This is a description of a Staff Position Classification. It is not an announcement of a position opening. To view descriptions of current openings, please go to UNMJobs and Search Postings to view positions that are currently accepting applications.
The following statements are intended to describe, in broad terms, the general functions and responsibility levels characteristic of positions assigned to this classification. They should not be viewed as an exhaustive list of the specific duties and prerequisites applicable to individual positions that have been so classified.
Summary
Under general supervision, plans and conducts engineering research requiring judgment in the independent evaluation, selection, and substantial adaptation and modification of standard techniques, procedures, and criteria. Devises new approaches to problems encountered.
Duties and Responsibilities
Plans and conducts engineering research requiring judgment in the independent evaluation, selection, and substantial adaptation and modification of standard engineering and scientific techniques.
Applies an analytical approach to the solution of a wide variety of problems, or applies specialized techniques or ingenuity in selecting and evaluating approaches to unforeseen or novel problems.
Demonstrates and applies thorough understanding of engineering methods, research protocols, assessment instruments, and data interpretation.
Independently performs most research assignments with instructions as to the general results expected; receives guidance on unusual or complex problems.
Designs, performs, and/or oversees engineering experiments, tests, and data collection to ensure data integrity, quality control, and protocol compliance.
Coordinates activities of engineering functions and encourages interchange of information, ideas, and techniques among various engineering fields.
Reviews and evaluates results and conclusions of research projects.
Writes or assists in writing grant proposals; as appropriate, serves as principal investigator on projects of complexities consistent with above criteria.
Maintains currency of knowledge with respect to relevant state-of-the-art technology, equipment, and/or systems.
Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
Minimum Job Requirements
Bachelor's degree in a directly related field; at least 3 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required
Skill in the use of routine laboratory equipment.
Knowledge of current technological developments/trends in area of expertise.
Skill in the use of personal computers and related software applications.
Ability to draw conclusions and make recommendations based on research data and findings.
Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
Ability to use independent judgment to develop model concepts and approaches for research.
Ability to design, organize, and coordinate scientific and/or engineering research projects.
Knowledge of advanced mathematical concepts.
Ability to conduct systematic analysis and develop solutions to complex scientific problems.
Knowledge of engineering and/or scientific research principles, practices, and protocols.
Ability to perform independent, original research in an advanced area of scientific expertise.
Knowledge of engineering/scientific experiments, tests, and data collection protocols.
Distinguishing Characteristics
Position requires: a) utilization, adaptation, and modification of standard engineering concepts and principles in the planning and conducting of a wide range of engineering research; b) use of independent judgment, initiative, and ingenuity in the selection and application of engineering methods and techniques; c) designing, coordinating, performing, evaluating, and quality control of research sub-projects of significant scope and import; d) acting as project leader or principal investigator on self-initiated research sub-projects; e) coordination and leadership of more junior engineers and/or technical staff on specific projects; f) authoring or co-authoring research grants, articles, and manuscripts.
Conditions of Employment
Professional Engineer (PE) may be required, depending upon field of expertise.
Successful candidate must submit to post-offer, pre-employment physical examination and medical history check.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
No or very limited physical effort required.
No or very limited exposure to physical risk.
Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment.
The University of New Mexico provides all training required by OSHA to ensure employee safety.
