Wind Tunnel Research Scientist (P2 Scientist)

General responsibilities include:

• Performing applied scientific activities relative to the research, design and modification of lab and field projects under the direction of experienced professional and scientific personnel.
• Collection and analysis of data utilized for the determination of needs, requirements, and operations for (test) project design and support. Specifically, perform tracer gas concentration measurements using flame ionization detection and velocity and turbulence measurements using laser Doppler velocimetry in the EPA meteorological wind tunnel.
• Experimental setup, design of measurement schemes, model building, instrument maintenance, quality assurance and standard operating procedure preparation, wind tunnel measurements, and monthly, data and final report preparation, while working under the direction of an experienced scientist.
• Tracking and adhering to equipment preventive maintenance schedules; ordering supplies and consumables; performing routine equipment maintenance such as calibrating, cleaning, and replacing filters and diaphragms; arranging vendor service and repair calls; and up dating calibration and usage logs.
• Assisting laboratory team with instrument and wind tunnel equipment repairs, maintenance, and daily calibrations.
• Performing other technical activities as necessary.

Data processing responsibilities will include:

• Data download to PC
• Preliminary data validation, using Excel spreadsheet templates and R
• Data review summary reports
• Download and handling of raw data files
• Completion of data validation spreadsheets

Communications-related responsibilities will include:

• Contributions to standard operating procedures, monthly and final reports
• Uploading processed data files for client review
• Data summary reports
• Transcription of laboratory/field notes

This position supports the Research Laboratory Support contract with the US Environmental Protection Agency in Research Triangle Park, NC. Specifically supporting the EPA's Fluid Modeling Facility and Aerosol Testing Facility wind tunnel research.

Required qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science degree from an accredited college or university in an associated technical discipline. 3-5 years' experience
• Familiarity with general laboratory safety and maintenance, experience in keeping laboratory records, and experience with meeting project and assignment deadlines (outside of classroom environment is desired, but not mandatory)
• Good written and team communication skills
• Excellent organizational skills
• Proficient using statistical computer programs, such as R and Python
• Experience using Microsoft Office applications. Specifically, to summarize and manipulate data files, manage data, conduct basic data analysis, and write technical reports.
• Valid driver's license

Preferred qualifications:

• Master of Science degree from an accredited college or university in an scientific or technical discipline
• Experience with gas sensors or aerosol instrumentation
• The ability to work independently as well as with a team

Essential Functions

Unusual or Special Physical Requirements of the Position

Lifting - 25 lbs - 10%

Climbing - Stairs and ladders - 10%

Crawling - 10%

Special Clothing/Equipment (wearing) - Respirator (N95, N100, or PAPR) - 10%, Safety Shoes (gas cylinder replacement) 10%, Laser Safety Glasses - 40%

Description of Work Environment

Inside - 75%

Outside Onsite EPA - 25%

Travel/Transportation - Provide own transportation between 2 EPA facilities (approx. 3 miles apart); occasionally drive company vehicle to pick up supplies.

Equipment and Machines Involved in Work Tasks

Electrically operated office equipment

Walk behind fork-lift

General hand tools, aerosol/gas generators, environmental monitors, laser Doppler velocimetry systems, fog generators, hydrocarbon flame ionization analyzers, mass flow controllers and other samplers.

Criticality of Attendance

Monday thru Friday

1st Shift

Regular attendance required

Other Essential Functions

Must take and pass a background and drug test

Must be a US Citizen