Cybersecurity Research Engineer I

Salary/Position Classification

• $65,000-$75,000 annual, Exempt
• 40 hours per week
• This position works onsite the Grand Forks, ND campus.

Purpose of Position

The Research Engineer I position exists so that the Center for Cyber Security Research can hire and retain an engineer with the ability to perform research activities, assist the supervisor with proposal writing, and manage the projects that result from these proposals. The activities of this position in the context of this agenda include, but are not limited to:

• Design, test, and install experimental equipment related to cybersecurity.
• Modeling and experimental work associated with sponsored research
• Perform economic and feasibility studies and equipment selection.
• Conduct data collection from laboratory, pilot, and field studies.
• Work with students, staff, and faculty to facilitate meetings for timely management and completion of projects.
• Develop literature reviews, research, presentations, and annual reports.

This grant funded position is contingent upon the availability of funding. 

Duties & Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory/bench-, pilot-, and full-scale testing and report/present results
  • Design and develop experimental procedures to accomplish the objectives of assigned projects.
  • Responsible for collecting, reducing, and analyzing data collected during bench-, pilot-, and full-scale tests. Run statistical correlations on measured parameters as needed. Interpret reduced data and analyze accordingly. Check data for reliability and accuracy to ensure data quality, using measures such as the Quality Assurance Procedures.
  • Report results and conclusions for tests. This includes but is not limited to: sponsored project monthly and quarterly reports, and client reports detailing the results of tests in accordance with specific contractual obligations.
• Process and System Design
  • Where appropriate, obtain design concurrence from experienced cybersecurity personnel to optimize the security practices, design process, and the effort put into it
  • Apply security principles that comply with NIST standards.
  • Review the research project and determine/order/design parts and materials to accomplish the research.
  • Identify and apply appropriate security tools and techniques relevant to system integration (hardware, software, and firmware). 
• Preparation of Proposals for Obtaining Funding for Research Projects
  • Identify funding opportunities.
  • Prepare technical sections or complete proposals as directed by the supervisor.
  • Perform literature searches at the beginning of new projects as well as existing projects and technology applications.
  • Determine necessary equipment and personnel to perform the proposed work and prepare the budget according to the proposed scope of work. 
• Other Research Related Duties
  • Seek to broaden the base of knowledge by participating in projects with other UND groups.
  • Attend meetings, as necessary, to fulfill job responsibilities and as required by the supervisor.
  • Always follow established safety practices in the installation and operation of laboratory- and pilot-scale equipment according to standards listed in the safety handbook. Attend all safety instruction meetings and courses as required by the UND Safety Officer. 
• Establish and Maintain Good Customer/Industry Relations and Relations with Other UND Personnel
  • Build rapport with potential customers by becoming familiar with their products, facilities, and industry. Establish contacts through phone conversations, technical meetings, existing contacts, etc. Follow up on prospective contacts. Write memos documenting significant events and conversations with potential clients. Write proposals as discussed with clients to meet their particular needs.
  • Bring pertinent information to the attention of appropriate individuals and/or groups.
  • Maintain professional, team-building relationships with a broad array of UND Centre for Cybersecurity and CEM personnel. 

Required Competencies

• Experience/thesis work relevant to
  o GPS security, vehicular communication, or electric/smart grid is a plus
  o Additional graduate credits in computer/data science are a plus
• Excellent writing/communication skills
  
  

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in an Engineering or related discipline
• Experience with Python programming, machine learning, and cybersecurity tools
• Proficient with Microsoft Office software – Word, PowerPoint, Excel
• Successful completion of a Criminal History Background Check

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the US and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. This position supports visa sponsorship for continued employment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Cyber Security, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or closely related field
• Experience/thesis work to be relevant to Python programming
  o Vehicular communications
  o Machine learning
  o CAN bus communication protocol
  o Knowledge of NIST standards
  o Penetration testing
•  Modeling experience

To Apply

Submit a resume and cover letter detailing how you meet each minimum requirement, required competency, and any preferred qualifications.