Research Assistant (Part Time)

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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

Diversity creates a healthier atmosphere: MKS2 Technologies is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.