Research Scientist/Engineer

ARA Career•Randolph, VT

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Integrated Products Division (IPD) of Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is seeking a Research Scientist / Engineer to join its Advanced Technology Team. In this role, you will work with a team of multidisciplinary scientists and engineers to solve challenging technical issues, lead research and development initiatives, and write proposals to acquire new projects for the division. IPD has 5 major focus areas: Robotics, Geotechnical Products, Sustainable Infrastructure and Security, Contract Engineering and Manufacturing, and Advanced Technology. The Advanced Technology vertical focuses on developing new technologies for both commercial and DoW applications. Technological successes from the team includes microrobotics technology development, Pathfinder Team Awareness Kit Integration, and advanced payload capabilities for autonomous robotic vehicles. This role requires collaboration and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced multidisciplinary research environment. ARA values dedication, professional development, and work-life balance.

Requirements

MS degree in physics, science, engineering, or related science.
3-5 years’ experience with MS Degree.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work well with different functional groups (Business development, marketing, engineering, manufacturing, etc.).
A self-starter that is not afraid to dive into the unknown alone and has demonstrated ‘workplace agility’ in fast-paced environments.
Ability to prioritize tasking and quickly understand complex subjects.
Team player attitude with a healthy dose of skepticism.

Nice To Haves

PhD is preferred in physics, science, engineering, or related discipline.
Familiarity with robotics, machine learning techniques, advanced ground/aerial vehicle systems, manufacturing processes, programming, PCB electronics design, RF communication, simulation, artificial intelligence, and documentation.
Experience with embedded Linux systems is highly desirable.
Expertise in C++, Matlab and/or Python software is highly desirable.
Familiarity with ROS2, Nix, Unreal Engine, CARLA, ProjectGL are advantageous.
Experience and comfort working in a chemical, biological, and/or engineering laboratory is highly preferred.
Multidisciplinary skills in different engineering fields.
Experience and comfort working with laboratory equipment such as centrifuges, fume hoods, PPE, biosafety cabinets, pipettes, electromagnetic systems, microscopes, and spectrophotometers.
Demonstrated ability to leverage artificial intelligence and understand its limitations.
Proven ability to document, present, and communicate complex subjects to diverse audiences.
Understanding of defense contracting, finances, and project management are highly advantageous.
Familiarity with the Shipley Method for proposal writing is a plus.

Responsibilities

Work with a multi-disciplinary team of research scientists, engineers and technicians in tackling challenging technical tasks toward delivering solutions.
Develop hardware and software solutions to difficult challenges across IPD verticals.
Develop experimental plans, define performance metrics, and carry out experiments individually or in a group.
Travel to job sites to perform project work, interface with customers, and help promote ARA technology to clients.
Pursue opportunities for both existing ARA technology and new technology conceived from the Advanced Technology Team – including proposal submissions for project and IR&Ds.
Help lead internal research and development efforts and solve technical issues across IPD projects.
Generate data, write detailed technical reports, and provide presentations to stakeholders.