About the Job
The Minnesota Design Center (MDC) seeks a motivated individual to serve as a Researcher to assist with research, design, and project management support for several multi-year community-based research projects.
This position will require work on the following projects:
Design Assist
Design Assist project, funded by the Bush Foundation. This three-year project involves working with the MDC staff and research assistants in service to community based organizations, especially those in under-served areas of the Twin Cities and across Minnesota, in need of urban design assistance.
The position requires a person able to work independently, keeping the Principal Investigator (PI) and senior research fellows informed of progress, and making decisions as required in a timely way for the good of the project. The position involves supporting the students working on projects and aiding in design work as assigned by the MDC's studio head. This work can vary considerably from day to day and can be very complex, so the person in this position needs to be able to respond to diverse needs and switch from one task to another quickly.
Empowering Small Minnesota Communities (ESMC)
This state-funded, three-year project involves working with several community-based teams led by MDC affiliates and research assistants, in coordination with the regional Executive Directors of the Regional Sustainable Development Partnership, with the staff of the Center for Transportation Studies and the Resilient Communities Project, and with faculty from the Humphrey School of Public Affairs. The goal of the project is to help small (under 10,000 population) communities in the state compete more effectively for funding from sources such as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA),
and the state's Legacy, Bonding and LCCMR funds.
The position requires a person able to work independently, keeping the Principal Investigator (PI) and senior research fellows informed of progress, and making decisions as required in a timely way for the good of the project. The position involves supporting the teams working on "Community Futures" projects, aiding in design work as assigned by the MDC's studio head, and helping the research of affiliate contractor engaged in that work. This work can vary considerably from day to day and can be very complex, so the person in this position needs to be able to respond to diverse needs and switch from one task to another quickly.
Duration: This is a 12-month appointment with a possible extension, 40 hours per week.
Compensation: $53,000 - $66,000 Based on qualifications
Responsibilities:
75% Design and research support
25% Program management support
Required Qualifications
Preferred Qualifications
Working at the University
At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.
The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
Please visit the for more information regarding benefits.
Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.
To be considered for this role, please submit the following:
Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.
To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.
The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.
The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U:
Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.
The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)
The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.
At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).