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Research Assistant

Wayne State University is searching for an experiencedResearch Assistantat its Detroit campus location.

Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.

Essential functions (job duties):

This position is 100% Grand Funded.

Starting Date:September 2025

Salary:$70,000 – $90,000 (commensurate with education and experience)

Position Overview

Reporting to the Center for Urban Studies’ Directors, the Project Administration Director will provide strategic and operational leadership for two Center Units - Healthy Homes and Overdose Prevention, including two AmeriCorps initiatives — ACT (AmeriCorps Community Training) for overdose rescue and READY (Recreation, Education, Awareness, Demonstration, and Youth). This role is responsible for the day-to-day administrative and programmatic management of both initiatives.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Program Leadership & Strategic Oversight

-Develop and implement strategic plans for both Units, including AmeriCorps programs, in alignment with the Center’s mission and funder expectations.

-Establish and track performance goals, benchmarks, and impact metrics.

-Supervise program managers and oversee all operational aspects of program delivery.

-Lead initiatives for program expansion, innovation, and continuous improvement.

Compliance & Grant Management

-Ensure full compliance with all federal, state, and institutional policies and grant requirements, including AmeriCorps programs.

-Oversee timely submission of all programmatic and fiscal reports, including performance measures and financial documentation.

Budget & Fiscal Oversight

-Develop and manage program budgets, in collaboration with Center administrators.

-Monitor expenditures and ensure compliance with approved budget and grant terms.

-Track match contributions and in-kind support per grant requirements.

Staff Supervision & Development

-Supervise program managers and key staff, providing coaching, feedback, and performance evaluations.

-Oversee recruitment, onboarding, and professional development of program staff and AmeriCorps members.

-Promote a supportive and inclusive work environment.

Oversight of AmeriCorps Member Experience & Support

-Oversight of member enrollment and exit processes through the My AmeriCorps Portal.

-Ensure AmeriCorps members receive comprehensive training, supervision, and service support.

-Develop retention strategies and ensure a high-quality member experience.

-Address grievances and personnel matters in accordance with AmeriCorps policy.

Risk Management & Crisis Response

-Identify and address program and AmeriCorps member risks.

-Lead response to critical incidents, ensuring proper protocols and documentation.

-Maintain safety, compliance, and wellness standards across all programs.

Data, Evaluation, & Reporting

-Lead data collection and evaluation efforts for both programs.

-Oversee analysis and reporting of program outputs and outcomes using platforms such as ArcGIS, SPSS, and Qualtrics.

-Use data to inform decision-making and share impact with stakeholders.

Stakeholder Engagement & Partnerships

-Serve as the primary point of contact for funders, host sites, and community partners (e.g., CNCS, MCSC).

-Represent the programs at external meetings, presentations, and community events.

-Cultivate and maintain partnerships to support program sustainability and growth.

Unique duties:

Qualifications:

QUALIFICATIONS

Education

Bachelor’s degree required; graduate degree is highly preferred.

Experience

-Minimum 5 years of experience working with AmeriCorps programs or community service initiatives.

-Experience in public service, higher education, or nonprofit program administration preferred.

Skills and Competencies

-Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills; ability to convey complex information clearly to diverse audiences.

-Problem Solving: Adaptable in dynamic environments; skilled at generating creative solutions and managing change.

-Planning & Organization: Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced setting.

-Team Leadership: Proven ability to build teams, foster collaboration, and motivate others toward shared goals.

-Business Acumen: Understanding of program objectives, budgeting, and operational best practices.

-Analytical Ability: Attention to detail and proficiency in data analysis and reporting.

-Technology: Proficiency in MS Excel; familiarity with ArcGIS, Qualtrics, SPSS, or other data tools is a plus.

Application Instructions

Submit your electronic application via the Wayne State University Online Hiring Website: http://jobs.wayne.edu

Please include the following:

-Resume

-Contact information for at least three references

-Most recent (official) transcript

-Recent 3 writing samples

Preferred qualifications:

School/College/Division:

H6614 - Center Urban Studies

Primary department:

Center for Urban Studies

Employment type:

+ Regular Employee

+ Job type: Full Time

+ Job category: Staff/Administrative

Funding/salary information:

+ Compensation type: Annual Salary

+ Hourly rate:

+ Salary minimum: $70,000

+ Salary hire maximum: $90,000

Working conditions:

Job openings:

+ Number of openings: 1

+ Reposted position: No

+ Reposted reason: None (New Requisition)

+ Prior posting/requisition number:

Background check requirements:

University policy requires certain persons who are offered employment to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check, before starting work. If you are offered employment, the university will inform you if a background check is required.