Principal Research Scientist/Engineer- Huntsville (Pool)

This is a pooled posting that will remain open for an extended period. Selected applicants will be contacted as future staffing needs arise. This is a limited-term appointment contingent upon the availability of funding. Positions will be located in Huntsville, AL.

About the role

Auburn University’s Office of the Senior Vice President for Research and Economic Development and the Applied Research Institute (ARI) is seeking candidates for multiple Principal Research Scientist/Engineer positions. These roles focus on a broad range of engineering and scientific disciplines, including:

• Modeling and simulation
• Systems engineering and integration
• Advanced and additive manufacturing
• Autonomous systems and robotics
• Electromagnetics, mechanical, and electrical systems design
• Thermal and structural analysis
• Materials science and engineering
• Propulsion systems
• Multi-program project management supporting government and industry sponsors

Incumbents will lead and contribute to innovative research initiatives, generate new knowledge, and develop practical solutions to complex technical challenges aligned with ARI’s mission.

Responsibilities

• Lead research and development projects requiring professional engineering or scientific practices and principles.
• Provide technical contributions and develop concepts for new leading-edge technologies, techniques, or methods.
• Offer in-depth technical advice to faculty, postdocs, students, and staff on design, modification, prototyping, analysis procedures, and engineering solutions.
• Operate, maintain, and repair specialized equipment.
• Design and fabricate equipment, materials, and systems using engineering and scientific principles.
• Ensure supplies are available and operational for projects.
• Manage local computer systems for laboratory functionality as needed.
• Develop proposals, budgets, schedules, and progress reports, and present results.
• Evaluate findings to develop new concepts, equipment, or processes.
• Prepare technical reports for long- and short-range planning.

Requirements

PhD from an accredited institution in Engineering, Science, Management Information Science (MIS), or a related technical field. Candidates with a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree may substitute relevant experience at a rate of two years of experience per year of required education.

• Level I: No experience required
• Level II: 2 years of professional experience
• Level III: 4 years of professional experience
• Level IV: 6 years of professional experience
• Level V: 8 years of professional experience
• Level VI: 10 years of professional experience
• Level VII: 12 years of professional experience

Experience for Levels II-VII should be in engineering and research practices and principles or science-based programs.

Benefits

• Life-Changing Impact: Contribute to research, instruction, and outreach that make a lasting difference.
• Culture of Excellence: Join a top employer in higher education committed to collaboration and innovation.
• Support and Balance: Generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of work/life balance.
• Location: Enjoy southern charm in the Auburn/Opelika area, with top-ranked schools and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and Gulf of Mexico beaches.
• Inclusive Environment: Auburn is committed to fostering a welcoming, valued, and respectful community for all.

Contract Type

Limited Term