At the forefront of medical discovery as it relates to understanding the causes of obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer and dementia, Pennington Biomedical Research Center is a campus of Louisiana State University and conducts basic, clinical and population research. The Center includes Basic Science, Clinical Research, and Population and Public Health, enabling both focused research and translational science. Research at Pennington Biomedical is supported broadly by multiple NIH Research Centers, and includes approximately 65 faculty and 20 postdoctoral fellows who comprise a network of 44 laboratories and 13 highly specialized core service facilities. Pennington Biomedical is located within state-of-the-art research facilities on a 222-acre campus in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
Pennington Biomedical Research Center, a world-renowned academic research institute of Louisiana State University, is seeking a Community Engagement Specialist in Franklin Parish (Louisiana). This is a part-time position - approximately 24 hours per week.
The Community Engagement Specialist will be the liaison between the RURAL study team and the Franklin Parish community. This position will promote awareness of available resources and for health education materials and other support services, in addition to research study enrollment opportunities by identifying, screening, and consenting appropriate participants into research protocols. The incumbent ill be expected to travel throughout Franklin Parish and occasionally to Baton Rouge to accomplish the job duties (reimbursed via travel allowance). Weekend work may also be required, as needed, to coincide with community members’ schedules and RURAL study visits. A computer and internet access will be provided.
Major Responsibilities
Develop strategies to disseminate information among community partners, aiming to increase exposure and participation in the RURAL study and related resources.
Coordinate events and strategic contacts to boost enrollment and awareness of RURAL study products and resources, including organizing and promoting informational and health screening events.
Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders and businesses in the community to garner support for the RURAL study.
Present to community groups about the various programs and activities available through the RURAL study as directed.
Organize and facilitate quarterly Community Advisory Board meetings.
Conduct day-to-day activities of the RURAL study, including recruitment and retention of research participants.
Provide navigational services for community members, including health education materials and support services.
Work with local resources and service providers to help study participants overcome barriers to accessing health services.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree* in a relevant field such as public health, social work, communications, or a related discipline.
Minimum of two (2) years of experience in community engagement, outreach, or a related field.
Proven success developing referral relationships with key community stakeholders in a multitude of settings.
Experience in developing and maintaining new business relationships, customer service and event planning.
Ability to communicate effectively with individuals and/or groups.
Knowledge of community engagement operations and strategies.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in community outreach and community organizing.
In-depth knowledge of the assigned community and available social and community services.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work with others and the ability to function with minimum supervision are essential.
Pennington Biomedical Research Center (PBRC) is an equal employment opportunity employer and serves as a model employer for individuals with disabilities.
Pennington Biomedical is located within state-of-the-art research facilities on a 222-acre campus in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. For more information, visit PBRC.
Questions regarding career opportunities at Pennington Biomedical should be sent to hrm@pbrc.edu.
Background Check - An offer of employment is contingent on a satisfactory pre-employment background check.
Benefits - Pennington Biomedical Research Center offers outstanding benefits to eligible employees and their dependents including health, life, dental, and vision insurance; flexible spending accounts; retirement options; various leave options; paid holidays; wellness benefits; tuition exemption for qualified positions; training and development opportunities; employee discounts; and more!
Positions approved to work outside the State of Louisiana shall be employed through Louisiana State University’s partner, nextSource Workforce Solutions, for Employer of Record Services including but not limited to employment, benefits, payroll, and tax compliance. Positions employed through Employer of Record Services will be offered benefits and retirement as applicable through their provider and will not be eligible for State of Louisiana benefits and retirement.
Questions or concerns can be directed to PBRC Human Resources at 225-763-2776 or hrm@pbrc.edu.