Wichita State University - Research Engineers – Job ID #71100 in Wichita, Kansas

DUTIES: Independently interprets, organizes, executes, and coordinates research assignments in a field or specialization of an engineering discipline. Formulates and conducts research on problems of considerable scope and complexity. Explores subject area and defines scope and selection of problems for investigation through conceptually related studies or series of projects of lesser scope. Essential Function 1 Applies diversified knowledge of engineering research principles, practices, and protocols in research projects; makes recommendations and conclusions which serve as the basis for decision making in a specialty area. Receives administrative supervision, with assignments given in terms of broad general objectives and limits. Responsibility 1 Conduct research that tests or analyzes the feasibility, design, operation, or performance of equipment, components, or systems. This includes operation, maintenance, programming and troubleshooting for injecting molding for thermoplastic press equipment. Test the functionality and performance of KUKA robotic operations and programming. Responsibility 2 Oversee installation, operation, maintenance, or repair to ensure that machines or equipment are installed and functioning according to specifications. Compile operational documentation on troubleshooting injection molding and press consolidation machinery. Train students to operate machines. Responsibility 3 Investigate equipment failures or difficulties to diagnose faulty operation and recommend remedial actions. Responsibility 4 Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, schematics, or computer-generated reports. Responsibility 5 Research, design, evaluate, install, operate, or maintain mechanical products, equipment, systems or processes to meet requirements. Design fixtures and mold components, using Catia V5. Essential Function 2 Develops model concepts and approaches as an individual researcher and acts independently on technical matters. Responsibility 1 Develop, coordinate, or monitor all aspects of production, including selection of manufacturing methods, fabrication, or operation of product designs. Perform hand layup manufacturing of composites; material qualification and gel time of thermosetting resin. Use ASTM standards for testing composites. Essential Function 3 Collaborates with users and principal investigators on design, analysis, application, and reporting of research projects; provides technical leadership and technique consultation. Responsibility 1 Confer with engineers or other personnel to implement operating procedures, resolve system malfunctions, or provide technical information. Essential Function 4 Prepares analyses, reports, and assists with the preparation of, materials for grant proposals to obtain funding in support of research activities. Essential Function 5 Serves as investigator on single or multiple projects of complexity and scope consistent with above criteria, and/or manages a research unit. Maintains currency of knowledge with respect to relevant state-of-the-art technology, equipment, and/or systems. Responsibility 1 Study industrial processes to maximize the efficiency of equipment applications, including equipment placement.
 
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Aerospace, Materials) or related field. Two (2) years of experience in an aviation manufacturing research laboratory, including at least 6 months with the following: hand layup manufacturing of composites; material qualification and gel time of thermosetting resin; and the operation, maintenance, programming and troubleshooting for injecting molding for thermoplastic press equipment.  One (1) year of experience using ASTM standards for testing composites. Demonstrated ability with designing fixtures and mold components with Catia V5. Demonstrated ability with KUKA robotic operations and programming.