Graduate Assistantships

Qualifications

• Enrolled in a graduate program at SIUC or SIUE in Public Administration, Policy Analysis, Sociology, Nursing, Social Work, or a related discipline.

• Data Skills: Experience with data analysis tools such as Excel, ESRI (ArcGIS), or similar platforms. Familiarity with survey design and statistical analysis is a plus.

• Research and Writing: Strong analytical, research, and writing skills with the ability to synthesize data into clear, actionable insights.

• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Experience engaging with diverse community stakeholders is a plus

. • Work Ethic: Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple tasks effectively.

Preferred Skills:

• Knowledge of Southern Illinois’ social, economic, and environmental challenges.

 • Experience working with proprietary datasets like Lightcast or Illinois Broadband Lab data.

• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and community empowerment.

Position Description

The Office of Community Engagement (OCE) is seeking dynamic and motivated graduate students to support its mission of addressing community needs across Southern Illinois. Graduate Research Assistants (GRAs) will leverage cutting-edge data tools and resources to conduct comprehensive needs assessments for under-resourced communities. The findings will be published as reports and surveys on the OCE website to inform stakeholders and guide resource allocation. This position offers hands-on experience in data analysis, policy development, and community engagement, making it ideal for graduate students in Public Administration and Policy Analysis, Nursing, Social Work, or related fields.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Data Collection and Analysis: ◦ Use proprietary and publicly available datasets, including Lightcast, ESRI, Illinois Broadband Lab, United Way 211, and others, to gather and analyze data. ◦ Identify trends, gaps, and opportunities in areas such as public health, broadband access, economic development, social services, and more.

2. Community Needs Assessments: ◦ Develop reports that highlight pressing challenges and opportunities in Southern Illinois communities. ◦ Collaborate with stakeholders to validate findings and refine insights.

3. Report Writing and Publication: ◦ Prepare detailed, data-driven reports and summaries suitable for publication on the OCE website. ◦ Ensure reports are accessible and actionable for community leaders, policymakers, and the general public.

4. Collaboration and Communication: ◦ Work closely with OCE staff, community organizations, and other GRAs to align assessments with community priorities. ◦ Attend team meetings and provide regular updates on progress.

5. Community Engagement: ◦ Assist in organizing community workshops, presentations, and focus groups to share findings and gather input.

◦ Develop strategies to ensure reports are inclusive and represent diverse voices.

Application Process

Required Documents

Submit a resume and cover letter to connie.freyspurlock@siu.edu. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until all positions are filled. 

Applicant Materials Are Received By

 Email

 **All communications sent to the prospective employer should include the posting number for the position. 

Voluntary GA Applicant Data Form

This form is used to gather applicant data by the Office of Equal Opportunity, Access, & Title IX Coordination at SIUE. This information cannot be viewed by units hiring Graduate Assistants. Completion of this form is not required and will not impact your chances of being hired for a Graduate Assistantship. This form is NOT an application for employment. To apply for a Graduate Assistant position, follow the instructions listed in the posting.