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