Research Specialist - VTTI

Job Description

Provides assistance to research faculty in conducting transportation research. This assistance will include monitoring and assessing collected vehicle data, communicating data quality issues to technicians and schedulers, maintaining data tracking systems, preparing summaries and reports of that information, and other duties in support of research goals.

This is a fast-paced research environment. A positive attitude and reliable attendance are required. Successful candidates must be motivated to work both independently and as an effective team member, applying professional behavior, discretion, and sound judgment towards project needs and overall work quality. Excellent critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, organization, and documentation skills are essential.

Must have an acceptable and safe driving record. Driver's license check and a criminal conviction check required. Good vision, hearing, and hand/finger dexterity required.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in psychology, human factors, or related field OR equivalent combination of education & training required.
• Demonstrated knowledge of lab policies and research protocols, including an understanding of ethical principles in human-subjects research.
• Demonstrated proficiency with research software (e.g., Microsoft Word/Excel) including a variety of advanced editing and data analysis features.
• Demonstrated ability to accurately track/record detailed information in a well-organized manner and in adherence to detailed protocols.
• Demonstrated critical thinking and communications skills, such as to recognize and articulate problems in complex systems.
• Demonstrated technical communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• IRB human subjects research certification.
• Working knowledge of video and sensor-based data acquisition systems and documented experience working with time series data.
• Working knowledge of advanced vehicle technologies, especially driver support systems (i.e., capabilities, operations, limitations).

Pay Band

3

Overtime Status

Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

Starting at $20/hr; commensurate with experience

Hours per week

25-30

Review Date

4/11/2025

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous Extension offices and research centers. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance. These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.