Research Associate, Research Scientist, Research Assistant​/Associate

Job Summary

Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) College of Engineering Technology (CET), Department of Civil Engineering Technology, Environmental Management, and Safety (CETEMS) is inviting applications for a Research Associate position. The start date of these positions is negotiable and can be as early as May 2026, but no later than October 2026.

The responsibility of the Research Associate position includes the following functions.

• Performing and conducting scientific/engineering tests, experiments, surveys and/or programming
• Data entry, observation, collection, and/or organization
• Prescribed analysis and interpretation of collected data, and produces reports supporting analysis
• Maintain and operate lab equipment and space in support of research/engineering projects
• A small portion of the job may perform duties in the Researcher/Engineer track.

Summary:

Provides limited, routine, and repetitive technical and non-technical support for a research/engineering project, team, lab, or facility requiring application of standard techniques, procedures, and criteria. Non routine decision making relies heavily on consultation with supervisor. Receives detailed instructions on all new work assignments. Works under close supervision and demonstrates independence as duties are learned. Duties are routine and structured. Follows protocols with little to no deviation.

Solves repetitive problems.

Typical Functions:

• Assist researchers/engineers with routine and repetitive tests, experiments, measurements, surveys, and/or programming under close technical supervision.
• Supports research/engineering function by performing basic tasks in the operation and maintenance of research/engineering instrumentation and equipment.
• Cleans research/engineering equipment and instruments.
• Maintains logs, records, and databases.
• Assists in gathering and entering data using routine techniques and methods.
• Validates data.
• Observes conditions and identifies and reports concerns or changes to senior staff or faculty.
• Maintains inventories and requisitions supplies for assigned areas.
• Assist with research/engineering work including labeling, preliminary sorting, measuring, processing and shipping samples.

May train students on proper use of equipment and basic procedures. May present a written report on the data collected or results of experiments, tests, surveys, programming, etc, or provide data for use in other manuscripts or reports. May produce charts and graphs to display trends in data. Performs routine library work, including finding literature and copying articles. May provide administrative support for research/engineering activities such as ordering research supplies, maintaining inventory, receiving and stocking research/engineering supplies, tracking repairs, etc.

May pick up and deliver equipment and supplies and ensure proper removal of hazardous waste. Participate in research team meetings to discuss project progress and findings.

• Prepare research proposals
• Conduct research and publish
• Assist in laboratory and field testing
• Assist in students mentoring
• Assist in outreach and data collection activities

Basic knowledge to perform simple repetitive tasks related to a scientific or engineering field. Basic knowledge of laboratory/research/engineering techniques, equipment and terminology. Basic skills and abilities including use of simple hand tools, power tools, heavy machinery or other equipment. Basic to intermediate math, reading and writing skills. Ability to effectively communicate.

Education/

Experience:

Associate's degree in a related field and one year of related experience OR combination of related experience and education may be considered.

Successful applicants will have experience or degree(s) in one of the following areas.

• Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS)
• Gas and air emission monitoring
• Information technology and database development
• Web programming and mobile App development
• Artificial Intelligence, natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning
• Connected and autonomous vehicles
• Disaster and natural Hazard…