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Transportation Research Assistant Jobs in Michigan

Research Assistant Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Research Assistant at its ... Supervise team during field service, including providing transportation to and from the field ...

Research Assistant

Detroit, MI · On-site

$19 - $26.25/hr

Supervise team during field service, including providing transportation to and from the field, providing task guidance, ensuring safety policies are adhered to, and acting as main point of ...

Maintain accurate study documentation and patient records * Assist with recruitment efforts through ... Transportation benefits * Employee Assistance Program * Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave ...

Maintain accurate study documentation and patient records * Assist with recruitment efforts through ... Transportation benefits * Employee Assistance Program * Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave ...

Research Technician

Madison Heights, MI · On-site

$16.50 - $22.75/hr

... transportation industries toward greater environmental compatibility. Approximately 33,000 ... Sika is looking for an experienced Research Technician to join our team. * Assist DOE, DFMEA to ...

Research Technician

Madison Heights, MI

$16.50 - $22.75/hr

... transportation industries toward greater environmental compatibility. Approximately 33,000 ... Sika is looking for an experienced Research Technician to join our team. * Assist DOE, DFMEA to ...

Research Technician

Madison Heights, MI · On-site

$16.50 - $22.75/hr

... transportation industries toward greater environmental compatibility. Approximately 33,000 ... Sika is looking for an experienced Research Technician to join our team. * Assist DOE, DFMEA to ...

Research Technician

Madison Heights, MI · On-site

$16.50 - $22.75/hr

... transportation industries toward greater environmental compatibility. Approximately 33,000 ... Sika is looking for an experienced Research Technician to join our team. * Assist DOE, DFMEA to ...

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Transportation Research Assistant information

What is a transportation research assistant?

Transportation Research Assistants are professionals who support transportation research projects by collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data related to traffic patterns, public transit, road safety, and other transportation systems. They often assist senior researchers in conducting field studies, managing databases, preparing reports, and utilizing statistical software. This role may involve collaborating with engineers, urban planners, and policy makers to help develop solutions for transportation challenges. Their work contributes to improving transportation infrastructure, efficiency, and safety.

What does a transportation research assistant do?

As a Transportation Research Assistant, you'll play a critical role in collecting, organizing, and analyzing transportation-related data, such as traffic patterns, public transit usage, or safety incidents. This often involves conducting field surveys, using specialized software for data entry and statistical analysis, and ensuring data accuracy. You'll work closely with senior researchers and project teams to interpret findings and support the development of recommendations for transportation improvements. This hands-on experience provides valuable insight into research methodologies and offers a strong foundation for career advancement in transportation planning or engineering.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a transportation research assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Transportation Research Assistant, you typically need a background in transportation engineering, urban planning, or a related field, along with strong analytical and research skills. Familiarity with data analysis software such as SPSS, GIS tools, and Microsoft Excel, as well as experience with survey methods and statistical techniques, is important. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are vital soft skills for synthesizing findings and collaborating with team members. These competencies ensure accurate data collection, insightful analysis, and impactful contributions to transportation research projects.

What is the difference between Transportation Research Assistant vs Transportation Planner?

AspectTransportation Research AssistantTransportation Planner
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in transportation, civil engineering, or related field; some roles may require a master'sBachelor's or master's degree in urban planning, transportation engineering, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch settings, government agencies, consulting firmsUrban areas, government agencies, consulting firms, project sites
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in research projects, data analysis, and report preparationUsed in planning, policy development, and project implementation

Transportation Research Assistants focus on data collection, analysis, and supporting research projects related to transportation systems. Transportation Planners develop long-term strategies, policies, and plans for transportation infrastructure and services. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, Research Assistants are more research-oriented, whereas Planners focus on planning and policy development.

What are the most commonly searched types of Transportation Research jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Transportation Research jobs in Michigan are:

What are popular job titles related to Transportation Research Assistant jobs in Michigan?

For Transportation Research Assistant jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Transportation Research Assistant jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Transportation Research Assistant jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Transportation Research Assistant jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Transportation Research Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Transportation Research Assistant job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 56% Full Time, 41% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Research Assistant

Detroit, MI • On-site


Wayne State University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 5 - 10K employees

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

291st of 625 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

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Recommended by parents


$42K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Research Assistant
Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Research Assistant at its Detroit campus location.
Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.
Essential functions (job duties):
POSITION DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Supervise team during field service, including providing transportation to and from the field, providing task guidance, ensuring safety policies are adhered to, and acting as main point of communication between Program Director and field teams.
  • Schedule, organize, and lead home-based interventions, including the installation of rain barrels, rain gardens, and community gardens across targeted neighborhoods.
  • Administer resident surveys to assess perceptions, needs, and impacts related to climate adaptation and urban environmental health.
  • Deliver public education via canvassing and outreach presentations to residents on climate change, green infrastructure, and healthy home practices.
  • Set up passive air sample badges to test for indoor air pollutants, review results with participating residents and identify possible sources of pollutants within the home.
  • Install and maintain indoor and outdoor air monitors, air purifiers, and dehumidifiers.
  • Collect, manage, and analyze data from fieldwork and community engagement to inform ongoing evaluation and reporting.
  • Support community-based climate change hazard mitigation effort, including preparation of materials for community distribution.
  • Recruit members of the community to serve with AmeriCorps READY through outreach via online and in-person efforts, including: posting on job boards; service-oriented volunteer recruitment spaces; and local venues to be identified.
    Attend career fairs on behalf of AmeriCorps READY.
  • Communicate reliably, clearly, and effectively with project team members and community partners.
  • Provide regular progress updates to Center leadership.
  • Perform other duties as deemed necessary to support program goals.

Unique duties:
Qualifications:
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • A Bachelor's degree (or working towards a degree) is preferred.
  • Experience working within Detroit neighborhoods or similar communities.
  • Comfortable with hands-on installation and fieldwork, including lifting 50 pounds and other physical demands such as standing, bending, lifting, and pulling.
  • Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.
  • Access to consistent and reliable transportation; willingness to use personal vehicle to transport team members and supplies highly preferred. Mileage reimbursement provided.
  • Working knowledge of climate change and urban impacts of climate change preferred.
  • Background in environmental science, biological science, environmental stewardship, green infrastructure, ecology, the climate crisis, or ecological awareness is preferred.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.) and Google products (Drive, Sheets, Docs, Forms, Calendar, etc.).
  • Must be confident communicating through virtual channels with team members and others.
  • Must be self-motivated and able to initiate and complete tasks independently; strong organizational and problem-resolution skills; detail-oriented.
  • Ability to prioritize and plan work activities while meeting respective deadlines.
    Interest in climate change, environmental sciences, ecological stewardship, and environmental justice strongly preferred.

Submissions mustinclude a cover letter describing relevant experience, an updated resume andmost recent transcript(unofficial),and recent writing samples.
Preferred qualifications:
School/College/Division:
Generic Division
Primary department:
H6614 - Center Urban Studies
Employment type:
  • Regular Employee
  • Job type: Full or Fractional Time
  • Job category: Research
Funding/salary information:
  • Compensation type: Annual Salary
  • Hourly rate:
  • Salary minimum: $42,000
  • Salary hire maximum: $50,000
Working conditions:
In-Person
Job openings:
  • Number of openings: 2
  • Reposted position: No
  • Reposted reason: None (New Requisition)
  • Prior posting/requisition number:
Background check requirements:
University policy requires certain persons who are offered employment to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check, before starting work. If you are offered employment, the university will inform you if a background check is required.


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