Manager of Elections

Disney Disney · Media · New York, NY +1

The Manager of Elections will be a key part of ABC News’ Decision Desk team, working with election data, statistical models, and computer systems for primary and general elections. Responsibilities include testing election computer systems, designing and programming statistical models for projections, developing analytical tools, conducting analyses of early voting data, training staff on election computer systems, making election projections on election nights, assisting in delegate allocation, and representing ABC News on the National Election Pool Statistical Committee. Requires 5+ years of relevant experience, including designing statistical models, advanced statistical analysis software (R, STAN, SPSS, STATA), computer programming (Python, SQL), analyzing voter data, and data visualization software. A background in U.S. electoral politics is also required.

What you'd actually do

  1. Set-up and ongoing, comprehensive testing of ABC News’ election computer systems to verify that we receive all data from our data providers in real time and that it is accurately displayed in all areas. This includes polling and vote data at the state, CD, county and precinct levels, as well as election projections and delegate estimates.
  2. Design, programming and testing of statistical models used to project election winners.
  3. Work with computer programming staff to ensure accurate system functioning.
  4. Develop analytical tools to support and enhance ABC News’ coverage of public opinion and elections.
  5. Conduct analyses of early voting using voter files and related data.

Skills

Required

  • 5+ years of relevant work experience
  • Experience designing statistical models (including uncertainty estimation) and a knowledge of survey research methodology.
  • Experience with advanced statistical analysis and statistical software (e.g., R, STAN, SPSS, STATA).
  • Experience with computer programming languages and database management (e.g., Python, SQL).
  • Experience working with and analyzing voter registration files, election returns and Census data.
  • Experience working with data visualization software (e.g., Datawrapper, Tableau, Power BI).
  • Excellent collaboration skills and demonstrated ability to work across various teams.
  • Exceptional attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy and high standards.
  • Able to work in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment and consistently meet very tight deadlines.
  • Able to work at night and on weekends during election season and during breaking news events.
  • A solid background and interest in U.S. electoral politics.
  • Must be able to approach your work with neutrality and fairness to all viewpoints
  • Bachelor’s Degree in the social sciences (e.g., political science, statistics, sociology, communication research, survey research, data science etc.) from an accredited 4-year college or university.

Nice to have

  • PhD in the social sciences (e.g., political science, statistics, sociology, communication research, survey research, data science etc.)

What the JD emphasized

  • statistical models
  • computer systems
  • election data