Data Collector - Research Assistant I

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Summary

The Prevention Research Collaborative at the University of Michigan School of Public Health seeks motivated Research Assistants to join our team of part-time data collectors in Flint, Michigan. The Prevention Research Collaborative is a large research team that includes the CDC-funded Prevention Research Center, CDC-funded Michigan Youth Violence Prevention Center, and other affiliated projects. Research Assistants (RAs) will be assisting in data collection for a CDC-funded RO1 research study titled Preventing Illegal Dumping to Address Community Violence. Data collection for this project includes conducting parcel assessments on properties surrounding known illegal dumping sites in Flint, MI. Parcel assessments are conducted using the Property Maintenance Observation Tool (PMOT). The PMOT is a survey that is used to rate maintenance and upkeep of lawns, landscaping and structures (i.e. homes, garages, commercial buildings, etc.) on each property. This is a great position for members of the Flint community as well as students who would like to gain research experience.

Who We Are

About the Prevention Research Collaborative

The mission of the PRC is to promote safe and healthy futures through prevention research, training, and outreach. Alongside community partners, we work to reduce inequities and empower communities for better health. We have developed strong and committed partnerships among community-based organizations, health departments, health advocacy groups, health service providers, and academic institutions. PRC projects are often conducted with state and local partner organizations to improve health and safety.

About the Department of Health Behavior and Health Education

This position will be based in the Department of Health Behavior and Health Education (HBHE) at the University of Michigan School of Public Health. Driven by a shared passion for affecting lasting change, the faculty, students and staff of HBHE work in the pursuit of an equitable, healthy future for all. Turning theory and research into actionable practice, we develop interventions and innovations that promote health, prevent disease, empower people to manage chronic illness and disabilities, and facilitate collective action for social change. Together, our academic community transforms the theoretical into actionable, the science into the social, applying our knowledge to eliminate health disparities and impact lives for the better.

Responsibilities*

• Prepare data collection materials
• Enter and manage data
• Conduct exterior property and vacant land assessments
• Use handheld computers/tablets
• Other duties as required

Skills You Have

• High School education or equivalent (e.g., GED completion)
• Good communication skills, reliability, and ability to work independently and as a team
• Strong organizational skills
• High level of spatial awareness and understanding of percentages
• Must be comfortable working in community settings with minimal supervision
• Must have a reliable vehicle for entire shift. You will work with a partner. There will be reimbursement for mileage
• Candidates working outdoors must be able to traverse streets, sidewalks, broken sidewalks, and steps to residential entrances up to eight miles per day

Desired Qualifications*

• Familiarity with the Flint Community
• Comfortable in different environments 
• Previous work or volunteering in community advocacy 
• Familiarity with community driven projects
• Ability to read and understand fractions and percentages

Work Schedule

All positions are part-time, temporary, and require a commitment starting in February/March 2024 through completion (likely November 30, 2024).

Work hours will typically be in 8-hours shifts and will occur between 7am through 6pm. Part-time staff members will typically work 24 hours per week, depending on the needs of the project and employee availability. Some weeks will have more hours available if desired. This position is part-time because data collection occurs monthly. Once one month of data collection is complete, there may be minimal work hours until the following month. Most workdays will be Monday through Friday, but some shifts will be available on Saturdays upon request.

Work Locations

This position is located in-person in Flint, Michigan and will be part of the University of Michigan's study evaluating the Preventing Illegal Dumping to Address Community Violence research project. This position is an in-person position only.

Additional Information

The salary will be $15- $20 per hour depending on experience.

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic staff member with a commitment to contributing to a diverse, equitable and inclusive environment for all members of our community.

Background Screening

The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks.  Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days.  The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO/AA Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.