Part-time Research Assistant

MDW Associates is seeking a Part-time Research Assistant. This position is ideally a current college student majoring in Engineering (Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Computer or related fields. This role is approximately 10-20 hours/week and offers an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience working on real-world projects that support our nation's most advanced research and development programs. You will collaborate with senior staff to review technical papers, perform targeted research, and contribute to the knowledge base that drives our solutions for federal agencies.

The Part-Time Research Assistant may perform a combination of some or all of the following duties:

• Technical Document Review
• Review, proofread, and provide feedback on technical papers, reports, and presentations prepared by senior staff
• Ensure clarity, accuracy, and consistency in all written materials
• Research & Analysis
• Conduct in-depth literature reviews, data collection, and technical research supporting ongoing projects for NASA, MDA, DARPA, and other clients
• Synthesize research findings into clear, concise summaries and presentations
• Data Compilation & Management
• Organize and maintain research databases, ensuring all references and data points are documented accurately
• Assist in analyzing quantitative and qualitative data to support project objectives
• Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Work closely with engineers, scientists, and analysts to integrate research insights into project plans
• Participate in team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and progress reviews
• Reporting & Documentation
• Develop written reports and presentations for internal and external stakeholders
• Maintain organized records of tasks, findings, and progress updates
• Administrative & Ad Hoc Tasks
• Contribute to project tracking, documentation efforts, and process improvements as needed
• Support various team initiatives and perform other related duties as assigned
  

Required Experience/Skills

• Education
• Currently enrolled in an accredited undergraduate or graduate Engineering program (Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Computer, or a related discipline).
• Technical Proficiency:
• Familiarity with engineering principles and basic research methodologies.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Experience with data analysis tools (e.g., MATLAB, Python) is a plus.
• Research & Communication Skills:
• Strong ability to locate, interpret, and synthesize technical information.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, especially in translating complex concepts for different audiences.
• Attention to Detail:
• Capable of reviewing documents meticulously, maintaining high accuracy and thoroughness.
• Time Management:
• Proven ability to balance multiple deadlines and academic responsibilities effectively.
• Teamwork & Adaptability:
• Comfortable working independently as well as part of a cross-functional team.
• Willingness to learn new tools and approaches in a fast-paced environment.
  

Security Requirements

• Candidates for this position must possess the ability obtain and maintain a Secret Security Clearance
  
  

Company Description

Incorporated in 2012, MDW is a small business headquartered in Tysons, VA with offices in Huntsville, AL. We provide Federal government clients with consulting, management services, advisory and assistance services, decision support, strategic planning, process planning and improvement, task execution and metrics analysis. Our mission is to make our clients more successful by providing honest assessments, exceptional analysis, prudent advice, direct communication, and hard work.

Our Core Capabilities Include

• Strategic Planning
• Cost Estimating
• Budget Programming and Justification
• Budget Execution
• Acquisition Management
• Financial Systems Support & Integration
  
  

MDW Associates, LLC ("MDW") is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, national origin, age, marital status, covered veteran status, mental or physical disability, pregnancy or any other unlawful basis unrelated to the ability to do the job. MDW seeks to employ talented, ethical, and entrepreneurial-minded persons. Our applicants and employees are protected from discrimination as required by Federal law.

All of your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.