Research Associate, Research Scientist, Systems Engineer

Salary: See Position Description
Location : Richland County, SC
Job Type: FTE - Full-Time
Job Number: 7164997
Agency: University of South Carolina
Opening Date: 05/20/2026
Closing Date: 7/16/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Agency Specific Application Procedures:: Your application must be submitted online at
Class Code:: UG83
Position Number:: 7164997
Normal

Work Schedule:

: Monday - Friday (8:30 - 5:00)
Pay Grade: Unclassified
Opening Date: 05/20/2026
EEO Statement: Equal Opportunity Employer
Veteran Preference Statement: South Carolina is making our Veterans a priority for employment in state agencies and institutions.

Job Responsibilities

Research Associate Department:

CEC Mechanical Engineering

Part/Full Time:

Full Time

Advertised Salary Range:

About UofSC

From the Upstate to the Low country, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor's degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning.

All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service - helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.

Advertised

Job Summary

A research associate will investigate and develop autonomous systems, such as unmanned surface vessels. Design and develop sensors (camera and lidar), guidance, navigation, and control systems onboard unmanned surface vessels (USVs). Implement guidance, navigation, and control algorithms for autonomous vehicle operation in the littoral environment. Maintain and operate the USVs in littoral environments to acquire measurements required to meet research goals.

Analyze data acquired using MATLAB or other programming languages. Documenting technical results and presenting the results in project meetings and conferences. Assistance in proposal preparations, journal article preparation, and supervising undergraduate and graduate students.
Minimum and Additional Requirements

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• MATLAB and Python programming.

• C++, Hardware, and software experience in developing autonomous systems.

Preferred Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Engineering, Physical Sciences, or related field,OR a Master's degree in a relevant engineering field of study with more than 3 years of experience.
Additional Comments

Job Close Date

07/16/2026

Special Instructions to Applicant Applicants must provide a copy of their C.V and a list of at least 3 contacts/references
Positions are advertised for a minimum of five (5) business days on our job website. After five (5) business days, positions can be closed at the discretion of the department at any time. This employment site is updated on a regular basis. The length of the recruitment and screening process may vary from position to position, depending upon a variety of factors.

Should review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted by phone or email. We are only accepting applications submitted by July 16, 2026.

To apply , please visit:  Statement

The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities on the basis of race, sex, gender, gender identity, transgender status, age, color, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, genetics, protected veteran status, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions.

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Benefits for State Employees
The state of South Carolina offers eligible employees generous benefits, including health and dental insurance; retirement and savings plan options; and paid vacation and sick leave. Plus, work-life balance programs such as telecommuting and flexible work schedules are available to employees of some state agencies.

Insurance Benefits
Eligible employees may enroll in health insurance,…