"Research Assistant"

Job Category

Fulltime Temporary

ExemptOvertimeEligible

Overtime Eligible

Benefits Eligible

Benefit Based

Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community.

Job Summary

PILLARS is a Plume-deployed Inflatable for Launch and Landing Abrasive Regolith Shielding, aiming to protect the lunar surface from regolith kicked up by rocket launches and landings. This project was funded by NASA for the 2024 BIG Idea Challenge. This position seeks an individual to help develop this project up until the final BIG Idea forum in November 2024.

Essential Job Duties

The duties of the successful candidate are subject to change based on project direction. Some potential areas of work include CFD simulations, modeling, CAD design, prototyping, and materials testing. The work done by the successful candidate is flexible within these realms so long as work is directed towards the end developmental goals of the project.

Basic Qualifications

• Experience in mechanical and software design.
• Experience working on engineering projects in research and/or industry.

Preferred Qualifications

• Preferred experience with any of C++, Matlab, Ansys.
• Prior experience in simulation is valuable, as is prior experience in modeling/design.

Required Documents

• Resume

Hiring Range

$18.50 to $24.75 per hour

The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training.

As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more. Non-benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite counseling and sick time. Learn more about our benefits and staff perks. 

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

To read more Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) go to eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf.

Disability Accommodations

If you would like to request an accommodation in completing this application, interviewing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu.