Research Equipment Specialist IIICherokee Federal

Research Equipment Specialist III

Tuscaloosa, Alabama, United States (On-site)

Job Title:Research Equipment Specialist III

Job Code:ADM998

Location:Tuscaloosa, Alabama

Reports to:Program Manager

FLSA Status:Non-Exempt

Supervisory:No supervisory/management authority

Prepared Date:11/3/2026

A government contract requires that this position be restricted to U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents. You must provide documentation that you are a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident to qualify.

Position Summary:

The Research Equipment Specialist III provides advanced testing, evaluation, troubleshooting, calibration, and technical support for scientific instrumentation, electronic systems, and computerized hydrologic data collection equipment supporting our federal client. This role plans and conducts non-routine technical assignments, develops testing methods and evaluation procedures, documents results, and coordinates closely with Government engineers, researchers, and technical staff to ensure equipment functionality, data quality, and operational continuity.

Compensation & Benefits:

Starting Salary Range for Research Equipment Specialist III:$31.00-$34.00 per hour.

Pay commensurate with experience.

Benefits That Set Us Apart

When considering your next opportunity, compensation is only part of the picture. We offer a benefits package designed to invest in your future and support your life outside of work.

Highlights include:

Up to a 6% 401(k) company match to help you build long-term financial security

Paid time off as part of our comprehensive benefits package, so you have the flexibility to rest, recharge, and enjoy what matters most

Medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus prescription drug coverage

Basic life and AD&D insurance, with supplemental life options

Short-term and long-term disability coverage

Paid holidays

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) options

Professional development, training, and certification support

Voluntary benefits including accident, critical illness, and identity theft protection

Because taking care of our employees isnt just a promise, its part of who we are.

Benefits are subject to change and eligibility requirements apply.

Essential Functions, Duties & Responsibilities:

Includes the following:

Perform advanced testing and evaluation of research equipment with electronic and computerized components to determine functionality and effectiveness for hydrologic scientific data collection.

Plan and execute complete technical projects of limited scope or lead defined portions of larger testing, evaluation, scientific support, and operational readiness efforts.

Develop, adapt, and implement testing methods, evaluation procedures, and supporting structures for new or evolving hydrologic data collection technologies and monitoring systems.

Conduct operational assessments, troubleshoot technical issues, and perform performance evaluations on scientific instrumentation, electronic systems, and computerized monitoring equipment.

Support maintenance, configuration, setup, calibration, validation, and troubleshooting of scientific instrumentation and technical systems in laboratory and operational environments.

Utilize specialized laboratory/testing/calibration equipment and follow established technical practices, safety requirements, and Government direction.

Produce and maintain accurate technical documentation, including evaluation reports, operational summaries, calibration records, anomaly/discrepancy documentation, and status updates (weekly or monthly as required).

Communicate results, risks, and recommendations clearly; coordinate activities with Government personnel, engineers, researchers, contractors, and operational staff.

Support research activities, training support, surge operations, and operational readiness initiatives as needed to meet mission requirements.

Provide technical coordination, guidance, or oversight to junior personnel supporting testing and evaluation activities, as assigned.

Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

No supervisory/management authority

Basic Qualifications:

Reporting & Analysis:

Demonstrated experience performing non-routine equipment testing, evaluation, troubleshooting, and calibration on electronic and computerized systems.

Ability to develop and improve test methods and evaluation procedures; ability to execute work with limited oversight and strong technical judgment.

Ability to work safely and effectively in laboratory, testing, evaluation, electronics, and calibration environments; comply with federal procedures and OSHA safety requirements.

Documentation & Administrative Support:

Skilled in technical documentation and records management; able to produce clear, accurate evaluation results, summaries, and supporting records.

Must safeguard Government property, equipment, records, and information; secure work areas and sensitive assets in accordance with Government requirements.

Additional Responsibilities:

Typically requires an Associate Degree and 57 years of practical experience, plus relevant vocational or technical training aligned to research equipment, scientific instrumentation, hydrologic monitoring systems, electronics, technical evaluation, or related technical support work.

Strong oral and written English communication skills; able to coordinate with engineers, researchers, and operational teams and provide professional customer support.

Ability to work onsite in Tuscaloosa, AL; must live within 35 miles of Tuscaloosa, AL.

Must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal

Must be able to complete required background investigation, facility access requirements, and Government cybersecurity/security training as required.

Must be a US Citizen.

Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer; may occasionally require standing or moving about the office for extended periods.

Must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.

Work Environment:

Work is performed primarily in a climate-controlled environment.

Company Information:

Behind every government mission stands skilled, mission-driven talent: people whose expertise and dedication turn complex challenges into successful outcomes. Cherokee United Services, part of Cherokee Federal, the federal contracting division of Cherokee Nation Businesses, is that team. We modernize aging systems, deliver care where its needed most, and keep missions supplied, staffed, and moving across defense, intelligence, and civilian agencies. For more than 60 federal clients, we take on the work others wont, and deliver where it counts. If thats the kind of work youre looking for, youve found your team. Learn more at cherokee-federal.com.

#CherokeeFederal #LI-RA2 #AppC2

Cherokee Federal is a military friendly employer. Veterans and active military transitioning to civilian status are encouraged to apply.

Legal Disclaimer:All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability or any other status protected under applicable federal, state or local law.

Many of our job openings require access to government buildings or military installations. Candidates must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement

Cherokee Federal is a federal contractor subject to the Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA). As required by VEVRAA, we take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified protected veterans. Protected veterans are encouraged to self-identify during the application process.

Cherokee Federal takes affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with disabilities in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act. Qualified individuals with disabilities are encouraged to self-identify during the application process.

Reasonable accommodations are available to qualified individuals with disabilities or those with sincerely held religious beliefs. To request an accommodation in the application or interview process, please contact Human Resources at careers@cherokee-federal.com.

This position is subject to pre-employment drug testing. Cherokee Federal maintains a drug-free workplace in accordance with applicable federal and state laws and regulations.

This position may be contingent upon the successful completion of a background investigation. The scope of the investigation will be commensurate with position requirements and applicable law.