What are the responsibilities and job description for the Part-Time Research Assistant position at MDW Associates?
Job Title: Part-Time Research Assistant
Location: Remote/Hybrid Position Type: Part-Time (Approximately 10-20 hours/week)
Overview
MDW Associates is a professional services consulting firm that specializes in advanced engineering, program management, and technology solutions for the Department of Defense, NASA, and other government agencies. Our team is composed of dedicated professionals who bring expertise and innovative thinking to address some of the most challenging technical issues faced by federal organizations such as NASA, the Missile Defense Agency (MDA), and the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA).
At MDW Associates, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative environment where learning, growth, and meaningful contributions are encouraged and rewarded.
Position Summary
MDW Associates is seeking a Part-Time Research Assistant-ideally a current college student majoring in Engineering (Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Computer, or related fields). This role 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.
Key Responsibilities
- 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.
Qualifications
- 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.
