The Alan M. Voorhees Transportation Center (VTC) at the Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy is currently looking for a bi-lingual (English/Spanish) graduate student to work as a Student Research Assistant. An undergraduate student with appropriate skills and work experience would also be considered. The research assistant will assist with the implementation of technical assistance transportation planning projects in primarily Spanish-speaking communities in New York and New Jersey. This position will focus on public outreach and engagement, research, and writing.
Tasks may include, but are not limited to:
- Assisting in working with merchants and stakeholders (such as commercial property owners, local businesses, local elected officials, residents, and community organizations)
- Assist in conducting interviews with community leaders, business owners, and other stakeholders to assess downtown’s marketing needs (many of these will be in Spanish).
- Assist in the development and distribution of a Spanish-language survey to local residents and businesses
- Assist in facilitating community workshops in English and Spanish
- Assist in developing promotional, and written material in English and Spanish
- Assist in all other project tasks as needed
Required Qualifications and Skills:
- Comfortability with reading, writing, and speaking Spanish
- Excellent written, research, and interpersonal skills
- Experience with public-facing work or customer service
- Ability to administer multiple assignments independently and under tight deadlines
- Knowledge or interest in transportation, public policy, and planning topics
- Interest in inclusive public engagement and improving turnout of underrepresented groups in public processes
- Familiarity with content creation and graphical software
Hours, compensation, and other details: This position works up to 20 hours per week, regular working hours Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, and is hybrid. It may require occasional availability outside of regular work hours for outreach engagements. Based on university policy, undergraduate applicants can expect up to $15.25/ hour, and graduate students can expect up to $21/hour; compensation will be based on previous experience. The expected start date is early September 2024 we will be accepting applications on a rolling basis till the position is filled.
How to Apply: Interested candidates should email Miriam Salerno at firstname.lastname@example.org with their resume. Instead of a formal cover letter, please include any relevant information about your interest /experience in the body of the email. Spanish writing samples are welcome.