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Job Title


Community Engagement Partnerships and Research Specialist


Company : Western Michigan University


Location : Kalamazoo, MI


Created : 2026-04-20


Job Type : Full Time


Job Description

Supports strategic priorities related to community-engaged partnerships and research by leading data collection, analysis, and dissemination to inform initiatives. Expands resources for community-engaged scholarship through grant writing, donor cultivation, and strategic outreach. Provides operational support to ensure efficient daily functions and fosters collaborations that advance the Institute's mission and visibility. Major Duties * Designs, leads, and evaluates community-engaged research projects that advance institutional mission and strategic priorities. * Cultivates relationships with donors, foundations, and community partners to expand resources and support for community-engaged scholarship. * Supports day-to-day operations to ensure efficiency and productivity in meeting organizational goals. * Serves as a liaison between the organization and external collaborators to strengthen visibility, impact, and community trust through coordinated engagement. * Develops reports, briefs, and scholarly publications to communicate research findings to diverse audiences, including academic, community, and policy stakeholders. * Builds and sustains strong partnerships with community organizations, academic institutions, and other stakeholders to advance collaborative initiatives and shared goals. * Assists in coordinating events, workshops, and other programming that advance the Institute's visibility and mission. Minimum Qualifications * Master's degree in related field from an accredited institution * Two years' relevant experience * Demonstrated experience in leading community-engaged research and partnerships. * Proven record of grant writing and resource development, including donor cultivation. * Strong experience with data collection, quantitative and qualitative analysis, and dissemination of findings. * Demonstrated ability to publish scholarly work or policy briefs in relevant fields. * Experience facilitating collaborations with diverse stakeholders, including community organizations and governmental agencies. * Ability to work irregular shifts and extended hours, including evenings and weekends. Desired Qualifications Special Instructions to Applicants * External applicants should use the WMU - Application. * Internal applicants should use the WMU - Internal Application. Additional Position Information * Terminal Appointment ends 12/31/2026 with potential of being extended. * Staff Compensation System pay grades and rates are available at: * Western Michigan University offers generous benefits to its employees including health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, retirement, and tuition discount for the employee and tuition remission for eligible dependents. To access information about the specific benefits available for this position, go to: Physical requirements and working conditions * Office or other indoor work with minimal physical demands such as occasionally lifting or moving materials less than 25 pounds. * Work is generally performed in a well-lit, temperature-controlled indoor environment with occasional exposure to the outdoors or any number of elements.