"Research Assistant"

Research Assistant

Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Research Assistant at 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, Salary minimum: $70,000, Salary hire maximum: $90,000

Working conditions: Job openings: Number of openings: 1

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.