The Institute for Health Research and Policy at the University of
Illinois at Chicago is conducting a multi-year project to examine the
impact of policies, programs and other factors in the built environment
on youth eating and physical activity behaviors, and on youth obesity.
We are seeking to hire academic hourly Research Specialists to collect
observational data from locations across the continental U.S. in 2011.
This temporary hourly position will last up to 5-6 months and will pay
an hourly rate of $16.50, without benefits. There is no guaranteed
minimum number of hours per week. Research Specialists will typically
work 30 to 40 hours per week and will spend a majority of time
collecting data in a variety of environments. Individuals will travel by
car and/or airplane to various locations throughout the U.S., and stay
in hotels for several consecutive days. In some cases, weekend stays may
be required. In each community visited, individuals will be required to
travel by car/on foot in order to conduct observational research.
In this position the Research Specialists will:
* Collect data from food stores, restaurants, public parks, street
segments, and recreational facilities that will help to identify
the opportunities (or lack thereof) for healthy eating and active
living in communities around U.S.;
* Work in teams of two and visit approximately 15-20 communities
over the course of the project;
* Locate food and physical activity outlets in each community, and
complete detailed survey forms about each location;
* Work closely under UIC supervision to collect and organize field
data; and
* Participate in regular debriefing calls and web-based and/or
in-person meetings with UIC research teams.
Qualifications:
* Availability to attend a paid training session in Chicago from
March 15–April 1 and to work through July 2011 for data collection;
* Bachelor’s degree;
* Possession of a credit card (debit card is not acceptable as
rental car companies may not accept debit card);
* Possession of a valid driver’s license, auto insurance, and a good
driving record;
* Experience with traveling;
* Ability to travel around the country frequently (e.g., Monday
through Friday on a weekly basis, with some weekend stay);
* Very strong organizational skills;
* High attention to detail and ability to follow specific protocols;
* Strong interpersonal communication skills, and an ability to work
with others in close environment;
* Basic computer literacy in Word as well as the Internet;
* Must be self-motivated and be able to work without daily
supervision; and
* Must be an energetic and enthusiastic collaborative team player.
Desired qualifications:
* Previous experience with national fieldwork or observational data
collection;
* Understanding of survey research and data collection; and
* Basic proficiency in Spanish.
*To apply*
For full consideration, please send a resume with a cover letter to
btgcomp@uic.edu
will be required as a condition of employment. Applications will be
reviewed/accepted until the positions are filled.
*Please, no phone calls. Due to the volume of applications, only
applicants of interest will be contacted.*