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Engineering Research Assistant information

What is an engineering research assistant?

Engineering Research Assistants are professionals who support research projects in engineering fields by conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, preparing reports, and assisting with the development of prototypes or models. They often work under the supervision of lead researchers or faculty members in academic, industrial, or laboratory settings. Their role is essential for advancing scientific knowledge and technological innovations, as they help ensure the accuracy and efficiency of research activities. In addition to technical skills, strong organizational and communication abilities are important for success in this position.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an engineering research assistant?

To thrive as an Engineering Research Assistant, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, data analysis, and research methodologies, typically supported by a relevant degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with technical tools such as MATLAB, Python, CAD software, and laboratory equipment is commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help set candidates apart in this collaborative and analytical role. These skills and qualities are crucial for supporting complex research projects, ensuring accurate results, and contributing meaningfully to engineering innovations.

What are some typical challenges engineering research assistants face when supporting multiple projects simultaneously?

Engineering Research Assistants often juggle several research projects at once, which can present challenges in prioritizing tasks and managing time effectively. Balancing competing deadlines and adapting to shifting project requirements requires strong organizational skills and clear communication with supervising engineers or principal investigators. It's common to work closely with other team members, such as graduate students and faculty, which makes collaboration and flexibility essential. Developing strategies for task tracking and regular check-ins can help manage workload and ensure each project's needs are met.

What is the difference between Engineering Research Assistant vs Mechanical Engineering Technician?

AspectEngineering Research AssistantMechanical Engineering Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related fieldAssociate's degree or diploma in mechanical engineering technology
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, academic institutionsManufacturing plants, testing labs, engineering firms
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research organizations, government agenciesManufacturers, engineering consulting firms, industrial companies

Engineering Research Assistants typically hold a bachelor's degree and work primarily in research settings, focusing on data collection and analysis. Mechanical Engineering Technicians usually have an associate's degree and support manufacturing or testing processes. While both roles involve technical skills, their work environments and educational requirements differ significantly.

What cities in Florida are hiring for Engineering Research Assistant jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Engineering Research Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Engineering Research Assistant job openings in Florida as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, and 43% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Accelerated Pavement Testing Research Assistant

Gainesville, FL • On-site

University of North Florida
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about University of North Floridaexternal

$16/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

University Of North Florida rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

262nd of 633 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Department
Institute of Utility Security and Resilience (IUSR)-OPS
Compensation
$16.00 to 18.00 Hourly
The OPS Research Assistants will monitor and oversee the HVS's operation. They will also complete various research projects under the mentorship of UNF and FDOT engineers. The researcher will support the overall project effort by completing routine tasks such as initial data evaluation and developing presentation materials.
This part-time position assists with engineering research in support of the Accelerated Pavement Testing program (APT) on-site at the Florida Department of Transportation State Materials Office (SMO) in Gainesville, Florida. Research assistants will operate and maintain research machinery, collect and analyze research data, and assist with hands-on research tasks.
The APT uses two Heavy Vehicle Simulators (HVS) to simulate traffic loading on pavement test sections. Using a combination of electric drive and hydraulics, the HVS can apply up to a 32,000 lb load for up to 12,000 tire passes per day on a test section. This simulated load is used to test pavement designs and placement methods.
Using vendor-supplied software as well as software developed in-house, on-board data acquisition systems collect real-time data including tire load, test speed, temperatures, hydraulic pressures, as well as voltage and current data.
Additionally, pavement deformation and cracking information are recorded by automated methods.
  • The APT Research Assistant will support the APT effort by performing job duties which include the following:
  • Operate and monitor the HVS equipment during testing; log any malfunctions or errors, as well as report malfunctions or errors to the operations supervisor.
  • Safely perform required maintenance tasks as directed (after appropriate training).
  • Assist in data analysis using computer software.

Contact Dr. Jim Fletcher for further questions -jfletche@unf.edu
Required Qualifications
Minimum qualifications require a high school diploma with relevant research/engineering work
experience. Basic computer skills are required. LabVIEW experience is a plus. Engineering
students are encouraged to apply.
Statement(s) of Understanding
This position requires a background check. In conjunction with the University's policy, this position may also require a credit check.
The holder of this position is designated as a "Responsible Employee" pursuant to their role under Title IX. Therefore, the incumbent must promptly report allegations of sexual misconduct, sexual violence, and child sexual abuse by or against any student, employee, contractor, or visitor to the University's Title IX Administrator or any divisional Title IX Coordinator
Pursuant to Florida Statute 1010.35, this position requires additional information from all applicants seeking research or research-related positions prior to an interview or offer of employment. Applicants MUST fully complete the Foreign Influence Review section of their application. Additional documents (e.g., passport) may be required based on form responses.
Equal Opportunity
The University of North Florida (UNF) is committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all who interact in our community. In building this environment, we strive to attract students, faculty and staff from a variety of cultures, backgrounds and life experiences. The University of North Florida does not commit or permit discrimination or harassment on the basis of genetic information, race, color, religion, age, sex, disability, marital status, national origin, or veteran status in any educational, employment, social, recreational program or activity that it offers. In addition, UNF will not commit or permit retaliation against an individual who reports discrimination or harassment or an individual who cooperates in an investigation of an alleged violation of university regulation.
Carnegie
UNF is a Carnegie Community Engaged Institution. This designation celebrates the University's collaboration with community partners from the local to the global level. It reflects UNF's mission to contribute to the public good and prepare educated, engaged citizens.

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