Remote Focus Group Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

ABOUT THE POSITION

Position Overview 
The Center for Applied Research and Educational Improvement (CAREI) invites applications for a Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) position. This individual will provide support to State, Regional, and Local Educational Agencies (LEAs) in the implementation of the MTSS framework. The MTSS Specialist position requires competency in culturally responsive education and pedagogy and will interact with a variety of educators and community members to acquire and interpret system-level data. This position actively supports and advances the Universitys commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
The MTSS Specialist will assist in developing and sustaining opportunities to support state and local educational agencies in scaling up evidence-based practices with fidelity including (1) evaluating and improving their implementation of an MTSS framework,  (2) providing technical assistance to school districts and other educational agencies in developing and implementing action plans for improving student outcomes, (3) providing customized coaching to state, regional, and local educational agencies, (4) designing and delivering professional learning targeted toward key needs, (5) building and/or identifying tools and resources to assist schools in improving data-based decision-making practices and (6) leading work around culturally responsive practices.
The ideal candidate will have extensive expertise and experience in the field of education as well as experience working in state educational agencies to support MTSS implementation (including a focus on literacy, math, and SEL). In addition, the candidate will be up to date with research around effective educational MTSS, literacy, math, and SEL practices including implementation/improvement science. The candidate must be highly organized and skilled in oral and written communication. This position will report directly to the Associate Director of CAREIs MTSS Core; however, it is expected that the candidate will have the ability to work collaboratively across Core teams, as well as independently, making daily operational decisions within their projects.
The University of Minnesota encourages a healthy work-life balance for employees. CEHD is committed to an excellent employee experience, offering a flexible work environment that meets the needs of students, staff, faculty, and the communities we serve. Flexible work arrangements may include flexibility in schedule and/or work location. Please note that 100% remote work requires approval prior to offer. All UMN employees are expected to follow applicable public health and safety procedures.
The budgeted salary range for this position is $94,000-$105,000 Final salary offers are dependent on the candidates experience, skills and internal equity within the department.

Please note, this position is not eligible for H-1B or Green Card sponsorship. This position does not offer a STEM OPT training program.

JOB RESPONSIBLITIES

Technical Assistance and Outreach Services (50%)

• Support state, regional, and local educational agencies in evaluating and improving their implementation of the MTSS framework including literacy, math, and SEL focal areas.
• Develop guidance for districts about best practices in literacy and math instruction, and practices that are not evidence-based.
• Support the development and implementation of MTSS implementation fidelity checks.
• Provide coaching on MTSS implementation to state, regional, and local educational agencies.
• Design and deliver professional learning targeted toward key partner needs.
• Support the development of MTSS deliverables for statewide implementation in the areas of assessment, data-based decision-making, multilevel instruction, infrastructure, and family and community engagement.
• Provide technical assistance around strategic planning and the development of MTSS implementation plans.
• Identify and respond to requests for proposals from educational agencies and professional organizations for CAREI services.
• Communicate and disseminate CAREI project information at state and national conferences.

Conduct Research and Evaluation (45%)

• Design and lead implementation reviews of the MTSS framework for local and state educational agencies in MN and around the country.
• Develop qualitative and quantitative data collection instruments including interview protocols, focus group protocols, surveys, rating scales, and observations to answer the research/evaluation questions specific to projects.
• Conduct qualitative and quantitative analyses of data collected for research/evaluation projects.
• Design research and evaluation plans to meet the information needs of school districts, non-profit organizations, higher education institutions, and community organizations.
• Work with clients to develop research-based proposals for grants and research/evaluation projects including logic models, methods design, and literature reviews.
• Prepare written and oral reports of research and evaluation results.
• Work with external consultants to review literacy curricula to ensure culturally responsive practices.

Coordinate and Direct Project Personnel (5%)

• Supervise Graduate Research Assistants.
• Coordinate project staff and monitor deliverables when serving in the project lead role.

Required Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Education, Psychology, Leadership, Evaluation, or related field, with substantial research and publication record.
• Demonstrated experience working with state or regional educational agencies on MTSS implementation.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate effectively with people from a variety of communities, backgrounds, and identities.
• Proven experience providing technical assistance to state or regional educational agencies.
• Commitment and experience with culturally responsive approaches and practices, and integration of an equity lens across project life cycles.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience leading and/or conducting multiple large- and small-scale projects involving students, educational staff, families, and administration in school settings, and coordinating the analysis, evaluation and reporting on all phases of the project(s).
• Ability to make informed decisions to drive processes forward, maintain project momentum, and effectively achieve project goals.
• Experience in conducting field-based research in LEAs, schools and social service agencies using mixed approaches including quantitative and qualitative methodologies to research and evaluate programs and policies.
• Proven ability to initiate, working effectively in both independent and collaborative team environments.

ABOUT CEHD

Department Overview
CAREI is a well-established college-wide center that serves as the link between research and practice in Minnesota schools PreK-16 and other agencies interested in applied educational and social science research. CAREIs mission is to maximize well-being in schools, families, and communities by becoming the premier hub for making research accessible and actionable to ensure equitable outcomes.
College Overview
The College of Education and Human Development (CEHD), the third largest college and the University, contributes to a just and sustainable future through engagement with the local and global communities to enhance human learning and development at all stages of the life span. We know diversity is necessary to do our best work and foster our humanity. Thats why the CEHD community is collectively dedicated to cultivating an inclusive and equitable environment, embracing and celebrating all identities of our students, staff, and faculty. These values are also a moral imperative requiring continuous proactive measures and a firm stance against prejudice, discrimination, and systemic injustice. https://cehd.umn.edu

Pay Range: $94,000 - $105,000; depending on education/qualifications/experience 

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff 

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services 
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume or CV.

Required Application Materials: Resume and Cover Letter

This position will remain open until filled.

Please apply by 8/18/26 for priority consideration.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission.  The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.  To learn more about diversity at the U:  http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.