Student Observer/Hourly Student Researcher

Illinois State University; Normal (IL); On-site; USD 22,000 - 25,000; Part time

Job summary

Illinois State University seeks a Student Observer/Hourly Student Researcher to support field-based data collection for a distracted driving mitigation project. Observers will collect roadway behavior data at designated locations and assist with roadside sign deployment under supervision.

Position is 0–20 hours per week at $17.00/hour, starting September 2026. Open to undergraduate or graduate students who can work outdoors, have reliable transportation, and follow established protocols.

Qualifications

• Undergraduate or graduate student in any discipline.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Reliable transportation to observation sites preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow protocols.
• Dependable attendance and punctuality.

Responsibilities

• Conduct roadside observations at designated study locations.
• Accurately record observational data during morning and afternoon observation periods.
• Follow project procedures to ensure consistency and reliability of collected data.
• Assist with setup and removal of data collection materials.
• Assist with roadside sign installation, setup, pickup, and site restoration when needed.
• Communicate field conditions, equipment issues, or safety concerns to project supervisors.
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism while conducting field research.

Skills

Field observations

Data collection

Teamwork

Professional communication

Applied research

Job description

Title: Student Observer/Hourly Student Researcher Employee Classification: Student Help Regular Division Name: Academic Affairs Department: Technology

Job Summary

Student Observers support field-based data collection activities associated with a distracted driving mitigation research project. Observers will collect roadway behavior data at designated study locations and assist with roadway sign deployment activities. Responsibilities are based on the approved project staffing plan.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct roadside observations at designated study locations following established research protocols.
• Accurately record observational data during morning and afternoon observation periods.
• Follow project procedures to ensure consistency and reliability of collected data.
• Assist with setup and removal of data collection materials.
• Assist with roadside sign installation, setup, pickup, and site restoration when needed.
• Communicate field conditions, equipment issues, or safety concerns to project supervisors.
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism while conducting field research.

Skills Developed:

• Field research methods
• Transportation safety observation techniques
• Data collection and quality assurance
• Teamwork and professional communication
• Applied research experience

Additional Information

Student employees are eligible to participate in the University’s 403(b) Plan. More information can be found here.

Pay Rate

$17.00/hour

Preferred Qualifications

• Undergraduate or graduate student in any discipline.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Reliable transportation to observation sites preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow protocols.
• Dependable attendance and punctuality.

Work Hours

0-20 hours per week.

Functional Expectations

Must be able to complete the following with or without a reasonable accommodation:

• Move about in various locations across campus as needed to complete day-to-day work.
• Effectively communicate on a daily basis.

Proposed Starting Date

September 2026

Required Applicant Documents

Resume, Cover Letter, Reference List & Work Availability

Contact Information for Applicants

Cindy Wert
[e-mail]

Important Information for Applicants

This position is subject to a criminal background investigation and if applicable, an employment history review, based on University Policy 3.1.30 and any offer of employment is contingent upon you passing a satisfactory criminal background investigation and/or an employment history review. You may not begin work until the criminal background investigation results have been received and cleared by Human Resources.

In addition, all appointments are contingent upon proof of eligibility for employment at Illinois State University to perform the required duties described above on your scheduled start date. The Immigration and Control Act of 1986, Public Law 99-603, requires all new employees to file an I-9 in person and no later than three days from the beginning of employment. This may be accomplished within the department or through Human Resources. A list of the types of documentation you will be expected to provide is available at https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents. Failure to comply with this law may result in cancellation of your appointment.

Illinois State University, as your employer, is required by federal law to ensure proper tax withholding from wages and to ensure that the required reporting of employee wages, withholding, and employment taxes is accurate. For this reason, every employee must have a valid Social Security Number registered with the University at the time of employment and/or as soon after as possible, but no later than 45 days from the start date. Failure to comply with this law may result in cancellation of your appointment.

Illinois State University student employees are restricted to no more than 28 hours per week of on-campus employment for all positions held.

International students are restricted by their visa status to no more than 20 hours per week of on-campus employment when the university is in session but may work more when the university is not in session. International students should contact the Office of International Studies and Programs for guidance if they have questions concerning employment restrictions.

Illinois State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

If you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or other state or federal law you may request an accommodation by contacting the Office of Equal Opportunity and Access at [phone]. The Office of Equal Opportunity and Access will hold any confidential information you provide in confidence.

If you are having difficulty accessing the system, please call Human Resources at [phone].