Lead Research Scientist, Structural Engineering

Virginia Department of Transportation; Charlottesville (VA); On-site; USD 95,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Virginia Department of Transportation in Charlottesville seeks an experienced researcher to lead and conduct high-level transportation research across structural, hydraulic, geotechnical, and bridge safety domains. You will plan and direct complex projects, analyze data, and publish results to professional audiences.

The role requires a Master’s (or PhD) in Civil/Transportation Engineering, strong analytical skills, and experience with finite element analysis software to advance VDOT

Qualifications

• Ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences at local, state, and national levels.
• Ability to conceptualize and manage multiple complex research projects.
• Ability to independently generate research ideas and assess agency needs.
• Knowledge of advanced research design, statistics, and engineering mathematics.
• Knowledge of civil engineering principles including statics, structural analysis, and materials.
• Master's Degree in Civil Engineering, Transportation Engineering or related field.
• PhD in Civil Engineering, Transportation Engineering or related field.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership in conceiving, planning, directing, and conducting highly complex transportation research projects.
• Publish findings through reports, papers, and presentations to professional audiences.
• Develop and implement advanced analytical methods and FE modeling for bridge and structural systems.

Skills

Effective communication

Project management

Research design

Data analysis

Civil engineering principles

Bridge & structural engineering

Computer literacy

Numerical methods

Education

Master's Degree in Civil Engineering

PhD in Civil Engineering

Tools

Finite element analysis software

Job description

Virginia Department of Transportation in Charlottesville seeks an experienced researcher to lead and conduct high-level transportation research across structural, hydraulic, geotechnical, and bridge safety domains. You will plan and direct complex projects, analyze data, and publish results to professional audiences.

The role requires a Master’s (or PhD) in Civil/Transportation Engineering, strong analytical skills, and experience with finite element analysis software to advance VDOT