The Associate Research Scientist position described here is part of the Pearson Psychometric and Research Services group, which is part of the US School Assessment group and larger Assessment and Qualifications team. Pearson research scientists provide the full range of psychometric support to state and national customers, develop innovative techniques and processes, and conduct cutting-edge research studies.

The education, experience, and responsibilities associated with this position include:

Education and Work Experience

• Doctoral degree in educational measurement or a related field from a nationally recognized institution of higher education

Familiarity with Psychometric Techniques or Techniques Associated with Other Relevant Areas of Expertise

• Familiarity with applied psychometric techniques—including classical test theory, item response theory, test equating, scaling, linking, and standard setting

• OR familiarity with applied techniques associated with the scientist's specific area of expertise

Familiarity with Software Packages and Programming Languages

• Has experience with software packages and programming languages commonly used in psychometric work or measurement research (e.g., SAS, R, SPSS, WINSTEPS, IRTPro, PARSCALE, C++, MPLUS, Java, Javascript, Python)

• OR experience with software (Matlab, IDL, PERL, XML) associated with the scientist's specific area of expertise

Scaling and Equating

• Conducts analyses for item calibration, linking, and equating under the guidance of more senior research scientists

Grants, Research, and External Funding

• Understands grant and research proposal application/writing process

• Designs scope of analysis work and anticipated limits for proposed research studies under the guidance of more senior research scientists

Test Construction/Field Testing

• Works under guidance from more senior research scientists in the construction of test forms and the preparation of items for various testing purposes

Proposal Development

• Contributes to assessment sections of proposals under guidance from more senior research scientists

Knowledge of Educational Trends

• Gathers information about national and state trends in education and considers this information when conducting analysis work

• Upholds the principles defined by the Standards for Educational and Psychological Testing

Communication Skills, Technical Presentations, and Client Contact

• Demonstrates communication skills, (oral, written, and business), necessary to function effectively with internal project teams and external clients

• May present technical information to different audiences, (e.g., client groups or technical advisory committees), with guidance from more senior research scientists

• Makes presentations at national conferences

• Serves as an internal Psychometric and Research Services (PRS) contact (e.g., represents PRS in meetings and other communications) for a testing program or research project

Project and Talent Management

• Demonstrates project management skills necessary to complete assigned PRS tasks in a timely manner

• Supports hiring process through applicant interviewing

• Provides career plan information

Organizational Behavior

• Aligns goals with published department goals

• Follows existing processes

Working Location and Travel

• Willingness to travel as necessary

Compensation at Pearson is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, and specific location. As required by the Colorado, California, Washington State, New York State and New York City laws, the pay range for this position is as follows:

The minimum full-time salary range is between $100,000 - $108,000.

This position is eligible to participate in an annual incentive program, and information on benefits offered is here.

What to expect from Pearson

Did you know Pearson is one of the 10 most innovative education companies of 2022?

At Pearson, we add life to a lifetime of learning so everyone can realize the life they imagine. We do this by creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are on a journey to be 100 percent digital to meet the changing needs of the global population by developing a new strategy with ambitious targets. To deliver on our strategic vision, we have five business divisions that are the foundation for the long-term growth of the company: Assessment & Qualifications, Virtual Learning, English Language Learning, Workforce Skills and Higher Education. Alongside these, we have our corporate divisions: Digital & Technology, Finance, Global Corporate Marketing & Communications, Human Resources, Legal, Strategy and Direct to Consumer. Learn more at We are Pearson.

We value the power of an inclusive culture and also a strong sense of belonging. We promote a culture where differences are embraced, opportunities are accessible, consideration and respect are the norm and all individuals are supported in reaching their full potential. Through our talent, we believe that diversity, equity and inclusion make us a more innovative and vibrant place to work. People are at the center, and we are committed to building a workplace where talent can learn, grow and thrive.

Pearson is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer and a member of E-Verify. We want a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives and skills. The more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit and business need. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status or any other group protected by law. We strive for a workforce that reflects the diversity of our communities.

To learn more about Pearson’s commitment to a diverse and inclusive workforce, navigate to: Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Pearson.

If you are an individual with a disability and are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our career site as a result of your disability, you may request reasonable accommodations by emailing TalentExperienceGlobalTeam@grp.pearson.com.

Note that the information you provide will stay confidential and will be stored securely. It will not be seen by those involved in making decisions as part of the recruitment process.

Job: PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Organization: Assessment & Qualifications

Schedule: FULL_TIME

Workplace Type:

Req ID: 17149

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