Research Analyst, Finance and Development Unit in at LeSar Development Consultants

ABOUT US

LeSar Development Consultants (LDC) is a growing social innovation consulting firm whose mission is to end the housing affordability and homelessness crises in California and beyond. LDC assists its clients with growing healthy, sustainable, and vibrant communities. We provide creative solutions to complex problems with our expertise in housing, homelessness, resiliency, and community and economic development. Our clients include public agencies, nonprofit organizations, real estate developers, foundations, utilities, business associations, and other stakeholders looking to create physically and economically sustainable communities. Founded in 2005, LDC proudly employs seasoned experts who excel at working with our clients towards aligning diverse perspectives and skillsets to address complex public policy and planning issues at the organizational level and in multi-disciplinary, collaborative settings.

EEO

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POSITION PURPOSE

The Research Analyst supports consulting projects focused on housing, homelessness, community development, public policy, and related initiatives. Working under the guidance of senior staff, the Research Analyst conducts research and analysis, develops client-facing materials, assists with project implementation, and contributes to stakeholder engagement efforts.

This role serves as a key support resource for Associates and Senior Associates by assisting with project coordination, research activities, scheduling, meeting preparation, follow-up on assigned tasks, and the development of high-quality deliverables. The Research Analyst develops foundational subject matter expertise while gaining experience in project management, business development, and client service within a dynamic consulting environment.

The position provides exposure to a broad range of disciplines including affordable housing development and finance, public policy, homelessness systems, real estate development, economic development, strategic planning, and community engagement.

WORKING HOURS

Standard hours Monday-Friday, eight hours per day. This position is mostly remote and must be able to work during Pacific Standard/Daylight Time.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

Occasional travel may be required.

HOW YOU IMPACT SUCCESS

• Research & Analysis – Conducts and synthesizes qualitative and quantitative research, analyzes data and industry trends, and develops accurate, client-ready materials to support consulting engagements and strategic decision-making.
• Project Support & Coordination – Supports project planning and implementation by coordinating meetings, tracking deliverables and action items, maintaining project documentation, and facilitating communication among project teams and stakeholders.
• Business Development Support – Contributes to business growth initiatives by researching prospective clients and opportunities and assisting with the development of proposals, qualifications packages, and other business development materials.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in economics, real estate, urban studies/planning or public policy or related field or equivalent work experience. Master’s degree preferred.
• 0-2 years relevant professional, internship, fellowship, research, or consulting experience.
• Experience conducting research, data analysis, policy analysis, or project support activities preferred.
• Experience in affordable housing finance, project financial proformas, current policies/programs and funding sources is preferred but not required.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, Teams, and PowerPoint) required.
• Proficiency with web-based project management tools such as ClickUp or Harvest is also preferred but not required.

COMPETENCIES

• Time management. Demonstrates accountability by providing timely responses to inquiries and meeting project deliverables on time.
• Effective communication. Can clearly, accurately, and concisely articulate thoughts and ideas to a variety of audiences both verbally and in writing, as well as thorough polished presentation skills.
• Analytical thinking. Able to systematically break down complex problems, identify key information, and use logical reasoning to develop sound solutions.
• Critical thinking. Organizes work, sets priorities, and exercises sound judgment within areas of responsibility.
• Relationship management. Utilizes superior interpersonal skills to collaborate and support internal and external project teams.
• Initiative. Self-starter who is resourceful and actively seeks out opportunities to contribute without waiting for instructions.
• Problem-solving. Remains solutions-oriented leveraging critical thinking and creativity to drive results.
• Strong collaborator. Works cooperatively and effectively with others to make progress toward a common goal.
• Establishes and maintains reliability. Can be depended upon to support the team on projects and responsibilities.
• Detail-oriented. Pays close attention to work product to avoid quantitative and formatting errors in work product.
• Flexibility and adaptability. Able to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and adapt to changing priorities.

PERKS AND BENEFITS

• Bonus Eligible
• Medical, dental, vision, and FSA plans
• Long-term Disability
• Basic Term Life and AD&D
• 401K with company matching
• Employee Assistance Program
• Unlimited Vacation Time for full-time employees
• Paid Sick Leave
• 11 paid holidays including Farmworkers Day and Juneteenth
• Monthly stipend for phone, internet, and office supplies
• Office Set-up Allowance
• Career Growth Opportunities
• Diverse work environment and culture