Social Science​/Humanities Research Professional; Part-Time Texas Institute Chil

Social Science/Humanities Research Professional (Part-Time) (Hourly) - Texas Institute for Child and Family Wellbeing

Position open to all applicants. 20 hours per week. Non‑Exempt from FLSA.

Location:

UT Main Campus with remote work within Texas.

Start date:

May 08, 2026. Grant‑funded position with expected continuation until Sep 30, 2027. Salary: $20–$25/hr depending on qualifications.

• Serve as a lived‑experience advisor to ensure the Texas Foster Youth Network (TXFYN) remains youth‑centered, trauma‑informed, and accessible. Offer insight on project design, policies, and services to reflect the needs and experiences of youth who have been in the Texas foster care system.
• Collaborate with TXFYN staff to review and refine outreach materials, communications, website content, and training plans so that messaging is relevant, accessible, and reflective of youth voices across Texas.
• Participate in weekly Youth Network Specialist meetings and periodic Advisory Board sessions to share insights, offer recommendations, and support project planning with TXFYN leadership and partners.
• Test and provide feedback on the online referral system and project tools to ensure they are accessible, user‑friendly, and easy for youth to navigate.
• Represent youth perspectives in meetings and discussions with community partners and stakeholders, as appropriate.
• Participate in mentorship, reflective supervision, and professional development opportunities through TXFYN to build leadership, advocacy, and professional skills.

Lived experience in the foster care system. Interest in improving systems and services for youth in foster care and those transitioning out of foster care. Excellent attention to detail, verbal, and written communication skills. Values the contributions of others in the work environment. Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.

Willingness to learn new skills related to research, outreach, and leadership. Experience in leadership, advocacy, or peer support roles. Bilingual in English and Spanish (verbal and written).

$20–$25 per hour – depending on qualifications.

• May work around standard office conditions.
• Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation.
• Ability to work remotely within the state of Texas.

• M‑F, flexible between 8 am–6 pm.

• Resume/CV
• Three work references with contact information; at least one reference should be from a supervisor.
• Letter of interest.

The University of Texas at Austin, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs, and activities, and admissions.