About This Role:

The Applied Aviation Research Center (AARC) at Kansas State University’s Aerospace and Technology Campus in Salina is seeking a highly-motivated and skilled Research Associate to support unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) research and development activities. The Research Associate will assist with grant proposal development by conducting literature reviews, establishing methodologies, drafting milestones, tasks objectives, research task plan(s) and budgets as required. The incumbent may also serve as a technical lead on various research projects within their area of expertise and instruct courses in UAS as applicable.

The Research Associate will utilize the scientific method to establish and validate methodologies for research proposals that will include: identification of the problem, literature reviews, data collection and analysis, interim and final report writing to meet sponsored research requirements. The incumbent will instruct in the undergraduate UAS degree program and interface with customers to identify project-specific needs and requests as directed by their supervisor.

Why Join Us:

Kansas State University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, life insurance, retirement plans, paid time off – vacation, sick, and holidays. To see what benefits are available, please visit: https://www.k-state.edu/hcs/benefits

Kansas State Salina’s Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) program within the Applied Aviation Research Center (AARC) is engaged in facilitating the commercialization of UAS. This vision led the AARC to be at the forefront of UAS research that influences and enhances UAS regulations and increases capabilities, founded on manned aviation’s culture of safety. The AARC staff is comprised of subject-matter experts, connecting with industry to provide training, consulting, collaboration and research. Centrally located in Salina, Kansas on the K-State Aerospace and Technology Campus, we enjoy a permissive environment for access to the National Airspace System (NAS). We conduct operations as a Public entity as well as under the FAA’s newest regulations for commercial operations, 14CFR Part 107.

We Support Diversity and Inclusion:

Kansas State University embraces diversity and inclusion. The university actively seeks individuals who foster a collegial environment and cooperative interactions with coworkers, students, and others. The University is dedicated to promoting the Principles of Community.

Worksite Options:

This position is eligible for hybrid and/or remote worksite. Work may be performed on employer premises, designated assignment location and/or performed fully in a remote capacity.  An employee who is working remotely must reside within the United States in order to comply with all federal and state laws, filings, or tax requirements.

Visit this link for K-State’s guidance and policies on remote work and flexible work arrangements. Remote work agreements are required for all flexible work arrangements and are subject to review.

What You’ll Need to Succeed:

Minimum Qualifications:

• Requires a master's degree and two years of relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree or PhD in Aviation, Engineering, Human Factors, Management, or a related field
• Total of 5 years’ experience in engineering and/or research, preferably related to unmanned aircraft and the aviation industry
• 5-7 years’ teaching experience
• Five years of Project Management experience
• Principal Investigator (PI) experience
• UAS flight operations experience
• Human Factors and/or Cybersecurity experience is desired
• Ability to quickly learn/keep pace in rapidly growing industry
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Substantial experience writing sponsored research proposals and technical reports
• PMP Certificate is desired

Other Requirements:

• Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment.

How to Apply:

Please submit the following documents:

1. Cover Letter
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume
3. Names and contact information for three current, professional references

Screening of Applications Begins:

Immediately and continues until position is filled.

Anticipated Hiring Pay Range:

$65,000 - $85,000 annual, depending on qualifications

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Kansas State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.

Background Screening Statement:

In connection with your application for employment, Kansas State University will procure a Background Screen on you as part of the process of considering your candidacy as an employee.