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Temporary Purdue Research Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Lead HVAC Mechanic

Hammond, IN · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

Hammond Overview of Lead HVAC Mechanic The Central Heating and Cooling Department at Purdue ... Supervises and assists other crafts when requested Also to include temporary assignments, that may ...

Temporary Purdue Research information

What is a temporary Purdue research position?

Temporary Purdue Research positions are short-term roles at Purdue University designed to support faculty-led research projects. These positions may involve tasks such as data collection, laboratory work, analysis, or other research-related duties. They are ideal for students, recent graduates, or professionals seeking research experience on a temporary basis. Employment duration can vary, typically lasting a few months up to one year, depending on project needs. Temporary research positions often provide valuable experience and skills relevant to future academic or industry careers.

What does a temporary Purdue research assistant do?

As a Temporary Purdue Research staff member, your daily tasks will vary depending on the specific department and research focus. You may assist with data collection, literature reviews, laboratory experiments, or supporting faculty with ongoing studies. Temporary roles often involve collaboration with graduate students, faculty, and other researchers, providing valuable exposure to different methodologies and research tools. While the positions are short-term, they offer excellent opportunities to gain hands-on experience and develop professional connections in the academic research environment.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a temporary Purdue research assistant?

To thrive as a Temporary Purdue Research Assistant, you generally need a solid background in scientific research methods, data analysis, and relevant academic coursework or degree in your field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical software (such as SPSS, R, or MATLAB), and compliance with research protocols and safety standards is typically required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for managing multiple tasks and collaborating with research teams. These skills ensure accurate data collection, reliable research outcomes, and smooth project progress in a fast-paced academic environment.

What is the difference between Temporary Purdue Research vs Temporary Research Assistant?

AspectTemporary Purdue ResearchTemporary Research Assistant
Required CredentialsRelevant research experience, possibly a degree in a related fieldTypically a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field
Work EnvironmentUniversity research labs, academic settingsLaboratories, academic institutions, research centers
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily academic institutions, research projects at PurdueUniversities, research organizations, labs
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding temporary research roles at PurdueComparing research assistant roles in academic settings

Temporary Purdue Research positions focus on short-term research projects at Purdue University, often requiring specific research experience. Temporary Research Assistant roles are similar but may be more general, often requiring a relevant degree and working in various academic labs. Both roles involve supporting research activities but differ mainly in scope and specific employer context.

What are the most commonly searched types of Purdue Research jobs in Indiana?

The most popular types of Purdue Research jobs in Indiana are:

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Temporary Purdue Research jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Temporary Purdue Research job openings:

Infographic showing various Temporary Purdue Research job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

UAS Research Operations Administrator

Purdue University

West Lafayette, IN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Guide, develop, support, and lead UAS and ground mission planning activities.

  • Manage data collection, processing, inventory, and dissemination for research projects.

  • Oversee the operation and maintenance of UAS/BackPack labs, sensors, and equipment.


Purdue University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 136 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

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Job description

UAS Research Operations Administrator
City: West Lafayette
Job Description:
Job Summary
The Institute for Digital Forestry is seeking a UAS Research Operations Administrator. In this role, you will guide, develop, support, and/or lead unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and ground (BackPack) mission planning. You will be responsible for data collection and implementation, data inventory and processing, and develop or aid experimental design for multiple Institute projects, faculty, staff researchers, and graduate and undergraduate students. In addition, you will maintain UAS/BackPack labs, sensors, and equipment and advance other tasks as independently developed or assigned.
What You'll Be Doing:
  • Training undergraduate, graduate, and temp staff assistants in UAS technology
  • Ensuring all Institute for Digital Forestry UAS operations are in compliance with pertinent regulations including FAA Part 107 Commercial UAS and NDAA compliance
  • Administering data catalog for primary Institute data repository
  • Testing, utilizing, and overseeing the use of automated data processing pipelines
  • Reviewing, analyzing, and interpreting collected UAS and ground-based data
  • Managing dissemination of raw and processed data to research/stakeholder groups
  • Documenting results for presentations and/or reporting to internal and external audience
  • Engaging in detailed documentation of training content and workflows: Aircraft Checklists, UAS Mission Planning, UAS Sensor Operation, Accurate and detailed data processing training documentation/workflows
  • Overseeing both high level and day-to-day operations of Institute data collection missions
  • Reporting on existing and upcoming data collection plans
  • Working with Institute faculty/researchers to coordinate and plan data collection and/or experimental design
  • Planning personnel travel and equipment transportation for data collection missions
  • Operating and implementing an equipment management website for check-in, check-out, and utilization of Institute equipment
  • Operating, cleaning, and maintaining research equipment and research area
  • Tracking inventory levels and placing replenishment/replacement orders as needed
  • Monitoring the lab for missing or broken equipment and reporting all problems (hardware, software and facilities) in a timely manner
  • Contributing technical and operational expertise to sponsored program proposals containing UAS/ground missions
  • Contributing technical and mission expertise to sponsored program reports to funding agencies
  • Assisting/leading development and implementation of technical workshops for Institute and Purdue personnel and external stakeholders
  • Representing the Institute at professional and public stakeholder conferences and meetings
  • Advising prospective UAS users on all aspects of UAS operations and missions
  • Offering guest lectures on UAS/Digital Forestry to relevant undergraduate/graduate courses
  • Assisting with teaching FNR Summer practicum

What We're Looking For:
  • Bachelors in natural resources, ecology, geography or related field
  • 2 years of operational experience with UAS, including related hardware/software
  • In lieu of degree, an equivalent combination of education and experience may also be considered (Associates + 4 years of experience)
  • Must show proof of an up to date 14 CFR Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate
  • Must be able to work independently to complete assigned tasks in a timely manner
  • Must have strong problem-solving skills to address issues and problems that come up with Equipment
  • Must have strong communication abilities to work with undergraduate assistant pilots and affiliated faculty to address and report completed tasks
  • Ability to work in a team with strong time management and willingness to learn new skills and ideas
  • Excellent writing and verbal communication skills, strong work ethic, and enthusiasm
  • Excellent organizational, leadership, time management, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills

What We'd Like You to Know:
  • This position works between the hours of 8-5, Monday - Friday. At times the position will also call for making flights off hours, and on weekends.
  • Learn more about Purdue's benefits summary
  • Purdue will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
  • A Background Check is required for employment in this position
  • FLSA: Exempt (Not Eligible For Overtime)
  • Retirement Eligibility: Defined Contributions Waiting Period

Career Stream
Professional 2
  • Pay Band: S065
  • Job Code: 20002104

Career Path Maker: https://www.purdue.edu/hr/careerpathmaker/
Who We Are
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