Cost Research Advisor

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises, helping to restore health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and power to people devastated by conflict and disaster. Founded in 1933 at the call of Albert Einstein, the IRC is one of the world’s largest international humanitarian non-governmental organizations (INGO), at work in more than 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities helping people to survive, reclaim control of their future and strengthen their communities. A force for humanity, IRC employees deliver lasting impact by restoring safety, dignity and hope to millions. If you’re a solutions-driven, passionate change-maker, come join us in positively impacting the lives of millions of people world-wide for a better future.

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is one of the world’s largest humanitarian organizations. Airbel—IRC’s Impact Lab—designs, tests, and scales solutions for people affected by conflict and disaster. Amidst shrinking funding and growing need, the IRC’s Best Use of Resources (BUR) team increases the impact and scale of humanitarian programming per dollar. BUR supports the IRC and the humanitarian sector to generate, synthesize, share, and use cost evidence.

We are seeking a Cost Research Advisor to lead and contribute to cost analyses, synthesize cost evidence, and provide technical assistance to IRC colleagues and external stakeholders to unlock evidence-informed decision-making. This position – is an individual contributor role and does not include direct supervisory responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities

Conduct research

In collaboration with IRC colleagues, refine the learning agenda and research questions for one or more focus areas or interventions (e.g., Safe at Home).
Conduct cost-efficiency analyses, cost-effectiveness analyses, and scenario modeling (see Cost Analysis Report Library).
Develop, maintain, and update program-specific data sets (see Cost Analysis Data Sets).
Synthesize internal and external cost evidence to make broader quantitative and qualitative assessments of a program area’s cost-effectiveness, parameters under which a program area might be cost-effective, etc. (e.g.).

Provide technical assistance

Develop organizational learnings and recommendations for – specific outcome areas or interventions.
Provide ongoing technical assistance to IRC colleagues and partner organizations to help inform decisions with cost evidence.
Support proposal development to increase the cost-effectiveness of proposals and program designs.
Re-package evidence into accessible user-friendly tools to increase their usability (e.g.).
Collaborate with advocacy and policy colleagues to translate research findings into accessible and persuasive external collateral (e.g.).

Cross-cutting responsibilities

Contribute to reporting, including writing, delivering presentations, and supporting communications staff.

Work experience

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in economics, statistics, public policy, or related field.
Minimum of:
- 3+ years of experience (bachelor’s degree) or
- 2+ years of experience (Master’s degree) in the humanitarian or development sector.

Demonstrated skills and competencies

Strong knowledge of cost analysis evaluation methodologies, applications, and literature in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
Excellent proficiency in spreadsheet-based data cleaning and analysis.
Ability to interpret complex technical findings and translate them into compelling evidence-aligned policy narratives.
Excellent writing and editing skills, with experience producing policy-relevant research reports.
Experience managing coalitions, partnerships, or multi-stakeholder initiatives.
Familiarity with donor landscapes and funding mechanisms in humanitarian aid.
Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to work as part of a remote team across time zones, cultures, and contexts.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and project management tools (e.g., Notion).
Fluency in English.

Strongly preferred

Proficiency in statistical analysis software.
Proficiency in data visualization software.
Strong quantitative and qualitative evidence synthesis skills.
Experience writing peer-reviewed publications.
Experience developing and using AI tools to increase research quality and efficiency.
At least 2+ years of work experience in low- or middle-income countries.
Work proficiency in French (preferred).

Working Environment: Due to differing time zones, this position requires occasional flexibility to participate in weekday-only meetings or calls outside regular working hours when needed. This role may require working remotely full or part-time. Applicants must have a home or alternate workspace they can effectively complete their work from during regularly scheduled work hours. Some international travel, as needed, up to 20%.

PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS

All International Rescue Committee workers must adhere to the core values and principles outlined in IRC Way – Standards for Professional Conduct. Our Standards are Integrity, Service, Equality and Accountability. In accordance with these values, the IRC operates and enforces policies on Safeguarding, Conflicts of Interest, Fiscal Integrity, and Reporting Wrongdoing and Protection from Retaliation. IRC is committed to take all necessary preventive measures and create an environment where people feel safe, and to take all necessary actions and corrective measures when harm occurs. IRC builds teams of professionals who promote critical reflection, power sharing, debate, and objectivity to deliver the best possible services to our clients.

Cost Research Advisor

International Rescue Committee

Job Details

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Skills and qualifications

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