Research Assistant; Mechanical Engineering

Location
Beaumont, TX
Job Type
Part-Time Graduate Research Assistant
Job Number

Home Org
Mechanical Engineering
Opening Date
04/29/2026
Closing Date
8/31/2027 11:59 PM Central
FLSA
Exempt

The Research Assistant will support research and laboratory activities in the Mechanical Engineering Department, focusing on manufacturing and materials processing.

• Fabricating samples using various manufacturing and additive manufacturing methods
• Designing experiments and performing various mechanical tests, including tension, compression, bending, fatigue analysis, and digital image correlation analysis to evaluate material behavior under different conditions.
• Collecting, processing and analyzing experimental data to identify mechanical trends and performance characteristics.
• Performing microscopy and materials characterization to examine surface and internal features, conducting finite element simulations using tools such as ANSYS or ABAQUS, preparing technical reports, journal manuscripts, and conference papers.
• Assisting with laboratory equipment set-up, calibration and maintenance, and collaborating with other graduate and undergraduate researchers on ongoing projects.
  The position requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently in both office and laboratory environments.

• Preparing technical reports, journal manuscripts, and conference papers.
• Fabricating samples using various manufacturing and additive manufacturing methods.
• Designing experiments and performing various mechanical tests, including tension, compression, bending, fatigue analysis, and digital image correlation analysis to evaluate material behavior under different conditions.
• Collecting, processing, and analyzing experimental data to identify mechanical trends and performance characteristics.
• Performing microscopy and materials characterization to examine surface and internal features.
• Conducting finite element simulations using tools such as ANSYS or ABAQUS.
• Assisting with laboratory equipment set-up, calibration and maintenance.
• Collaborating with other graduate and undergraduate researchers on ongoing projects.
• Investigating and evaluating new materials, processes, or techniques to advance ongoing research objectives.
• Participating in group meetings, trainings, seminars, and professional development activities to stay current with advances in the field.

• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, or relevant field.
• Enrollment in a graduate program in Mechanical Engineering.
• Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Manufacturing Engineering or a related discipline.
• Strong academic background and motivation for doctoral-level research.
• Ability to communicate effectively in English, both written and verbal.
• Hands‑on experience with mechanical testing or materials processing.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Specialized skills for tools such as ANSYS and ABAQUS.
• Strong technical writing skills for reports and publications.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while working at a computer or in a laboratory setting.
• Ability to lift and carry materials or equipment weighing up to 25 lbs occasionally.
• Visual acuity to read technical documents, drawings, and computer screens.

• Part-time position (20 hours per week max).

• Work may involve both office and laboratory environments.

• Occasional lifting of equipment up to 25 lbs.

• Flexible schedule but must meet deadlines and attend scheduled meetings.

• Compliance with university safety and research protocols.

Lamar University is An Equal Opportunity Employer

Lamar University is proud to provide employment preference to veteran applicants in accordance with Texas 805 Government Code, Section 657.003.

This position is security-sensitive and thereby subject to the provisions of the Texas Education Code §51.215, which authorizes the employer to obtain criminal history record information.