Research Assistant (Part Time)
Research Assistant – Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUV)
Location: Monterey, CA – Naval Postgraduate School (Onsite)
Position Title: Research Assistant / Engineering Research Scientist
Salary: $55,000-$60,000 Part Time 20 hours a week.
Position Overview
The Research Assistant – UUV supports the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Physics Department in conducting advanced experimental research on unmanned underwater vehicle technologies. This role contributes directly to Navy‑sponsored research by executing experiments, analyzing data, developing optimized designs, and producing high‑quality scientific documentation. The position requires hands‑on laboratory and field work, technical rigor, and the ability to operate independently in a government research environment.
Primary Duties & Responsibilities
Conduct research studies evaluating UUV feasibility, performance characteristics, and system features
Execute experimental research in both laboratory and field environments
Perform data collection, data analysis, and interpretation of experimental results
Develop optimized designs, geometries, and engineering recommendations
Produce scientific reports, research documentation, and academic papers
Support UUV laboratory operations, equipment preparation, and field testing activities
Collaborate with faculty, researchers, and technical teams to refine methodologies and outputs
Ensure all research deliverables meet established quality, accuracy, and technical standards
Part‑time position: 20 hours a week.
Required Qualifications
Experience
Minimum 1 year of experience in STEM‑based experimental research
Minimum 1 year of experience with:
Computer‑Aided Design (CAD) and/or 3D printing
Designing and executing research experiments
Writing scientific reports, articles, or papers
Minimum 6 months of experience with:
Laboratory work involving Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs)
Field testing of UUV systems
Education
Master’s degree in one of the following fields:
Physics
Applied Physics
Mechanical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Clearance / Eligibility
U.S. Citizenship required
Ability to work onsite in a government laboratory environment
Other Required Skills
Experience with SolidWorks or similar CAD tools
Strong experimental design and data analysis capabilities
Ability to operate independently within a non‑personal services environment
Strong technical writing, documentation, and analytical skills