Research Assistant Programmer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Departmental Lab and Accreditation Assistant

FLSA Classification

Part-time, Non-exempt

Reports to

Department Chair

Date

May 22, 2026

Job Description 

Summary/objective

The Departmental Lab and Accreditation Assistant provides essential support to the Department of Physics and Engineering at Randolph College. This part-time position plays a critical role in advancing the department’s ABET accreditation efforts for the Robotics and Mechatronics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Mechatronics Engineering Technology programs while also supporting day-to-day laboratory operations, instructional preparation, and faculty research activities. The position requires a detail-oriented, organized individual who can work both independently and collaboratively in an active academic environment. Initially, the primary focus of this role will be on ABET accreditation documentation, data collection, and process support. As accreditation milestones are met, responsibilities will shift proportionally toward broader laboratory, equipment, and teaching support.

Essential functions

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

Must effectively carry out the essential duties and responsibilities of this position in a manner that consistently demonstrates Randolph College’s mission and core values in a positive manner.

• Determine a schedule of what needs to be done.
• Assist in compiling, organizing, and maintaining documentation required for ABET accreditation for the three programs, including course files, syllabi, student outcome assessments, and continuous improvement records.
• Collect and organize student performance data and artifacts (lab reports, project samples, assessments) in support of program outcome evaluation.
• Help maintain and update the department’s accreditation binder and digital records in accordance with ABET criteria.
• Support faculty in preparing Self-Study Report materials, including tracking action items and documentation deadlines.
• Coordinate with faculty to ensure assessment instruments and rubrics are properly administered, collected, and filed.
• Assist with scheduling and logistics for any accreditation-related visits, meetings, or reviews.

• Assist with setup, maintenance, and breakdown of laboratory experiments and demonstrations for physics and engineering courses.
• Maintain an inventory of laboratory equipment, supplies, and consumables; flag items needing repair, replacement, or reorder.
• Perform basic equipment checks and maintenance tasks; coordinate with vendors or facilities staff for more complex repairs.
• Ensure laboratory spaces are organized, safe, and ready for scheduled classes and activities.
• Assist with the safe handling, storage, and disposal of laboratory materials in compliance with college safety policies.

• Assist faculty with preparation of instructional materials, handouts, and lab manuals.
• Support in-class laboratory sessions as needed, helping students with equipment operation and experimental procedures.
• Assist with ordering, receiving, and preparing materials for upcoming lab exercises.
• Help maintain and update course-related files, assignment records, and grade documentation as directed by faculty.

• Provide assistance to faculty and student research projects as time and expertise allow.
• Help prepare materials, set up equipment, and document results for ongoing departmental research activities.
• Assist with literature searches, data entry, or other research support tasks as directed.

Competencies

• Associate’s degree or higher in a science, technology, engineering, or related field, OR equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Strong organizational skills with demonstrated ability to manage records, files, and deadlines.
• Basic proficiency with computers and standard office/productivity software (Microsoft Office and Google Suite).
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions accurately and work with minimal supervision.
• Attention to detail and commitment to accuracy in data collection and record-keeping.
• Ability to lift and move laboratory equipment up to 30 lbs.

• Experience in an academic laboratory, research, or technical environment.
• Familiarity with accreditation processes (ABET or similar) or quality management documentation.
• Experience with laboratory equipment used in physics or engineering coursework (e.g., instrumentation, electronics, measurement systems).
• Familiarity with data management tools or learning management systems (e.g., Moodle).
• Experience in engineering fields.

Supervisory responsibilities

none

Work environment

Work is performed primarily in laboratory and office environments within the Department of Physics and Engineering. Hours are flexible within the part-time schedule and will be coordinated with the department chair to align with class schedules, lab sessions, and accreditation timelines. Some variation in weekly hours may occur based on accreditation deadlines and academic calendar needs..

Physical demands

Requires standing/walking/sitting for extended periods. The position requires occasional lifting of equipment and materials.

Travel required

May travel infrequently on College business.

Required education and experience

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Required education and experience

• Bachelor’s degree required.

Preferred education and experience

• Master’s degree and/or certification in engineering.
• Experience working in a higher education environment.

Additional eligibility requirements

None.

Work authorization/security clearance requirements

Must be authorized to work in the United States. Pre-employment criminal background checks.

Affirmative Action/EEO statement

Randolph College is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate or allow discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, sex (including pregnancy), gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, political beliefs, or any other classification protected by applicable law. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including but not limited to hiring, promotion, termination, placement, transfer, layoff, recall, compensation, and training.

Other duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.