Flight Research Laboratory (FRL) Research Technician

University of Kansas
United States, Kansas, Lawrence
1450 Jayhawk Boulevard (Show on map)
Dec 23, 2024
Position Overview The Department of Aerospace Engineering at the University of Kansas is seeking applications for a Flight Research Laboratory (FRL) research technician with broad skills related to education and flight research of manned and unmanned aerial systems (UASs). The successful candidate will have skills to fabricate fixed-wing remote controlled aircraft parts, integrate propulsion and electrical systems and support flight test operations (including teaching and mentoring students). Exceptional candidates will have prior experience in remote controlled piloting, UAS ground stations and software, and a detailed knowledge of U.S. airspace regulations. Candidates without such prior experience or knowledge must commit to such training in the six months of employment. The employee will also be responsible for maintaining and ensuring safety and security in departmental labs (e.g hangars, propulsion and avionics labs) and aircraft. The technician will play a role in the department inventory and space control, and will supervise some Aerospace Engineering students as appropriate. This position also requires travel to remote locations both in the US and overseas no more than twice in a 12-month period, with sites including polar regions (e.g. Greenland and Antarctica) for which medical clearance from the granting agency (e.g. NSF, NASA) is required. Restrictions: Due to U.S. export control regulations, only candidates with United States Citizenship can be considered. Job Description 30% Support all flight education and research activities System readiness Perform systems inspections, including wiring, propulsion, avionics and flight mechanics systems Develop ground test documents, conduct ground test experiments and collect/document relevant information Assist students and faculty advisors in the design, manufacture and operation of experiments, devices, and prototypes Assist with program and task management, particularly when supported to oversee meeting deliverables in externally funded research Flight operation Develop flight test documents, supporting research and educational goals Coordinate with flight test team, pilots, FAA, FCC, other agencies and test sites Maintain applications of FAA Certification Of Authorization, FAA Part 107 Certification Of Waiver, and all related reporting Coordinate logistics of flight tests Prepare flight test team for operation including spare parts lists, hardware and software required for flight tests, and ensuring flight test team tasks are appropriately delegated and overseen for progress to task Flight test operation Actively engage in achieving research and educational flight test goals and enforce safety requirements/standards 30% Assist in systems integration, design, manufacture and development of UAS's Install and test servos and actuators Install and test avionics (e.g. IMU, autopilot, GPS, pitot tube, etc.), and propulsion systems Assemble and fabricate aircraft parts (e.g. wings, fuselage, etc.) Install and test wiring harnesses Paint and finish equipment Test and/or program avionics systems Assist with program and task management, particularly when supported to oversee meeting deliverables in externally funded research 20% Direct student support Assist with instruction to students on laboratory ground testing, particularly in propulsion Provide active mentoring in experiential learning Support students in their research and education Develop and monitor compliance for flight, equipment, security and safety training 20% Develop and maintain labs, including but not limited to propulsion lab, avionics lab, and all related hangar facilities Manage equipment, including organizing, maintaining, and troubleshooting current equipment and requisitioning new equipment and supplies as needed. Maintain instruments and equipment, including equipment in the propulsion lab, avionics lab, and machine shop Coordinate with IT professionals to maintain FRL computers and networks Supervise, train, schedule, and evaluate one or several aerospace engineering students. Develop systems for lab usage as needed Position Requirements This position requires travel to remote locations both in the US and overseas no more than twice in a 12-month period, with sites including polar regions (e.g. Greenland and Antarctica) for which medical clearance from the granting agency (eg NSF, NASA) is required. Required Qualifications High school/GED and 1 year related experience OR Associate's degree. Current FAA remote pilot certificate with a UAS rating or commitment to complete certificate within first 90 days of employment. Strong written communication skills as demonstrated in application materials, work history, and/or educational pursuits. Preferred Qualifications Three years of UAS piloting, flight operations, and flight test support experience. One or more years of experience in flight operations and flight test support. One or more years of experience with reciprocating propeller operations and testing. One or more years of experience with structures and materials typical to small UASs. Experience with applications of FAA Certification of Authorization, FAA Part 107 Certification of Waiver. Manned aircraft piloting license. Additional Candidate Instructions Only complete application packages submitted online will be considered. A complete application includes online application form, resume, cover letter, names and contact information for three professional references. To ensure consideration, please apply before January 10, 2024. Contact Information to Applicants Amy Borton aborton@ku.edu 785-864-2960 Advertised Salary Range $57,000-$66,000 Work Schedule M-F 8-5 Application Review Begins Friday January 24, 2025 Anticipated Start Date Monday February 17, 2025