated in 2001, we provide training and technical assistance to major initiatives in mental health, substance abuse, stigma reduction, suicide prevention, and safe and healthy schools and colleges. With every project we take on, our mission is to foster safe, healthy, and engaged individuals and communities. CARS is currently recruiting diverse candidates with strong leadership and facilitation skills; commitment to child and family wellness; and excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Position Title: Senior Research Associate/Technical Assistance Specialist
Reports To: Project Director, Associate Executive Director
FTE/Classification: 1.0 FTE
Location: This position is open to remote candidates.
General Description: The Senior Research Associate/Technical Assistance Specialist is a leadership position that directly supports the delivery of technical assistance and training to the federally-funded Project LAUNCH grantees, as well as TA responsibilities for additional state- and federal-level projects. The position requires building and maintaining ongoing relationships with grantees, funders, and other partner organizations. Well-qualified candidates must be experienced in working with diverse communities of color and are highly encouraged to apply for this position. The Senior Research Associate position also includes responsibility for contributing to the development of products and resources, responsibility for ensuring completion of assigned deliverables, conducting presentations on behalf of the organization, and providing technical assistance and training services to the broader early childhood field.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Provide ongoing, relationship-based technical assistance to Project LAUNCH grantees on early childhood (0-8) mental health promotion, prevention, and early intervention at the state, tribal, territorial, county, and community level
Provide additional technical assistance on other projects, as requested by management
Work comfortably in diverse communities and demonstrate high levels of cultural and linguistic competence
Work directly with grantees to develop/strengthen local leadership and build internal capacity to promote successful systems change based on Project LAUNCH goals
Identify TA resources based on needs of grantees, the field, and latest research findings
Provide leadership and direction in evolving TTA practices for initiative advancement
Provide leadership regarding research to practice agenda by identifying meaningful ways to translate latest research findings into applied training and publication materials
Manage and provide direction on product, curricula, and resource development
Lead and contribute to content development and provide extensive guidance to team members and partners in developing project products and publications
Regular and reliable attendance
Travel is required for this position
REQUIRED COMPETENCIES (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities)
Working knowledge of early childhood mental health strategies including screening and assessment, home visiting, mental health consultation, family strengthening and parent skills training, and integration of behavioral health into primary care settings
Experience delivering culturally responsive TA to vulnerable populations; population groups experiencing discrimination based on race, sexual orientation, and other demographic factors
Expertise with population-specific or community-specific mental health approaches
Experience working with local, state, tribal, territorial and/or federal agencies regarding early childhood mental health initiative planning, implementation, evaluation, sustainability, and/or policy initiatives
Excellent verbal and interpersonal communication skills, including presentation and facilitation
Demonstrated ability to work effectively with diverse and multi-cultural stakeholders and communities
Proactive initiation of tasks and ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team
Strong writing skills
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Advanced degree in a related field OR equivalent experience required
Minimum 5-7 years related experience
CARS offers a small business environment and an excellent benefit package. CARS provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics.
To Apply: Submit a current resume and cover letter explaining your interest in the position. All materials should be sent electronically to egreen@cars-rp.org. No phone calls please. Please submit application materials by Wednesday, August 23, 2017. Initial phone interviews will be scheduled for August/September. Thank you in advance for your interest.
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