Senior Research Technician, S2

University of Alabama in Huntsville; Huntsville (AL); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Alabama in Huntsville seeks a Research Technician to support maintenance, preparation, and operation of launcher systems for ballistic testing at the Aerophysics Research Facility on Redstone Arsenal, AL. Responsibilities include fabrication, setup, testing, data recording, and documentation.

Requirements include an Associate’s degree or equivalent, 4.5–5 years of related work, strong communication, and the ability to lift 35 lbs and stand for long periods.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree or equivalent education.
• 4.5–5 years of full-time, verifiable work experience.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills.
• Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 35 pounds.
• Must be a US Citizen and eligible to obtain Final Secret Security Clearance.
• Ability to work a consistent schedule 8:00 AM–5:00 PM, Monday–Friday; occasional variations.

Responsibilities

• Support the assembly, setup, operation, and maintenance of specialized test launcher systems.
• Perform fabrication, modification, and assembly of mechanical components and structures using both manual and power tools.
• Document project activities and maintain functional checklists to ensure accurate record-keeping.
• Safely operate material handling equipment (MHE) in accordance with established procedures.
• Assist in the operation, inspection, and maintenance of hydraulic and pressurized gas systems.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable safety, environmental, and operational regulations and procedures.
• Maintain cleanliness, organization, and readiness of test areas and facilities.
• Coordinate and collaborate with engineers, scientists, and technical staff to support sponsor-directed research and contribute to overall facility operations.

Skills

Communication skills

MHE operation

Fabrication & tools

Hydraulic systems awareness

Record keeping

Education

Associate’s degree or two years of college coursework

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Job no: 503694
Department: Research Information Systems
Work type: Staff Full-time Non-Exempt
Location: Alabama
Categories: Research - Engineering

Purpose of the Position:

The Research Technician supports the maintenance, preparation, and operation of launcher systems for ballistic testing and research at the USASMDC-TC Aerophysics Research Facility on Redstone Arsenal, Al. Responsibilities include fabrication and modification of test hardware; installation and setup of test fixtures; and the assembly, operation, and maintenance of launcher systems. Post-test activities, including range cleanup, data recording, and technical documentation, are also a critical part of this role.

Duties/Responsibilities

• Support the assembly, setup, operation, and maintenance of specialized test launcher systems.
• Perform custom fabrication, modification, and assembly of mechanical components and structures using both manual and power tools.
• Document project activities and maintain functional checklists to ensure accurate record-keeping.
• Safely operate material handling equipment (MHE) in accordance with established procedures.
• Assist in the operation, inspection, and maintenance of hydraulic and pressurized gas systems.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable safety, environmental, and operational regulations and procedures.
• Maintain cleanliness, organization, and readiness of test areas and facilities.
• Coordinate and collaborate with engineers, scientists, and technical staff to support sponsor-directed research and contribute to overall facility operations.

Requirements

• An Associate’s degree, a minimum of two (2) years of college coursework, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• A minimum of 4.5-5 years of full-time, verifiable work experience.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills.
• Basic proficiency with computer systems, including the Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 35 pounds.
• Ability to work a consistent schedule of 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday, excluding holidays and approved leave. Occasional schedule variations may be necessary to support test operations.
• Must be a US Citizen and eligible to obtain and maintain a Final Secret Security Clearance.

Desired Qualifications

• An Associate’s degree in Automotive Technology, Machine Tool Technology, Industrial Systems Technology, or a related technical field.
• Proven experience in multi-skilled industrial maintenance or related technical trades.
• Demonstrated knowledge of general construction (both wood and metal), fabrication processes (such as welding and machining), and/or hydraulic and pressurized gas systems.
• US Citizenship with an active or recent Final Secret Security Clearance is desirable.

Published Salary (if available)

$55,001 - $60,000

Advertised: Apr 15 2026 Central Daylight Time

Applications close:

The University of Alabama in Huntsville is an equal opportunity employer (EOE), including an EOE of protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.