Research Assistant – Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs)

Chantilly, VA - USA

Monthly Salary: Not Disclosed

Posted on: 3 hours ago

Vacancies: 1 Vacancy

Job Summary

Job Description

Position Title:

Research Assistant Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs)

Organization:

Naval Postgraduate School (NPS)
Physics Department
Monterey California

Contract Type:

Performance-Based Support Services
Estimated Level of Effort: 850 labor hours

1. Position Overview

The Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) is seeking a Research Assistant at the masters level to support experimental research on Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs). This role supports ongoing research initiatives under the Naval Research Program and contributes to advancing technologies that enhance U.S. naval capabilities and national security.

The selected candidate will work within the Physics Department conducting applied research data analysis and technical documentation focused on UUV design performance and field testing.

2. Key Responsibilities

Research & Analysis

Conduct research on the feasibility features and performance of UUV systems
Support experimental design and execution of UUV-related studies
Analyze research data and identify performance trends and optimization opportunities
Develop technical recommendations based on research findings

Design & Development

Support development of optimized UUV designs geometries and operational protocols
Utilize CAD tools and 3D printing for prototyping and testing
Assist with system improvements and experimental configurations

Testing & Field Work

Participate in laboratory and field testing of UUV systems
Support data collection during controlled experiments and field trials
Assist in refining testing methodologies and protocols

Documentation & Reporting

Prepare research documentation technical reports and scientific papers
Maintain accurate records of experimental procedures and results
Contribute to publication-quality scientific writing

3. Deliverables

Optimized UUV designs geometries and technical recommendations
Research data sets and analysis
Documented experimental protocols
Technical reports and scientific papers

4. Minimum Technical Requirements

US citizenship
A masters degree in Physics Applied Physics Mechanical Engineering Electrical Engineering or related field
At least one (1) year of experience with computer-assisted design (CAD) and 3D printing
At least one (1) year of experience with experimental research in a STEM field
At least one (1) year of experience designing research within STEM projects
At least one (1) year of experience writing scientific reports articles or papers
At least six (6) months of laboratory experience working with UUVs
At least six (6) months of field experience conducting UUV testing

5. Work Environment & Schedule

On-site work required at NPS Monterey CA
Standard working hours: Monday Friday 7:30 AM 4:30 PM (excluding federal holidays)
Schedule flexibility may be approved by the COR based on project needs

6. Period of Performance

Start Date: Upon contract award
End Date: December 1 2026

7. Work Location

Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Monterey California
Work conducted within the Advanced Warfighter Lab and associated facilities

8. Government-Furnished Support

The contractor will be provided with:

Access to the Advanced Warfighter Lab at NPS
Government computers instruments and research equipment
CAD software (e.g. SolidWorks) and design resources
Existing technical data and research materials

All Government-furnished equipment and information shall be used for official Government purposes only.

9. Performance Expectations

Deliver high-quality technically sound research and recommendations
Provide accurate and complete data analysis and documentation
Meet biweekly review and inspection standards
Maintain clear professional communication with project stakeholders

10. Preferred Qualifications (Not Required)

Experience with autonomous systems or marine robotics
Familiarity with hydrodynamics and underwater propulsion systems
Experience with data analysis tools (e.g. MATLAB Python)
Prior experience supporting DoD or Navy research programs

Job Description Position Title: Research Assistant Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs) Organization: Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Physics Department Monterey California Contract Type: Performance-Based Support Services Estimated Level of Effort: 850 labor hours 1. Position Overview The Naval ...