Project Description

The Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab (J-PAL) is a global research center working to reduce poverty by ensuring that policy is informed by scientific evidence. Established in 2003 and globally based within the Economics Department at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Cambridge, J-PAL operates through seven regional offices worldwide housed under different local universities. J-PAL Southeast Asia (SEA), based at the Institute for Economic and Social Research in the Faculty of Economics and Business at the University of Indonesia (LPEM FEB UI) in Jakarta, leads J-PAL’s work in Southeast Asia.

J-PAL Southeast Asia seeks a qualified applicant for the Project Assistant positions to support J-PAL SEA team in developing and implementing research in Indonesia, disseminating research findings, and support research-related capacity building activities.

Position Description

The position offers an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience and to have significant responsibility in a vibrant organization undertaking cutting-edge development research and promoting the use of evidence in policymaking. In collaboration with the respective team, the Project Assistant will support the baseline data collection and project implementation for which they are hired. A Jakarta-based Manager and Associate will guide and supervise the Project Assistant in his/her various tasks. This position is based in Jakarta but will require travel to sites outside of DKI Jakarta for data collection. If needed, the Assistant will also be expected to attend in-person meetings in Jakarta.

Job Responsibilities

Main responsibilities include (but are not limited to):

• Assist the RA with monitoring the baseline data collection activities, including monitoring enumerator training, spotcheck, backcheck and data cleaning.
• Assist the RA with monitoring the intervention implementation to ensure that the program is implemented in accordance with protocols.
• Assist with the logistics necessary to support the monitoring activities, such as mapping accommodation and transportation close to the monitoring sites.

Mandatory Qualifications:

• A Bachelor’s degree in economics, social sciences (International Relations, Politics, Communications, etc.), public policy, math, statistics, or related technical fields.
• Experience in conducting or monitoring field surveys.
• Experience in monitoring or implementing programs.
• Fluency and excellent communication skills in Bahasa and English.
• Proven management and organizational skills.
• Flexibility, self-motivation, and ability to effectively work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• High proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint

Note on Work Authorization: You must have work authorization in Indonesia (either by being an Indonesian national or otherwise)

Preferred Qualifications and Experience

• Familiarity with RCTs.
• Familiarity with STATA.

How to Apply

Please prepare the following documents and fill in this application form by September 1, 2025:

PDF copies of your CV, diploma, academic transcripts, and a cover letter no longer than 500 words. The cover letter should discuss how you meet the aforementioned position requirements, emphasizing relevant skills and experience, as well as why you are interested in working with J-PAL SEA.

Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Interested candidates are advised to apply early. Only short-listed applicants will be contacted. Short-listed applicants will be asked to complete a policy analysis and a written exercise and may subsequently be called for interview.