AmeriCorps VISTA Research Associate
Hosted by SEEDS Ecology & Education Centers
This is an AmeriCorps VISTA service position hosted by SEEDS Ecology & Education Centers. The selected candidate will serve as an AmeriCorps member while working closely with and receiving day-to-day support from the SEEDS team. If you apply through the SEEDS recruiting page, SEEDS staff will contact you and help guide you through the official AmeriCorps application and placement process.
Summary
SEEDS Ecology & Education Centers is seeking an AmeriCorps VISTA Research Associate to support research and community outreach that helps strengthen youth education programs, workforce development opportunities, and community partnerships across Northwest Michigan.
The VISTA member will conduct interviews, outreach, and market research to better understand community needs and opportunities. This work will help SEEDS expand programs that support youth, families, and communities - especially students attending Title I schools and other underserved populations.
Essential Job Duties
- Conduct outreach and interviews with community partners, including schools, nonprofits, businesses, and local governments
- Track contacts and maintain organized notes from conversations and research
- Conduct research on community needs, workforce skills, and program demand
- Analyze and summarize findings for SEEDS leadership
- Help identify opportunities for program expansion and partnerships
Ideal Candidate
- Strong communication and organizational skills
- Interest in community development, youth education, or workforce programs
- Comfortable conducting outreach and gathering information from community partners
- Able to synthesize research and present insights clearly
Service Term
This is a full-time AmeriCorps VISTA position. Members receive a living allowance, professional development, and an education award through AmeriCorps.
Compensation & Benefits
This is an AmeriCorps VISTA service position, and compensation is provided through AmeriCorps rather than SEEDS. Members receive a biweekly living allowance, basic healthcare coverage if eligible, and a choice of an Education Award (approximately $7,000+) or a smaller cash stipend upon successful completion of the service term. Additional benefits such as student loan deferment, childcare assistance, and relocation support may also be available depending on eligibility.