ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Technical Research Assistant Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Vanderbilt University

Research Asst I

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

The Research Assistant will perform complex technical and operational duties to ensure safe, reproducible, and well-documented preclinical testing. Responsibilities include: * Preclinical Study ...

Vanderbilt Health

Research Assistant 1

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

TECHNICAL CAPABILITIES Required characteristics / minimum skills -Excellent organization and record ... supervising research assistants -Preparing scientific publications (depending on written ...

Komline

R&D Engineer

Hixson, TN · On-site

The Research & Development Engineer plays a key role in advancing stormwater management ... technical validation, and regulatory acceptance efforts. Responsibilities: * Assist in the design ...

NorthPoint Search Group

Audit Manager

Nashville, TN · On-site

$100K - $131K/yr

... technical research, and support client relationship growth. When: Full-time role available now ... credits. - Assist Partners with special projects as needed. - Build new client relationships ...

EPRI

Technical Administrative Assistant

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$58K - $65K/yr

Technical Administrative Assistant Provides administrative assistance to deliver customer requests ... Support technical staff to ensure research results and associated materials are stored in ...

Chromalox

Quality Technician

La Vergne, TN

$17 - $23/hr

... met. * Assist Quality Manager in identifying non-conformance causes and assists in non-conformance dispositioning by utilizing skills and technical research. * Completes Non-Conforming Material ...

Chromalox, Inc.

Quality Technician

La Vergne, TN

$17 - $23/hr

... met. * Assist Quality Manager in identifying non-conformance causes and assists in non-conformance dispositioning by utilizing skills and technical research. * Completes Non-Conforming Material ...

Spirax-Sarco Engineering

Quality Technician

La Vergne, TN

$17 - $23/hr

... met. * Assist Quality Manager in identifying non-conformance causes and assists in non-conformance dispositioning by utilizing skills and technical research. * Completes Non-Conforming Material ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTechnical Research JobsTechnical Research Assistant JobsTechnical Research Assistant Jobs in Tennessee

Technical Research Assistant information

See Tennessee salary details

$17.2K

$40.2K

$69.4K

How much do technical research assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for technical research assistant in Tennessee is $40,177.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,000.00 and $39,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a technical research assistant?

Technical Research Assistants are professionals who support research teams by performing technical tasks such as data collection, analysis, laboratory work, and maintaining equipment. They often assist with experiments, literature reviews, and documentation, enabling researchers to focus on interpreting results and designing studies. Their work is crucial in ensuring the accuracy and efficiency of scientific, academic, or industrial research projects.

What are some common challenges faced by technical research assistants in managing multiple research projects simultaneously?

Technical Research Assistants often juggle several projects at once, which can present challenges in time management and prioritization. Balancing data collection, literature reviews, and technical analysis across different projects requires strong organizational skills and effective communication with supervisors and team members. Staying adaptable and using project management tools can help in meeting deadlines and maintaining high research quality. It's also important to proactively clarify expectations and seek guidance when priorities shift unexpectedly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a technical research assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Technical Research Assistant, you need a strong background in scientific research methods, data analysis, and typically a bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with statistical software (such as SPSS or R), laboratory equipment, and research databases is commonly required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication are vital soft skills for managing data and collaborating with research teams. These skills ensure the accuracy, reliability, and clear presentation of research findings, which are essential for advancing scientific projects.

What is the difference between Technical Research Assistant vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectTechnical Research AssistantLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in science or engineering, research experienceAssociate's or bachelor's degree, technical training
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, industry R&DLaboratories, clinical settings, manufacturing facilities
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, biotech companiesHospitals, diagnostic labs, manufacturing firms
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

The Technical Research Assistant typically engages in supporting research projects, data analysis, and experimental procedures within research-focused environments. In contrast, Laboratory Technicians focus on conducting routine tests, maintaining lab equipment, and supporting daily lab operations. While both roles require technical skills and laboratory experience, the Technical Research Assistant often involves more analytical and research-oriented tasks, whereas Laboratory Technicians handle more operational and technical support functions.

Do research assistants get paid a lot?

Research assistants, including those in technical roles, typically earn moderate salaries that vary based on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions often pay hourly wages, while more experienced assistants or those with specialized skills may earn higher pay. Overall, research assistant salaries are generally lower than those of full-time professionals in related fields.

How much does a technical research assistant get paid?

The average salary for a technical research assistant ranges from $40,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or advanced degrees can earn higher salaries. Compensation often includes benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

What are the most commonly searched types of Technical Research jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Technical Research jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Technical Research Assistant jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Technical Research Assistant job openings:

Technical Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Technical Research Assistant job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,177 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Research Asst I

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN • On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Vanderbilt University rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

152nd of 627 rated colleges and universities

Job description


Position Summary:
The Research Assistant is part of the Mechanical Engineering Department in the Dong Lab at Vanderbilt University and is a key individual contributor responsible for evaluating airway medical devices in small- and large-animal models.
The Research Assistant will plan, coordinate, and execute preclinical studies that assess device performance, usability, safety, and biological response in the airway. Responsibilities include developing test methods and study plans; preparing devices, fixtures, and instrumentation; supporting procedures under approved animal-use protocols and veterinary oversight; acquiring and analyzing physiological, imaging, and device-performance data; maintaining complete study records; and communicating results to the research team. The Assistant will collaborate with faculty, veterinarians, surgeons, research staff, students, and external partners to translate prototypes toward clinically relevant validation.
About the Work Unit:
The Department of Mechanical Engineering at Vanderbilt University advances research and education in biomedical devices, mechatronics and control, advanced manufacturing, rehabilitation engineering, surgical and soft robotics, nanoscience, and aerospace engineering. The Dong Lab develops innovative medical devices and robotic technologies for challenging clinical applications. This position will support the lab's airway-device program by connecting engineering design with rigorous preclinical evaluation in close partnership with veterinary and clinical collaborators.
Key Functions and Expected Performance:
The Research Assistant will perform complex technical and operational duties to ensure safe, reproducible, and well-documented preclinical testing. Responsibilities include:
  • Preclinical Study Planning: translate research objectives into testable endpoints, study plans, acceptance criteria, schedules, equipment lists, and data-collection procedures for small- and large-animal studies.
  • Animal Study Coordination:
    • Coordinate small-animal studies and large-animal studies with veterinary staff, clinical collaborators, core facilities, and the principal investigator.

Support study activities only under current IACUC-approved protocols, institutional policies, required training, and direction from qualified veterinary or clinical personnel.
  • Prepare procedure rooms, devices, sterile supplies, airway models, imaging systems, sensors, ventilation-related equipment, and emergency backup equipment before each study.
    • Assist with airway-device placement and evaluation, bronchoscopy or other imaging workflows, physiologic monitoring, specimen handling, and post-procedure activities within the individual's training and authorized role.
  • Medical Device Engineering and Testing: design or modify prototypes, fixtures, delivery systems, and instrumentation; develop bench and ex vivo tests that inform animal studies; troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, fluidic, imaging, and software interfaces; and document device configuration and verification results.
  • Data, Quality, and Documentation: acquire synchronized device, imaging, video, and physiological data; maintain traceable study records; analyze results using appropriate statistical and engineering methods; prepare figures, reports, presentations, and protocol materials; and contribute to design reviews, risk assessments, manuscripts, grant reports, and regulatory-facing documentation.

Supervisory Relationships:
This position does not have supervisory responsibility; this position reports administratively and functionally to the lab faculty member, Dr. Xiaoguang Dong.
Education and Certifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Bioengineering, or a closely related field from an accredited institution is required; a master's degree is preferred.

Experience and Skills:
  • At least 1 year of work experience is preferred, but not required so long as the list of requirements below can be met.
  • Knowledge of animal-research compliance, IACUC protocols, biosafety, sterile technique, and humane study practices is required or must be acquired through Vanderbilt training before independent work.
  • Ability to develop clear test methods, follow controlled procedures, maintain accurate records, and troubleshoot complex experiments is required.
  • Proficiency with data analysis and technical documentation is required; experience with MATLAB, Python, LabVIEW, ImageJ, CAD, or equivalent engineering tools is preferred.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with engineers, scientists, veterinarians, clinicians, students, and external partners are required.
  • Strong organizational, time-management, critical-thinking, safety-awareness, and problem-solving skills are necessary.
  • Ability to work flexibly around scheduled animal procedures, including occasional early mornings, evenings, or extended study days, is required.
  • Demonstrated experience with medical-device development, experimental engineering, or preclinical research is required; experience with both small- and large-animal studies is strongly preferred.
  • Experience preparing and operating test instrumentation, sensors, imaging systems, data-acquisition hardware, and custom mechanical or mechatronic prototypes is preferred.
  • Experience with airway procedures, bronchoscopy, intubation, ventilation, anesthesia monitoring, or respiratory physiology in a research or clinical environment is strongly preferred.
  • Experience in an academic research, regulated product-development, or quality-managed laboratory setting is preferred.

About Us
At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of "America's Best Large Employers" as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running. We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice.
We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. We encourage you to apply today so that you might become a part of our story.
Vanderbilt University is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.

What Vanderbilt University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply