Research Engineer BS4979

Oklahoma State University•Stillwater, OK

1d•$57,000 - $77,000•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Engineer to support cutting-edge research in agricultural robotics and automation for precision planting, fertilization, and other field production operations. The successful candidate will contribute to the design, development, testing, and deployment of robotic systems and intelligent sensing and control technologies for agricultural production. This position offers an exceptional opportunity to work closely with faculty, graduate and undergraduate students, industry partners, and funding agencies while pursuing advanced research leading to publications, technology transfer, and professional development.

Requirements

Bachelor's in Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering or related field (degree must be conferred on or before agreed upon start date)
Minimum of two (2) years of professional, research, or graduate-level experience in the design, development, and implementation of smart sensing, instrumentation, automation, or control systems for agricultural, biological, environmental, or related engineering applications
A minimum of two (2) years of experience in prototype development and system integration, including the use of 3D printing, electronic instrumentation, embedded systems, sensors, and machine shop tools and equipment
Experience in CAD-based mechanical design using SolidWorks or equivalent tools, including system-level prototype design
Experience planning, organizing, and conducting laboratory and field experiments, including data collection, system evaluation, troubleshooting, and documentation of research results
Demonstrated experience in data analysis, interpretation of experimental results, and preparation of technical reports, presentations, or scholarly publications
Driver license is required
Demonstrated proficiency in the design, development, integration, and troubleshooting of microcontroller-based sensing, instrumentation, automation, and control systems
Proficiency in rapid prototyping and fabrication, including 3D printing, CAD design, and operation of machine shop tools and equipment
Strong analytical and quantitative skills, including experience applying statistical methods, multivariate analysis, and machine learning techniques to research data
Proficiency in programming using Python and MATLAB for data analysis, automation, modeling, and system development
Knowledge of machine vision, robotics, autonomous systems, GPS/GNSS technologies, and precision agriculture applications is highly desirable
Ability to design, conduct, and document laboratory and field experiments
Ability to load/unload heavy equipment and haul a trailer to a long distance
Ability to operate machines to fabricate mechanical parts and prototyping materials
Ability to troubleshoot mechanical/electrical problems in field
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to prepare technical reports, scientific publications, presentations, and training materials
Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively in multidisciplinary research teams

Nice To Haves

Master's in Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering or related field
Experience on designing and integrating robotic, autonomous, or mechatronic systems for agricultural applications
Experience on developing software for embedded systems, robotics, machine vision, data acquisition, or autonomous control using Python, C/C++, MATLAB, ROS/ROS2, or similar platforms
Experience on applying machine learning, artificial intelligence, computer vision, or sensor fusion techniques to agricultural applications
Experience on managing or contributing to externally funded research projects, including project planning, progress reporting, and coordination of research activities
Experience on publishing peer-reviewed journal articles, conference proceedings, and technical reports
Experience on presenting technical information to diverse audiences
Experience mentoring, supervising, or training undergraduate students, graduate students, or technical personnel in laboratory and field research activities
Experience conducting agricultural field experiments involving crop production, agricultural machinery, precision agriculture technologies, or automated farming systems
Demonstrated ability to work independently and contribute effectively within multidisciplinary research teams
FE or PE certification
Advanced proficiency in robotics, mechatronics, or autonomous systems design with applications in agriculture or related field environments
Strong experience in embedded systems development, including sensor integration, real-time control, and edge computing for smart sensing applications
Proficiency with robotics and autonomy software frameworks (e.g., ROS/ROS2) and hardware-software co-design for robotic systems
Experience with computer vision, machine learning, and AI-based perception systems for field or agricultural applications
Knowledge of precision agriculture technologies, including GNSS/RTK systems, variable-rate application, and site-specific crop management
Additional experience in C/C++/Java is highly desirable
Experience on operating agricultural equipment
Ability to drive long distance to conduct field and lab experiments

Responsibilities

Design, develop, integrate, and operate robotic and automated systems for precision agricultural applications.
Design, instrument, and maintain laboratory and field research equipment, including 3D printers, embedded systems, microcontrollers, microcomputers, GPS/GNSS receivers, machine vision systems, sensors, wireless communication networks, and data acquisition systems.
Plan, organize, and conduct laboratory and field experiments related to agricultural robotics, automation, sensing and controls, and precision crop production.
Develop software and hardware solutions for robotic control, sensing, data collection, and autonomous operation.
Analyze experimental data using statistical, machine learning, and artificial intelligence methods to evaluate system performance and generate actionable insights.
Prepare technical reports, project deliverables, journal manuscripts, conference papers, and presentations.
Present research findings at professional conferences, stakeholder meetings, and technical workshops.
Develop training materials and conduct demonstrations for project sponsors and industry stakeholders.
Assist faculty investigators in the preparation of competitive grant proposals and research project development.
Support research activities under the supervision of faculty investigators, including literature reviews, technology evaluations, and implementation of engineering designs.
Maintain and troubleshoot laboratory equipment, computing resources, software systems, and research infrastructure.
Monitor laboratory and field research facilities to ensure efficient operation and data quality.
Supervise and mentor undergraduate and graduate students participating in research projects.
Ensure compliance with university policies, research protocols, safety requirements, and quality assurance standards.
Coordinate laboratory and field activities to support timely completion of project objectives.
Maintain accurate research records, documentation, and project files