Key Responsibilities:

Primary Responsibilities – Research (~ 60 %)

• Design and conduct qualitative and quantitative studies on the inner workings of the local government institutions including needs assessments, curriculum reviews, pilot interventions, and impact evaluations.

• Develop Chennai specific research tools (e.g., surveys, focus group guides, interview protocols) for ward councilors from Chennai, Avadi, and Tambaram corporations. 

• Collaborate with the other Local Government team to strengthen the overall approach to local government based on evidence and evolving needs.

• Lead literature reviews with a strong Tamil Nadu focus while integrating global standards (in local government institutions) for comparative insights.

• Oversee all aspects of fieldwork – ethics approvals, enumerator training, data quality control, and compliance with privacy and other regulations.

• Analyze data using appropriate tools and produce high-quality outputs including policy briefs, reports, and academic articles.

• Build and maintain partnerships with colleges, NGOs, government agencies, and academic institutions.

• Provide mentorship and guidance to interns or junior team members engaged in data collection and content development, promoting ethical and participatory research approaches.

• Represent ACE and present findings at internal learning sessions, stakeholder meetings, conferences and coalitions, articulating our vision in both Tamil and English.

Secondary Responsibilities – Organizational Development & Mentorship (~ 40 %)

• Translate research findings into accessible educational materials—workshop modules, lesson plans, activity kits, and facilitator guides.

• Test and refine learning tools through community pilots, college sessions, etc. incorporating feedback for improvement.

• Support delivery of trainings, workshops, and community engagement sessions.

• Work with the communications team to share insights through social media, reports, and other public-facing channels.

• Reach out to and maintain relationships with ward councilors, journalists, college personnel, local advocacy groups, residential welfare associations, among others. 

• Meet stakeholders in person as and when required to establish and maintain lines of communication for continued engagement. 

Qualifications and Requirements:

Essential:

• Master’s degree or higher in Gender Studies, Education, Public Health, Sociology, Social Work, History, or a related field.

• 3 – 4 years of direct research experience in local government institutions —ideally involving Chennai, Avadi, or Tambaram Corporations.

• Strong skills in mixed-methods research, data analysis, and translating evidence into action.

• Proficiency in both Tamil and English (reading, writing, and speaking).

• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and manage timelines while seeking guidance when necessary.

• Demonstrated experience in developing participatory learning tools and facilitating workshops or trainings.

• Familiarity with research software, survey platforms, and basic content creation tools (e.g., slide decks or graphics).

Preferred:

• Peer-reviewed publications or presentations at academic or policy forums.

• Experience working within government systems in Tamil Nadu or elsewhere in India.

• Understanding of international frameworks and comparative practices for functioning of the local government institutions.

Why Join Us:

• Mission-Driven Culture: Be part of a team rooted in worker-owned values, gender equity, and a community-led approach. We practice what we preach—shared decision-making, transparent pay structures, and deep respect for lived experience and grassroots knowledge.

• Strategic Influence: Play a key role in shaping high-impact programs—from CGSSE curricula and cooperative development strategies to city-level policy advocacy.

• Professional Growth: Receive support for your development through funded conference travel and mentorship from experienced leaders within and beyond our nonprofit.

• Collaborative Network: Work alongside scholars, policymakers, and movement leaders across India and globally, building strong and meaningful peer connections.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Monthly compensation: Rs. 30,000 – Rs. 35,000, commensurate with experience.

• Full-time role with a renewable 2-year contract.

• Work location: Chennai, with regular local travel as part of the role (commute expenses will be reimbursed by ECTE).

• Paid time off and other benefits will be discussed upon selection.