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Entry Level Phd Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Phd information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level PhD professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level PhD professional, you need advanced research skills, subject matter expertise, and a doctoral degree in your field. Familiarity with specialized software, statistical tools, and laboratory or data analysis systems is commonly required depending on the discipline. Strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and a collaborative mindset help set you apart in multidisciplinary environments. These skills and qualities are crucial for driving innovation, contributing to complex projects, and integrating effectively into research or industry teams.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level PhDs transitioning from academia to industry roles?

Entry-level PhDs often encounter challenges adjusting to the faster-paced, results-oriented environment of industry compared to academia. Adapting to collaborative, cross-functional teams and learning to communicate technical findings to non-expert stakeholders is crucial. Additionally, shifting focus from independent research to project-based work with clear deliverables may require new time management and prioritization skills. However, these challenges present excellent opportunities for professional growth and skill development in a supportive team setting.

What are entry level PhD jobs?

Entry level PhD jobs are positions designed for individuals who have recently completed their doctoral studies and are beginning their professional careers. These jobs typically require advanced research, analytical, or technical skills developed during a PhD program and may include roles in academia, industry, government, or nonprofit sectors. Examples of entry level PhD jobs include postdoctoral researcher, data scientist, research scientist, policy analyst, and consultant. While the specific requirements and responsibilities vary by field, these positions offer opportunities to apply specialized knowledge and begin building a professional track record.

What is the difference between Entry Level Phd vs Research Assistant?

AspectEntry Level PhdResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsPhD or near completionBachelor's or Master's, sometimes pursuing PhD
Work EnvironmentAcademic, research labs, universitiesResearch labs, academic institutions, industry
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, some industry R&DUniversities, government agencies, private sector
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles for PhD holdersEntry-level research roles for those with advanced degrees

Entry Level Phd positions typically require candidates to have completed or be close to completing a PhD, often working in academic or research environments. Research Assistants usually hold a Bachelor's or Master's degree and support research projects. While both roles involve research activities, Entry Level Phd roles are geared toward recent PhD graduates or candidates, whereas Research Assistants often have less advanced degrees but support similar research tasks.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Phd jobs in Indiana? For Entry Level Phd jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Phd jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Phd jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Entry Level Phd jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Entry Level Phd job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Phd job openings in Indiana as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 8% Full Time, 77% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Engineering Technologist Associate/Engineer Associate

Aep

Muncie, IN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Job Posting End Date

05-26-2026

Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.

Job Summary

Each position in the Engineering Technologist/Engineering job family is responsible to the assigned supervisor to perform entry level work activities and projects requiring the application of engineering technology knowledge in a safe, cost-effective and efficient way.

Job Description

What you'll do:

This Engineer/Technologist position provides support to local field teams and local customers. The role primarily provides critical field technical support to station personnel to operate and maintain the system as well as oversee commissioning activities on capital investment.

Essential Job Functions & Tasks

Technical Proficiency:

  • Possesses technical to entry level knowledge acquired from a bachelor's degree in an ABET accredited engineering technology program.

  • Demonstrates the ability to perform with proper guidance special technical functions required in the relevant area of assignment. Gains familiarity with standards, codes, and regulations relevant to the area of assignment.

  • Gains familiarity with pertinent equipment, materials, systems, and business processes.

  • Assists higher level employees in handling well defined portions of routine problems.

Leadership & Guidance:

  • Follows policies, practices, standards, and rules of the company and those regulations and procedures required externally.

  • Performs certain ongoing activities in accordance with established procedures with direction from higher level employees.

  • Performs work activities as assigned and coached by higher level employees.

  • Demonstrates ability to work with others in both supplying information and seeking assistance as necessary.

Planning & Organization Ability:

  • Maintains required records to support assignments and prepares special reports for tests, equipment performance, projects and other reports as assigned. Plans work in accordance with AEP standard planning practices.

  • Prioritizes routine work to meet the demands of the company.

  • Assists with providing input to annual budget, capital forecasts, five-year plan, and improvement requisitions.

  • Participates in planning meetings covering scheduling, operations, and maintenance of equipment.

  • Assists in the preparation of basic cost estimates using established guidelines.

Problem Solving & Initiative:

  • Seeks opportunity to work beyond routine assignments by solving problems of light complexity.

  • Actively seeks out information to increase technical knowledge in area of responsibility.

  • Applies technical knowledge in resolving basic problems encountered in assigned work.

  • Uses initiative in looking for opportunities to increase job knowledge/technical skills.

Communication & Interpersonal Skills:

  • Resolves conflict, builds consensus.

  • Communicates and presents ideas clearly.

  • Understands the agendas and perspective of others.

  • Communicates effectively, both verbally and in writing.

  • Assists in the preparation of technical reports and papers.

  • Listens to and understands instructions, and requests clarification as required.

  • Demonstrates the ability to be a team player.

  • Relates to people in an open, friendly, and sincere manner.

Decision Making & Business Awareness:

  • Develops an understanding of AEP's organizational structure and the specific role and responsibility of their individual business unit.

  • Develops a basic understanding of utility accounting and financing.

  • Demonstrates an attitude, ability and desire to listen to and satisfy both internal and external customers who use and depend on our work.

  • Participation in professional and business organizations is encouraged. Develops decision-making skills under guidance of higher-level employees.

  • Develops an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of the local organizational unit.

What we're looking for:

For SG 06 Engineering Technologist Associate/Engineer Associate:

  • This is an entry level position for new graduates with a bachelor's degree in engineering technology or engineering in a program accredited by ABET** .

    • ** ABET - Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.

Acceptable alternative is:

(1) a Bachelor's degree in engineering technology (non-ABET) plus a Master's degree or PhD in engineering technology from a university with an ABET accredited Bachelor's program.

***VP or above may waive the requirement for a degree from a university with an Non ABET accredited program

For the SG 07 Engineering Technologist or Engineer:

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering technology or engineering in a program accredited by ABET** with typically 2 years of related work experience.

    • ** ABET - Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.

Acceptable alternative is:

  • (1) a Bachelor's degree in engineering technology (non-ABET) plus a Master's degree or PhD in engineering technology from a university with an ABET accredited Bachelor's program.

  • ***VP or above may waive the requirement for a degree from a university with an Non ABET accredited program

What you'll get:

SG 06: Base Salary from $74,551-$93,189/year.

SG 07: Base Salary from $87,633-$109,544/year.

In addition to a competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.

At AEP, we're more than just an energy company - we're a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!

Compensation Data

Compensation Grade:

SP20-006

Compensation Range:

$74,551.00 - $109,543.00

The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S - Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.

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It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.