Federal Work Study Required: Descendant Program Assistant (Student Wage)

University of Virginia; Charlottesville (VA); On-site; USD 17,000 - 24,000; Part time

Job summary

The University of Virginia, in partnership with Student Financial Services, seeks an undergraduate federal work‑study student to serve as Descendent Program Assistant at UVA's Charlottesville campus. Primary duties include supporting descendant research and outreach, coordinating programs related to the Memorial to Enslaved Laborers, and assisting DEC leadership.

The role emphasizes collaboration with the DEC Leadership Working Group and UVA Descendant Researcher, requires developing knowledge

Qualifications

• Minimum education: working toward a BA.
• Developing knowledge in local Charlottesville/Albemarle County Black history and history of enslavement at UVA.
• Strong interest in history or related field and/or genealogical training/experience a plus.

Responsibilities

• Assist Descendant researcher curate research findings and compile data for DEC and reporting purposes.
• Facilitate scheduling and management of MEL tours.
• Conduct administrative tasks including updating DEC website information, producing newsletters, and updating social media.

Skills

Verbal and written communication

Project management

Interpersonal skills

Team collaboration

Research skills

Education

BA in progress

Job description

In partnership with Student Financial Services Descendants of Enslaved Communities is recruiting an undergraduate federal work study student for the position of Descendent Program Assistant. This position will be located at 201 W. Main St. Suite 3 Charlottesville, VA 22902. For further consideration all candidates must be receiving federal work study funding.

Primary purpose: The purpose of this position is to support UVA’s partnership with the Descendants of Enslaved Communities (DEC) at UVA, by facilitating descendant research and outreach efforts; and assisting both the DEC Leadership Working Group and the UVA Descendant Researcher in identifying and cultivating relationships with the descendants of people enslaved by UVA. Additional responsibilities include providing support for programming related to the Memorial to Enslaved Laborers such as scheduling, and program coordination as needed.

Reports to: Will work directly with DEC Treasurer/MEL Tour Coordinator, UVA Descendant Researcher, and DEC Leadership Working Group on all aspects of descendant outreach and programming.

Requirements:

Minimum education:working toward a BA. Strong interest in history or related field and/or genealogical training/experience a plus but not required. Developing knowledge and interest in local Charlottesville/Albemarle County and surrounding counties Black history and history of enslavement at the University a must.

Experience:

Demonstrated interest and/or experience in conducting a U.S. history research project, successful experience working independently as well as part of a team; managing projects and timelines. Experience building and maintaining positive community partnerships; experience working effectively with and understanding the needs of culturally and ethnically diverse populations.

Highly successful verbal and written communication skills with demonstrated capability in project management. Ability to work successfully through and with colleagues.

Ability to present effectively to small and large groups and to generalist and expert audiences. Strong analytical, problem solving, and critical thinking skills. Ability to investigate and analyze information, draw conclusions, and communicate those conclusions effectively.

Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively and effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community; strong and collaborative team-building skills.

Specific Tasks Include:

• assisting Descendant researcher curate research findings and compile data in a usable manner for consumption by DEC and reporting purposes
• facilitate the scheduling and management of MEL tours
• conduct administrative tasks as needed including updating website information for the DEC; produce newsletters and update social media

The Program Assistant position will be paid at $15.00 per hour. 10-12 hour per week commitment (negatable for the right candidate) is preferred from the hiring manager.

This position will begin September 21, 2026 ( or later) and will end May 14, 2027.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer.

All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.