Research Equipment Specialist III

Cherokee Federal•Tuscaloosa, AL

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Research Equipment Specialist III provides advanced testing, evaluation, troubleshooting, calibration, and technical support for scientific instrumentation, electronic systems, and computerized hydrologic data collection equipment supporting our federal client. This role plans and conducts non-routine technical assignments, develops testing methods and evaluation procedures, documents results, and coordinates closely with Government engineers, researchers, and technical staff to ensure equipment functionality, data quality, and operational continuity.

Requirements

Typically requires an Associate Degree and 5–7 years of practical experience, plus relevant vocational or technical training aligned to research equipment, scientific instrumentation, hydrologic monitoring systems, electronics, technical evaluation, or related technical support work.
Demonstrated experience performing non-routine equipment testing, evaluation, troubleshooting, and calibration on electronic and computerized systems.
Ability to develop and improve test methods and evaluation procedures; ability to execute work with limited oversight and strong technical judgment.
Skilled in technical documentation and records management; able to produce clear, accurate evaluation results, summaries, and supporting records.
Ability to work safely and effectively in laboratory, testing, evaluation, electronics, and calibration environments; comply with federal procedures and OSHA safety requirements.
Strong oral and written English communication skills; able to coordinate with engineers, researchers, and operational teams and provide professional customer support.
Ability to work onsite in Tuscaloosa, AL; must live within 35 miles of Tuscaloosa, AL.
Must be able to complete required background investigation, facility access requirements, and Government cybersecurity/security training as required.
Must safeguard Government property, equipment, records, and information; secure work areas and sensitive assets in accordance with Government requirements.
Must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.

Responsibilities

Perform advanced testing and evaluation of research equipment with electronic and computerized components to determine functionality and effectiveness for hydrologic scientific data collection.
Plan and execute complete technical projects of limited scope or lead defined portions of larger testing, evaluation, scientific support, and operational readiness efforts.
Develop, adapt, and implement testing methods, evaluation procedures, and supporting structures for new or evolving hydrologic data collection technologies and monitoring systems.
Conduct operational assessments, troubleshoot technical issues, and perform performance evaluations on scientific instrumentation, electronic systems, and computerized monitoring equipment.
Support maintenance, configuration, setup, calibration, validation, and troubleshooting of scientific instrumentation and technical systems in laboratory and operational environments.
Utilize specialized laboratory/testing/calibration equipment and follow established technical practices, safety requirements, and Government direction.
Produce and maintain accurate technical documentation, including evaluation reports, operational summaries, calibration records, anomaly/discrepancy documentation, and status updates (weekly or monthly as required).
Communicate results, risks, and recommendations clearly; coordinate activities with Government personnel, engineers, researchers, contractors, and operational staff.
Support research activities, training support, surge operations, and operational readiness initiatives as needed to meet mission requirements.
Provide technical coordination, guidance, or oversight to junior personnel supporting testing and evaluation activities, as assigned.
Performs other job-related duties as assigned.