About PERC

The Property and Environment Research Center (PERC) is the national leader in market solutions for conservation, with over 40 years of research and a network of respected scholars and practitioners. Through research, law and policy, and innovative field conservation programs, PERC explores how aligning incentives for environmental stewardship produces sustainable outcomes for land, water, and wildlife. Founded in 1980, PERC is nonprofit, nonpartisan, and proudly based in Bozeman, Montana.

This is a transformational time at PERC. Our nimble team is growing in all departments to support our ambitious goal of inspiring a new era of conservation in America based on incentives and innovation. Read more.

Position Description

PERC is hiring a research associate to join our growing team in Bozeman, Montana. Primary tasks will include assisting with research projects, conducting original research and writing, and helping package PERC’s research ideas to reach key audiences. The exact mix of these tasks will be determined based on the researcher’s skill set and experience level. This position will report to the vice president of research and/or other senior members of PERC’s research team. 

The ideal candidate will be hard working, self-motivated, and passionate about market approaches to conservation and environmental policy. An ability to take initiative and execute on in-depth, detail-oriented projects is essential. Emphasis will be placed on candidates who have strong research and writing skills and a passion for finding creative solutions to conservation challenges.

Primary Responsibilities

• Assist with research, writing, data analysis, and/or editing for reports, studies, articles, and related projects (70%)
• Conduct original research and writing, as needed (20%)
• Assist with PERC’s broader outreach efforts to communicate research to key audiences, including policymakers, media, and conservation practitioners (10%)

Skills and Experience Required

• Strong writing and communication skills and attention to detail
• Enthusiasm for and knowledge of market approaches to conservation and environmental policy
• Interest in research but an ability to deliver compelling messages to non-academic audiences
• Bachelor’s degree in economics, public policy, environmental science, or related field
• Desire to learn new skills, such as data analysis, writing outputs, etc.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working on issues related to wildlife conservation, land-use policy, water policy, and other environmental and natural resource topics
• Knowledge of major environmental laws, programs, and policies

Working Conditions

• Business office environment with moderate noise
• Travel by car and plane is possible
• Will sit or stand at a desk
• Work on a computer, use a telephone, and other general office equipment
• Lift and carry up to 25 pounds

Location

This is a full-time, exempt position based in Bozeman, Montana.

Perks of working at PERC

• Great health (platinum, gold and silver plans), vision, and dental benefit choices for employees and family
• Flex/FSA or HSA offered
• 5% 401(k) PERC contribution
• PERC contributed life insurance
• Voluntary additional life insurance
• Voluntary accident insurance
• Paid parental leave
• Paid vacation and sick days
• 12 paid holidays
• Discounted gym membership
• Ability to work with an impactful conservation organization, dedicated to positive environmental outcomes

To Apply

Please submit the following to employment@perc.org:

• Resume
• Cover letter describing your interest in this position
• Two pieces of writing or research
• All materials should be sent in one PDF file​

Not sure you meet all the job qualifications? Let us decide! Research shows that women and members of other under-represented groups tend not to apply to jobs when they think they may not meet every qualification when, in fact, they often do. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive working environment and strongly encourage you to apply.