As a TARA Researcher, you will volunteer with the Tobacco Prevention and Education Program (TPEP) to help conduct a Washington County-wide tobacco and alcohol retail assessment. Researchers will visit retail locations that have an active state tobacco retail license to sell tobacco and/or nicotine products. Some of these locations may also sell alcohol. Prior to beginning the assessments, volunteers will attend a training session on how to use the survey and conduct themselves appropriately in the retail environment. Volunteers will use an iPad, which contains the survey tool and regional maps to locate the businesses that will be assessed. The role is primarily observational; researchers will collect data using the iPad without engaging in conversations with store personnel. The survey gathers information on store types, tobacco/alcohol products sold, product placement, and advertising methods. Additionally, volunteers will be asked to photograph storefronts and other relevant displays or ads.

Key Responsibilities:

• Attend the TARA training session
• Travel to assigned retail locations
• Remain discreet by posing as a regular customer
• Collect and document assessment data using the iPad survey tool
• Photograph storefronts and displays as needed

Qualifications:

• Must be 21 years of age or older
• Valid driver’s license with active insurance and access to a vehicle
• Organized and adaptable
• Strong attention to detail
• Comfortable using technology (iPad)
• Willingness to visit a wide range of retail establishments
• Ability to work independently and remain impartial
• Ability to discreetly conduct assessments in a retail environment
• Ability to stand or move to view products and navigate store layouts during shifts

This is an excellent opportunity for those interested in public health, research, or community engagement. By volunteering, you’ll contribute to important research that supports tobacco and alcohol prevention efforts in our community.