Senior Research Engineer III - Worobey Lab

The Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will be considered without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, or veteran status. The University offers comprehensive benefits to eligible employees. Aside from our great health plans, we have a generous match to our 403B retirement savings plan, vacation, sick and personal days. We have Paid Winter Recess (Christmas to New Year's Day). Finally, we offer generous educational benefits for eligible employees, their dependents and spouse/domestic partner.

PM&R is a recognized leader in advancing clinical interventions to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities. As part of our expanding research on smart technology applications for inpatient care and outpatient transitions (https://www.smarttech.pitt.edu/), we are seeking a Senior Research Engineer to lead the installation and integration of smart technology in patient homes, as well as the development of software solutions to improve workflow efficiency and support clinical interventions.

Designs, fabricates, and maintains research instrumentation and develops conceptual project design and instrumentation, software programs, and data collection methods.Assists with conducting research. Oversees research projects and writes and presents results reports at conferences.

High cognitive functioning, ability to read and interpret complex technical literature, good written and verbal communication skills, computer operation, ability to multi-task and problem solve. Ability to move around independently and lift/move large objects and equipment around the lab. Ability to stand for extended periods of time. Unimpaired manual dexterity to operate equipment controls. Unimpaired or well-corrected vision to read instrument displays and device manuals. Hearing sufficient for everyday conversation and ability to hear critical sounds generated by devices or equipment during operation.

Primary responsibilities: Lead and coordinate home assessments, as well as the installation, integration, and configuration of technology, tailored to each patient's needs and requirements by working closely with clinicians and contractors. Provide technical support during home transitions, including thorough testing, selection, configuration, and troubleshooting of smart technology systems to ensure smooth and effective operation. Support clinicians by guiding the selection and recommendation of appropriate smart technology solutions, ensuring optimized user experience and functionality based on comprehensive individual assessments.

Develop and implement advanced software solutions aimed at improving workflow efficiency and supporting clinical interventions in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Collaborate closely with clinicians, research staff, and healthcare providers to integrate smart technology solutions into care plans, enhancing patient outcomes and operational efficiency. Stay at the forefront of advancements in smart technology and assistive devices, continuously applying new innovations to improve intervention strategies and patient care.

Develop and implement advanced software solutions aimed at improving workflow efficiency and supporting clinical interventions in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Support reporting and dissemination efforts to stakeholders. Ensure projects are completed on time, meet clinical requirements, enhance workflow efficiency, and receive positive feedback from clinicians. Provide accurate reports, meet deadlines, and ensure clarity in communication.

Incumbent will spend extended periods of time on programming (sitting positions), on instrumentation for fabrication and testing of devices (standing, walking, bending, lifting), and on installation and testing of smart home devices (standing, walking, bending, lifting). Ability to work in close quarters and manipulate hand tools while in prone position or standing on step stool occasionally required. Safety awareness is important to the incumbent's everyday activities. Incumbent will be required to travel for subject testing and project dissemination. The incumbent will be required to conduct home visits on a weekly basis to support interventions.

The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.

The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.