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.