Research Associate

Full Time

New York

Posted 2 months ago

Summary/Objective

This is a full-time, research investigations position that requires an individual to fulfill multiple roles during daily office operations and within a project. This role conducts comprehensive open source and public records background investigations for private clients, often in support of anticipated or ongoing litigation, and other investigative matters, as assigned. This role provides support to all areas of research assigned to the New York office staff.

Essential Functions

  • Conduct background investigations and other investigative assignments using open source intelligence (OSINT) research techniques and other intelligence gathering tools including LexisNexis, Westlaw, etc.
  • Conduct public record research to locate civil, criminal, probate, and administrative proceedings in multiple jurisdictions around the country
  • Identify, collect, and analyze OSINT, media, social media, and public records for relevance and significance
  • Identify accurate names, verify identities, uncover related entities and associates, and obtain identifying information for locating witnesses or other parties relevant to the client’s matter
  • Draft and complete written reports of research/investigation results in a concise, clear, yet comprehensive manner within specified time frames with the goal of ultimately delivering client-ready reports
  • Support business development and marketing efforts by researching companies, persons, or business areas
  • Support Research Analysts and project managers in online research, onsite requests, document reviews, social media collection, and other tasks as assigned
  • Work with other researchers and investigators collaboratively for an exchange of ideas
  • Independently identify and complete training courses in OSINT research techniques
  • Independently schedule complementary training sessions with subscription database providers (WebPreserver, Bloomberg Law, LexisNexis, Westlaw, etc.)
  • Maintain a record of progress as to professional development in all areas of conducting background investigations
  • Respond and provide information as requested within a timely manner
  • Communicate with management regarding all tasks assigned and proactively seek guidance when needed
  • Maintain confidentiality in all areas of client matters
  • Perform various administrative tasks including timekeeping, receipts, database fees, and invoices

Competencies

  • Excellent verbal and written communication
  • Self-starter, ability to multi-task and accomplish tasks with limited supervision
  • Analytical and critical thinking
  • Attention to detail
  • Relationship Management
  • Ability to multitask and juggle multiple priorities and deadlines
  • Judgment, Professionalism & Business Navigation

Preferred Education and Experience

  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Prior OSINT and public records research experience preferred
  • Prior experience working at a law firm, law enforcement agency, crisis management public relations firm, or investigative journalism preferred
  • Strong internet research, precise writing, data analysis and organizational skills
  • Excellent presentation, communication and interpersonal skills
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office, LexisNexis, Westlaw, and PACER

Travel

Travel out-of-area to other regional offices and internationally from time to time may be needed.

Position Requirements/Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time position. Days and hours of work are Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.  There may be requirements for after-hours responsiveness in urgent client cases, including weekends and holidays.

All business conducted on behalf of Guidepost and its clients is to be conducted only on Guidepost-issued equipment.

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

InvestigationHotlines