Assistant Specialist - Agricultural Safety and Health Lab

The position of Specialist has a narrow focus in a specialized area and provides technical or specialized expertise (e.g., with instrumentation and research equipment or with social science research methods) in the planning and execution of a research project. The Specialist stays apprised of emerging issues and problems and maintains technical competence in the designated area(s) of specialization. Within this defined area and when appropriate, the Specialist is expected to provide leadership, facilitate teamwork and develop collaborative relationships with colleagues and to supply input into the planning of research and educational programs. Normally, Specialists do not have Principal Investigator (PI) status but may obtain permission by exception and/or collaborate with a PI in preparing research proposals for extramural funding. The Specialist is evaluated for merit and promotion using three basic criteria outlined below.

The Assistant Specialist will support multiple funded research projects in the areas of transportation safety, vehicle dynamics, and robotics. Working under the direction of the Principal Investigator, this position plays a key role in conducting experimental testing, managing data collection and analysis, and maintaining research infrastructure. The role ensures timely completion of project objectives, compliance with sponsor requirements, and contributes to the lab's overall research and innovation goals. This role is accountable for supporting research operations, ensuring the successful execution and reporting of multiple funded projects. On an annual basis, the position contributes to experimental testing, data analysis, and technical documentation that advance the lab's research goals and fulfill sponsor and institutional requirements.

A. Research and Experimental Testing

• Operate and maintain lab and field-testing equipment for ATV, vehicle dynamics, and robotics projects.
• Conduct experiments and collect mechanical, safety, and performance data.
• Ensure accurate setup, calibration, and documentation of all testing activities

B. Data Collection and Analysis

• Process and analyze experimental data using MATLAB, Python, or similar tools.
• Prepare and maintain detailed records, figures, and summaries for reports.
• Support preparation of data for Caltrans and federal project deliverables.

• Participate in appropriate professional/technical societies or groups and other educational and research
  organizations.
• Review research proposals, journal manuscripts, and publications related to area of expertise.

• May maintain liaison and respond to the needs of various industry organizations, state and federal
  agencies, and other external groups on issues related to area of expertise.
• Participate in activities of committees within the department, college, campus and other University
  entities, as appropriate.

Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Engineering

Master of Science in Agricultural Engineering

• Between two and three years of experience in laboratory or field research related to engineering, robotics, or vehicle systems.
• Certification Agricultural Data Science

As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.

• "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer.
• UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
• UC Anti-Discrimination Policy for Employees, Students and Third Parties
• APM - 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment

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