Research Technician (Climate-Related Projects)

Wayne State University; Detroit (MI); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Part time

Job summary

An established urban research university is seeking a passionate Research Technician for climate-related projects. This role involves engaging with local communities to implement climate adaptation strategies, including the installation of green infrastructure such as rain gardens and rain barrels. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in environmental sciences and be comfortable working outdoors in various conditions. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects that address climate change and promote ecological stewardship in urban settings. Join a team dedicated to making a positive impact in the community!

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree preferred; experience in Detroit neighborhoods is a plus.
• Comfortable with hands-on fieldwork and able to lift 50 pounds.

Responsibilities

• Lead community-based interventions for climate adaptation.
• Analyze data from fieldwork and community engagement.

Skills

Community Engagement

Data Analysis

Communication Skills

Fieldwork

Organizational Skills

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science

Background in Ecology

Tools

Microsoft Office

Google Products

Job description

Research Technician (Climate-Related Projects)

Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Research Technician (Climate-Related Projects) 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):

• Schedule, organize, and lead home-based interventions, including the installation of rain barrels, rain gardens, and community gardens across targeted neighborhoods.
• Administer resident surveys to assess perceptions, needs, and impacts related to climate adaptation and urban environmental health.
• Deliver public education via canvassing and outreach presentations to residents on climate change, green infrastructure, and healthy home practices.
• Set up passive air sample badges to test for indoor air pollutants, review results with participating residents and identify possible sources of pollutants within the home.
• Install and maintain indoor and outdoor airmonitors, air purifiers, and dehumidifiers.
• Collect, manage, and analyze data from fieldwork and community engagement to inform ongoing evaluation and reporting.
• Support community-based climate change hazard mitigation effort, including preparation of materials for community distribution.
• Communicate reliably, clearly, and effectively with project team members and community partners.

Qualifications:

• A Bachelor’s degree (or working towards a degree) is preferred.
• Experience working within Detroit neighborhoods or similar communities.
• Comfortable with hands-on installation and fieldwork, including lifting 50 pounds and other physical demands such as standing, bending, lifting, and pulling.
• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Access to consistent and reliable transportation.
• Working knowledge of Climate Change and urban impacts of Climate Change preferred.
• Background in environmental science, biological science, environmental stewardship, green infrastructure, ecology, the climate crisis, or ecological awareness is preferred.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.) and Google products (Drive, Sheets, Docs, Forms, Calendar, etc.).
• Must be confident communicating through virtual channels with team members and others.
• Must be self-motivated and able to initiate and complete tasks independently; strong organizational and problem-resolution skills; detail-oriented.
• Ability to prioritize and plan work activities while meeting respective deadlines.
• Interest in climate change, environmental sciences, ecological stewardship, and environmental justice strongly preferred.

School/College/Division:

H32 - Provost & VP Academic Affairs

Primary department:

H6614 - Center Urban Studies (H6614)

Employment type:

• Temporary Employee
• Job type: Fractional Time
• Job category: Research

Funding/salary information:

• Compensation type: Hourly Wage
• Hourly rate:
• Salary minimum: $14.00 per hour
• Salary hire maximum: $16.00 per hour

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.