"Research Assistant (Program Administration)"

Job Details

Research Assistant (Program Administration)

Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Research Assistant (Program Administration) 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):

Reporting to the Center for Urban Studies’ Directors, the Program Administrator will provide operational support 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) .

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

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.

Compliance & Grant Management

• Coordinate timely submission of all programmatic and fiscal reports, including performance measures and financial documentation.
• Ensure full compliance with all federal, state, and institutional policies and grant requirements, including AmeriCorps programs.

Staffing and Personnel Development

• Assist Units in coordinating recruitment, onboarding, and professional development of program staff and AmeriCorps members.
• Assist Units in coordinating AmeriCorps member enrollment and exit processes.

Data, Evaluation, & Reporting

• Coordinate data collection and evaluation efforts for both Units.
• Assist in the 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

• Represent the programs at external meetings, presentations, and community events.
• Cultivate and maintain partnerships to support program sustainability and growth.
• Prepare regular updates to Center Director and Managing Director. Reports to the Managing Director on a day-to-day basis and is responsible to the Center Director.

Qualifications:

Education

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

Experience

• Experience in public service, higher education, or nonprofit program administration preferred.
• Minimum one year of experience working with AmeriCorps programs or community service initiatives is highly preferred.

Skills and Competencies

• Business Acumen: Understanding of program objectives, budgeting, and operational best practices.
• Analytical Ability: Attention to detail and proficiency in data analysis and reporting.
• Planning & Organization: Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced setting.
• Problem Solving : Adaptable in dynamic environments; skilled at generating creative solutions and managing change.
• Technology: Proficiency in MS Excel; familiarity with ArcGIS, Qualtrics, SPSS, or other data tools is a plus.
• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills; ability to convey complex information clearly to diverse audiences.

School/College/Division:

H32 - Provost & VP Academic Affairs

Primary department:

H6614 - Center Urban Studies

Employment type:

• Regular Employee
• Job type: Full Time
• Job category: Research

Funding/salary information:

• Compensation type: Annual Salary
• Hourly rate:
• Salary minimum: $50,000
• Salary hire maximum: $65,000

Working conditions:

Office Environment

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.