Research Associate

Weber State University; Ogden (UT); On-site; USD 28,000 - 40,000; Part time

Job summary

Weber State University seeks a Research Associate with a strong background in robotics, AI, and software development. The role involves designing Python/MATLAB tools, developing APIs, and building data pipelines for sensor data analysis.

The candidate will integrate AI models with robotic systems, collaborate with faculty and industry partners, and contribute to research outputs. A master’s degree is required and non-WSU applicants are welcome.

Qualifications

• Earned master’s degree in Robotics, CS, ME, EE, AI, or a closely related field.
• Strong technical background in robotics, AI, software development, or related disciplines.
• Non-WSU students may apply.

Responsibilities

• Design and maintain Python/MATLAB-based software tools, APIs, and automated data pipelines for collecting, processing, and analyzing sensor data.
• Integrate AI models with robotic systems, sensors, and manufacturing equipment; develop intelligent decision-support and human-machine interaction tools.
• Conduct software testing, experimental validation, and performance evaluation.
• Collaborate with faculty, students, and industry partners; maintain technical documentation.
• Contribute to research reports and publications.

Skills

Robotics

AI

Software development

Team collaboration

Education

Master's degree in Robotics

Tools

Python

MATLAB

Node.js

Docker

Kubernetes

Azure

AWS

Job description

Weber State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating an environment welcoming to all individuals. We strive to create a culture where everyone feels valued and appreciated. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected categories, such as disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, religion, national origin, veterans status, or others, as required by law and university policy (see Weber State University's Policy and Procedure Manual 3-32).

Position Information

Position Title

Position Title Research Associate

Requisition Number

Requisition Number H02083P

Position Category

Position Category Hourly/Work Study

Campus Location

Campus Location Weber State University - Ogden, UT

Hours per week 20

Months per year

Months per year 12

Pay Grade

Hourly Pay Rate

Hourly Pay Rate $ 25.00

FLSA

Job Summary/Basic Function

Position Summary:

The Department of Mechanical Engineering at Weber State University seeks a Research Associate with an earned master’s degree and a strong technical background in robotics, artificial intelligence, software development, or related engineering disciplines. The candidate will design and maintain Python/ MATLAB -based software tools, APIs, and automated data pipelines for collecting, processing, and analyzing sensor data. Additional responsibilities include integrating AI models with robotic systems, sensors, and manufacturing equipment; developing intelligent decision-support and human-machine interaction tools; and conducting software testing, experimental validation, and performance evaluation. The Research Associate will also collaborate with faculty, students, and industry partners, maintain technical documentation, and contribute to research reports and publications.

Required Qualifications

Earned master’s degree in Robotics, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, or a closely related field. Non- WSU students are also welcome to apply.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with robotic systems, robot programming, ROS / ROS 2, or robotic simulation environments.
• REST APIs using Node.js, along with familiarity with cloud platforms (e.g., Microsoft Azure and AWS ) and containerization and orchestration technologies (e.g., Docker and Kubernetes).
• Familiarity with vision-language models, large language models, multimodal AI, or agentic AI frameworks.
• Experience with PyTorch, TensorFlow, or similar machine-learning frameworks.
• Knowledge of robotic perception, motion planning, reinforcement learning, or learning from demonstration.
• Experience developing REST APIs, data pipelines, and software integration systems.
• Familiarity with industrial automation, manufacturing processes, or human-robot interaction.

Physical Activity of this position

Ability to receive detailed information with or without assistance.

Physical Requirements of this position

Physical Requirements of this position Medium work. Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 30 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.

Visual Acuity Requirements including color, depth perception and field of vision

Required to perform activities such as preparing and analyzing data and figures; transcribing; using a computer terminal; extensive reading., Required to have close visual acuity to inspect small defects, small parts at distances close to the eye., Required to have visual acuity to perform activities such as: operating machines, (i.e. lathes, drill presses, power saws) where the job is at or within arm’s reach; skilled trades tasks of a non-repetitive nature, such as carpenter, plumber, mechanic. , Required to have visual acuity to operate motor vehicles and/or heavy equipment. , Required to have visual acuity to determine the accuracy, neatness, and thoroughness of the work assigned (i.e., custodial, food services,) or to make general observations of facilities or structures (i.e., security guard, inspection).

The conditions the worker will be subject to in this position

The conditions the worker will be subject to in this position. The worker is subject to both environmental conditions. Activities occur inside and outside. , The worker is subject to hazards. Includes a variety of physical conditions, such as proximity to moving mechanical parts, moving vehicles, electrical current, working on scaffolding and high places, exposure to high heat or exposure to chemicals.

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

• * How did you hear about this employment opportunity?
  • jobs.weber.edu
  • KSL
  • Chronicle of Higher Education
  • Higher Ed Jobs
  • Agency Referral
  • Personal Referral
  • Internal Job Posting
  • Advertisement/Publication
  • Other web advertisement
  • Other

Documents Needed to Apply

Required Documents

• Resume
• Cover Letter

Optional Documents