Community Engagement Specialist (Temporary)

Community Engagement Specialist (Temporary)

Community Engagement Specialist (Temporary) General SummaryThe Community Engagement Specialist is a contract-based role responsible for strengthening local community partnerships and leading engagement efforts in Alabama that support a statewide public health initiative. The Community Engagement Specialist will cultivate strong local networks with healthcare providers, faith-based institutions, nonprofits, and civic leaders to increase awareness and recruitment in the program. This role will lead community-facing efforts by hosting weekly outreach events, convening stakeholders, and representing the program across a variety of platforms to drive enrollment and awareness. Core Regions

• North Alabama (Tennessee Valley, Huntsville, Decatur, Athens)
• Northeast Alabama (Gadsen, Fort Payne, Scottsboro)
• Central Alabama (Birmingham, Hoover, Bessemer, Homewood)
• East-Central Alabama (Montgomery, Auburn, Opelika, Prattville)
• West Alabama (Tuscaloosa, Selma, Demopolis)
• South Alabama (Mobile, Fairhope, Brewton)
• South-Eastern Alabama (Dothan, Enterprise, Troy)

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Builds and sustains local strategic partnerships with primary care providers, churches, nonprofit organizations, and community influencers
• Organizes and hosts weekly engagement events to educate about the program, assist with registration, and sample collection (e.g., town halls, tabling opportunities, health fairs, lunch & learns) to increase program visibility
• Develop and implement tailored outreach strategies informed by local demographic, cultural, and geographic insights
• Represents the program at regional coalition meetings, stakeholder convenings, and public forums
• Educates community members on genetic testing, precision medicine, and program benefits through presentations and one-on-one conversations
• Maintains accurate and timely reporting of outreach activities, including engagement metrics and qualitative feedback
• Collaborates with engagement leadership to assess strategy effectiveness and share insights from the field
• Serves as a trusted liaison between the program and the public, building long-term relationships and brand trust
• Completes other duties as assigned

Requirements/Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in public health, communications, social work, or a related field
• Strong existing relationships and presence within the designated Alabama region
• Exceptional interpersonal, public speaking, and relationship management skills
• Ability to work independently, prioritize multiple projects, and manage time efficiently
• Reliable transportation and willingness to travel throughout the assigned region regularly

Preferred Qualifications

• Well-connected with local providers, civic and community organizations, and faith-based institutions
• Familiarity with rural and underserved communities in the region
• Knowledge of public health campaigns, health messaging or genetic literacy concepts

Core ValuesCultivating human connection – putting people first. We know that every individual makes a difference and that no one can do it alone. We believe the world's most powerful resource is human potential. We are an inclusive and courageous team where innovation and diversity of though go hand in hand. We understand that relationships move at the speed of trust.Operating with precise execution – measuring what matters and owning results as a team. We leverage data to drive decisions that advance science. We recognize the importance of a stable foundation coupled with an agile mindset. We hold ourselves accountable and take pride in our work. We give and receive candid feedback as a gift that keeps us growing.Harnessing relentless curiosity – our unstoppable, innovative force. We are driven to ask sharp questions and push the boundaries of knowledge. We use creativity and critical thinking as catalysts for finding solutions that change lives. We learn by doing, consistently striving to improve our relationships, training, methodologies, questions and results.Stewarding a healthy community – implementing sustainable operations for a safe, engaging environment. We don't compromise on safety and health for our employees, customers or community. We believe a healthy community begins with inclusive economic opportunities. We respect the dignity of the patients we ultimately serve. We are motivated to serve communities that are underserved and markets that are overlooked. Specific Behaviors

• Strategic Partnerships – Initiates, nurtures, and leverages networks that extend program reach and credibility
• Community Engagement – Plans and hosts ongoing events that reflect the unique needs and culture of the local population
• Relationship Building – Builds authentic and sustained partnerships with organizations and individuals
• Communication – Clearly and persuasively presents program objectives to diverse audiences
• Adaptability – Modifies engagement strategies based on real-time insights and local context
• Self-Management – Demonstrates initiative, accountability, and a proactive work style
• Data Awareness – Collects and interprets outreach feedback to refine engagement tactic

Physical Demands

• Ability to drive and travel regularly across assigned region
• Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed for community events
• Ability to carry event materials (up to 25 lbs)
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods at outreach events

Certifications, Licenses & Registrations

• Valid driver's license and active auto insurance required

Work Authorization
Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time. Equal Employment Opportunity StatementSouthern Research is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals, regardless of race, color, national origin, ancestry, gender, sex, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. We are an equal opportunity employer and seek to create a diverse and inclusive workplace. Our hiring, training, promotion, and compensation practices are based on the principles of fairness, equality, and merit. Southern Research prohibits discrimination or harassment of any kind, including harassment based on any protected characteristic. We are committed to maintaining a work environment where all individuals are treated with respect, dignity, and fairness. In addition, we provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and applicable state laws. We also offer support for individuals who require accommodations due to religious practices or beliefs. If you have any concerns about discrimination or harassment, please contact humanresources@southernresearch.org immediately. We are committed to investigating all concerns thoroughly and promptly and taking appropriate corrective action when necessary.

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