NIAR Research Associate - Composites

WICHITA STATE UNIVERSITY; Wichita (KS); On-site; USD 60,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Wichita State University seeks a motivated Research Associate to support laboratory research, process development, and materials testing in the NIAR Composites & Structures department.

You will work with experienced researchers on hands-on activities, contribute to quality improvements, and help advance industry-leading composites research.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related STEM field is required.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a lab setting.

Responsibilities

• Perform daily laboratory activities to support quality and process improvements.
• Design and conduct specialized research under senior staff guidance.
• Provide status updates and final results reports for projects.
• Support projects that advance industry-leading research in composites.

Skills

Self-starter

Time management

Attention to detail

Analytical aptitude

Effective communication

Team player

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related STEM field

Job description

Department: NIAR Composites & Structures

Campus Location: 4004 N. Webb Rd Wichita, KS - NIAR / NCAT Campus

Hire Type: Full Time

Pay: Commensurate with experience

Work Schedule: Typically Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm; work is performed on-site and in person.

Export Compliance Requirement:This position requires access to EAR or ITAR controlled technologies. Applicants are required to be eligible for employment under U.S. export control laws and must meet the requirement of being a "U.S. Person".

Job Details

We are seeking a motivated and detail‑oriented Research Associate to support laboratory research, process development, and materials testing within the Composites & Structures department. In this role, you will work alongside experienced researchers to execute hands‑on laboratory activities, contribute to quality and process improvements, and support projects that drive industry‑leading advancements. If you are a self‑starter with a passion for applied research, we invite you to apply.

Job Summary

Performs daily laboratory activities with the objective of achieving optimal quality control, process implementation and project performance. Reports outcomes throughout the process and at project conclusion.

Essential Functions

Designs and conducts specialized research as instructed by senior laboratory staff. Provide periodic status reports as requested and provide results report as project conclusion. Reviews research laboratory procedures, recommends updates to current procedures and implements new procedures as appropriate.

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related STEM field

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to initiate work as a self-starter and to prioritize with time management skills
• Demonstrated ability with attention to detail and analytical aptitude
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as team player; work in an environment that builds people, engages the community, and provides customer satisfaction
• Strong problem‑solving skills with the ability to think critically

Physical Requirements:

Ability to ascend and descend ladders and/or stairs. Ability to position self to place, construct, and/or maintain equipment and items in designated spaces. This includes but is not limited to the ability to work in confined and elevated spaces. Ability to inspect and/or surveil materials, equipment, reports, and/or incidents and identify any errors, needs and/or determining factors. Ability to interpret effectively, accurately and impartially, both receptively and expressively. Ability to remain in a stationary position. Ability to communicate with others and accurately exchange information. Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment including but not limited to phone, printers, copiers, and calculators. Ability to use tools, equipment, and technology necessary to do the job. This includes dexterity in instrument manipulation. Ability to move or traverse across campus, within buildings and offices, and/or across external environments.