Job Summary
The Human Factors Group at the University of Michigan Transportation Institute (UMTRI) is seeking a dedicated and flexible, full-time temporary Research Assistant II (TEMP) to support current research projects. We are looking for dependable individuals who have strong interpersonal skills and enjoy working independently as well as within a team. The successful candidate will assist with data collection, analysis, and field research and will have a background in human factors engineering, usability testing or usability research, and/or in human performance or related fields.
Who We Are
The University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute (UMTRI) is recognized internationally for our multidisciplinary research focusing on transportation safety and mobility (http://umtri.umich.edu). Established in 1965, we maintain the highest standards of excellence as we conduct research that improves peoples? lives through access to safe, equitable and efficient mobility. UMTRI is a non-degree-granting unit within the College of Engineering at the University of Michigan that includes 20 faculty members, 35 research staff, and nearly over 300 students each year engaged in research and other experiential learning opportunities.
At Michigan Engineering, we develop the talent and technologies that move society forward and serve our state and national interests. Through discovery and innovation, we create the foundational knowledge and practical technologies to solve not only today's most pressing challenges, but also power industries and change lives. Our programs and community are designed to promote personal well-being and achievement ? enabling everyone to unlock their potential and contribute with confidence.
Responsibilities*
- Work directly with assigned UMTRI faculty to assist in the design and execution of research studies in human factors and ergonomics including experience in human subject recruiting and testing, including University subject pools, as needed.
- Conduct and ensure accurate data collection through various methods including interviews, observations, and field studies, including some travel to different research sites across the University of Michigan and Michigan Medicine campuses, as well local test tracks.
- Maintain strict confidentiality and adhere to ethical standards in conducting research.
- Conduct preliminary analysis using statistical analysis.
- Support other PI instructional course activities including the Human Factors Engineering Short Course with the preparation, review, and presentation of course materials (primarily July and August).
- Assist with the preparation of research proposals, technical reports, conference papers, journal articles, literature reviews and PowerPoint presentations.
- Collaborate with UMTRI faculty, researchers and students to facilitate project goals.
- Collaborate with and provide support to other UMTRI departments, as needed and upon request, including Mcity.
- Participate in regular meetings with the team and PI and provide updates on progress.
Required Qualifications*
- Degree in Human Factors, Ergonomics, Psychology, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Experience in human factors research, data collection, and analysis.
- Experience reading and synthesizing technical materials related to usability and human performance including design standards.
- Proficiency in Microsoft applications including Word, PowerPoint and Excel.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal including the ability to write technical reports and support writing conference papers and journal articles.
- Basic knowledge of statistics.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently as well as part of a research team.
- Flexibility to work a variable schedule that may on rare occasions include evenings and weekends.
- Must have a valid driver?s license, this position involves driving to various locations on and off campus to conduct assessments.
Desired Qualifications*
- Experience in recruiting, interviewing and testing of human subjects.
Modes of Work
This position is classified as having a hybrid mode of work. Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.
Additional Information
This position will involve both office-based tasks and fieldwork in diverse environmental conditions.
Candidates must be eligible to work in the United States. Sponsorship is not available for this position.
Background Screening
The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.