Research Assistant (Mechanical Engineering)

Lamar University; Beaumont (TX); On-site; USD 20,000 - 30,000; Part time

Job summary

Lamar University in Beaumont, TX seeks a Part-Time Graduate Research Assistant in Mechanical Engineering. The role supports manufacturing and materials processing research in the lab, with emphasis on experiments, data analysis, and reporting.

Enrollment in a graduate program is required, with strong writing and communication skills for papers and presentations. Responsibilities include fabricating samples, performing mechanical tests, conducting simulations, and collaborating with graduate and

Qualifications

• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering or related field required.

Responsibilities

• Fabricate samples using manufacturing and additive manufacturing methods.
• Design experiments and perform mechanical tests (tension, compression, bending, fatigue, DIC).
• Collect, process and analyze experimental data to identify trends.
• Perform microscopy and materials characterization; run FE simulations (ANSYS/ABAQUS).
• Prepare technical reports, journal manuscripts, and conference papers.
• Assist with lab setup, calibration and maintenance; collaborate with other researchers.

Skills

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Independent work

English communication

Mechanical testing

Education

B.S. in Mechanical Engineering

Enrollment in graduate program (Mechanical Engineering)

Master’s degree in ME/related field

Tools

ANSYS

ABAQUS

Job description

Location
Beaumont, TX
Job Type
Part-Time Graduate Research Assistant
Job Number
202600234
Home Org
Mechanical Engineering
Opening Date
04/29/2026
Closing Date
8/31/2027 11:59 PM Central
FLSA
Exempt

Job Summary

The Research Assistant will support research and laboratory activities in the Mechanical Engineering Department, focusing on manufacturing and materials processing.

Responsibilities include

• Fabricating samples using various manufacturing and additive manufacturing methods
• Designing experiments and performing various mechanical tests, including tension, compression, bending, fatigue analysis, and digital image correlation analysis to evaluate material behavior under different conditions.
• Collecting, processing and analyzing experimental data to identify mechanical trends and performance characteristics.
• Performing microscopy and materials characterization to examine surface and internal features, conducting finite element simulations using tools such as ANSYS or ABAQUS, preparing technical reports, journal manuscripts, and conference papers.
• Assisting with laboratory equipment set-up, calibration and maintenance, and collaborating with other graduate and undergraduate researchers on ongoing projects.
  The position requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently in both office and laboratory environments.

Essential Job Functions

• Preparing technical reports, journal manuscripts, and conference papers.
• Fabricating samples using various manufacturing and additive manufacturing methods.
• Designing experiments and performing various mechanical tests, including tension, compression, bending, fatigue analysis, and digital image correlation analysis to evaluate material behavior under different conditions.
• Collecting, processing, and analyzing experimental data to identify mechanical trends and performance characteristics.
• Performing microscopy and materials characterization to examine surface and internal features.
• Conducting finite element simulations using tools such as ANSYS or ABAQUS.
• Assisting with laboratory equipment set-up, calibration and maintenance.
• Collaborating with other graduate and undergraduate researchers on ongoing projects.
• Investigating and evaluating new materials, processes, or techniques to advance ongoing research objectives.
• Participating in group meetings, trainings, seminars, and professional development activities to stay current with advances in the field.

Minimum and Desired Qualifications

• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, or relevant field.
• Enrollment in a graduate program in Mechanical Engineering.
• Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Manufacturing Engineering or a related discipline.
• Strong academic background and motivation for doctoral-level research.
• Ability to communicate effectively in English, both written and verbal.
• Hands‑on experience with mechanical testing or materials processing.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Specialized skills for tools such as ANSYS and ABAQUS.
• Strong technical writing skills for reports and publications.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while working at a computer or in a laboratory setting.
• Ability to lift and carry materials or equipment weighing up to 25 lbs occasionally.
• Visual acuity to read technical documents, drawings, and computer screens.

Supplemental Information

• Part-time position (20 hours per week max).

• Work may involve both office and laboratory environments.

• Occasional lifting of equipment up to 25 lbs.

• Flexible schedule but must meet deadlines and attend scheduled meetings.

• Compliance with university safety and research protocols.

Lamar University is An Equal Opportunity Employer

Lamar University is proud to provide employment preference to veteran applicants in accordance with Texas 805 Government Code, Section 657.003.

This position is security-sensitive and thereby subject to the provisions of the Texas Education Code §51.215, which authorizes the employer to obtain criminal history record information.