Research Associate

This position can be located at one of Sun's major campuses, Menlo Park, CA, Broomfield, CO or Burlington, MA.ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: This position will report to the Senior Director of Planning and Analysis within the Openwork Services Group (OSG) and will provide data mining, analysis and reporting support for regional and demographic research functions.The OpenWork Planning and Analysis team performs work in three areas: researching locations to advise senior management on decisions related to how Sun globally distributes its workforce, consulting with Sun's businesses to evaluate and make location-related operations decisions for specific organizations, and conducting workforce planning by consulting with Sun's businesses and infrastructure providers (WR, IT, HR, OSG) to ensure effective investment decisions. Individual assignments within the Planning and Analysis team are objective-oriented and require collaboration and consulting with staff at a variety of levels. We work with Senior staff and Executives from business units and corporate functions, often through cross-functional teams. The Planning and Analysis team is expected to use a consultative approach to bring an external, objective view of global labor supply, business conditions and regional outlook. Our work products and services are highly data-oriented and frequently involve use of Geographic Information Systems.MARGINAL FUNCTIONS: N/AREQUIRED KNOWLEDGE: Has a strong data orientation. Is technically skilled in the use and manipulation of large amounts of data via spreadsheets, databases and reporting tools.Possesses strong research skills. Is able to gather, sort and refine information from a variety of sources.Has excellent attention to detail. Is able to recognize trends and patterns in information. Ability to review large amounts of information for consistency and accuracy.Communicates effectively. Can accurately and concisely outline complex topics, issues and opportunities. Able to effectively display data and information in written/visual format (graphs, charts, reports).Is able to multi-task. Can support multiple projects through effective time-management and communication.Works well in a team environment. Is able to concisely present relevant material and welcomes input and feedback on work products.Is comfortable in a flexible work environment where team members are distributed across locations and time zones.PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE: Minimum 5 years total experience with at least 3 years recent work in planning, measurement and reporting of Corporate Infrastructure (real estate and/or technology) and/or Workforce (HR)Knowledge of Sun's lines-of-business, products & services and organization structure.Familiarity with Brio reporting tool, is a strong plus.Familiarity with Geographic Information Systems is a strong plus.Sun Microsystems Inc is an equal opportunity employer and appreciates your desire to be considered for a position.  Sun only accepts resumes submitted through the internet, via Sun's website.  We invite you to visit this website and apply for positions for which you feel qualified.  To apply for this position, please submit your resume here: http://www.sun.com/corp_emp/search.cgi?funcs=&loc=&keyword=559152&x=36&y=16 Job InformationCompany: Sun Microsystems Menlo Park, CA 94025Status: Full Time, EmployeeCareer Level: Experienced (Non-Manager)Reference Code: 559152Job Category: Human ResourcesRelevant Work Experience: 5+ to 7 YearsEducation Level: Bachelor's DegreeContact InformationCompany: Sun MicrosystemsReference Code: 559152