Studies in Poverty and Inequality Institute (SPII) is a non-profit research and advocacy think tank committed to the promotion of dignity and the reduction of poverty and inequality through the advancement of socio-economic rights in South Africa and the sub-region. SPII currently works through three programmes: Monitoring the Progressive Realisation of socio-economic rights with an emphasis on social security and a universal basic income, Promoting participative budgeting with an emphasis on the right to health care, and Advancing a Decent Standard of Life.
SPII seeks to appoint a Researcher to be based in Johannesburg.
Purpose of the role The researcher will drive SPII’s research into social protection, particularly social security and basic income. The researcher will focus on advancing knowledge on progressive realisation of social security and participate in research to support social justice advocacy and campaigning initiatives, both locally and globally. The Researcher will work closely with the Director and Research Manager to implement SPII’s research work, in social security and protection projects which SPII will undertake.
Remuneration: SPII is offering an annual salary between R300 000 – R 360 000 CTC, depending on qualifications and experience in line with SPII policies.
Duration:Fixed term 12 months contract
Reports to :Director and Research Manager
Responsibilities
The responsibilities will include but shall not be limited to:
Drive the population of SPII Progressive Realisation research on social protection
Keep abreast of national policy developments in social security reforms
Mainstream feminist analysis through all social security analysis
Deepen stakeholder relations with CSOs, organized Labour, Government and Business as well as international development agencies to advance knowledge sharing
Build a specific research service support for CSOs and social movements around social security
Support community driven participative action research
Drive the production of accessible information for campaigning work
Contribute regularly to traditional and social media to advance support for social security reforms
Advance strategic thinking of linked- up policy interfaces, including around employment generation, sustainable development.
Drive the documentation of contributions to the national policy advances in social security in South Africa as a key repository
Support the initiatives of the SPII research unit; general advocacy and institutional activities.
Identifying research opportunities and partnerships;
Provide support for the research team
Requirements:
Masters’ in Social Sciences, be it politics, economics, development studies, human rights/constitutional law, or related field
Proven track record of own and collegiate research publications
Evidence of commitment to social justice and applied intersectional critical theory is a necessary requirement
Minimum of five years’ work experience in research environment associated to socio-economic rights related work in South Africa
Strong competency in qualitative and quantitative research methodologies
Proven experience of Knowledge management
Proven experience in donor/funder report writing skills
Advanced experience in using relevant research software
Demonstrated ability to use initiative and take a proactive approach to work.
Communication skills, confidence to speak in public, including through the media, and with stakeholders
Initiative and ability to multitask, anticipate and prioritise without direct supervision
Must be motivated to work independently and as a member of a small team
Excellent communication, interpersonal, analytical, and organizational skills
Demonstrated experience with Microsoft Office suite applications and video conferencing software
Exceptional English writing skills are essential
Ability to communicate in at least one other South African language is an advantage.
Travel requirements:
The position may entail travel within SA, and possibly international, and applicants must be willing to travel.
Application process:
To apply, submit your CV, 1 page motivational letter, certified copies of certificates, and one example of research writing to: [email protected]
CV must include at least three contactable referees
In your motivation letter, indicate your salary expectations, and the notice period with your current employer
Important:
Deadline for all application submissions is 12 May 2021
Late and incomplete applications will not be considered for the position
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews
Details on the interviews process will be shared with shortlisted candidates
SPII reserves the right to cancel the position should the needs of SPII change or should we regard the applications not to be adequate based on need.
SPII is committed to Employment Equity and will give preference to historically disadvantaged South African applicants
For more about Studies in Poverty and Inequality Institute, refer to www.spii.org.za