Department
NIAR Advanced Technologies Lab Aerospace Systems

Campus Location
Wichita, KS - WSU Main Campus

Hire Type
Part Time

Pay
$15 - 18 per hour

Work Schedule
Based on class schedule

Export Compliance Requirement
This position requires access to EAR or ITAR controlled technologies. Applicants are required to be eligible for employment under U.S. export control laws and must meet the requirement of being a “U.S. Citizen”.

Job Story
The NIAR ATLAS Lab is looking for a student assistant to perform several different tasks within their lab.

Job Summary
A student assistant will carry out administrative and technical tasks requested by a supervisor. Depending on the area the student assistant is employed in, they may assist and mentor other students or provide support throughout the campus in various forms.

Job Duties
Conduct in-depth research to explore new materials, manufacturing techniques, and emerging technologies relevant to mechanical design.
Develop and implement new methods and processes that push the boundaries of current mechanical design capabilities.
Stay updated on industry trends, technological advancements, and research breakthroughs to integrate into product designs.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams (e.g., electrical, software, and manufacturing engineers) to ensure seamless integration of mechanical systems with other components.
Develop detailed mechanical designs, CAD models, and technical drawings for new products or product improvements.
Perform engineering analysis, including stress, thermal, fluid dynamics, and kinematic analyses, to ensure product performance and reliability.
Use simulation tools such as FEA (Finite Element Analysis), CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics), and other relevant software to validate design concepts and refine solutions.
Participate in product lifecycle management, ensuring designs meet regulatory, safety, and environmental standards.
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to align design goals, production constraints, and quality standards.
Present research findings, design concepts, and prototypes to stakeholders and management in a clear, understandable format.
Provide technical expertise during design reviews, ensuring designs adhere to best practices and company objectives.
Work with suppliers and manufacturers to ensure the mechanical design can be effectively produced at scale.

Required Education
High school diploma or equivalent

Additional Requirements
Software Skills: Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA, or Autodesk Inventor), FEA (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus), and CFD tools (e.g., COMSOL, Fluent). Experience with CAM software and 3D printing technology is advantageous.
Knowledge & Skills:
Strong knowledge of mechanical design principles, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, material science, and manufacturing processes.
Experience with the design and testing of mechanical systems, components, and subsystems.
Familiarity with industry standards and regulations, including ISO, ASTM, and safety protocols.
Experience in prototyping, hands-on testing, and mechanical testing equipment.
Excellent problem-solving skills and a deep understanding of engineering analysis methods.

Preferred Qualifications
Strong communication and collaboration abilities.
Ability to think creatively and propose innovative solutions to complex engineering challenges.
Proficiency in programming or scripting languages (e.g., Python, MATLAB) for design analysis or automation tasks.
Experience with machine learning or AI applications in design optimization is a plus.
Knowledge of manufacturing techniques such as additive manufacturing, CNC machining, and injection molding.

Physical Requirements
Ability to remain in a stationary position.
Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment including but not limited to phone, printers, copiers, and calculators.
Ability to communicate with others and accurately exchange information.